External Shutter Assembly for Infrared Imaging Calibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional infrared imaging devices with shutters face challenges in achieving accurate calibration due to blockage of out-of-field infrared radiation and difficulties in measuring shutter temperature, while also adding bulk and requiring external cabling, which is problematic for small form factor devices.
Innovation Solution
A shutter assembly is provided for an infrared imaging module with a paddle external to the optical element that can be selectively moved to block external infrared radiation, incorporating a temperature sensor for accurate temperature measurement, and conductive traces for electrical signal passing, allowing for compact integration without excessive bulk.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional shutter is placed in the optical path between the optical element and infrared sensors, then the shutter can block external infrared radiation, but it blocks out-of-field infrared radiation and prevents accurate measurement of shutter temperature for calibration
Solution Approach 1:
The shutter assembly is moved from the internal optical path to an external position adjacent to the optical element. This dimensional relocation allows the shutter to block external infrared radiation while permitting out-of-field radiation to reach the sensors, and enables separate temperature sensing of the shutter without interfering with the optical path.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is divided into separate functional components: the shutter assembly for blocking external radiation, the optical element for focusing, and the infrared sensors for detection. The temperature sensor is also separated from the optical path and positioned to measure shutter temperature independently, allowing each component to perform its function without interfering with others.
2Ease of operation
If a conventional shutter with external cabling is used, then the shutter can be controlled to block infrared radiation, but the device requires external cabling and adds bulk, which is problematic for small form factor devices
Solution Approach 1:
The shutter, actuator, and temperature sensor are merged into a single integrated shutter assembly that can be positioned adjacent to the optical element. This integration eliminates the need for external cabling and reduces the overall device volume, making it suitable for small form factor applications while maintaining full functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The shutter assembly acts as an intermediary component positioned between the external environment and the optical element. It provides the necessary radiation blocking function while its compact integrated design minimizes space requirements, serving as a space-efficient mediator that enables shutter control without external cabling.
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 solution enables more accurate calibration by allowing out-of-field radiation to be compensated, reduces the overall profile of the device, and eliminates the need for external cabling, enhancing the performance and compactness of small form factor infrared imaging devices.
Implementation Method 1
a paddle situated external to an optical element (e.g., lens) and adapted to be selectively moved by an actuator to substantially block external infrared radiation from entering the optical element
Implementation Method 2
In addition, one or more conductive traces may be formed on interior and/or exterior surfaces of the housing to facilitate passing of electrical signals to and/or from components of the shutter assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A shutter assembly may be provided for an infrared imaging module to selectively block external infrared radiation from reaching infrared sensors of the infrared imaging module. For example, the shutter assembly may comprise a paddle situated external to an optical element (e.g., lens) and adapted to be selectively moved by an actuator to substantially block external infrared radiation from entering the optical element. The shutter assembly may be stacked relative to a housing of the infrared imaging module without excessively increasing the overall profile of the infrared imaging module. A substantially reflective low emissivity interior surface may be provided on the paddle to reflect infrared radiation originating from an infrared sensor assembly of the infrared imaging module back to the infrared sensor assembly.