IR Sensor Filter Assembly for Low Cross-Talk CubeSat Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing IR sensor assemblies for small satellites face challenges in withstanding mechanical loads during launch, suffer from cross-talk between spectral bands, and are costly and inflexible, lacking a compact and cost-effective solution for multi-spectral observations.
Innovation Solution
An IR sensor assembly design featuring planar optical filters arranged close to the detector on adhesive tape, enclosed by a frame part, using compressible glue for stability, allowing easy adaptation and resilience to mechanical loads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If filter assemblies with significant complexity are used for smaller satellites, then multi-spectral observations can be achieved, but manufacturing cost increases to exceed 25k€ per unit
Solution Approach 1:
The filter assembly is segmented into individual planar optical filters that can be independently selected and arranged. Each filter corresponds to a specific spectral band, allowing customization without requiring a complete complex assembly. This segmentation enables cost-effective manufacturing by allowing selective procurement and arrangement of filters based on specific mission requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter assembly design uses universal mounting structures and standardized planar filters that can be applied across different satellite platforms and spectral requirements. The same basic assembly architecture supports multiple spectral bands (visible, near-infrared, short-wave infrared) by simply changing the filter configuration, eliminating the need for separate complex assemblies for each application.
2Stability of the object's composition
If integrated filter assemblies are finalized for small satellites, then structural stability is achieved, but flexibility for filter changes is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The filter assembly incorporates dynamic reconfigurability through independent mounting of planar filters on the sensor window. Filters can be independently removed, replaced, or repositioned without affecting the structural integrity of the entire assembly. The mounting mechanism allows for easy filter changes while maintaining stable structural support during operation and launch.
Solution Approach 2:
By segmenting the filter assembly into independently mounted planar filters rather than a fixed monolithic structure, the design enables individual filter replacement. Each filter is separately attached to the sensor window, allowing selective changes to specific filters while leaving others intact, thus providing flexibility without compromising overall structural stability.
3Measurement precision
If filters are placed in close proximity to the sensor, then cross-talk between spectral bands is reduced, but thermal coupling requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
A thermal management intermediary structure is introduced between the planar optical filters and the sensor window. This intermediary layer serves as a thermal interface that allows close proximity placement of filters for reduced cross-talk while managing thermal coupling. The structure can include thermal isolation elements or controlled thermal pathways to regulate heat transfer between filters and sensor, enabling both close spacing and thermal control.
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 design reduces cross-talk, enables compact and cost-effective multi-spectral observations, withstands mechanical loads, and allows easy filter adjustments, suitable for small satellites like CubeSats.
Implementation Method 1
The sensor assembly may yet further include an adhesive tape provided (e.g., applied, attached, or affixed) on the front surface, outside of the window portion. The adhesive tape may at least partially surround the window portion. Further, the one or more planar optical filters may be arranged to cover at least part of the window portion, with at least part of each planar optical filter resting on the adhesive tape.
Implementation Method 2
The IR sensor assembly may further include one or more planar optical filters. Preferably, the IR sensor assembly may comprise a plurality of planar optical filters. The planar optical filters may have rectangular shape, for example.
Implementation Method 3
This disclosure generally relates to infrared (IR) sensor assemblies and methods of manufacturing IR sensor assemblies.
Data Source
AI summary
This application relates to an infrared (IR) sensor assembly for use in a satellite. The assembly includes an IR sensor, wherein the IR sensor comprises a substantially plane front surface with a window portion, the window portion covering an active area of the IR sensor, one or more planar optical filters, and an adhesive tape provided on the front surface outside of the window portion, the adhesive tape at least partially surrounding the window portion. The one or more planar optical filters are arranged to cover at least part of the window portion, with at least part of each planar optical filter resting on the adhesive tape. The application further relates to a method of manufacturing such IR sensor assembly.