Switchable Multi-Spectrum Optical Sensor Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical systems require multiple optical paths and components to capture images in multiple spectral bands, increasing complexity and space requirements, while struggling to achieve optimal modulation transfer function values for both spectral bands simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
An optical system comprising a multi-spectral optical element, a switchable filter, and a dual bandpass filter, which allows for simultaneous imaging in multiple spectral bands by filtering out transition region wavelengths and optimizing the depth of field for each band, using a single optical path and reducing component complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple optical paths and components are used to capture images in multiple spectral bands, then imaging capability in multiple spectral bands is achieved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple spectral band imaging capabilities into a single optical path by using a multi-spectral optical element that can focus both infrared and visible light onto the same image sensor. This eliminates the need for separate optical paths and reduces the number of optical components required
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-spectral optical element serves multiple functions by being capable of focusing different spectral bands (infrared and visible light) simultaneously onto the same image sensor, making the optical system universal for multiple spectral imaging applications
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple optical paths and components are used to capture images in multiple spectral bands, then imaging capability in multiple spectral bands is achieved, but space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple spectral band imaging functions into a compact single optical path configuration, significantly reducing the space requirements compared to traditional multi-path systems that would require separate lenses, filters, and sensors for each spectral band
3Device complexity
If a single optical path is used for multiple spectral bands, then device complexity and space requirements are reduced, but optimal modulation transfer function values for both spectral bands cannot be achieved simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a switchable filter that can dynamically change its transmission characteristics to optimize the modulation transfer function for different spectral bands. The filter can switch between different states to accommodate the different focal distances required for infrared and visible light
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the transmission parameters of the optical system by using a switchable filter that can adjust its spectral transmission properties. This allows the system to optimize the modulation transfer function for each spectral band by changing the filter's transmission characteristics rather than using fixed optical components
4Measurement precision
If different focal distances are used for different spectral bands, then optimal focus for each band is achieved, but additional components and complexity are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a dynamic switchable filter that can change its transmission properties to accommodate different focal distances for different spectral bands. This dynamic adjustment allows optimal focus for each band without requiring separate static optical paths
Solution Approach 2:
The switchable filter acts as an intermediary element that mediates between the single optical path and the different focal distance requirements for different spectral bands. It enables the system to achieve band-specific optimization without adding complex optical components
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 enables high-quality imaging in both spectral bands with improved modulation transfer function values, reducing the number of components and space required, while maintaining optimal focus and depth of field for infrared and visible light.
Implementation Method 1
a dual bandpass filter disposed between the multi-spectral optical element and the switchable filter, and the dual bandpass filter is configured to filter out wavelengths of light in a transition region of the switchable filter between the first spectral band and the second spectral band
Implementation Method 2
The switchable filter is configured to selectively filter light received from the dual bandpass filter in the first spectral band in a first mode and in a second mode, such that in the first mode the switchable filter transmits light in the first spectral band and in the second mode the switchable filter does not transmit light in the first spectral band
Implementation Method 3
a multi-spectral optical element configured to receive light in at least a first spectral band and a second spectral band... the multi-spectral optical element is configured to produce a modulation transfer function value that is above a predetermined threshold for each of the first and second spectral bands
Implementation Method 4
The sensor is disposed at an image plane and configured to detect light transmitted via the switchable filter, wherein the sensor is sensitive to at least the first spectral band and the second spectral band
Data Source
AI summary
An optical system, comprising a multi-spectral optical element, a switchable filter, a dual bandpass filter, and a sensor. The multi-spectral optical element receives light in at least a first spectral band and a second spectral band. The dual bandpass filter filters out wavelengths of light in a transition region of the switchable filter between the first spectral band and the second spectral band. The switchable filter filters light received from the dual bandpass filter in the first spectral band in a first mode where the switchable filter transmits light in the first spectral band and in a second mode where the switchable filter does not transmit light in the first spectral band. The sensor is disposed at an image plane, and the multi-spectral optical element is configured to produce a modulation transfer function value that is a above a predetermined threshold for each of the spectral bands.