Imaging Transform Spectrometer Dynamic Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional imaging systems, particularly in the long-wave infrared spectral band, face difficulties in obtaining broadband images with many pixels, necessitating the use of two separate instruments for spectral and spatial imaging, which is inefficient and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A multimode imaging transform spectrometer that can dynamically switch between interferometric spectrometer and broadband spatial imaging modes by selectively halting the scanning movement of a movable mirror and applying random vibrations to the mirrors, allowing for the programmable elimination of modulation and conversion between spectral collection and camera modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a Fourier Transform Spectrometer uses a movable mirror to produce interferograms for spectral imaging, then spectral data can be obtained with high measurement precision, but the device complexity increases and the ability to obtain broadband spatial images is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between spectral imaging mode (with movable mirror scanning) and spatial imaging mode (with mirror stationary), allowing the device to adapt its configuration based on operational requirements. This resolves the contradiction by making the complex interferometric configuration optional rather than permanent.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging transform spectrometer is designed to perform multiple functions: it can operate as a Fourier Transform Spectrometer for spectral imaging when the movable mirror scans, and as a broadband spatial imager when the mirror is held stationary. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate instruments while maintaining both capabilities.
2Reliability
If two separate instruments are used for spectral imaging and spatial imaging, then each instrument can be optimized for its specific function, but the device complexity increases and operational efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines spectral imaging and spatial imaging capabilities into a single imaging transform spectrometer. The system merges the interferometric spectrometer with the broadband imager, allowing both functions to be performed by one instrument rather than requiring two separate systems, thus improving operational efficiency while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The single instrument is designed with universal capability to perform both spectral imaging and spatial imaging tasks. By making the spectrometer multi-functional, the system eliminates the need for instrument switching or deployment of multiple systems, directly addressing the productivity concern while preserving the optimization benefits through dedicated optical paths for each function.
3Ease of operation
If the movable mirror is stationary in an interferometer, then broadband spatial images can be obtained, but spectral data cannot be collected
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamic control of the movable mirror, which can be positioned in a stationary state for spatial imaging or moved to scan for spectral imaging. This dynamic adaptability allows the system to provide spatial imaging capability when needed while preserving the ability to collect spectral data when required, preventing information loss.
4Measurement precision
If spectral imaging is performed continuously, then spectral data is obtained, but the time required to acquire broadband spatial images increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic switching between spectral imaging mode and spatial imaging mode. The movable mirror periodically scans to collect spectral data and then stops to allow broadband spatial imaging. This periodic action allows both functions to be performed in an interleaved manner, reducing the time penalty for acquiring spatial images while maintaining spectral data quality through continuous periodic sampling.
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 the acquisition of broadband spatial images and spectral data on demand using a single instrument, reducing the need for multiple systems and improving operational efficiency by selectively disabling the interferometric function to produce unmodulated images.
Implementation Method 1
a beamsplitter configured to split incident electromagnetic radiation from a scene into a first optical path and a second optical path
Implementation Method 2
the second mirror being movable over a scan range to provide an optical path length difference between the first optical path and the second optical path and produce an interferogram at the least one focal plane array sensor
Implementation Method 3
at least one focal plane array sensor configured to receive electromagnetic radiation from the first and second optical paths
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
An imaging transform spectrometer, and method of operation thereof, that is dynamically configurable "on demand" between an interferometric spectrometer function and a broadband spatial imaging function to allow a single instrument to capture both broadband spatial imagery and spectral data of a scene. In one example, the imaging transform spectrometer is configured such that the modulation used for interferometric imaging may be dynamically turned ON and OFF to select a desired mode of operation for the instrument.