Spectroscopic Camera Compact Design via Electrical Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spectroscopic cameras require complex structures and increased device size due to the need for mechanical switching of spectral elements between light sources and imaging elements, which degrades precision in spectroscopic performance.
Innovation Solution
A spectroscopic camera with a control unit that electrically switches between pre-dispersive and post-dispersive spectroscopy modes, eliminating the need for mechanical switching by positioning the first and second spectral portions between the light sources and imaging elements, allowing for a compact design and improved precision.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a mechanism for switching the spectral element is added to enable both pre-dispersive and post-dispersive spectroscopy functions, then the spectroscopic camera can perform multiple functions, but the device structure becomes complicated and the device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the spectroscopic camera into two independent modules: a first spectroscopic camera for pre-dispersive spectroscopy and a second spectroscopic camera for post-dispersive spectroscopy. Each module has its own light source, spectral element, and imaging element, eliminating the need for complex switching mechanisms while maintaining both functions simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The patent positions the first spectral portion and second spectral portion in an overlapping configuration where they share the same optical path space. The spectral elements are arranged such that one is positioned above the other in the vertical direction, allowing both to operate within a compact footprint without requiring separate mechanical switching spaces
2Adaptability or versatility
If a mechanism for switching the spectral element is added to enable both pre-dispersive and post-dispersive spectroscopy functions, then the spectroscopic camera can perform multiple functions, but the device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the first spectral portion and second spectral portion in an overlapping configuration where they share the same optical path space. The spectral elements are arranged such that one is positioned above the other in the vertical direction, allowing both to operate within a compact footprint without requiring separate mechanical switching spaces
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the vertical dimension (z-axis) to position spectral elements at different heights, allowing multiple spectral portions to coexist in the same horizontal plane. This three-dimensional arrangement enables both pre-dispersive and post-dispersive spectroscopy functions without increasing the device's horizontal footprint
3Adaptability or versatility
If the spectral element is relatively moved between the light source and imaging element, then the spectral element can be switched, but the precision of spectroscopic performance is degraded due to position reproduction issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical switching mechanisms with an optical configuration where multiple spectral portions are fixed in different positions within the optical path. A switching member selectively transmits light from either the first or second spectral portion to the imaging element, eliminating mechanical movement of the spectral elements themselves and thus preserving spectroscopic precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a switching member as an intermediary component that sits between the spectral portions and the imaging element. This switching member selectively directs light from the appropriate spectral portion to the imaging element without requiring the spectral elements themselves to move, thereby maintaining their fixed positions and spectroscopic accuracy
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 solution simplifies the camera structure, reduces size, and enhances spectroscopic performance by enabling precise wavelength selection and measurement, effectively addressing the limitations of existing technologies.
Implementation Method 1
a first spectral portion and a second spectral portion that are configured to selectively emit light with predetermined wavelength from incident light and change a wavelength region of emitted light
Data Source
AI summary
A spectroscopic camera according to the present disclosure includes: a second light source; a first monochrome imaging element; a first spectral portion and a second spectral portion; and a control unit that controls operations of the second light source, the first monochrome imaging element, the first spectral portion, and the second spectral portion, the second light source and the first monochrome imaging element are disposed to be directed in the same direction, the first spectral portion is disposed between the first monochrome imaging element and the measurement target, and the second spectral portion is disposed between the second light source and the measurement target.