Spectral Sensitivity Measurement Using Filtered Color Charts

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for measuring the spectral sensitivity of imaging devices, such as those using a CMOS image sensor, are inefficient and inaccurate, particularly due to lens distortion and the need for lengthy single-wavelength irradiation processes.

Innovation Solution

A spectral sensitivity measuring device and method that includes a chart generation system generating charts with color regions opposed to the imaging device, using a moving mechanism with optical filters and a variable wavelength light source, and a processing system to calculate spectral sensitivity based on captured images, employing formulas to correct pixel values and optimize measurement accuracy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If a chart group including a plurality of local regions is collectively imaged by an imaging device, then the measurement time is reduced, but the measurement accuracy deteriorates due to lens distortion

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement timeVSAvoidspectral sensitivity measurement accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The measurement process is divided into multiple sequential single-wavelength measurements instead of attempting to capture all wavelengths simultaneously. The imaging device measures spectral sensitivity at one wavelength at a time by selectively positioning optical filters, thereby avoiding lens distortion issues while maintaining comprehensive spectral coverage across the visible range

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system pre-positions optical filters and light sources according to the measurement wavelength before each measurement. By preparing the optical configuration in advance for each specific wavelength, the system ensures accurate alignment and minimizes distortion effects while maintaining efficient sequential measurement

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Measurement precision

If the imaging device is irradiated with light while changing the single wavelength, then the spectral sensitivity can be measured, but a long time is required for the measurement

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespectral sensitivity measurement accuracyVSAvoidmeasurement time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The measurement process continues seamlessly across multiple wavelengths without interruption. The system maintains continuous operation by quickly switching between optical filters and light sources, eliminating idle time between measurements and ensuring that each wavelength measurement follows immediately after the previous one

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Solution Approach 2:

The optical filter positioning mechanism and light source selection are dynamically adjusted for each wavelength measurement. The system rapidly reconfigures the optical path by moving filters and switching light sources, enabling fast transitions between wavelengths while maintaining measurement accuracy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Measurement precision

If optical filters are selectively disposed between the light source and the imaging device, then the spectral sensitivity measurement can be performed, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespectral sensitivity measurement accuracyVSAvoidoptical system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The optical filters serve multiple functions: they select specific wavelengths for measurement, define the spectral characteristics of the light reaching the imaging device, and enable systematic coverage of the entire visible spectrum. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for each wavelength, simplifying the overall system despite the presence of multiple filters

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 accurate and efficient measurement of spectral sensitivity, allowing for precise identification of imaging device quality and functionality, especially in applications like agricultural, smart construction, retail, and medical fields, while minimizing distortion effects.

Implementation Method 1

an optical filter group including a plurality of optical filters that is selectively disposed between the light source and the imaging device

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical filtering: Filter (optical)

Implementation Method 2

a variable wavelength light source having a variable light emission wavelength

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVariable wavelength light emission: Light

Implementation Method 3

an imaging device including an image sensor is used as a spectrometer

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric conversion: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS12516977B2Spectral sensitivity measuring device and spectral sensitivity measuring method
Publication Date: 2026.01.06 SONY SEMICON SOLUTIONS CORP
  • US12516977B2 patent drawing
  • US12516977B2 patent drawing
  • US12516977B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided is a spectral sensitivity measuring device capable of accurately measuring a spectral sensitivity of an imaging device. The spectral sensitivity measuring device according to the present technology includes: a chart generation system that generates a chart including at least one chart portion having at least one color region at a position opposed to an imaging device; and a processing system that calculates a spectral sensitivity of the imaging device on the basis of a captured image, by the imaging device, of the chart generated at the position opposed to the imaging device. According to the spectral sensitivity measuring device according to the present technology, it is possible to provide a spectral sensitivity measuring device capable of accurately measuring the spectral sensitivity of the imaging device.