Imaging Device Reflective Optical Pickoff for Spectrometer Integration
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional camera systems face challenges in accurately measuring light properties due to limited space between the lens and image sensor, making it difficult to integrate spectrometer measurements without obstructing the image capture or reducing light intensity.
Innovation Solution
In-camera optical pickoff systems are designed with mirrors or reflectors integrated into the filter wheel mechanism, allowing for selective alignment with the optical path to direct light to a spectrometer while maintaining image capture, and using Fresnel mirrors or diffusers to optimize space utilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a mirror is used to reflect light to a spectrometer, then spectrometer measurements can be obtained, but the mirror obstructs the light path to the image sensor when positioned for spectrometer sampling
Solution Approach 1:
The mirror is mounted on a pivoting arm that allows it to dynamically change position between two states: (1) positioned to reflect light into the optical fiber for spectrometer measurements, and (2) pivoted out of the light path to allow full image capture by the CCD. This dynamic positioning resolves the contradiction by enabling the system to switch between measurement and imaging modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic switching between spectrometer measurement mode and image capture mode. The mirror is periodically positioned to intercept light for spectrometer sampling, then periodically moved out of the path for full image capture. This periodic action allows both functions to be performed alternately, resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and productivity.
2Productivity
If a beamsplitter is used to allow simultaneous spectrometer sampling and image capture, then both measurements can be obtained at the same time, but the total light intensity reaching the optical input and CCD is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a beamsplitter that divides light across the entire optical path, the invention uses a mirror positioned at a specific location (near the focal plane) to selectively intercept only the portion of light intended for spectrometer sampling. The rest of the optical path remains unaffected, allowing full light intensity to reach the CCD when the mirror is positioned for image capture.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the optical fiber input is positioned near the focal plane to enable light interception, then spectrometer sampling is possible, but the sample area is limited to only the input aperture size
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces a field lens positioned near the focal plane that creates a virtual image of the entire image field at a location where the optical fiber can intercept light from the full field of view. This dimensional transformation allows the small optical fiber aperture to capture light from the entire image area by utilizing the optical properties of the field lens to redirect light rays from all parts of the image to the fiber input.
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
These systems enable simultaneous spectrometer measurements and image capture without obstructing the camera's view, improving measurement accuracy and reducing light loss, while minimizing space requirements within the camera.
Implementation Method 1
a reflector positioned within the imaging device. The reflector is configured to reflect a portion of the light from the optical path to a light input for a spectrometer
Implementation Method 2
using Fresnel mirrors or diffusers to optimize space utilization
Implementation Method 3
using Fresnel mirrors or diffusers to optimize space utilization
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is directed to imaging device, systems, and methods for collecting optical data for use with spectrometers. An imaging device configured in accordance with one aspect of the disclosure includes a lens configured to introduce light into the imaging device along an optical path, and an image sensor spaced apart from the lens and configured to receive at least a portion of the light along the optical path. The imaging device further includes a filter assembly positioned between the lens and the image sensor, and a reflector or mirror carried by the filter assembly. The filter assembly is configured to move the reflector between first and second positions. In the first position the reflector is at least partially aligned with the optical path and reflects at least a portion of the light to a corresponding light input for a spectrometer. In the second position the reflector is positioned outside of the optical path.