Reconfigurable Optical Sensor Matrix for Multi-Scale Celestial Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing telescopes require multiple eyepieces to adjust magnification for observing both large and small celestial bodies, which is cumbersome and restrictive for users.
Innovation Solution
A telescope with a matrix of optical sensors having multiple configurations, including unit pixels and macro-pixels, allows for automatic selection based on celestial body nature, enabling single-apparatus imaging of both bright and dark celestial bodies with good resolution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple eyepieces are used to adjust magnification for different celestial bodies, then the ability to observe both large and small celestial bodies is improved, but the device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor matrix is designed to perform multiple functions by reconfiguring pixel groupings. The same physical sensor array can operate in different modes (unit pixel mode for high resolution, various macro-pixel groupings for different magnifications) to observe different types of celestial bodies, eliminating the need for multiple separate eyepieces while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functional capabilities that were previously separated into different eyepieces are merged into a single sensor matrix. By combining unit pixels and macro-pixels in one reconfigurable array, the system integrates the functions of multiple eyepieces into one device, reducing complexity while preserving adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple eyepieces are used to adjust magnification, then the observation capability for different celestial bodies is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor matrix transitions from static to dynamic reconfiguration. Instead of physically changing eyepieces, the system dynamically reconfigures the sensor array by grouping pixels differently through electronic control. This allows magnification adjustment to be as simple as changing a software parameter rather than physically swapping components.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical system of physically changing eyepieces is replaced with an electronic/software-based reconfiguration of the sensor matrix. The mechanical action of swapping eyepieces is substituted by electronic pixel grouping changes, significantly improving ease of operation while maintaining the same functional capability.
3Ease of manufacture
If a single apparatus is used to image both bright and dark celestial bodies, then the manufacturing cost is reduced, but the measurement precision for different celestial body types deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes operational parameters (pixel grouping configurations) to optimize performance for different celestial body types. By adjusting the grouping parameter from unit pixels to various macro-pixel arrangements, the same hardware achieves different effective resolutions and sensitivities, maintaining measurement precision across diverse observation targets while using a single apparatus.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions or grouping patterns of the sensor matrix are optimized for different observation needs. Unit pixels provide high local resolution for bright, detailed objects, while macro-pixel groupings provide enhanced sensitivity for dark, diffuse objects. This local optimization within a unified system maintains precision for different celestial body types.
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
Enables efficient, cost-effective, and user-friendly imaging of celestial bodies of varying sizes and brightness without the need for multiple eyepieces, reducing manufacturing, purchasing, and handling costs.
Implementation Method 1
an optical system having an optical axis, which optical system is configured such that the light rays form, in an image focus located in a focal plane, an image of the observed celestial body
Implementation Method 2
a matrix of optical sensors to acquire the image of the observed celestial body, which matrix has a plurality n of unit pixels P1
Data Source
AI summary
An image acquisition method includes defining a first optical sensor configuration of a matrix to acquire the image of a first celestial body of first nature, the first configuration having a plurality of unit pixels, defining at least one second optical sensor configuration of the matrix to acquire the image of the second celestial body of second nature, the second configuration having a plurality of macro-pixels formed by groupings of unit pixels, and selecting one of the optical sensor configurations, the selection being made according to the nature of the observed celestial body.