Spectrometer Gap Filler Module for Distortion Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional spectrometers often have limited field of view due to the size and packaging constraints of image sensors, leading to gaps between sensors that reduce the effective sensitivity region and increase distortion, limiting the ability to record electromagnetic radiation efficiently.
Innovation Solution
An improved image plane assembly configuration with a gap filler module and slit arrangement that includes a gap filler array and slit, positioned to cover the gaps between main image sensors, allowing for a wider field of view and reduced distortion by extending the sensitivity region and optimizing the placement of detector elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple image sensors are utilized to facilitate recording most or all of the desired optics field of view, then the field of view coverage is improved, but gaps between sensors are created that enlarge the theoretical sensitivity region and increase distortion
Solution Approach 1:
The image plane assembly is segmented into multiple image sensor arrays arranged in a checkerboard pattern, with each array covering a specific portion of the field of view. This segmentation allows comprehensive coverage while managing the complexity of capturing wide-angle radiation through multiple discrete sensing regions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces asymmetric gap filler arrays positioned at specific locations between the main image sensor arrays. These filler arrays are strategically placed to address distortion in specific regions without requiring uniform coverage throughout, optimizing the balance between field of view and distortion control.
2Manufacturing precision
If image sensors are positioned immediately adjacent to one another to eliminate gaps, then distortion is reduced, but packaging constraints prevent proper positioning and reduce sensitivity region uniformity
Solution Approach 1:
Gap filler arrays serve as intermediary elements positioned between the main image sensor arrays. These intermediaries fill the unavoidable gaps created by packaging constraints, providing continuous sensitivity region coverage while maintaining the modular packaging structure that facilitates manufacturing and assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent arranges image sensor arrays in a two-dimensional checkerboard pattern rather than a simple linear sequence. This dimensional arrangement allows gaps to be strategically positioned and filled in specific orientations, optimizing both the field of view coverage and distortion management while accommodating packaging requirements.
3Ease of manufacture
If a single image sensor is used, then packaging constraints are simplified, but the sensor cannot record all electromagnetic radiation within the optics field of view
Solution Approach 1:
The single image sensor is divided into multiple smaller image sensor arrays arranged in a checkerboard pattern. Each array captures a portion of the electromagnetic radiation within the optics field of view, collectively providing comprehensive coverage while maintaining manageable packaging for each individual sensor array.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple image sensor arrays are merged into a unified image plane assembly with coordinated sensitivity regions. The gap filler arrays merge with the main arrays to create a continuous sensing surface, combining the capabilities of multiple sensors to achieve complete field of view coverage equivalent to a much larger single sensor.
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 configuration enhances the spectrometer's ability to record a larger field of view with reduced distortion, improving data recording capabilities and performance by filling the gaps between sensors and optimizing the placement of detector elements, allowing for a more extensive and accurate imaging of electromagnetic radiation.
Implementation Method 1
a gap filler array of detector elements spaced from said first axis... Each of said first and second arrays has an elongation along a first axis... spaced from one another on the first axis so as to form a gap between said first and second arrays
Implementation Method 2
the spectrometer optics must be configured to receive electromagnetic radiation from slit 110, disperse it, and redirect it to image sensor 100
Data Source
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AI summary
An imaging assembly for a spectrometer includes a substrate with first and second modules thereon containing respective arrays of detector elements positioned so the arrays are elongated along a first axis with a gap therebetween. A third module including a third array of detector elements is also thereon, spaced from the first axis, at least as long as the gap, and smaller than the elongation of either of the first or second arrays. Further thereon are first and second slits elongated along a second axis spaced from and generally parallel to the first axis, each being at least as long as the respective arrays. A third slit at least as long as the gap is also therein, spaced from the first axis, second axis, and third array such that the gap, third slit, and third array are generally along a third axis generally perpendicular to the first and second axis.