Imaging Circadiometer for Retinal Irradiance Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies lack a reliable method to accurately measure the spatial distribution of optical radiation and its spectral properties within the human field of view, which is crucial for understanding its impact on circadian rhythm entrainment and visual comfort in various environments.
Innovation Solution
An imaging circadiometer system comprising an imaging optical system, a filter wheel with specific spectral filters, and a digital image processing unit, capable of capturing and analyzing the spatial and spectral data of light as it interacts with the human retina, simulating the uneven distribution of photoreceptors across the retina.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional photodetector arrays are used without spectral filtering, then the device structure is simple, but the measurement precision of spectral radiance distribution is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the spectral measurement task into multiple discrete wavelength bands by using a filter wheel with multiple spectral filters. Each filter captures a specific portion of the spectrum, and the combined data provides comprehensive spectral radiance distribution. This segmentation approach enables precise spectral measurement while using a single photodetector array, avoiding the need for complex multi-detector systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces spectral filters as intermediary elements between the light source and the photodetector array. These filters selectively transmit specific wavelength ranges, enabling the photodetector to measure spectral radiance at different wavelengths. This intermediary approach simplifies the device structure compared to using multiple photodetectors with different spectral responses.
2Measurement precision
If multiple photodetector arrays with different spectral responses are used, then the measurement precision of circadian rhythm parameters is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the spectral measurement function across multiple filters rather than requiring multiple photodetector arrays. Each filter is designed to match the spectral sensitivity of specific photoreceptor types (cones, rods, ipRGCs), allowing a single photodetector array to simulate multiple photoreceptor responses through sequential filtering.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses spectral filters to create copies of the spectral responses of different photoreceptor types. Instead of directly measuring with multiple photodetector arrays having different spectral sensitivities, the system uses filters to replicate these spectral responses, enabling accurate measurement of circadian rhythm parameters with a single detector array.
3Measurement precision
If spectral filters are added to the imaging system, then the measurement precision of optical radiation distribution is improved, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automated control of the filter wheel and image capture sequence through a computer system. The system automatically sequences the spectral filters and coordinates image capture at each filter position, eliminating the need for manual intervention. This automation maintains measurement precision while simplifying operation, as the user only needs to initiate the measurement process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates a computer-controlled system that coordinates the filter wheel positioning with image capture timing. The system provides feedback control to ensure each filter is properly positioned before capturing the image, and automatically progresses through the filter sequence. This feedback mechanism ensures measurement precision while maintaining ease of operation through automation.
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 precise measurement of retinal irradiance and spectral radiance distribution, aiding in the development of standards for lighting and display devices that optimize circadian rhythm entrainment and visual comfort by accounting for the spatial and spectral properties of light.
Implementation Method 1
a filter wheel with specific spectral filters
Implementation Method 2
a two-dimensional photodetector array
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for an imaging circadiometer that measures the spatial distribution of eye-mediated, non-image-forming optical radiation within the visible spectrum.