Super Resolution Bore Imaging System Subpixel Offset
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bore imaging systems face challenges in achieving high-resolution imaging without relying solely on small pixel size, often resulting in poor signal-to-noise ratio and reduced light collection, which hinders the acquisition of high-quality images.
Innovation Solution
A super resolution bore imaging system is developed, utilizing a photodetector configuration with a known pixel geometry and a bore surface imaging arrangement that provides optical magnification, allowing for the acquisition of multiple sets of image data with subpixel offsets, which are then combined to achieve finer resolution than the raw data resolution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If small pixel size is used to achieve high resolution, then imaging resolution is improved, but signal to noise ratio deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from relying solely on pixel dimension (2D) for resolution to incorporating the temporal dimension (time-based multiple frame acquisition). By capturing multiple frames at different subpixel positions and combining them, the system achieves super-resolution without requiring smaller physical pixels, thereby maintaining signal-to-noise ratio while improving imaging resolution.
2Measurement precision
If small pixel size is used to achieve high resolution, then imaging resolution is improved, but light collection deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention adds the temporal dimension to the imaging process, acquiring multiple frames over time at different subpixel offsets. This allows the system to achieve high resolution through computational combination of frames rather than through small pixel size, thereby preserving light collection efficiency while achieving superior resolution.
3Measurement precision
If multiple frames with subpixel offsets are acquired and combined, then super resolution is achieved, but imaging time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic scanning motion to systematically acquire multiple frames at different subpixel positions. By organizing the acquisition process into periodic cycles with defined offsets, the system efficiently collects the necessary data for super-resolution reconstruction while minimizing redundant imaging time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary subpixel offset acquisitions in a systematic sequence before final image reconstruction. By pre-planning and executing acquisitions at specific subpixel positions (e.g., quarter-pixel offsets), the system prepares all necessary data components in advance, enabling efficient super-resolution processing without excessive time delay.
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 system achieves high-resolution, metrology-grade imaging with high throughput, providing a microscopic bore inspection image with improved resolution and efficiency compared to previous technologies.
Implementation Method 1
a bore surface imaging arrangement configured to transmit image light arising from an image zone on the bore surface to the photodetector configuration, and provide an optical magnification (or demagnification) M
Implementation Method 2
a photodetector configuration having a known pixel geometry comprising at least a first set of pixels arranged along a direction on the photodetector configuration corresponding to the circumferential direction
Data Source
AI summary
A super resolution bore imaging system is disclosed for imaging a cylindrical bore. The system includes a controller, a photodetector configuration having a known pixel geometry, and an imaging arrangement that images bore surface segments onto the photodetector. In one embodiment, the controller is configured to acquire respective combinable sets of raw bore segment image data using the pixels of the photodetector configuration positioned, relative to the bore segment, at respective imaging-Z coordinates which are separated along the bore axial direction by a subpixel shift. In some embodiments, the pixel geometry is configured to provide super resolution along the circumferential direction without a change in position along the circumferential direction between acquiring the respective sets of image data. The controller combines the sets of raw image data to form a super resolution image data for the bore segment.