Three-Lens Area-Array Imaging for Seamless Infrared Splicing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing infrared area array detector splicing methods suffer from large imaging blind areas in mechanical splicing and complex optical systems in optical splicing, which affect the integrity and efficiency of infrared detection systems.
Innovation Solution
A seamlessly splicing method using three lenses and area array detectors, where three optical lenses image the same field of view and staggered splicing of area array detectors is employed to form a complete image without blind areas, utilizing parallel placement or angled optical lenses to achieve pixel overlap.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If mechanical splicing of multiple detectors is used, then detector replaceability is improved, but imaging blind areas increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from mechanical splicing in one dimension to optical splicing using beam splitting prisms that divide the optical path into multiple dimensions. This allows detectors to be arranged in a checkerboard pattern both horizontally and vertically, eliminating blind areas while maintaining module replaceability through the optical splitting mechanism.
2Area of stationary object
If optical splicing method with beam splitting prism is used, then imaging blind areas are reduced, but optical system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the optical system into multiple independent optical paths using beam splitting prisms. Each optical path can be independently optimized and adjusted, allowing the complex splicing task to be broken down into manageable segments that can be calibrated separately and then combined to form the complete imaging system.
3Ease of manufacture
If detector modules are arranged with edge distance from effective pixel area, then mechanical assembly is simplified, but splicing seams appear
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical splicing approach with an optical splicing system using beam splitting prisms. Instead of relying on precise mechanical alignment of detector edges, the optical system actively directs light paths to ensure complete coverage, eliminating the need for edge-distance compromises and removing visible splicing seams through optical rather than mechanical means.
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 method ensures a seamless and efficient splicing process with a simple optical system, eliminating blind areas and enhancing the integrity of infrared detection systems, particularly suitable for staring detection systems with a wide field of view.
Implementation Method 1
Using three optical lenses to image the same field of view simultaneously
Implementation Method 2
Arranging three area array detectors at the focal plane positions corresponding to the optical lens to generate imaging images respectively
Data Source
AI summary
A seamlessly splicing method based on three lenses and area array detectors, includes: imaging a field of view simultaneously using the three lenses; arranging three area array detectors at corresponding focal plane positions of each of the three lenses to obtain imaging images, respectively; and generating a complete seamlessly imaging result of the field of view by pairwise splicing the imaging images obtained from adjacent area array detectors, through staggered splicing of the three lens and/or the area array detectors.