Refractive Index Measurement Using Optical Dispersion and Scanning
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional V-block refractive index measuring devices require time-consuming filter changes when measuring the refractive index of a sample at multiple wavelengths, as each wavelength measurement necessitates inserting a different filter into the light path.
Innovation Solution
A refractive index measuring device and method that utilize a detector, imaging part, and scanning processing to detect and image the measuring beam's intensity and color dispersion, allowing for wavelength specification based on peak intensities and color information, enabling simultaneous measurement of refractive indices at multiple wavelengths without filter changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple filters are used to measure refractive index at multiple wavelengths, then measurement precision is improved, but measurement time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the measurement process by separating wavelength selection from the measurement process. Instead of using physical filters for each wavelength, the system uses a single broadband light source and selects wavelengths electronically through image processing of the dispersed spectrum, eliminating the need for sequential filter changes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional sequential measurement (one wavelength at a time via filter changes) to two-dimensional simultaneous measurement by dispersing light into a spectrum and detecting multiple wavelengths spatially across a detector array, allowing parallel measurement of multiple wavelengths
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple filters are inserted in the light path for multi-wavelength measurement, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal measurement system where a single detector and optical path can measure multiple wavelengths simultaneously. The dispersive element and image processing algorithm enable the system to handle multiple wavelengths without requiring separate optical paths or filter mechanisms for each wavelength
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical filter change system with an optical dispersion system combined with electronic image processing. Instead of mechanically inserting and removing filters, the system uses a dispersive element to spatially separate wavelengths and electronically identifies wavelength positions through image analysis
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 measurement time by specifying wavelengths corresponding to peak intensities in a single scanning process, allowing for rapid determination of refractive indices across multiple wavelengths.
Implementation Method 1
imaging part that images a color image of the measuring beam which is dispersed to multiple colors by transmitting through the sample
Implementation Method 2
detector that detects an intensity of the measuring beam transmitted through the sample
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a refractive index measuring device and a refractive index measuring method. A detector (2) detects an intensity of a measuring beam transmitted through the sample. A camera (200) images a color image of the measuring beam which is dispersed into multiple colors by transmitting through the sample. A scanning processing portion (101) carries out scanning by changing an angle of receiving the measuring beam transmitted through the sample or an angle of the measuring beam incident on the sample. A wavelength specifying processing portion (102) specifies, based on the detected intensity of the detector (2) varying with the scanning by the scanning processing portion (101) and color information corresponding to a position of the measuring beam incident on the detector (2) in a color image which is imaged by the camera (200), the wavelength corresponding to each peak of the detected intensity.