Multichannel Imaging Device With Angular Filters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multichannel imaging systems for close-up imaging suffer from optical crosstalk between adjacent optical channels, leading to image alteration, and are not suitable for imaging objects emitting isotropic light such as fluorescent objects.
Innovation Solution
A multichannel imaging device featuring a two-dimensional array of optical channels, each comprising a first and second lens system, and an optical low-pass angular filter with planar interfaces to block light propagating at angles greater than a predefined angle, thereby reducing crosstalk.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a two-dimensional array of optical channels is used for close-up imaging, then a large field of view is achieved, but optical crosstalk between adjacent channels occurs leading to image alteration
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system is divided into multiple independent optical channels arranged in a two-dimensional array, where each channel captures a portion of the overall field of view. This segmentation allows for a large total field of view while maintaining independent optical paths that can be individually optimized to reduce crosstalk between channels.
Solution Approach 2:
Absorptive walls are introduced as intermediary structures between adjacent optical channels to block stray light and prevent optical crosstalk. These walls act as mediators that eliminate the harmful interaction between neighboring channels while preserving the integrity of each channel's imaging function.
2Area of stationary object
If conventional lens arrays are used for close-up imaging, then a large field of view is obtained, but the system is not suitable for imaging objects emitting isotropic light such as fluorescent objects
Solution Approach 1:
Each optical channel is equipped with specific optical elements and absorptive walls tailored to handle isotropic light emission. The local optical configuration within each channel is optimized to capture light from fluorescent objects that emit in all directions, while the overall array maintains a large field of view through the collective coverage of multiple channels.
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 solution effectively reduces optical crosstalk, allowing for high-quality imaging of objects with isotropic light emission, such as fluorescent objects, while maintaining a compact and efficient imaging system.
Implementation Method 1
the planar interface being configured to block light propagating through the optical channel in a direction of propagation having an angle which is greater than or equal to a critical angle θC relative to the optical axis, by total internal reflection
Implementation Method 2
a first lens system comprising at least a first lens (8), a second lens system comprising at least a second lens (10), each lens having an optical axis aligned with the optical axis of the optical channel
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a multichannel imaging device and more specifically to a multichannel device wherein each optical channel has at least an optical low-pass angular filter configured to block any light propagating through the optical channel along a direction of propagation having an angle which is greater than a predefined angle θL relative to the optical axis, the low-pass angular filter comprising at least one planar interface, separating a first material having a first refractive index n1 and a second material having a second refractive index n2, the ratio of the second refractive index over the first refractive index being lower than 1, preferably lower than 0.66.