Hyperspectral Imaging with Adjustable Multi-Passband Filter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hyperspectral imaging technologies are costly, complex, and not easily adaptable to different spectral wavelength ranges, limiting their compatibility with compact-sized image sensors and requiring complex manufacturing processes.
Innovation Solution
A hyperspectral imaging arrangement using an array of LEDs with varying wavelengths, combined with adjustable multi-passband filters, such as Fabry-Perot interferometers, and an RGB or monochromatic image sensor, allowing for continuous wavelength adjustment and compatibility with small pixel image sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If pixelized multispectral filters are permanently on top of pixels, then spectral filtering is achieved, but the minimum pixel size is limited and manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pixelized filter is divided into multiple independently controllable regions (first pixelized filter layer and second pixelized filter layer), each capable of selecting different spectral bands. This segmentation allows the system to achieve hyperspectral imaging functionality without requiring each pixel to have a fixed filter, thereby enabling smaller pixel sizes while maintaining spectral filtering capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamically controllable pixelized filters that can change their spectral filtering properties in real-time through electrical control signals. The first and second pixelized filter layers can be independently activated or deactivated, allowing dynamic selection of spectral bands and enabling continuous wavelength adjustment without physical filter wheel movement.
2Measurement precision
If a filter wheel with fixed number of filters is used, then spectral selection is possible, but continuous wavelength adjustment is not possible and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical filter wheel system with an electronically controlled pixelized filter array. Instead of physically rotating a wheel to select filters, the system uses electronic control to activate specific regions of the pixelized filter layers, eliminating mechanical moving parts and enabling continuous, rapid wavelength adjustment without mechanical complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The pixelized filter layers serve multiple functions: they can be used individually or in combination, can select different spectral bands by activating different regions, and can work with both reflected and transmitted light modes. This multi-functionality replaces the need for multiple separate filters on a mechanical wheel.
3Measurement precision
If conventional hyperspectral imaging arrangements are used, then spectral imaging is achieved, but cost effectiveness decreases and adaptability to different spectral wavelength ranges is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous adjustment of spectral wavelength ranges by controlling which regions of the pixelized filter layers are activated. By changing the control signals to different pixel regions with different spectral characteristics, the system can adapt to various wavelength ranges without physical reconfiguration, achieving both cost-effectiveness and spectral adaptability.
4Measurement precision
If pixelized multispectral filters are used with compact-sized image sensors, then spectral filtering is achieved, but the size of the pixelized filter limits the minimum pixel size
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the filter functionality into multiple independently controllable pixel regions across two filter layers, the system achieves spectral filtering at the pixel level without requiring large filter structures. Each pixel can be assigned to control specific spectral bands through the segmented filter regions, enabling compact sensor design with smaller pixel sizes.
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 the creation of cost-effective, high-performance hyperspectral imaging capable of functioning with mobile device cameras, providing sufficient spectral bands in ambient light and enabling the use of small pixel image sensors.
Implementation Method 1
The adjustable multi passband filter may be a Fabry-Perot interferometer
Implementation Method 2
The adjustable multi passband filter may be a Fabry-Perot interferometer
Implementation Method 3
the adjustable multi passband filter comprises a spectral filter which is adjustable by tilting the spectral filter at different angles to an incident light
Data Source
Figure 1a
Figure 1b
Figure 2a
AI summary
An arrangement for hyperspectral imaging, comprising an imaging sensor (170,270); a band-pass filter element (130,230): at least one imaging optics element (120,160,220,260) configured to form an image on the imaging sensor (170,270); and a first adjustable multi passband filter (150a,255); wherein the first (150a,255) adjustable multi passband filter is configured to be adjusted by tilting.