Imaging Device Reflector Geometry for Uniform Object-Plane Illumination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Imaging devices used for biological growth plates face issues with uneven lighting, which affects the quality of visual data and can lead to inaccurate interpretation of bacterial growth, as existing systems do not adequately control and distribute light uniformly across the object plane.
Innovation Solution
The imaging device incorporates specific angles and configurations of reflector planes and waveguides within the housing to control and distribute light uniformly across the object plane, using back illumination and reflective surfaces to ensure even illumination, reducing glare and shadows.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If conventional lighting is used in imaging devices, then the device structure remains simple, but the lighting uniformity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting system is divided into multiple independent light sources positioned at different locations around the object plane. Each light source contributes to illuminating a specific region, and the combined effect achieves uniform lighting across the entire object plane. This segmentation allows complex lighting uniformity to be achieved through modular, manageable components.
Solution Approach 2:
Reflective surfaces are introduced as intermediary elements between the light sources and the object plane. These reflectors redirect and distribute light from the light sources in a controlled manner, transforming point-source illumination into diffuse, uniform lighting across the object plane without requiring direct placement of multiple light sources.
2Illumination intensity
If multiple light sources are added to improve lighting uniformity, then the illumination quality improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reflective surfaces serve multiple functions simultaneously: they redirect light from light sources, distribute it uniformly across the object plane, and can be positioned to control glare and shadow patterns. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated components for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of placing multiple light sources directly above the object plane (one-dimensional approach), the system uses light sources positioned around the perimeter and employs reflective surfaces at specific angles to redirect light downward. This transitions to a two-dimensional or three-dimensional light distribution architecture, achieving more uniform illumination with fewer direct light sources.
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
The solution provides uniform and diffuse lighting, enhancing the quality of optical data capture and reducing human error in bacterial colony counting by ensuring consistent illumination across the object plane.
Implementation Method 1
A first reflector plane is within the housing. The first reflector plane is 68.0° to 70.0° from the object plane. The first reflector plane is in reflective communication with the object plane.
Implementation Method 2
the first waveguide has a first interior reflective surface, and the first waveguide defines a first optical inlet through the first interior reflective surface and a first optical outlet through the first interior reflective surface
Data Source
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AI summary
The technology disclosed herein relates to an imaging device. In some embodiments the imaging device has a support plate defining an object plane. A housing surrounds the object plane across the support plate. A first reflector plane is within the housing and in reflective communication with the object plane. The first reflector plane is 68.0º to 70.0º from the object plane. A second reflector plane within the housing and in reflective communication with the object plane. The second reflector plane is 68.0º to 70.0º from the object plane. Other embodiments are also described.