Quantum Dot Near Infrared Calibration Source
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional hyperspectral calibrators for imaging devices are bulky, power-intensive, and prone to mechanical fatigue, making them unsuitable for resource-constrained platforms like space vehicles, which require frequent calibration across various electromagnetic radiation frequencies.
Innovation Solution
A multi-layer light source comprising an ultraviolet light layer, a phosphor layer, and a quantum dot layer that generates near-infrared light at a selected intensity, reducing size, weight, and power consumption while providing reliable calibration for imaging devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional hyperspectral calibrators are used, then calibration accuracy is maintained, but device volume and weight increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple calibration functions (visible, NIR, and SWIR calibration) into a single integrated light source device. The visible light bulb and NIR LED are merged into one unit, eliminating the need for separate calibration devices for each wavelength range, thus reducing overall device volume while maintaining calibration accuracy across all bands
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration device is designed to perform multiple calibration functions simultaneously - visible spectrum calibration using a tungsten halogen bulb, NIR calibration using LEDs, and SWIR calibration using a diffuse reflector with solar simulation. This multi-functional approach allows a single device to replace multiple specialized calibrators, significantly reducing the volume and weight burden on space platforms
2Measurement precision
If traditional bulbs are used for calibration, then visible and NIR calibration is achieved, but mechanical fatigue and fracture occur after thousands of cycles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from thermal filament-based light sources (tungsten halogen bulbs) to solid-state LED light sources for NIR calibration. This parameter change in the light generation mechanism eliminates the mechanical fatigue and fracture issues associated with filament bulbs, as LEDs have no moving parts and are significantly more durable for repeated cycling operations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs multiple replaceable bulbs and LEDs designed for specific mission durations. By using inexpensive, replaceable light sources rather than expensive, long-lived components, the system can reliably complete multiple missions by replacing consumable light sources rather than relying on single components to last through extensive mechanical cycling
3Measurement precision
If continuous power is supplied to traditional calibrators, then accurate and repeatable frequency and radiant power are maintained, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration system is designed to operate in periodic bursts rather than continuously. The light sources (bulbs and LEDs) are activated only when calibration is required, allowing the imaging device to function normally between calibration events. This periodic operation maintains calibration accuracy when needed while dramatically reducing overall power consumption compared to continuous operation
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration device includes a diffuse reflector that can be pre-positioned and prepared before actual calibration occurs. The geometric configuration and optical paths are pre-designed to ensure accurate calibration results when the light source is activated, eliminating the need for continuous power or active adjustment during operation
4Measurement precision
If solar reflection off diffuse reflector is used for SWIR calibration, then calibration is achieved, but additional equipment is required to monitor reflector degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The diffuse reflector is designed to be self-monitored through the calibration process itself. By using the reflector in conjunction with the controlled light sources and detectors, the system can detect changes in reflector performance through the calibration measurements, eliminating the need for separate monitoring equipment. The calibration data inherently provides information about reflector degradation
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 enables efficient calibration of imaging devices with reduced size, weight, and power requirements, enhancing reliability and longevity, suitable for use in extreme environments such as space or airborne vehicles, by providing near-infrared light for calibration across a specific wavelength spectrum.
Implementation Method 1
absorbing a portion of the ultraviolet light at a quantum dot layer of the multi-layer light source, wherein the quantum dot layer generate near infrared light at a selected intensity
Data Source
AI summary
A light source, calibration device and method of calibrating an imaging device is disclose. The calibration device includes the light source which includes an ultraviolet light layer that, in operation, generates ultraviolet light, and a quantum dot layer that absorbs the ultraviolet light and, in response, generates radiation within the near infrared region at a selected intensity. The near infrared light is received at the selected intensity at the imaging device and a sensitivity of the imaging device is altered to detect the near infrared light at the selected intensity provided by the light source.