Dichroic Mirror Imaging for Full-Sensor Multi-FOV Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing indicia readers face challenges in efficiently utilizing an entire image sensor for multiple fields of view due to design complexities and costs associated with additional sensors or mechanical components, leading to increased costs and reduced reliability.
Innovation Solution
Employing a statically positioned dichroic mirror arrangement within the optical path of an imaging system to redirect and split light into different wavelength ranges, allowing a single image sensor to capture data from multiple fields of view.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a separate image sensor is used for every desired FOV, then the entire pixel area of each sensor can be utilized, but the cost increases due to additional sensors and the design complexity increases due to positioning and electrical interfacing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
A single image sensor is designed to perform multiple functions by capturing multiple fields of view simultaneously. The sensor array is configured with specific optical elements (beam splitter, dichroic mirror, fold mirrors) that direct different wavelength ranges and FOVs to the same sensor, allowing one sensor to replace what would traditionally require multiple sensors
Solution Approach 2:
Optical intermediary elements (beam splitter, dichroic mirror, fold mirrors) are introduced to mediate between the multiple FOVs and the single image sensor. These intermediaries redirect and split light paths, enabling the sensor to receive information from multiple directions and wavelength ranges without requiring multiple sensors
2Adaptability or versatility
If splitter and fold mirrors are used to split a primary FOV into multiple FOVs, then multiple FOVs can be captured, but the entire pixel area of the sensor cannot be used
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor array is segmented into multiple regions, with each region dedicated to capturing a specific FOV or wavelength range. This segmentation allows the entire sensor area to be utilized while maintaining distinct capture zones for different optical paths
Solution Approach 2:
The optical system utilizes wavelength as an additional dimension to separate FOVs. By using dichroic mirrors that reflect certain wavelength ranges and transmit others, the system captures multiple FOVs simultaneously without overlapping spatially on the sensor, thereby utilizing the entire sensor area
3Adaptability or versatility
If movable mirrors are added to allow for dynamic FOVs, then dynamic FOV adjustment is achieved, but mechanical complexity increases, driving up cost and reducing robustness and reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves dynamic FOV adjustment through electronic control of the sensor array rather than mechanical movement of mirrors. The sensor array can be electronically activated/deactivated or have its readout regions dynamically adjusted, providing FOV flexibility without mechanical components
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical mirror system with an electronically controlled sensor array system. Instead of moving mirrors to change FOVs, the system uses electronic control of sensor regions and optical paths, eliminating mechanical complexity while maintaining dynamic adaptability
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
Enables efficient use of an entire image sensor for multiple fields of view without additional sensors or mechanical complexity, reducing costs and improving reliability.
Implementation Method 1
the first mirror is a dichroic mirror operative to reflect light in the first wavelength range and pass therethrough light in the second wavelength range
Implementation Method 2
a mirror arrangement configured to redirect at least some portion of the FOV, the mirror arrangement including a first mirror and a second mirror
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to imaging systems operable to capture image data representative of varying wavelength ranges from separate fields of view (FOVs). In some examples this is achieved by utilizing a statically positioned mirror arrangement positioned within a path of an imager's FOV and operative to (i) reflect light in a first wavelength range forming a first sub-FOV and (ii) pass therethrough light in a second wavelength range forming a second sub-FOV. Each of the first sub-FOV and the second sub-FOV can then be routed along a respective predetermined path to enable the imager to capture image data representative of the light sensed from each respective sub-FOV.