Infrared Imaging Filter Array for Material Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current infrared spectroscopic analysis techniques, particularly in the MIR-FIR regions, are limited in their ability to provide spatial distribution information and are not cost-effective for obtaining image information, with existing infrared spectrometers and microscopes being expensive and primarily designed for simple substance analysis rather than material identification and imaging.
Innovation Solution
A solid imaging apparatus is developed, integrating a light source, lens, and an infrared detection device with a wavelength transmission filter array, allowing for material identification and two-dimensional image information acquisition by converting infrared light intensity into voltage signals using a non-cooling type infrared detector and micro bolometers, with a resonance layer and interference layer in the filter array to achieve precise wavelength transmission filtering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If cooling-type MCT detectors and FT-IR apparatuses are used for high precision wavelength analysis, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the broad infrared wavelength range into multiple discrete wavelength bands using a filter array with multiple filters, each transmitting a specific wavelength band. This segmentation allows the use of simpler non-cooling detectors for each band while maintaining overall measurement precision through spectral synthesis.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple filters with different transmission wavelength bands into a single filter array that can be integrated with a non-cooling infrared detection device. This merging enables the system to achieve spectral analysis capabilities previously requiring complex cooling-type apparatuses.
2Measurement precision
If cooling-type MCT detectors are used for infrared detection, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operating parameters by using non-cooling type detectors instead of cooling-type MCT detectors. This parameter change is compensated by using a filter array to pre-select wavelength bands, allowing simpler detectors to achieve sufficient precision for the application.
3Measurement precision
If infrared spectrometers and microscopes are used for material identification, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the infrared spectrum into multiple wavelength bands using a filter array, with each filter capturing specific molecular vibration information. This segmentation enables material identification through spectral synthesis from multiple bands, achieving precision comparable to full-spectrum instruments but with simpler hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter array acts as an intermediary between the infrared light source and the non-cooling detector, preprocessing the infrared radiation by selecting specific wavelength bands. This intermediary enables the use of simpler detectors while maintaining the capability for precise material identification.
4Measurement precision
If FT-IR apparatuses are used for obtaining simple substance information, then measurement precision is improved, but adaptability for spatial distribution and imaging decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges spectral analysis functionality with imaging capability by integrating a filter array with a two-dimensional infrared detection device. This combination allows simultaneous acquisition of spatial distribution information and spectral information, enabling both material identification and imaging functions in a single apparatus.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a multi-functional apparatus that can perform both spectral analysis and spatial distribution measurement. The filter array combined with the two-dimensional detector enables the system to function as both a spectrometer and an imaging device, increasing adaptability for different measurement requirements.
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 apparatus enables efficient material discrimination and image information acquisition with improved precision and reduced equipment size, facilitating applications such as warming gas measurement, exhaust gas monitoring, and non-invasive blood analysis, while being cost-effective and capable of simultaneous multi-subject measurement.
Implementation Method 1
a filter array having a plurality of wavelength transmission filters arranged on an X-Y plane, wherein the wavelength transmission filter array includes a resonance layer and an interference layer
Implementation Method 2
an infrared detection device with a plurality of pixels sensitive to a wavelength, wherein the filter array is provided in proximity to the infrared detection device
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging device includes a light source which irradiates an infrared light including one or more wavelength to a subject; a lens which forms an image of the infrared light transmitting the subject or being reflected from the subject; an infrared detection device including a plurality of pixels which are sensitive to the wavelength; and a filter array which is provided in proximity to the infrared detection device between the lens and the infrared detection device and including a plurality of wavelength filters having different transmission wavelengths.