Multi-band Imaging Systems Using Tunable Spectral Filters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing digital cameras require mechanisms with moving parts to switch between different modes of operation, such as color and infrared imaging, limiting their versatility and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A digital camera system incorporating a tunable spectral filter, such as a MEMS etalon, and a non-tunable multi-bandpass filter, allowing for seamless switching between imaging modes without moving parts by adjusting the gap between mirrors to alter the spectral transmission profile, enabling dual-mode or multi-mode imaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If mechanisms with moving parts are used to switch between imaging modes, then mode switching capability is achieved, but device complexity and reliability are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical moving parts with a fixed filter wheel containing multiple bandpass filters. Each filter corresponds to a specific wavelength band, and the filter wheel is rotated to different fixed positions to select different filters for imaging. This substitution eliminates complex mechanical mechanisms while maintaining mode switching capability through a simpler, more reliable fixed structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a tunable filter with adjustable spectral transmission characteristics. By dynamically adjusting the filter's transmission profile through electrical control rather than mechanical movement, the system can switch between different wavelength bands. This dynamic adjustment capability allows mode switching without requiring complex mechanical mechanisms, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If mechanisms with moving parts are used to switch between imaging modes, then mode switching capability is achieved, but reliability is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanisms with moving parts with a fixed filter wheel and electronic control system. The fixed filters are positioned at predetermined locations on the filter wheel, eliminating the need for complex mechanical actuation mechanisms. This substitution significantly improves reliability by removing moving parts that could fail, while maintaining the ability to switch between different imaging modes through controlled rotation to fixed positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a controller that automatically manages filter selection and imaging mode switching based on input signals. The system can autonomously select appropriate filters and adjust imaging parameters without requiring complex mechanical intervention, thereby improving reliability through automated control while maintaining mode switching capability.
3Device complexity
If a tunable spectral filter is used to switch between wavelength ranges, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision requirements are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-configures multiple bandpass filters with specific wavelength transmission characteristics at fixed positions on the filter wheel. During manufacturing, each filter is precisely positioned and characterized in advance. This preliminary configuration allows the system to achieve accurate wavelength selection without requiring complex real-time adjustment mechanisms, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining the necessary manufacturing precision for each individual filter.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a tunable filter whose spectral transmission characteristics can be adjusted through electrical parameters rather than mechanical movement. By changing electrical control parameters, the filter's transmission wavelength and bandwidth are adjusted to select different wavelength bands. This approach reduces mechanical complexity while the precision is maintained through controlled parameter adjustment, shifting the precision requirement from mechanical positioning to electrical 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
Enables efficient and versatile dual-mode or multi-mode imaging by allowing the camera to switch between different wavelength ranges without the need for moving parts, improving image quality and reducing mechanical complexity.
Implementation Method 1
Tunable spectral filters in the form of an etalon are also known. An etalon comprises two parallel mirrors. The spectral transmission profile is determined by the gap between the mirrors.
Data Source
AI summary
Imaging systems and methods for imaging using the same color or monochromatic image sensor, wherein imaging can be switched between at least two imaging modes, for example between a visible imaging mode and an IR imaging mode, without moving any system component from a given position in an optical path between an imaged object and the image sensor. In an example, a system includes an image sensor, a tunable spectral filter and a multi-bandpass filter, the tunable spectral filter and the multi-bandpass filter arranged in a common optical path between an object and the image sensor, and a controller configured and operable to position the tunable spectral filter in a plurality of operation states related to a plurality of imaging modes.