Optical Aberration Estimation via Multi-Position Light Sources
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for estimating aberrations in optical systems, such as cameras and telescopes, are inefficient and lack accuracy due to the need for multiple defocus positions and complex equipment setups.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus comprising a light source unit with multiple light sources positioned differently along the optical axis and perpendicular to it, allowing for the estimation of aberrations based on light intensity distributions without the need for a driving device to change defocus positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple defocus positions are acquired by driving a sensor or optical system, then aberration estimation accuracy is improved, but measurement time and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from acquiring multiple defocus positions along the optical axis (one-dimensional approach requiring mechanical driving) to using multiple light sources positioned at different lateral positions perpendicular to the optical axis (introducing a second dimension). This dimensional change allows simultaneous acquisition of multiple light intensity distributions without mechanical movement, resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and measurement time.
2Measurement precision
If a driving device is used to change defocus positions, then multiple light intensity distributions are acquired, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical driving device with a static array of multiple light sources positioned at different lateral positions. Instead of mechanically moving a single light source or sensor along the optical axis, the system uses multiple fixed light sources whose light intensity distributions are simultaneously captured, eliminating mechanical complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
3Measurement precision
If light sources are positioned only along the optical axis at different defocus positions, then aberration estimation is possible, but the system requires mechanical driving and increased measurement time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions light sources not only along the optical axis but also at different lateral positions perpendicular to the optical axis. This two-dimensional positioning arrangement allows multiple light intensity distributions to be acquired simultaneously in a single measurement, dramatically improving measurement efficiency while maintaining aberration estimation accuracy without requiring mechanical driving.
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 solution enables rapid and accurate estimation of optical system aberrations by acquiring multiple light intensity distributions simultaneously, reducing the complexity and time required for the measurement process.
Implementation Method 1
light source unit including a first light source and a second light source that are configured to illuminate an optical system, and an estimation unit configured to estimate an aberration of the optical system based on respective light intensity distributions of the first light source and the second light source obtained via the optical system
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes a light source unit including a first light source and a second light source that illuminate an optical system, and an estimation unit for estimating an aberration of the optical system based on respective light intensity distributions of the first and second light sources, the light intensity distributions having been obtained via the optical system. The first and second light sources are different from each other in positions in an axis direction of the optical system and in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction.