Hyper-spectral Imaging Spectrometer Baffle Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image capture systems face limitations in achieving high-quality collective images due to the variability in camera quality and the presence of unwanted light energy, which degrades the signal-to-noise ratio and reduces the dynamic range of captured images.
Innovation Solution
The improved camera system incorporates a spatial-phase modulator and a baffle system, along with a detection panel having multiple sensors, to modulate and focus light energy, while the baffle system reduces unwanted light, enhancing the dynamic range and signal-to-noise ratio by steering light rays and blocking unnecessary energy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional cameras are used to capture images, then the system is simple and easy to manufacture, but the signal-to-noise ratio is degraded and dynamic range is limited due to unwanted light energy
Solution Approach 1:
A baffle system is introduced as an intermediary component between the lens and detector to block unwanted light energy. The baffle acts as a mediator that selectively allows desired light to reach the detector while blocking harmful light, thereby improving signal-to-noise ratio without requiring fundamental changes to the camera's core structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The harmful unwanted light energy is extracted and blocked from reaching the detector by the baffle system. By removing this interfering element from the optical path, the patent improves the quality of captured images while maintaining the simplicity of the overall camera design.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional cameras are used, then the device complexity is low, but the dynamic range of captured images is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The baffle system serves as an intermediary that enables extended dynamic range by blocking unwanted light energy that would otherwise saturate the detector. This allows the camera to capture images with a wider range of brightness levels without requiring complex multi-exposure systems or high-cost sensors.
3Area of stationary object
If multiple cameras are stitched together to form collective images, then the coverage area is increased, but the variability in camera quality degrades the overall image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by using multiple cameras arranged in a specific configuration, where each camera captures a portion of the scene. The baffle system is integrated into each camera unit to ensure consistent image quality across all segments, allowing the individual camera variations to be minimized while maintaining overall coverage.
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 configuration results in improved spatial and spectral information capture, increasing the camera's sensitivity and image quality by maintaining a high signal-to-noise ratio and extending the dynamic range beyond 1000:1, leading to a more effective image capture system.
Implementation Method 1
a spatial-phase modulator that modulates light energy so that the dynamic range of the camera is extended
Implementation Method 2
a lens that focuses the modulated light energy on a detection panel having an array of detectors
Implementation Method 3
The detectors have multiple sensors that convert the modulated light into electrical signals
Implementation Method 4
a baffle system that reduces the amount of unwanted light energy that is received by detectors
Data Source
AI summary
A camera concurrently produces an orthographic map and map spectral content. Illumination from an image passes through a phase modulator and the resulting rotating photo-flux phase is converted to an electrical signal by multiple adjacent sensors of detectors of array of detectors. The amount of unwanted illumination reaching the sensors is reduced by a set of baffles that shield and protect the transducers from unwanted out-of-field light and other light sources.