Optical Damage Assessment Using Prism-Based Wavelength Splitting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current optical damage assessment systems are costly, heavy, and prone to mechanical failure due to the use of multiple components and complex optics for separate detectors and tracking systems, which complicates the analysis of spectral content from damage-causing events.
Innovation Solution
A single focal plane array is used with a prism to split incoming wavelengths into multiple wavebands, processed through a common lens group, reducing the number of components and employing techniques like windowing for higher sampling rates and spectral analysis, while minimizing lateral chromatic aberrations using achromatic or diffractive prisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple discrete detection systems with separate detectors and imaging lenses are used for object tracking and optical damage assessment, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple discrete detection systems into a single integrated system. Two separate detectors (one for object tracking, one for damage assessment) are merged into one detector array, with two imaging lenses combined into one lens group. The beam splitter is integrated into the lens group assembly. This merging reduces the total number of components while maintaining the ability to perform both object tracking and spectral damage assessment simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The single detector array serves multiple functions: it detects both object tracking information and optical damage assessment data. The single lens group focuses light for both tracking and damage analysis. The beam splitter within the lens group directs different wavelengths to appropriate regions of the same detector array. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated detection systems.
2Measurement precision
If two separate detectors with thermoelectric coolers are employed, then measurement precision is improved, but weight and power dissipation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two separate thermoelectrically cooled detectors into a single detector array. This eliminates the weight of the second detector and its associated cooling system. The unified detector array processes both object tracking and damage assessment signals, reducing overall system weight while maintaining spectral detection capabilities through wavelength separation before the detector.
3Measurement precision
If multiple separate components are used in the optical path, then measurement precision is improved, but reliability decreases due to more potential failure points
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces the number of separate components by integrating the beam splitter into the lens group assembly. This eliminates potential failure points associated with separate beam splitters and reduces the overall component count. The unified assembly maintains spectral separation functionality while improving reliability through fewer mechanical interfaces and alignment requirements.
4Device complexity
If a single detector array is used with a prism to split wavelengths, then device complexity and weight are reduced, but image resolution may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using a beam splitter with wavelength-specific properties within the lens group. The beam splitter is positioned and oriented to direct specific wavelength ranges to specific regions of the detector array. This localized wavelength routing allows different spectral bands to be mapped to different spatial regions, preserving spatial resolution while enabling spectral discrimination.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent resolves the resolution conflict by adding a spectral dimension to the detection process. Instead of trying to maintain perfect spatial resolution across all wavelengths simultaneously, the system uses the beam splitter to separate wavelengths into different spatial zones on the detector array. This creates a two-dimensional mapping (spatial position × wavelength) that preserves both spectral information and adequate spatial resolution for damage assessment.
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 approach significantly reduces the cost and weight of the system, enhances image resolution, and allows for more precise assessment of damage profiles with improved energy distribution analysis, enabling better monitoring of damage-causing events without mechanical failures.
Implementation Method 1
A prism is used to split incoming wavelengths into multiple, wave-band specific beams
Implementation Method 2
Employing a prism with narrow band-pass filter coatings, or may employ achromatic prisms, to reduce lateral chromatic aberrations associated with passing a broad-spectrum signal through the prism
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for optical damage assessment using an existing imaging focal plane array and a fixed or moving set of optics and filters. Advantages include cost reductions and improved reliability due to fewer components and therefore fewer points of failure.