Fourier Transform Hyperspectral Imaging Without Mechanical Scanning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for sensing and analyzing light from target areas face limitations in efficiency and cost, particularly in applications requiring real-time detection and analysis of volatile organic compounds and gases without mechanical scanning.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a substrate with reactants, opaque members with slits, and an image sensor, combined with optical components like lenses and interferometers, enables Fourier transform hyperspectral imaging without mechanical scanning, allowing for accurate detection and analysis of fluid components by capturing and processing light without mechanical movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If mechanical scanning is used for light detection and analysis, then measurement precision can be improved, but device complexity and loss of time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical scanning systems with a static optical system comprising a beam splitter, fixed mirrors, and a camera. Light from the target area is divided into reference and measurement beams that are recombined to form an interferogram, eliminating moving parts while maintaining spectral analysis capability through Fourier transform processing
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a beam splitter as an intermediary component that divides the incoming light into separate reference and measurement paths. This intermediary enables simultaneous capture of both reference and sample information, allowing spectral analysis without mechanical scanning
2Measurement precision
If mechanical scanning is used for light detection and analysis, then measurement precision can be improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous spectral measurement by capturing the entire spectrum simultaneously through a static optical system. The interferogram contains all spectral information at once, allowing real-time detection without the sequential scanning process that causes time delays
Solution Approach 2:
By replacing mechanical scanning with a static interferometric system, the patent achieves instantaneous spectral capture. The Fourier transform processing of the interferogram provides complete spectral information without requiring time-consuming mechanical movement
3Reliability
If conventional sensing devices are used, then detection capability is maintained, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs inexpensive optical components including a standard beam splitter, fixed mirrors, and a conventional camera instead of costly specialized sensors. This approach prioritizes cost-effective manufacturing while achieving the required detection capability through computational processing of interferogram data
4Reliability
If conventional sensing devices are used, then detection capability is maintained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical scanning systems with a simple static optical arrangement. The beam splitter, fixed mirrors, and camera create a compact system with no moving parts, reducing mechanical complexity while maintaining spectral detection capability through interferometric processing
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, cost-effective, and compact detection and analysis of fluid components, facilitating early detection of pathogens and hazardous substances, and supporting applications like real-time health monitoring and industrial quality control without the need for mechanical scanning.
Implementation Method 1
an image sensor configured to receive light reflected or scattered or remitted from the one or more reactants
Implementation Method 2
an image sensor configured to receive light reflected or scattered or remitted from the one or more reactants
Implementation Method 3
the second set of lenses are configured to form an interferogram from light passing through the one or more slits
Data Source
AI summary
Devices, systems, and methods include a system for analyzing a target area. The system may include an opaque member having one or more slits configured to be transverse to a target area, one or more lenses configured to receive light from the target area, and an image sensor configured to receive the light from the target area that has passed through the one or more slits and the one or more lenses. A controller may be in communication with the image sensor to process and/or monitor sensed light. The system may include an optical system that includes the opaque member and the one or more lenses, which may have a first set of lenses and a second set of lenses. The target area may include a substrate supporting one or more reactants. The system may be a Fourier transform hyperspectral imaging fluid analysis system.