Four-Mirror Image Slicer for Compact 3D Hyperspectral Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional hyperspectral imaging systems are large due to the need for extended spectrographs, limiting spectral resolution and requiring impractical manufacturing of image slicers with deep valleys.
Innovation Solution
A compact optical system design using a four-mirror image slicer with a ridge to reduce depth, combined with a mini-spectrograph array that integrates micro-gratings, allowing for simultaneous 3D hyperspectral imaging in a compact structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional extended spectrographs are used, then spectral resolution is improved, but system size becomes large
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the spectrograph into multiple mini-spectrograph units arranged in an array, each handling a portion of the spectral range. This segmentation allows high spectral resolution to be achieved through parallel processing without requiring a single large extended spectrograph, thus reducing overall system size while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a spatial dimension by arranging multiple mini-spectrographs in an array configuration, where each element processes a different spatial portion of the input. This dimensional approach allows the system to achieve high spectral resolution through parallel spatial channels rather than requiring extended path length in a single channel, thereby compacting the system.
2Manufacturing precision
If image slicers with deep valleys are manufactured, then optical path separation is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The image slicer is segmented into multiple discrete mirror elements arranged in sections, eliminating the need for deep continuous valleys. Each mirror element can be manufactured independently with standard precision, and the optical path separation is achieved through the spatial arrangement of these segmented elements rather than through deep valley structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent resolves the manufacturing difficulty by transitioning from a vertical depth dimension (deep valleys) to a horizontal spatial dimension (sectional arrangement of mirrors). The optical path separation is achieved by positioning mirror sections at different lateral locations rather than requiring deep vertical excursions, making the structure manufacturable with conventional techniques.
3Volume of moving object
If compact optical structure is used, then system size is reduced, but spectral resolution may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges multiple mini-spectrograph units into a single integrated array structure that processes the entire spectral range simultaneously. By combining the output of multiple compact units with high spectral resolution into a unified detector array, the system achieves both compact size and high overall spectral resolution through parallel merging of multiple resolution channels.
Solution Approach 2:
Each mini-spectrograph unit in the array is designed as a universal modular element that can process different portions of the spectrum. This multi-functional array configuration allows the compact system to achieve high spectral resolution across the entire spectral range by distributing the resolution requirement across multiple identical functional units working in parallel.
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 high-resolution, real-time 3D hyperspectral imaging with reduced system size and practical manufacturing, utilizing modern focal plane arrays for multiplexed spectral data acquisition.
Implementation Method 1
Early hyperspectral imaging systems based on long-slit diffraction grating (or any dispersive elements such as prisms) spectrograph
Implementation Method 2
an image slicer having a plurality of slicer mirrors to receive light from the multispectral light source
Data Source
AI summary
A compact structure for snapshot hyperspectral imaging may include an image slicer, an integral field unit, an integral field spectrograph, and multiplexed integral field spectrograph. The image slicer includes a first section having a first plurality of mirrors, each mirror of the first plurality of mirrors having a predetermined tilt in a longitudinal direction, a second section having a second plurality of mirrors, each mirror of the second plurality of mirrors having a predetermined tilt in the longitudinal direction, and a ridge extending laterally between the first section and the second, the first section being at a first angle relative to the ridge and the second section being at a second angle opposite to the first angle relative to the ridge. The integral field unit source includes a four mirror design including an image slicer. The integral field spectrograph includes an array of spectrographs and an image slicer.