Detector Calibration System Using Single Flip-In Mirror
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional detector calibration systems for space-based imaging devices are complex and heavy due to the use of two distinct mechanisms for source assembly and mirror rotation, which increases size, weight, and reliability concerns, making regular recalibration challenging.
Innovation Solution
A multiple position flip-in mirror calibrator system that uses a single mirror and stationary radiation sources to perform calibration, reducing the number of components and complexity, and allowing for efficient thermal control and reduced weight and size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If two distinct mechanisms (source assembly rotation mechanism and mirror rotation mechanism) are used for calibration, then the detector can be calibrated accurately, but the system complexity and number of components increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the source assembly rotation mechanism and mirror rotation mechanism into a single integrated mechanism. This single mechanism performs both functions: rotating the light source assembly to illuminate the mirror, and rotating the mirror itself to redirect light to the detector. This merging reduces the number of discrete mechanisms from two to one, simplifying the overall system while maintaining calibration functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The single integrated mechanism serves multiple functions: it rotates the light source assembly to different positions, positions the mirror at appropriate angles, and enables the mirror to redirect light from different sources to the detector. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate dedicated mechanisms for each calibration action.
2Measurement precision
If two distinct mechanisms are used for calibration, then comprehensive calibration can be performed, but the weight of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the source assembly rotation mechanism and mirror rotation mechanism into a single integrated mechanism, the total weight of mechanical components is reduced. The single mechanism shares common structural elements, mounting hardware, and drive systems, eliminating redundant weight that would be present if two separate mechanisms were used.
3Measurement precision
If two distinct mechanisms are used for calibration, then full calibration functionality is achieved, but the size of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of source assembly rotation and mirror rotation into a single mechanism reduces the spatial footprint of the calibration system. The merged mechanism allows for more compact arrangement of components, with the light source assembly and mirror sharing the same rotational axis and mounting structure, thereby reducing overall system volume.
4Measurement precision
If two distinct mechanisms are used for calibration, then calibration can be performed, but the reliability of the system decreases due to more components
Solution Approach 1:
Reducing the number of discrete mechanisms from two to one decreases the number of potential failure points. The single integrated mechanism has fewer moving parts, fewer bearings, fewer motors, and fewer alignment requirements, all of which contribute to improved system reliability and reduced maintenance needs.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system achieves accurate calibration with fewer components, enhancing robustness and reducing weight and size, making it suitable for space-based applications while maintaining calibration accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
The optical element is configured to receive the electromagnetic radiation from one or more radiation sources and redirect or reflect the radiation to a detector
Data Source
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AI summary
A calibration system and method for calibrating a detector are disclosed. In one example, the calibration system comprises a plurality of radiation sources configured to emit electromagnetic radiation, a positioning mechanism disposed opposite the plurality of radiation sources, having a single degree of freedom with respect to the plurality of radiation sources, and an optical element coupled to the positioning mechanism, and configured to rotate to a plurality of calibration positions, the optical element in each of the plurality of calibration positions being configured to receive the electromagnetic radiation from a corresponding radiation source and to reflect the electromagnetic radiation to the detector.