Spectral Imaging Device Dynamic Filter Structures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current hyperspectral imaging technologies are costly and result in insufficient spectral resolution due to the need for multiple lenses, filters, or large optical mechanisms, which also complicate real-time data capture and lead to poor image quality.
Innovation Solution
A spectral imaging device with a filter device comprising multiple first and second filter structures that dynamically divide the spectral range into narrow bands, allowing each captured image to correspond to a specific spectral band, achieved through the movement of filter structures, enabling high-resolution spectral analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple lenses and filters are used to achieve high spectral resolution, then spectral resolution is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple filter structures (first filter with first filter structures and second filter with second filter structures) into a single integrated filter device that can achieve the spectral resolution equivalent of multiple separate filters, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining high spectral resolution
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs movable filter structures that can be dynamically adjusted to different positions, allowing the same filter device to capture multiple spectral bands sequentially. This dynamic capability replaces the need for multiple fixed filters or complex optical mechanisms, resolving the contradiction between spectral resolution and device complexity
2Ease of manufacture
If the number of lenses and filters is limited to reduce cost, then cost is reduced, but spectral resolution becomes insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The movable filter structures allow a limited number of physical filters to serve multiple spectral bands by repositioning them during the imaging process. This dynamic reuse of filters achieves high spectral resolution without requiring a large number of expensive filters, thus resolving the cost-resolution tradeoff
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic movement of the filter structures to sequentially capture different spectral bands. This periodic action allows a small number of filters to cover a broad spectral range over time, achieving high spectral resolution without the need for many simultaneous filters, thereby reducing cost
3Ease of manufacture
If beam splitting devices such as prism or filter wheel are used to reduce cost, then cost is reduced, but the optical mechanism becomes large and mechanical motion time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses dynamically movable filter structures that can be quickly repositioned between spectral bands. This dynamic approach replaces traditional mechanical beam splitting devices like filter wheels, achieving cost reduction while significantly reducing the time required for mechanical motion through optimized filter positioning
4Ease of manufacture
If beam splitting devices are used to form hyperspectral image, then cost is reduced, but image quality deteriorates due to pixel shifts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the filtering and imaging functions into a compact integrated system where the movable filter structures are positioned within a fixed optical path. This integration eliminates the need for separate beam splitting mechanisms, preventing pixel shifts and maintaining high image quality while reducing cost
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 device achieves narrow spectral band widths (typically <10 nm) while being compact and lightweight, facilitating convenient operation and high-resolution spectral analysis, even in low-light conditions, with the ability to capture multiple images in a short time.
Implementation Method 1
The filter device comprises a first filter and a second filter. The first filter includes a plurality of first filter structures, and the second filter includes a plurality of second filter structures. During a period of time the image sensor continuously captures N images of the object over a spectral range, and the spectral range is divided into N spectral bands. Each captured image corresponds to one of the spectral bands.
Implementation Method 2
The object reflects the light source to form a reflected light
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a spectral imaging device characterized in that N images are captured with ambient light, and spectra can be obtained from the captured N images for spectral analysis. In particular, a filter device is employed to divide a spectral range of the ambient light into N spectral bands, and each capture corresponds to one spectral band.