Variable Monochromatic Calibration Source Using Segmented Filters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for calibrating devices like hyperspectral imaging systems using scanning monochromators and integrating spheres are hindered by non-uniform output properties, necessitating improved methods for generating uniform monochromatic electromagnetic radiation.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising an electromagnetic radiation source, a bandpass filter assembly, and an optical integrating sphere that filters and uniformly scatters electromagnetic radiation, allowing for adjustable bandwidth and center frequency through controlled movement of bandpass filters or slit apertures, ensuring uniform emission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a scanning monochromator and integrating sphere are used for calibration, then spectral and radiometric calibration can be performed, but non-uniform output properties degrade calibration accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The bandpass filter assembly is divided into multiple individual bandpass filters that can be independently positioned and adjusted. This segmentation allows each filter to be optimized for specific wavelength ranges, enabling precise control over the spectral output and achieving uniform monochromatic radiation across different calibration conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic adjustment mechanisms including translation assemblies that can move bandpass filters along optical paths, and rotary mechanisms that can rotate filters to different orientations. This dynamic capability allows real-time adjustment of bandwidth and center frequency, ensuring uniform radiation output adapts to varying calibration requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If bandpass filters are moved to adjust bandwidth and center frequency, then spectral control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The translation assembly serves multiple functions: it positions bandpass filters along the optical path, adjusts their spacing to control bandwidth, and enables precise alignment. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate adjustment mechanisms, thereby controlling device complexity while maintaining high adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an encoder assembly as an intermediary measurement device that precisely measures the positions of bandpass filters and slit apertures. This intermediary provides accurate feedback to the control system, enabling precise control of bandwidth and center frequency without requiring overly complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple bandpass filters and translation assemblies are used, then spectral control precision is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The encoder assembly automatically measures the positions of bandpass filters and slit apertures, providing precise feedback without requiring manual measurement or complex alignment procedures during manufacturing. This self-service capability simplifies the manufacturing process while ensuring high precision in bandwidth and center frequency control.
Solution Approach 2:
The encoder assembly provides continuous feedback on the positions of optical components to the control system. This feedback mechanism enables automatic adjustment and compensation during manufacturing and operation, reducing the need for high-precision manual assembly and simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining precision.
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 generates consistently uniform monochromatic radiation, effectively addressing the non-uniformity issues in existing calibration methods, enabling precise calibration of hyperspectral imaging systems and similar devices.
Implementation Method 1
filtering the electromagnetic radiation with the bandpass filter assembly to generate filtered electromagnetic radiation of a specified bandwidth and center frequency
Implementation Method 2
uniformly scattering the received, filtered electromagnetic radiation within the optical integrating sphere and emitting the uniformly scattered, filtered electromagnetic radiation
Data Source
AI summary
Systems for generating uniform monochromatic electromagnetic radiation that include an electromagnetic radiation source and a bandpass filter assembly to filter electromagnetic radiation emitted by the electromagnetic radiation source. The systems also include an optical integrating sphere to receive the filtered electromagnetic radiation and to uniformly scatter the filtered electromagnetic radiation within the optical integrating sphere, wherein the optical integrating sphere comprises an output to emit the uniformly scattered, filtered electromagnetic radiation.