Spectral Function-Equipped Imaging Element with Pixelated Optical Filter Array
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional spectrometers, such as diffraction grating spectrometers, face limitations in size reduction, making them unsuitable for portable devices, and existing imaging elements with spectral filters fail to provide sufficient spectral information without compromising imaging functionality or increasing device size.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a spectral function-equipped imaging element with a pixelated optical filter array, where spectral pixelated optical filters are continuously disposed in one direction of the imaging element, allowing for the acquisition of a target wavelength range without impairing the imaging function, and using a manufacturing method involving film thickness gradient optical filters with reflective layers to achieve this.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a diffraction grating spectrometer is used to acquire spectral information, then spectral measurement capability is improved, but device size increases and portability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical diffraction grating system with an imaging element that has pixelated optical filters directly integrated onto the sensor surface. This substitution eliminates the need for moving parts and complex optical paths, achieving spectral measurement in a compact, fixed-form-factor device that can be easily integrated into portable applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a one-dimensional spectral dispersion approach (using diffraction gratings that spread light across a linear detector array) to a two-dimensional spatial-spectral mapping approach. By arranging pixelated optical filters in a grid pattern on the imaging element surface, the system captures spectral information across multiple dimensions simultaneously, enabling compact spectral measurement without requiring the linear space needed for traditional grating-based dispersion.
2Measurement precision
If multiple color filters are added to increase wavelength bands for spectroscopy, then spectral information capability is improved, but imaging function is impaired due to pixel deficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the imaging element with pixelated optical filters that enable dual functionality: the same sensor array serves both as a color image sensor and as a spectrometer. By carefully designing the filter patterns and using computational algorithms, the system can switch between or simultaneously perform both imaging and spectral measurement functions without requiring separate dedicated pixel arrays, thus maintaining imaging reliability while adding spectral capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs computational processing to change the interpretation parameters of the captured data. By applying different algorithms and processing methods to the raw sensor data, the system can extract either standard color image information or detailed spectral information depending on the application needs, maximizing the utility of each pixel while maintaining both imaging and spectroscopy functions.
3Measurement precision
If spectral pixelated optical filters are continuously disposed in one direction of the imaging element, then spectral acquisition capability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the imaging element surface into distinct functional regions with different filter patterns. By segmenting the pixel array into zones with specific optical filter configurations, the system achieves continuous spectral coverage in one direction while maintaining manufacturability through standardized fabrication processes. Each segment can be independently characterized and calibrated, simplifying the overall manufacturing and quality control process.
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 a compact device with enhanced spectral functionality, increasing wavelength divisions and obtaining fine spectral data without coarsening the image, suitable for various applications including portable devices and industrial uses.
Implementation Method 1
manufacturing method involving film thickness gradient optical filters with reflective layers
Implementation Method 2
spectral pixelated optical filters are continuously disposed in one direction of the imaging element
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a spectral function-equipped imaging element in which a plurality of spectral pixelated optical filters are incorporated, continuously in one direction of an imaging element without substantially influencing an imaging function of the imaging element, to enable acquisition of a spectrum of a target wavelength range, a manufacturing method therefor, and a manufacturing method for a pixelated optical filter array suitable as a spectral optical filter of such a spectral function-equipped imaging element.