Micropatterned Optical Filter for Spatially-Resolved Spectrophotometry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current inline spectrophotometers for high-end printing systems are expensive and require extensive calibration, making them unsuitable for cost-effective in-line color and thickness measurements.
Innovation Solution
A compact spectrophotometer system using a micropatterned optical filter positioned between a linear sensor and a carrier, which emits light and receives it through a gradient index lens, eliminating the need for a linear variable filter and allowing for spatially resolved spectrophotometric data collection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If current inline spectrophotometers are used for in-line color and thickness measurements, then measurement capability is provided, but device cost and calibration complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The spectrophotometer is segmented into discrete functional modules: an illuminator with multiple LED chips emitting at different wavelengths, a sample stage, and a linear sensor array. Each sensor element corresponds to a specific wavelength band, allowing independent characterization and calibration of each segment, thereby reducing overall calibration complexity while maintaining measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The spectrophotometer is designed to perform multiple measurement functions (colorimetry, thickness measurement, spectral reflectance) using a single integrated device with a linear sensor array that can detect multiple wavelengths simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate instruments and reducing overall system complexity
2Measurement precision
If a linear variable filter is used in the spectrophotometer, then spectral resolution is improved, but device cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a linear variable filter that varies properties continuously across the sensor array, the invention places discrete optical filters with specific spectral characteristics at predetermined locations corresponding to each sensor element. Each filter is optimized for its local wavelength band, providing spectral resolution while using simpler, cheaper discrete filter components rather than a complex variable filter structure
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses inexpensive discrete optical filters (such as interference filters or absorption filters) at each sensor position instead of expensive linear variable filters. These simple filters can be mass-produced and replaced easily, significantly reducing device cost while maintaining adequate spectral resolution for color and thickness measurements
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
This configuration provides a cost-effective, compact solution for in-line color and thickness measurements, reducing the need for extensive calibration and enabling efficient monitoring of printed images and deposited materials in real-time.
Implementation Method 1
a micropatterned optical filter is positioned between the linear sensor and the carrier
Implementation Method 2
The linear sensor is configured to receive the light from the illuminator
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a system for providing spectral analysis with a spectrophotometer. The system includes an illuminator positioned adjacent to a carrier having a surface; a linear sensor positioned adjacent to the carrier; and a micropatterned optical filter is positioned between the linear sensor and the carrier. The illuminator is configured to emit light at a material disposed over the surface. The linear sensor is configured to receive the light from the illuminator.