Optical Window Contaminant Detection Using Coupled Light Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optical elements, such as windows or lenses, become contaminated by debris like dust, dirt, or water, leading to light blockage, blurring, and distortion, which complicates image interpretation and is computationally costly to resolve.
Innovation Solution
An optical contaminant detection system using an array of light-emitter and detector devices coupled via optical couplers to detect contaminants on optical elements by analyzing light attenuation and modulation, enabling real-time detection and potential cleaning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If image processing techniques are used to disambiguate blurred portions from unblurred portions, then contaminant detection capability is improved, but computational cost and processing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the contaminant detection function from the main imaging path by using a separate optical channel with light emitter devices and detector devices positioned at an angle to the optical axis. This dedicated detection channel processes only contaminant-related light signals, eliminating the need for computationally intensive image processing of the entire scene while maintaining high detection accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary detection system consisting of light emitter devices and detector devices that mediate between the optical element and the analysis system. These intermediaries detect contaminants through light attenuation and scattering effects before the light reaches the main camera, providing early warning without requiring post-processing of the main image data.
2Measurement precision
If a dedicated contaminant detection system is added, then contaminant detection accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the contaminant detection system with the existing optical element structure by integrating light emitter devices and detector devices into the same housing or mounting structure as the main camera. The detection channel shares physical space and structural support with the imaging system, reducing overall device complexity despite adding detection functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical element serves multiple functions: it acts as both the imaging window for the main camera and the detection target for the contaminant detection system. The same optical element that protects the camera sensor also provides the interface for detecting contaminants through its light interaction properties, eliminating the need for separate detection windows or additional structural components.
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
Accurately identifies and mitigates the effects of contaminants on optical elements, improving image clarity and reducing computational burden by directly addressing contamination issues.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of light-emitter devices configured to emit emission light toward the optical coupler. The plurality of detector devices is also configured to detect at least a portion of the emission light by way of the optical element and the optical coupler
Implementation Method 2
an optical coupler configured to couple light into and/or out of an optical element
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to contaminant detection systems and related optical systems and methods. An example contaminant detection system includes an optical coupler configured to couple light into and/or out of an optical element. The contaminant detection system also includes a plurality of light-emitter devices configured to emit emission light toward the optical coupler. The contaminant detection system additionally includes a plurality of detector devices configured to detect at least a portion of the emission light by way of the optical element and the optical coupler. The plurality of detector devices is also configured to provide detector signals indicative of a presence of a contaminant on the optical element.