Dichroic Filter Optical System for 2D Spectral Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical spectrum separation systems are complex and not adaptable for two-dimensional still or video imaging, as they require multiple components and are not suitable for distinguishing transient illumination sources at different spatial locations.
Innovation Solution
An optical spectrum separation system that uses a dichroic filter and a mirror to separate light into two wavelength bands, which are then focused onto a single focal plane by a single lens, allowing for separate imaging of different wavelength bands at the same imaging plane, with optional transmission filters for spectral narrowing and reduced crosstalk.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple dichroic beam splitters and linear arrays are used to separate spectral components, then spectral separation precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple spectral separation functions into a single dichroic beam splitter that simultaneously separates multiple wavelength bands (e.g., blue, green, red, infrared) into different spatial paths. This single component replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate beam splitters and optical paths, thereby maintaining spectral separation precision while significantly reducing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging device is designed with a universal optical architecture that can capture multiple spectral bands simultaneously using a single sensor array. The system can selectively activate different wavelength band processing based on the imaging needs, making the device multi-functional without requiring separate dedicated systems for each spectral band
2Measurement precision
If scanning systems with linear arrays are used for spectral separation, then spectral imaging capability is improved, but adaptability to two-dimensional still or video imaging deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional linear array scanning to two-dimensional sensor array simultaneous capture. By using a 2D sensor array with appropriate optical elements (prisms, beam splitters), the system captures entire spectral bands across the full 2D image field simultaneously, enabling both spectral imaging and standard 2D still/video imaging without requiring scanning mechanisms
3Measurement precision
If multiple dichroic mirrors arranged nonparallel to one another are used for color separation, then color component separation is improved, but optical path complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple nonparallel dichroic mirrors into a single dichroic beam splitter with multiple coating layers, each layer designed to reflect specific wavelength bands at different angles. This single multi-functional component achieves the same color separation as multiple separate mirrors would provide, but with a unified optical path that reduces alignment complexity and component count
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
This system simplifies spectral separation by focusing both wavelength bands onto a single focal plane array, reducing complexity and cost, and enabling effective differentiation of illumination sources based on their spectral signatures, such as distinguishing between muzzle flash and sunlight reflections.
Implementation Method 1
a dichroic filter that reflects a first wavelength band of light. Light that is not reflected by the dichroic filter is transmitted through it
Implementation Method 2
Light reflected from the mirror is of a second wavelength band, which is transmitted back through the dichroic filter at an angle distinct from the reflected first wavelength band
Implementation Method 3
Both wavelength bands pass through a single lens that focuses the two wavelength bands toward different positions on a single focal plane
Data Source
AI summary
An optical device that creates separate images for different wavelength bands of light. The device comprises a light sensor, a first dichroic filter, and a first mirror. The light sensor comprises a first light sensing portion and a second light sensing portion. The first dichroic filter reflects a first portion of incident light of a first wavelength band from a source through an imaging lens with the imaging lens projecting a first image of the source onto the first light sensing portion of the light sensor; and the first dichroic filter transmits a second portion of incident light of a second wavelength band from the scene different from the first wavelength range. The first mirror is positioned to reflect the transmitted second portion of incident light through the imaging lens, the imaging lens projecting a second image of the source onto the second light sensing portion of the light sensor.