Imaging Device Calibration System Using Segmented Light Sources
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional imaging device calibration methods are either inaccurate, time-consuming, or expensive, and often require multiple pieces of equipment, making them inefficient for achieving precise and rapid calibration across various imaging systems.
Innovation Solution
An imaging device analysis system utilizing an emissive light source with a light randomizer and optical diffuser, coupled with processing circuitry to control and analyze light emission, enabling fast and accurate calibration of imaging devices by determining their optical characteristics such as responsivity and transduction functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If monochromators are used for calibration, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the spectral calibration process by using multiple discrete wavelength light sources (e.g., LEDs at specific wavelengths) instead of a continuous spectrum monochromator. This allows parallel or sequential measurement at key wavelengths, reducing total calibration time while maintaining precision at those segmented spectral points.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-positioning multiple fixed-wavelength light sources at their optimal positions before calibration begins. This eliminates the time-consuming process of sequentially tuning a monochromator through different wavelengths, as all required wavelengths are already prepared and available for immediate measurement.
2Ease of operation
If reflective charts are used for calibration, then ease of operation is improved and cost is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary element - a diffuse reflector with known reflectance properties - that mediates between the light source and the imaging device under test. This intermediary provides stable, predictable reflection characteristics that maintain measurement precision while keeping the system simple to operate, bridging the gap between the simplicity of reflective charts and the precision of monochromators.
3Measurement precision
If multiple pieces of equipment are used for analysis, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple measurement functions into a single integrated apparatus. The system combines light sources of different wavelengths, diffuse reflectors, and imaging device mounting capabilities into one unified platform, eliminating the need for separate equipment for spectral response measurement, uniformity assessment, and other calibration tasks, thereby reducing complexity while maintaining comprehensive analysis capability.
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 approach allows for quick, accurate, and cost-effective calibration of imaging devices, improving color reproduction quality and reducing calibration time compared to traditional methods, while being suitable for use on manufacturing lines or by professional photographers.
Implementation Method 1
outputting infrared light for communication to an imaging device configured to generate images responsive to received light, wherein the imaging device is configured to filter infrared light
Implementation Method 2
An imaging device analysis system utilizing an emissive light source with a light randomizer and optical diffuser
Data Source
AI summary
Imaging device analysis systems and imaging device analysis methods are described. According to one embodiment, an imaging device analysis system includes a light source configured to output light for use in analyzing at least one imaging component of an imaging device, wherein the imaging device is configured to generate images responsive to received light, and processing circuitry coupled with the light source and configured to control the light source to optically communicate the light to the imaging device, wherein the processing circuitry is further configured to access image data generated by the imaging device responsive to the reception, by the imaging device, of the light from the light source and to process the image data to analyze an operational status of the at least one imaging component.