Imaging Device Spatial Light Modulator Polarization Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging devices for observing skin require complex structures with two polarized illumination systems and struggle to optimize the polarization state of light according to the object being observed.
Innovation Solution
An imaging device comprising a camera, a light source, a polarizer between the camera and light source, and a spatial light modulator to control the polarization plane's revolution angle, allowing for simple configuration and optimization of the polarization state based on the object.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two polarized illumination systems are used to capture images, then the imaging capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate polarized illumination systems into a single system by using one light source with a polarizer and a half-wave plate to generate light with different polarization states sequentially. This merging approach maintains the imaging capability while significantly reducing structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic control of polarization state by rotating the half-wave plate or changing its orientation angle to generate different polarization states (s-polarized, p-polarized, or intermediate states) as needed. This dynamic adjustment replaces the need for two fixed illumination systems
2Measurement precision
If the polarization state is optimized for each object, then the imaging quality is improved, but the operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables optimization of imaging quality by changing the polarization state parameter (orientation angle of the half-wave plate) according to the specific object being observed. For example, using s-polarized light for skin surface observation and p-polarized light for subsurface observation, achieving high imaging quality without complex manual operations
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 enables a simple and effective optimization of the polarization state of light irradiated on the object, enhancing the imaging device's ability to capture detailed skin surface and inner state images with improved reflection and scattering characteristics.
Implementation Method 1
a polarizer arranged between the camera plus the light source and an object
Implementation Method 2
a spatial light modulator arranged between the polarizer and the object to control a revolution angle of an emitting light polarization plane relative to an incident light polarization plane
Implementation Method 3
capture an image on the basis of reflected light reflected on a surface of the epidermis
Implementation Method 4
capture an image on the basis of scattered light scattered at the inside of the epidermis
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging device includes a camera 31, a light source 32, a polarizer 35 arranged between the camera 31 plus the light source 32 and an object 11, and a spatial light modulator 40A arranged between the polarizer 35 and the object 11 to control a revolution angle of an emitting light polarization plane relative to an incident light polarization plane.