U.S. patent application number 15/905578 was filed with the patent office on 2018-06-28 for spectrometry system with decreased light path.
The applicant listed for this patent is VERIFOOD, LTD.. Invention is credited to Guy BRODETZKI, Kai ENGELHARDT, Damian GOLDRING, Menahem KAPLAN, Omer KEILAF, Uri KINROT, Ittai NIR, Sagee ROSEN, Amit RUF, Dror SHARON.
Application Number | 20180180481 15/905578 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 52432513 |
Filed Date | 2018-06-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180180481 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
GOLDRING; Damian ; et
al. |
June 28, 2018 |
SPECTROMETRY SYSTEM WITH DECREASED LIGHT PATH
Abstract
A spectrometer comprises a plurality of isolated optical
channels comprising a plurality of isolated optical paths. The
isolated optical paths decrease cross-talk among the optical paths
and allow the spectrometer to have a decreased length with
increased resolution. In many embodiments, the isolated optical
paths comprise isolated parallel optical paths that allow the
length of the device to be decreased substantially. In many
embodiments, each isolated optical path extends from a filter of a
filter array, through a lens of a lens array, through a channel of
a support array, to a region of a sensor array. Each region of the
sensor array comprises a plurality of sensor elements in which a
location of the sensor element corresponds to the wavelength of
light received based on an angle of light received at the location,
the focal length of the lens and the central wavelength of the
filter.
Inventors: |
GOLDRING; Damian; (Tel-Aviv,
IL) ; SHARON; Dror; (Benei Atarot, IL) ;
BRODETZKI; Guy; (Rehovot, IL) ; RUF; Amit;
(Hod HaSharon, IL) ; KAPLAN; Menahem; (Tel-Aviv,
IL) ; ROSEN; Sagee; (Netzer Sireni, IL) ;
KEILAF; Omer; (Kfar Saba, IL) ; KINROT; Uri;
(Hod HaSharon, IL) ; ENGELHARDT; Kai; (Buckenhof,
DE) ; NIR; Ittai; (Tel-Aviv, IL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
VERIFOOD, LTD. |
Herzliya |
|
IL |
|
|
Family ID: |
52432513 |
Appl. No.: |
15/905578 |
Filed: |
February 26, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15385778 |
Dec 20, 2016 |
9952098 |
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15905578 |
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15052286 |
Feb 24, 2016 |
9574942 |
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15385778 |
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14702342 |
May 1, 2015 |
9291504 |
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15052286 |
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PCT/IL2014/050688 |
Jul 30, 2014 |
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14702342 |
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61861893 |
Aug 2, 2013 |
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61923422 |
Jan 3, 2014 |
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61985447 |
Apr 28, 2014 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G01J 2003/1226 20130101;
G01J 5/10 20130101; G01J 3/36 20130101; G01J 3/108 20130101; G01J
2003/1239 20130101; G01J 3/0272 20130101; G01J 3/0264 20130101;
G01J 3/12 20130101; G01J 3/0259 20130101; G01J 3/45 20130101; G01J
3/0208 20130101; G01J 3/28 20130101; G01J 3/0262 20130101; G01N
33/02 20130101; G01J 2003/123 20130101; G01J 3/0256 20130101; G01J
3/2803 20130101; G01J 5/0265 20130101; G01J 3/26 20130101; G01J
3/0291 20130101; G01J 3/0205 20130101; G01J 3/10 20130101; G01J
3/0229 20130101; G01N 21/255 20130101 |
International
Class: |
G01J 3/10 20060101
G01J003/10; G01N 33/02 20060101 G01N033/02; G01J 3/02 20060101
G01J003/02; G01N 21/25 20060101 G01N021/25; G01J 5/10 20060101
G01J005/10; G01J 5/02 20060101 G01J005/02; G01J 3/45 20060101
G01J003/45; G01J 3/36 20060101 G01J003/36; G01J 3/28 20060101
G01J003/28; G01J 3/26 20060101 G01J003/26; G01J 3/12 20060101
G01J003/12 |
Claims
1. A spectrometer, comprising: a light path passing sequentially
through a filter matrix, a lens array and a detector; and at least
one opaque aperture array between the filter matrix and the lens
array, wherein the light path ends at the detector, wherein the
detector comprises multiple sensors, and wherein a distance of the
light path between the filter matrix and the detector is less than
9 millimeters (mm).
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE
[0001] The present application is a continuation of U.S.
application Ser. No. 15/385,778, filed on Dec. 20, 2016, entitled
"Spectrometry System with Decreased Light Path" (attorney docket
no. 45151-702.308), which is a continuation of U.S. application
Ser. No. 15/052,286, filed on Feb. 24, 2016, entitled "Spectrometry
System with Decreased Light Path" (attorney docket no.
45151-702.305), now U.S. Pat. No. 9,574,942, which is a
continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/702,342, filed
on May 1, 2015, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,291,504, entitled "Spectrometry
System with Decreased Light Path" (attorney docket no.
45151-702.304), which is a continuation of PCT Application
PCT/IL2014/050688, filed on Jul. 30, 2014, entitled "Spectrometry
System and Method, Spectroscopic Devices and Systems" (attorney
docket no. 45151-702.601), which claims priority to U.S.
Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/861,893, filed on Aug. 2, 2013,
entitled "Spectrometer System" (attorney docket no. 45151-702.101),
U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/923,422, filed on Jan. 3,
2014, entitled "Spectroscopic Devices and Systems" (attorney docket
no. 45151-702.102), and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No.
61/985,447, filed on Apr. 28, 2014, entitled "Spectroscopic Devices
and Systems" (attorney docket no. 45151-702.103), each of which is
incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE
[0002] All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned
in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the
same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent
application was specifically and individually indicated to be
incorporated by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0003] This invention relates to small, low-cost spectrometry
systems. For example, it relates to hand-held systems that have
sufficient sensitivity and resolution to perform spectroscopic
analysis of substances (including complex mixtures, e.g.
foodstuffs).
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] Spectrometers are used for many purposes. For example
spectrometers are used in the detection of defects in industrial
processes, satellite imaging, and laboratory research. However
these instruments have typically been too large and too costly for
the consumer market.
[0005] Spectrometers detect radiation from a sample and process the
resulting signal to obtain and present information about the sample
that includes spectral, physical and chemical information about the
sample. These instruments generally include some type of spectrally
selective element to separate wavelengths of radiation received
from the sample, and a first-stage optic, such as a lens, to focus
or concentrate the radiation onto an imaging array.
[0006] The prior spectrometers can be less than ideal in at least
some respects. Prior spectrometers having high resolution can be
larger than ideal for use in many portable applications. Also, the
cost of prior spectrometers can be greater than would be ideal. The
prior spectrometers can be somewhat bulky, difficult to transport
and the optics can require more alignment than would be ideal in at
least some instances.
[0007] Although prior spectrometers with decreased size have been
proposed. The prior spectrometers having decreased size and optical
path length can have less than ideal resolution, sensitivity and
less accuracy than would be ideal.
[0008] In light of the above, it an improved spectrometer that
overcomes at least some of the above mentioned deficiencies of the
prior spectrometers would be beneficial. Ideally such a
spectrometer would be a compact, integrated with a consumer device
such as a cellular telephone, sufficiently rugged and low in cost
to be practical for end-user spectroscopic measurements of items,
convenient and convenient to use.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide an improved
spectrometer, such as a low-cost, rugged spectrometer suitable for
combination with consumer devices and cloud computing. In many
embodiments, the spectrometer comprises a plurality of isolated
optical channels comprising a plurality of isolated optical paths.
The isolated optical paths have the advantage of decreasing
cross-talk among the optical paths and allowing the spectrometer to
have a decreased length with increased resolution. In many
embodiments, the isolated optical paths comprise isolated parallel
optical paths that allow the length of the device to be decreased
substantially. In many embodiments, each isolated optical path
extends from a filter of a filter array, through a lens of a lens
array, through a channel of a support array, to a region of a
sensor array. Each region of the sensor array comprises a plurality
of sensor elements in which a location of the sensor element
corresponds to the wavelength of light received based on an angle
of light received at the location, the focal length of the lens and
the central wavelength of the filter. In many embodiments, a
diffuser is located along the optical path prior to the filter
array in order to provide at least constant angular distribution of
light energy among the filters of the array. In many embodiments, a
second diffuser is located along the optical path between the
diffuser and the filter at a sufficient distance from the diffuser
in order to receive a substantially uniform distribution of light
energy across the second diffuser in order to further homogenize
the light and provide a constant angular distribution of the light
energy transmitted to the filter array.
[0010] In many embodiments, the spectrometer system provides a
substantially straight optical axis and a short light path. The
straight optical axis and short light path enable production of
spectrometers that are small enough and economical enough to fit in
devices such as cellular phones, and yet have sufficient
sensitivity and resolution (e.g. <10 nm) to obtain useful
spectra of complex mixtures.
[0011] In many embodiments a compact spectrometer system for
obtaining the spectrum of a sample comprises (a) an optical
detector for detecting light emanating from said sample; (b) an
optical filter located between said sample and said detector; and
(c) a first Fourier transform focusing element, wherein said
compact spectrometer system does not contain any dispersive optical
elements.
[0012] In one aspect, provided herein is a spectrometer, the
spectrometer comprising: a plurality of isolated optical paths
extending from a filter array to a sensor array. In many
embodiments, the spectrometer further comprises: a plurality of
regions of the sensor array; a plurality of filters of the filter
array; a plurality of lenses of a lens array; and a support array
extending between the plurality of regions of the sensor array and
the plurality of lenses of the lens array, the support array
comprising a plurality of light transmitting channels defined with
a non-optically transmissive material, wherein the plurality of
isolated optical paths extends from the plurality of lenses through
the plurality of channels to the plurality of regions in order to
isolate the plurality of channels.
[0013] In another aspect, provided herein is a spectrometer
comprising: a diffuser; a detector comprising a plurality of
regions, each region of said plurality of regions comprising
multiple sensors; a lens array comprising a plurality of lenses,
each lens of the lens array corresponding to a region of said
plurality of regions; and a filter array corresponding to the lens
array, the filter array comprising a plurality of filters, wherein
each filter of the plurality of filters is configured to transmit a
range of wavelengths different from other filters of the
plurality.
[0014] In many embodiments, the range of wavelengths overlaps with
ranges of said other filters of the plurality and wherein said each
filter comprises a central wavelength different from said other
filters of the plurality.
[0015] In many embodiments, the plurality of filters comprises a
plurality of interference filters, the plurality of interference
filters arranged with the plurality of lenses to vary an optical
path length through each of the interference filters in order to
determine spectra of each of the plurality of regions.
[0016] The filter array can comprise a substrate having a thickness
and a first side and a second side, the first side oriented toward
the diffuser, the second side oriented toward the lens array and
detector, wherein the filter array comprises a plurality of
coatings on the second side oriented toward the lens array to
inhibit cross-talk among lenses of the array.
[0017] In many embodiments, the plurality of coatings on the second
side comprises a plurality of interference filters, said each of
the plurality of interference filters on the second side configured
to transmit a central wavelength of light to one lens of the
plurality of lenses.
[0018] The filter array can comprise one or more coatings on the
first side of the filter array, for example, the first side of the
array comprises a coating to balance mechanical stress.
Alternatively or in combination, the one or more coatings on the
first side of the filter array comprises an optical filter. For
example, the optical filter on the first side of the filter array
comprises an IR pass filter to selectively pass infrared light.
[0019] In many embodiments, the first side of the substrate does
not comprise a coating.
[0020] The spectrometer can further comprise a support extending
between the detector and the lens array, the support shaped and
sized in order to support the lens array and position the lens
array at a focal length from the detector, the support comprising a
plurality of channels to pass light from the plurality of lenses of
the array to the plurality of regions of the detector.
[0021] In many embodiments, the support comprises a light absorbing
material located on a wall of said each of the plurality of
channels in order to inhibit cross-talk among the plurality of
channels.
[0022] The support can comprise an axis extending a distance from
an upper surface of the detector to a lower surface of the lens
array and wherein the support comprises stiffness in order to fix
the distance from the upper surface to the lower surface at the
focal length.
[0023] The image sensor can comprise a bare die surface in contact
with the support to position each of the plurality of lenses at the
focal length from the bare die surface.
[0024] The plurality of regions can comprise a plurality of active
regions and wherein the plurality of channels corresponds to the
plurality of active regions and wherein the support comprises end
structures sized and shaped to contact the bare die surface at a
plurality of contact locations away from the plurality of active
regions.
[0025] The spectrometer described herein can comprise an aperture
array comprising a plurality of apertures formed in a non-optically
transmissive material, the plurality of apertures dimensioned to
define a clear lens aperture of each lens of the array, wherein the
clear lens aperture of each lens is limited to one filter of the
array.
[0026] For example, the clear lens aperture of each lens can be
limited to one filter of the array.
[0027] In many embodiments, the spectrometer further comprises a
filter support to hold the filters plurality of filters in place
between the diffuser and the plurality of lenses.
[0028] The spectrometer described herein can comprise an optically
transmissive plate placed over the plurality of filters to seal the
plurality of filters.
[0029] In many embodiments, the diffuser is configured to receive
incident light from a material of a sample to be analyzed and
transmit diffuse light and wherein an angular profile of the
transmitted diffuse light is substantially fixed and substantially
independent of an angle of incidence of the light from the sample.
The diffuser can comprise a cosine diffuser to generate a
Lambertian light distribution.
[0030] The spectrometer can comprise an IR pass filter composed of
an IR transmissive material, wherein the diffuser is formed in a
surface of the IR transmissive material.
[0031] In many embodiments, the spectrometer further comprises a
second diffuser formed in a second surface of the IR transmissive
material opposite the surface, wherein the second diffuser
distributes incoming light across the diffuser.
[0032] The spectrometer can comprise a second IR pass filter and a
housing, the housing covering the diffuser, the filter array, and
the lens array, wherein the housing is coupled to the second IR
pass filter and a support comprising a plurality of apertures and
wherein the diffuser, the filter array, and the lens array are
arranged sequentially between the second IR pass filter and the
support comprising the plurality of apertures in order to couple
the support, the filter array and the lens array to a bare surface
of the detector.
[0033] In many embodiments of the spectrometer described herein,
the spectrometer further comprises a processor comprising a
tangible medium embodying instructions to determine spectra in
response to signals from the detector.
[0034] The processor can comprise instructions to stitch together
spectra from each of the regions in order to determine a spectrum
of a target site of a material.
[0035] The spectrometer can further comprise: an illuminator, the
illuminator comprising, a) a primary radiation emitter to emit
primary radiation within a first wavelength range and, b) a
secondary radiation emitter to emit secondary radiation within a
second wavelength range different from the first wavelength
range.
[0036] The primary radiation emitter can comprise one or more of a
light emitting diode or a laser diode and wherein the secondary
emitter comprises on or more of a phosphorescent plate, a phosphor
plate, phosphor powder, nanocrystals, or nano-crystal powder.
[0037] The secondary radiation emitter can contact packaging of the
primary radiation emitter to inhibit heating of the secondary
emitter and wherein the packaging comprises a heat sink to conduct
heat away from the secondary radiation emitter.
[0038] In many embodiments, a gap extends between the secondary
radiation emitter and packaging of the primary radiation emitter to
inhibit heating of the secondary emitter.
[0039] The spectrometer can comprise a temperature sensor having a
field of view oriented to overlap with a field of view of the
detector and a field of view of an illuminator.
[0040] The illuminator can comprise optics arranged to direct light
from the secondary radiation emitter toward a field of view of the
detector.
[0041] In another aspect, provided herein is a spectrometer
assembly comprising: a housing; an optically transmissive cover
plate; a diffuser; a filter array comprising a plurality of
filters; a lens array comprising plurality of lenses; and a support
comprising a plurality of channels; wherein the housing covers the
diffuser, the filter array and the lens array with the transmissive
cover plate on a first end of the assembly and the support on a
second end of the assembly in order to place the support on a
detector to measure spectra.
[0042] In yet another aspect, provided herein is a spectrometer
comprising a light path, the light path passing sequentially
through a diffuser, a filter matrix, and a lens array; wherein the
light path ends at a detector; wherein the detector comprises
multiple sensors; wherein the light path from the diffuser to the
detector is less than 9 mm; and wherein the resolution of the
spectrometer is less than 20 nm.
[0043] A spectrometer comprising a light path, the light path
passing sequentially through a diffuser, a filter matrix, and a
lens array; wherein the light path ends at a detector; wherein the
detector comprises multiple sensors; wherein the light path from
the diffuser to the detector is less than 9 mm; and wherein the
resolution of the spectrometer is less than 10 nm. The resolution
can be less than 25, 24, 23, 22, 21, 20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 15, 14,
13, 12, 10, 9 or 8 nm.
[0044] The light path beginning at the diffuser and ending at the
detector can be less than 6 mm or less than 4.5 mm.
[0045] The resolution of the spectrometer can be less than 8 nm.
The resolution of the spectrometer can be less than 5 nm.
[0046] The detectable wavelength range can be larger than 100 nm.
The detectable wavelength range can be larger than 200 nm. The
detectable wavelength range can be larger than 300 nm.
[0047] In many embodiments, the spectrometer does not comprise a
dispersive optical element.
[0048] Also provided herein, is a spectrometer comprising a
detector for receiving light wherein the light received by the
detector is a noncontiguous spectrum.
[0049] The spectrometer can comprise a filter matrix, the filter
matrix comprising multiple sub-filters.
[0050] In many embodiments, one point on the detector receives
light from multiple sub-filters.
[0051] The spectrometer provided herein can further comprise a
pre-filter before the filter matrix in the light path.
[0052] The pre-filter can be chosen from a group consisting of: (a)
absorbing glass and (b) interference filter.
[0053] In many embodiments, the diffuser can be a cosine
diffuser.
[0054] A secondary diffuser can be added between the diffuser and
the filter matrix.
[0055] The distance between the diffuser and the secondary diffuser
can be at least 0.5 mm.
[0056] In many embodiments, the transmission spectra of the filters
in the filter matrix vary with angle of incidence.
[0057] The filter matrix can be composed of interference
filters.
[0058] The interference filters can be deposited on a substrate
thinner than 2 mm.
[0059] In many embodiments, the interference filters are deposited
only on a single side of a substrate.
[0060] The deposited side of the interference filters can be facing
towards the lens array.
[0061] The filters in the filter matrix can be arranged in a
specific order to minimize cross talk on the detector of light
emerging from different filters.
[0062] In many embodiments, the spectrometer can comprise at least
one opaque aperture array between the filter matrix and the lens
array.
[0063] The spectrometer can comprise an opaque absorbing aperture
array between the filter matrix and the detector.
[0064] The optical surfaces of the lenses in the lens array can be
a-spherical.
[0065] Individual lens of the lens array can have two optical
surfaces where both optical surfaces can be substantially
convex.
[0066] The spectra of each filter in the matrix can overlap another
filter in the matrix.
[0067] In many embodiments of the matrix, the overlap can allow
stitching of spectra generated by two different filters.
[0068] The spectrometer can further comprise an illumination
system.
[0069] The illumination system can comprise LEDs.
[0070] The LEDs can be divided into at least two groups, each
operated at different times.
[0071] The spectrometer can comprise at least one power resistor
for thermal control.
[0072] The spectrometer can further comprise a phosphor plate in
front of the LEDs.
[0073] The phosphor can be near infra-red phosphor.
[0074] The spectrometer can comprise a thermal sensor capable of
measuring a sampled material's temperature.
[0075] In many embodiments, the spectrometer further comprises a
reference element in front of the spectrometer.
[0076] The reference element can be removable.
[0077] The reference element can be movable.
[0078] The detector can be a 2D CMOS sensor.
[0079] The multiple sensors can be pixels on a CCD.
[0080] The multiple sensors can each receive light from more than
one narrow wavelength band.
[0081] In many embodiments of the spectrometer, the multiple
sensors each receive light from more than one filter of the filter
matrix.
[0082] In another aspect, further provided herein is a method of
measuring spectrum, the method comprising: transmitting light along
a plurality of isolated optical paths extending from a filter array
to a sensor array in order to measure the spectrum.
[0083] In many embodiments of the method, the spectrum comprises a
plurality of spectra.
[0084] Further provided herein is a method, the method comprising
providing a spectrometer as described herein.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0085] FIG. 1 shows schematic diagrams of the optical layout in
accordance with embodiments.
[0086] FIG. 2 shows a schematic diagram of a spectrometer system,
in accordance with embodiments.
[0087] FIG. 3 shows a schematic diagram of a spectrometer head, in
accordance with embodiments.
[0088] FIG. 4 shows a schematic diagram of cross-section A of the
spectrometer head of FIG. 3, in accordance with embodiments.
[0089] FIG. 5 shows a schematic diagram of cross-section B of the
spectrometer head of FIG. 3, accordance with embodiments.
[0090] FIG. 6 shows a schematic diagram of a spectrometer module,
in accordance with embodiments.
[0091] FIG. 7 shows a schematic diagram of apertures formed in a
non-transmissive material and a lens array, in accordance with
embodiments.
[0092] FIG. 8 shows a schematic diagram of a spectrometer, in
accordance with embodiments.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0093] In the following description, various aspects of the
invention will be described. For the purposes of explanation,
specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough
understanding of the invention. It will be apparent to one skilled
in the art that there are other embodiments of the invention that
differ in details without affecting the essential nature thereof.
Therefore the invention is not limited by that which is illustrated
in the figure and described in the specification, but only as
indicated in the accompanying claims, with the proper scope
determined only by the broadest interpretation of said claims.
[0094] A better understanding of the features and advantages of the
present disclosure will be obtained by reference to the following
detailed description that sets forth illustrative embodiments, in
which the principles of embodiments of the present disclosure are
utilized, and the accompanying drawings.
[0095] The embodiments disclosed herein can be combined in one or
more of many ways to provide improved spectrometer methods and
apparatus.
[0096] As used herein like characters refer to like elements.
[0097] As used herein "light" encompasses electromagnetic radiation
having wavelengths in one or more of the ultraviolet, visible, or
infrared portions of the electromagnetic spectrum.
[0098] As used herein, the term "dispersive" is used, with respect
to optical components, to describe a component that is designed to
separate spatially, the different wavelength components of a
polychromatic beam of light. Non-limiting examples of "dispersive"
optical elements by this definition include diffraction gratings
and prisms. The term specifically excludes elements such as lenses
that disperse light because of non-idealities such as chromatic
aberration or elements such as interference filters that have
different transmission profiles according to the angle of incident
radiation. The term also excludes the filters and filter matrixes
described herein.
[0099] Reference is now made to FIG. 1, which illustrates
non-limiting embodiments of the compact spectrometer system 100
herein disclosed. As illustrated the system comprises a diffuser
164, a filter matrix 170, a lens array 174 and a detector 190.
[0100] In many embodiments, the spectrometer system comprises a
plurality of optical filters of filter matrix 170. The optical
filter can be of any type known in the art. Non-limiting examples
of suitable optical filters include Fabry-Perot (FP) resonators,
cascaded FP resonators, and interference filters. For example, a
narrow bandpass filter (.ltoreq.10 nm) with a wide blocking range
outside of the transmission band (at least 200 nm) can be used. The
center wavelength (CWL) of the filter can vary with the incident
angle of the light impinging upon it.
[0101] In many embodiments, the central wavelength of the central
band can vary by 10 nm or more, such that the effective range of
wavelengths passed with the filter is greater than the bandwidth of
the filter. In many embodiments, the central wavelength varies by
an amount greater than the bandwidth of the filter. For example,
the bandpass filter can have a bandwidth of no more than 10 nm and
the wavelength of the central band can vary by more than 10 nm
across the field of view of the sensor.
[0102] In many embodiments, the spectrometer system comprises
detector 190, which may comprise an array of sensors. In many
embodiments, the detector is capable of detecting light in the
wavelength range of interest. The compact spectrometer system
disclosed herein can be used from the UV to the IR, depending on
the nature of the spectrum being obtained and the particular
spectral properties of the sample being tested. In some
embodiments, a detector that is capable of measuring intensity as a
function of position (e.g. an array detector or a two-dimensional
image sensor) is used.
[0103] In some embodiments the spectrometer does not comprise a
cylindrical beam volume hologram (CVBH).
[0104] In many embodiments, the spectrometer system comprises a
diffuser. In embodiments in which the light emanating from the
sample is not sufficiently diffuse, a diffuser can be placed in
front of other elements of the spectrometer. Collimated (or
partially collimated light) can impinge on the diffuser, which then
produces diffuse light which then impinges on other aspects of the
spectrometer, e.g. an optical filter.
[0105] In many embodiments, the spectrometer system comprises a
filter matrix. The filter matrix can comprise one or more filters,
for example a plurality of filters. The filter matrix can comprise
more than 2, 10, 50, or 100 filters (also referred to as
sub-filters). The use of a single filter can limit the spectral
range available to the spectrometer. For example, if the angle of
incidence of light is larger than 30.degree., the system may not
produce a signal of sufficient intensity due to lens aberrations
and the decrease in the efficiency of the detector at large angles.
For an angular range of 30.degree. and an optical filter CWL of
.about.850 nm, the spectral range available to the spectrometer can
be about 35 nm, for example. As this range can be insufficient for
some spectroscopy based applications, embodiments with larger
spectral ranges may comprise an optical filter matrix composed of a
plurality of sub-filters. Each sub-filter can have a different CWL
and thus covers a different part of the optical spectrum. The
sub-filters can be configured in one or more of many ways and be
tiled in two dimensions, for example.
[0106] Depending on the number of sub-filters, the wavelength range
accessible to the spectrometer can reach hundreds of nanometers. In
embodiments comprising a plurality of sub-filters, the approximate
Fourier transforms formed at the image plane (i.e. one per
sub-filter) overlap, and the signal obtained at any particular
pixel of the detector can result from a mixture of the different
Fourier transforms.
[0107] In some embodiments the filter matrix are arranged in a
specific order to inhibit cross talk on the detector of light
emerging from different filters and to minimize the effect of stray
light. For example, if the matrix is composed of 3.times.4 filters
then there are 2 filters located at the interior of the matrix and
10 filters at the periphery of the matrix. The 2 filters at the
interior can be selected to be those at the edges of the wavelength
range. Without being bound by a particular theory the selected
inner filters may experience the most spatial cross-talk but be the
least sensitive to cross-talk spectrally.
[0108] In many embodiments, the spectrometer system comprises
detector 190. The detector can be sensitive to one or more of
ultraviolet wavelengths of light, visible wavelengths of light, or
infrared wavelengths of light.
[0109] The detector can be located in a predetermined plane. The
predetermined plane can be the focal plane of the lens array. Light
of different wavelengths (X1, X2, X3, X4, etc.) can arrive at the
detector as a series of substantially concentric circles of
different radii proportional to the wavelength. The relationship
between the wavelength and the radius of the corresponding circle
may not be linear.
[0110] The detector, in some embodiments, receives non-continuous
spectra, for example spectra that can be unlike a dispersive
element would create. The non-continuous spectra can be missing
parts of the spectrum. The non-continuous spectrum can have the
wavelengths of the spectra at least in part spatially out of order,
for example. In some embodiments, first short wavelengths contact
the detector near longer wavelengths, and second short wavelengths
contact the detector at distances further away from the first short
wavelengths than the longer wavelengths.
[0111] The detector may comprise a plurality of detector elements,
such as pixels for example. Each detector element may be configured
so as to receive signals of a broad spectral range. The spectral
range received on the first and second pluralities of detector
elements may extend at least from about 10 nm to about 400 nm. In
many embodiments, spectral range received on the first and second
pluralities of detector elements may extend at least from about 10
nm to about 700 nm. In many embodiments, spectral range received on
the first and second pluralities of detector elements may extend at
least from about 10 nm to about 1600 nm. In many embodiments,
spectral range received on the first and second pluralities of
detector elements may extend at least from about 400 nm to about
1600 nm. In many embodiments, spectral range received on the first
and second pluralities of detector elements may extend at least
from about 700 nm to about 1600 nm.
[0112] In many embodiments the lens array, the filter matrix, and
the detector are not centered on a common optical axis. In many
embodiments the lens array, the filter matrix, and the detector are
aligned on a common optical axis.
[0113] In many embodiments, the principle of operation of compact
spectrometer comprises one or more of the following attributes.
Light impinges upon the diffuser. The light next impinges upon the
filter matrix at a wide range of propagation angles and the
spectrum of light passing through the sub-filters is angularly
encoded. The angularly encoded light then passes through the lens
array (e.g. Fourier transform focusing elements) which performs
(approximately) a spatial Fourier transform of the angle-encoded
light, transforming it into a spatially-encoded spectrum. Finally
the light reaches the detector. The location of the detector
element relative to the optical axis of a lens of the array
corresponds to the wavelength of light, and the wavelength of light
at a pixel location can be determined based on the location of the
pixel relative to the optical axis of the lens of the array. The
intensity of light recorded by the detector element such as a pixel
as a function of position (e.g. pixel number or coordinate
reference location) on the sensor corresponds to the resolved
wavelengths of the light for that position.
[0114] In some embodiments, an additional filter is placed in front
of the compact spectrometer system in order to block light outside
of the spectral range of interest (i.e. to prevent unwanted light
from reaching the detector).
[0115] In embodiments in which the spectral range covered by the
optical filters is insufficient, additional sub-filters with
differing CWLs can be used.
[0116] In some embodiments shutters allow for the inclusion or
exclusion of light from part of the system. For example shutters
can be used to exclude particular sub-filters. Shutters may also be
used to exclude individual lens.
[0117] In some embodiments, the measurement of the sample is
performed using scattered ambient light.
[0118] In many embodiments, the spectrometer system comprises a
light source. The light source can be of any type (e.g. laser or
light-emitting diode) known in the art appropriate for the spectral
measurements to be made. In some embodiments the light source emits
from 350 nm to 1100 nm. The wavelength(s) and intensity of the
light source will depend on the particular use to which the
spectrometer will be put. In some embodiments the light source
emits from 0.1 mW to 500 mW
[0119] Because of its small size and low complexity, the compact
spectrometer system herein disclosed can be integrated into a
mobile communication device such as a cellular telephone. It can
either be enclosed within the device itself, or mounted on the
device and connected to it by wired or wireless means for providing
power and a data link. By incorporating the spectrometer system
into a mobile device, the spectra obtained can be uploaded to a
remote location, analysis can be performed there, and the user
notified of the results of the analysis. The spectrometer system
can also be equipped with a GPS device and/or altimeter so that the
location of the sample being measured can be reported. Further
non-limiting examples of such components include a camera for
recording the visual impression of the sample and sensors for
measuring such environmental variables as temperature and
humidity.
[0120] Because of its small size and low cost, the spectrometer
system herein disclosed can also be integrated into kitchen
appliances such as ovens (e.g. microwave ovens), food processors,
toilets refrigerators etc. The user can then make a determination
of the safety of the ingredients in real time during the course of
food storage and preparation.
[0121] In many embodiments, the spectrometer also includes a power
source (e.g. a battery or power supply). In some embodiments the
spectrometer is powered by a power supply from a consumer hand held
device (e.g. a cell phone). In some embodiments the spectrometer
has an independent power supply. In some embodiments a power supply
from the spectrometer can supply power to a consumer hand held
device.
[0122] In many embodiments, the spectrometer comprises a processing
and control unit. In some embodiments the spectrometer does not
analyze the data collected, and the spectrometer relays data to a
remote processing and control unit, such as a back end server.
Alternatively or in combination, the spectrometer may partially
analyze the data prior to transmission to the remote processing and
control unit. The remote processing and control unit can be coupled
to the spectrometer with a consumer hand held device (e.g. a cell
phone). The remote processing and control unit can be a cloud based
system which can transmit analyzed data or results to a user. In
some embodiments a hand held device is configured to receive
analyzed data and can be associated with the spectrometer. The
association can be through a physical connection or wireless
communication, for example.
[0123] The spectrometers as described herein can be adapted, with
proper choice of light source, detector, and associated optics, for
a use with a wide variety of spectroscopic techniques. Non-limiting
examples include Raman, fluorescence, and IR or UV-VIS reflectance
and absorbance spectroscopies. Because, as described above, compact
spectrometer system can separate a Raman signal from a fluorescence
signal, in some embodiments of the invention, the same spectrometer
is used for both spectroscopies.
[0124] In some embodiments the spectrometer system comes equipped
with a memory with a database of spectral data stored therein and a
microprocessor with analysis software programmed with instructions.
In some embodiments the spectrometer system is in communication
with a computer memory having a database of spectral data stored
therein and a microprocessor with analysis software programmed in.
The memory can be volatile or non-volatile in order to store the
user's own measurements in the memory. The database and/or all or
part of the analysis software can stored remotely, and the
spectrometer system can communicate with the remote memory via a
network (e.g. a wireless network) by any appropriate method.
Alternatively, the database of spectral data can be provided with a
computer located near the spectrometer, for example in the same
room.
[0125] In some embodiments in which the database is located
remotely, the data base can be updated often at regular intervals,
for example continuously. In these embodiments, each measurement
made by a user of the spectrometer increases the quality and
reliability of future measurements made by any user.
[0126] Once a spectrum is then obtained it can be analyzed. In some
embodiments the analysis is not contemporaneous. In some
embodiments the analysis is in real time. The spectrum can be
analyzed using any appropriate analysis method. Non-limiting
examples of spectral analysis techniques that can be used include
Principal Components Analysis, Partial Least Squares analysis, and
the use of a neural network algorithm to determine the spectral
components.
[0127] An analyzed spectrum can determine whether a complex mixture
being investigated contains a spectrum associated with components.
The components can be, e.g., a substance, mixture of substances, or
microorganisms.
[0128] The intensity of these components in the spectrum can be
used to determine whether a component is at a certain
concentration, e.g. whether their concentration of an undesirable
component is high enough to be of concern. Non-limiting examples of
such substances include toxins, decomposition products, or harmful
microorganisms. In some embodiments of the invention, if it is
deemed likely that the sample is not fit for consumption, the user
is provided with a warning.
[0129] In some embodiments, the spectrometer is connected to a
communication network that allows users to share the information
obtained in a particular measurement. An updatable database located
in the "cloud" (i.e. the distributed network) constantly receives
the results of measurements made by individual users and updates
itself in real time, thus enabling each successive measurement to
be made with greater accuracy and confidence as well as expanding
the number of substances for which a spectral signature is
available.
[0130] In various embodiments of the invention, the conversion of
the raw intensity data to a spectrum may be performed either
locally (with a processor and software supplied with the
spectrometer system) or remotely. Heavier calculations for more
complicated analyses for example can be performed remotely.
[0131] In embodiments that incorporate remote data analysis, the
data transferred to the remote system may include one or more of
raw detector data; pre-processed detector data or post-processed
detector data in which the processing was performed locally; or the
spectrum derived from the raw detector data.
[0132] In some embodiments the spectrometer does not comprise a
monochromator.
[0133] In some embodiments of the invention, the following signal
processing scheme is used. First, an image or a series of images is
captured by the image sensor in the spectrometer mentioned above.
The images are analyzed by a local processing unit. This stage of
analysis may include any or all of image averaging, compensation
for aberrations of the optical unit, reduction of detector noise by
use of a noise reduction algorithm, or conversion of the image into
a raw spectrum. The raw spectrum is then transmitted to a remote
processing unit; in preferred embodiments, the transmission is
performed using wireless communication.
[0134] The raw spectrum can be analyzed remotely. Noise reduction
can be performed remotely.
[0135] In embodiments in which a Raman spectrum is obtained, the
Raman signal can be separated from any fluorescence signal. Both
Raman and fluorescence spectra can be compared to existing
calibration spectra. After a calibration is performed, the spectra
can be analyzed using any appropriate algorithm for spectral
decomposition; non-limiting examples of such algorithms include
Principal Components Analysis, Partial Least-Squares analysis, and
spectral analysis using a neural network algorithm. This analysis
provides the information needed to characterize the sample that was
tested using the spectrometer. The results of the analysis are then
presented to the user.
[0136] FIG. 2 shows a schematic diagram of a spectrometer system
according to embodiments. In many embodiments, the spectrometer
system 100 comprises a spectrometer 102 and a consumer hand held
device 110 in wireless communication 116 with a cloud based storage
system 118. The spectrometer 102 can acquire the data as described
herein. The hand held spectrometer 102 may comprise a processor 106
and communication circuitry 104 coupled to spectrometer head 120
having spectrometer components as described herein. The
spectrometer can transmit the data to the handheld device 110 with
communication circuitry 104 with a communication link, such as a
wireless serial communication link, for example Bluetooth.TM.. The
hand held device can receive the data from the spectrometer 102 and
transmit the data to a back end server of the cloud based storage
system 118.
[0137] The hand held device 110 may comprise one or more components
of a smart phone, such as a display 112, an interface 114, a
processor, a computer readable memory and communication circuitry.
The device 110 may comprise a substantially stationary device when
used, such as a wireless communication gateway, for example.
[0138] The processor 106 may comprise a tangible medium embodying
instructions, such as a computer readable memory embodying
instructions of a computer program. Alternatively or in combination
the processor may comprise logic such as gate array logic in order
to perform one or more logic steps.
[0139] FIG. 3 shows a schematic diagram of spectrometer head in
accordance with embodiments. In many embodiments, the spectrometer
102 comprises a spectrometer head 120. The spectrometer head
comprises one or more of a spectrometer module 160, a temperature
sensor module 130, and an illumination module 140. Each module,
when present, can be covered with a module window. For example, the
spectrometer module 160 can comprise a spectrometer window 162, the
temperature sensor module 130 can comprise a temperature sensor
window 132, and the illumination module 140 can comprise an
illumination window 142.
[0140] In many embodiments, the illumination module and the
spectrometer module are configured to have overlapping fields of
view at the sample. The overlapping fields of view can be provided
in one or more of many ways. For example, the optical axes of the
illumination source, the temperature sensor and the matrix array
can extend in a substantially parallel configuration.
Alternatively, one or more of the optical axes can be oriented
toward another optical axis of another module.
[0141] FIG. 4 shows a schematic drawing of cross-section A of the
spectrometer head of FIG. 3, in accordance with embodiments. In
order to lessen the noise and/or spectral shift produced from
fluctuations in temperature, a spectrometer head 102 comprising
temperature sensor module 130 can be used to measure and record the
temperature during the measurement. In some embodiments, the
temperature sensor element can measure the temperature of the
sample in response to infrared radiation emitted from the sample,
and transmit the temperature measurement to a processor. Accurate
and/or precise temperature measurement can be used to standardize
or modify the spectrum produced. For example, different spectra of
a given sample can be measured based on the temperature at which
the spectrum was taken. In some embodiments, a spectrum can be
stored with metadata relating to the temperature at which the
spectrum was measure. In many embodiments, the temperature sensor
module 130 comprises a temperature sensor window 132. The
temperature sensor window can seal the sensor module. The
temperature sensor window 132 can be made of material that is
substantially non-transmissive to visible light and transmits light
in the infrared spectrum. In some embodiments the temperature
sensor window 132 comprises germanium, for example. In some
embodiments, the temperature sensor window is about 0.2, 0.3, 0.4,
0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9 or 1.0 mm thick.
[0142] The temperature sensor can comprise a field of view (herein
after "FoV") limiter. In many embodiments, the temperature sensor
has a field of view oriented to overlap with a field of view of the
detector and a field of view of an illuminator. For example, the
field of view can be limited by an aperture formed in a material
supporting the window 132 of temperature sensor module and the
dimensions of the temperature sensor 134. In some embodiments, the
temperature sensor module has a limited field of view and comprises
a heat conductive metal cage disposed on a flex printed circuit
board (PCB) 136. The PCB 136 can be mounted on a stiffener 138 in
order to inhibit movement relative to the other modules on the
sensor head. In some embodiments, the flexible circuit board is
backed by stiffener 138 comprising a metal. The temperature sensor
134 can be a remote temperature sensor. In some embodiments, the
temperature sensor can give a temperature that is accurate to
within about 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, 0.7, 0.4, 0.3, 0.2 or 0.1 degree
Celsius of the ambient temperature of the sample. In some
embodiments, the temperature sensor measures the ambient
temperature with precision to 3, 2, 1, 0.5, or 0.1 degree
Celsius.
[0143] In many embodiments, the spectrometer head comprises
illumination module 140. The illumination module can illuminate a
sample with light. In some embodiments, the illumination module
comprises an illumination window 142. The illumination window can
seal the illumination module. The illumination window can be
substantially transmissive to the light produced in the
illumination module. For example, the illumination window can
comprise glass. The illumination module can comprise a light source
148. In some embodiments, the light source can comprise one or more
light emitting diodes (LED). In some embodiments, the light source
comprises a blue LED. In some embodiments, the light source
comprises a red or green LED or an infrared LED.
[0144] The light source 148 can be mounted on a mounting fixture
150. In some embodiments, the mounting fixture comprises a ceramic
package. For example, the light fixture can be a flip-chip LED die
mounted on a ceramic package. The mounting fixture 150 can be
attached to a flexible printed circuit board (PCB) 152 which can
optionally be mounted on a stiffener 154 to reduce movement of the
illumination module. The flex PCB of the illumination module and
the PCT of temperature sensor modules may comprise different
portions of the same flex PCB, which may also comprise portions of
spectrometer PCB.
[0145] The wavelength of the light produced by the light source 148
can be shifted by a plate 146. Plate 146 can be a wavelength
shifting plate. In some embodiments, plate 146 comprises phosphor
embedded in glass. Alternatively or in combination, plate 146 can
comprise a nano-crystal, a quantum dot, or combinations thereof.
The plate can absorb light from the light source and release light
having a frequency lower than the frequency of the absorbed light.
In some embodiments, a light source produces visible light, and
plate 146 absorbs the light and emits near infrared light. In some
embodiments, the light source is in close proximity to or directly
touches the plate 146. In some embodiments, the light source and
associated packaging is separated from the plate by a gap to limit
heat transfer. For example the gap between the light source and the
plate can be at least 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9,
1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, 4.0, 5.0, 6.0, 7.0, 8.0, 9.0, or 10.0
mm. In many alternative embodiments, the light source packaging
touches the plate 146 in order to conduct heat from the plate such
that the light source packaging comprises a heat sink.
[0146] The illumination module can further comprise a light
concentrator such as a parabolic concentrator 144 or a condenser
lens in order to concentrate the light. In some embodiments, the
parabolic concentrator 144 is a reflector. In some embodiments, the
parabolic concentrator 144 comprises stainless steel. In some
embodiments, the parabolic concentrator 144 comprises gold-plated
stainless steel. In some embodiments, the concentrator can
concentrate light to a cone. For example, the light can be
concentrated to a cone with a field of view of about 30-45, 25-50,
or 20-55 degrees.
[0147] In some embodiments, the illumination module is configured
to transmit light and the spectrometer module is configured to
receive light along optical paths extending substantially
perpendicular to an entrance face of the spectrometer head. In some
embodiments, the modules can be configured to such that light can
be transmitted from one module to an object (such as a sample 108)
and reflected or scattered to another module which receives the
light.
[0148] In some embodiments, the optical axes of the illumination
module and the spectrometer module are configured to be
non-parallel such that the optical axis representing the
spectrometer module is at an offset angle to the optical axis of
the illumination module. This non-parallel configuration can be
provided in one or more of many ways. For example, one or more
components can be supported on a common support and offset in
relation to an optic such as a lens in order to orient one or more
optical axes toward each other. Alternatively or in combination, a
module can be angularly inclined with respect to another module. In
some embodiments, the optical axis of each module is aligned at an
offset angle of greater than 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14,
16, 18, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, or 50 degrees. In some embodiments,
the illumination module and the spectrometer module are configured
to be aligned at an offset angle of less than 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7,
8, 9, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, or 50 degrees. In
some embodiments, the illumination module and the spectrometer
module are configured to be aligned at an offset angle between than
1-10, 11-20, 21-30, 31-40 or 41-50 degrees. In some embodiments,
the offset angle of the modules is set firmly and is not
adjustable. In some embodiments, the offset angle of the modules is
adjustable. In some embodiments, the offset angle of the modules is
automatically selected based on the distance of the spectrometer
head from the sample. In some embodiments, two modules have
parallel optical axes. In some embodiments, two or more modules
have offset optical axes. In some embodiments, the modules can have
optical axes offset such that they converge on a sample. The
modules can have optical axes offset such that they converge at a
set distance. For example, the modules can have optical axes offset
such that they converge at a distance of about 10, 20, 30, 40, 50,
60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, 400, or 500 mm
away.
[0149] FIG. 5 shows a schematic drawing of cross-section B of the
spectrometer head of FIGS. 3 and 4, in accordance with embodiments.
In many embodiments, the spectrometer head 102 comprises
spectrometer module 160. The spectrometer module can be sealed by a
spectrometer window 162. In some embodiments, the spectrometer
window 162 is selectively transmissive to light with respect to the
wavelength in order to analyze the spectral sample. For example,
spectrometer window 162 can be an IR-pass filter. In some
embodiments, the window 162 can be glass. The spectrometer module
can comprise one or more diffusers. For example, the spectrometer
module can comprise a first diffuser 164 disposed below the
spectrometer window 162. The first diffuser 164 can distribute the
incoming light. For example, the first diffuser can be a cosine
diffuser. Optionally, the spectrometer module comprises a light
filter 188. Light filter 188 can be a thick IR-pass filter. For
example, filter 188 can absorb light below a threshold wavelength.
In some embodiments, filter 188 absorbs light with a wavelength
below about 1000, 950, 900, 850, 800, 750, 700, 650, or 600 nm. In
some embodiments, the spectrometer module comprises a second
diffuser 166. The second diffuser can generate lambertian light
distribution at the input of the filter matrix 170. The filter
assembly can be sealed by a glass plate 168. Alternatively or in
combination, the filter assembly can be further supported a filter
frame 182, which can attach the filter assembly to the spectrometer
housing 180. The spectrometer housing 180 can hold the spectrometer
window 162 in place and further provide mechanical stability to the
module.
[0150] The first filter and the second filter can be arranged in
one or more of many ways to provide a substantially uniform light
distribution to the filters. The substantially uniform light
distribution can be uniform with respect to an average energy to
within about 25%, for example to within about 10%, for example. In
many embodiments the first diffuser distributes the incident light
energy spatially on the second diffuser with a substantially
uniform energy distribution profile. In some embodiments, the first
diffuser makes the light substantially homogenous with respect to
angular distribution. The second diffuser further diffuses the
light energy of the substantially uniform energy distribution
profile to a substantially uniform angular distribution profile,
such that the light transmitted to each filter can be substantially
homogenous both with respect to the spatial distribution profile
and the angular distribution profile of the light energy incident
on each filter. For example, the angular distribution profile of
light energy onto each filter can be uniform to within about
+/-25%, for example substantially uniform to within about
+/-10%.
[0151] In many embodiments, the spectrometer module comprises a
filter matrix 170. The filter matrix can comprise one or more
filters. In many embodiments, the filter matrix comprises a
plurality of filters. For example, the filter matrix can comprise
filters arranged in a square, rectangle, circle, oval, or
disordered arrangement of filters. The filter array can comprise at
least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17,
18, 19, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90,
95, 100, 200 or more filters. In some embodiments, the filter
matrix comprises between 1 and 36 inclusive filters arranged in a
square or rectangular arrangement selected from the group
consisting of 1.times.1, 1.times.2, 2.times.2, 3.times.1,
2.times.3, 3.times.3, 4.times.1, 4.times.2, 4.times.3, 4.times.4,
5.times.1, 5.times.2, 5.times.3, 5.times.4, 5.times.5, 6.times.1,
6.times.2, 6.times.3, 6.times.4, 6.times.5 or 6.times.6. In some
embodiments, the filter array comprises between about 10 and about
100 filters. In some embodiments, the filter array comprises
between about 10 and about 30 filters. In some embodiments, the
filter array comprises 4 rows filters wherein each row comprises 3
filters.
[0152] In some embodiments, each filter of the filter matrix 170 is
configured to transmit a range of wavelengths distributed about a
central wavelength. The range of wavelengths can be defined as a
full width half maximum (hereinafter "FWHM") of the distribution of
transmitted wavelengths for a light beam transmitted substantially
normal to the surface of the filter as will be understood by a
person of ordinary skill in the art. A wavelength range can be
defined by a central wavelength and by a spectral width. The
central wavelength can be the mean wavelength of light transmitted
through the filter, and the band spectral width of a filter can be
the difference between the maximum and the minimum wavelength of
light transmitted through the filter. For example, a filter can
have a central wavelength of 300 nm and a wavelength range of 20 nm
which would transmit light having a wavelength from 290 to 310 nm,
and the filter would substantially not transmit light below 290 nm
or above 310 nm. In some embodiments, each filter of the plurality
of filters is configured to transmit a range of wavelengths
different from other filters of the plurality. In some embodiments,
the range of wavelengths overlaps with ranges of said other filters
of the plurality and wherein said each filter comprises a central
wavelength different from said other filters of the plurality. In
some embodiments, the spectral width of each filter is less than
200, 190, 180, 170, 160, 150, 140, 130, 120, 110, 100, 90, 80, 70,
60, 50, 40, 30, 20, 18, 16, 14, 12, 10, 8, 6, 4, 3, 2, or 1 nm. In
some embodiments, the spectral width of each filter is at least 1,
2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, or
100 nm. In some embodiments, the spectral width of each filter is
between about 1 to about 60 nm, about 2 to about 50 nm, from about
4 to about 40 nm, or from about 8 to about 30 nm. In some
embodiments, the central wavelengths of each filter at least 1, 2,
3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40,
50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, or 200 nm from the central wavelength of
each other filter.
[0153] In many embodiments, the filter array comprises a substrate
having a thickness and a first side and a second side, the first
side oriented toward the diffuser, the second side oriented toward
the lens array. In some embodiments, each filter of the filter
array comprises a substrate having a thickness and a first side and
a second side, the first side oriented toward the diffuser, the
second side oriented toward the lens array. The filter array can
comprise one or more coatings on the first side, on the second
side, or a combination thereof. Each filter of the filter array can
comprise one or more coatings on the first side, on the second
side, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, each filter of
the filter array comprises one or more coatings on the second side,
oriented toward the lens array. In some embodiments, each filter of
the filter array comprises one or more coatings on the second side,
oriented toward the lens array and on the first side, oriented
toward the diffuser. The one or more coatings on the second side
can be an optical filter. For example, the one or more coatings can
permit a wavelength range to selectively pass through the filter.
Alternatively or in combination, the one or more coatings can be
used to inhibit cross-talk among lenses of the array. In some
embodiments, the plurality of coatings on the second side comprises
a plurality of interference filters, said each of the plurality of
interference filters on the second side configured to transmit a
central wavelength of light to one lens of the plurality of lenses.
In some embodiments, the filter array comprises one or more
coatings on the first side of the filter array. The one or more
coatings on the first side of the array can comprise a coating to
balance mechanical stress. In some embodiments, the one or more
coatings on the first side of the filter array comprises an optical
filter. For example, the optical filter on the first side of the
filter array can comprise an IR pass filter to selectively pass
infrared light. In many embodiments, the first side does not
comprise a bandpass interference filter coating. In some
embodiments, the first does not comprise a coating.
[0154] In many embodiments, the array of filters comprises a
plurality of bandpass interference filters on the second side of
the array. The placement of the fine frequency resolving filters on
the second side oriented toward the lens array and apertures can
inhibit cross-talk among the filters and related noise among the
filters. In many embodiments, the array of filters comprises a
plurality of bandpass interference filters on the second side of
the array, and does not comprise a bandpass interference filter on
the first side of the array.
[0155] In many embodiments, each filter defines an optical channel
of the spectrometer. The optical channel can extend from the filer
through an aperture and a lens of the array to a region of the
sensor array. The plurality of parallel optical channels can
provide increased resolution with decreased optical path
length.
[0156] The spectrometer module can comprise an aperture array 172.
The aperture array can prevent cross talk between the filters. The
aperture array comprises a plurality of apertures formed in a
non-optically transmissive material. In some embodiments, the
plurality of apertures is dimensioned to define a clear lens
aperture of each lens of the array, wherein the clear lens aperture
of each lens is limited to one filter of the array. In some
embodiments, the clear lens aperture of each lens is limited to one
filter of the array.
[0157] In many embodiments the spectrometer module comprises a lens
array 174. The lens array can comprise a plurality of lenses. The
number of lenses can be determined such that each filter of the
filter array corresponds to a lens of the lens array. Alternatively
or in combination, the number of lenses can be determined such that
each channel through the support array corresponds to a lens of the
lens array. Alternatively or in combination, the number of lenses
can be selected such that each region of the plurality of regions
of the image sensor corresponds to an optical channel and
corresponding lens of the lens array and filter of the filter
array.
[0158] In many embodiments, each lens of the lens array comprises
one or more aspheric surfaces, such that each lens of the lens
array comprises an aspherical lens. In many embodiments, each lens
of the lens array comprises two aspheric surfaces. Alternatively or
in combination, one or more individual lens of the lens array can
have two curved optical surfaces wherein both optical surfaces are
substantially convex. Alternatively or in combination, the lenses
of the lens array may comprise one or more diffractive optical
surfaces.
[0159] In many embodiments, the spectrometer module comprises a
support array 176. The support array 176 comprises a plurality of
channels 177 defined with a plurality of support structures 179
such as interconnecting annuli. The plurality of channels 177 may
define optical channels of the spectrometer. The support structures
179 can comprises stiffness to add rigidity to the support array
176. The support array may comprise a stopper to limit movement and
fix the position the lens array in relation to the sensor array.
The support array 176 can be configured to support the lens array
174 and fix the distance from the lens array to the sensor array in
order to fix the distance between the lens array and the sensor
array at the focal length of the lenses of the lens array. In many
embodiments, the lenses of the array comprise substantially the
same focal length such that the lens array and the sensor array are
arranged in a substantially parallel configuration.
[0160] The support array 176 can extend between the lens array 174
and the stopper mounting 178. The support array 176 can serve one
or more purposes, such as 1) providing the correct separation
distance between each lens of lens array 170 and each region of the
plurality of regions of the image sensor 190, and/or 2) preventing
stray light from entering or exiting each channel, for example. In
some embodiments, the height of each support in support array 176
is calibrated to the focal length of the lens within lens array 174
that it supports. In some embodiments, the support array 176 is
constructed from a material that does not permit light to pass such
as substantially opaque plastic. In some embodiments, support array
176 is black, or comprises a black coating to further reduce cross
talk between channels. The spectrometer module can further comprise
a stopper mounting 178 to support the support array. In many
embodiments, the support array comprises an absorbing and/or
diffusive material to reduce stray light, for example.
[0161] In many embodiments, the support array 176 comprises a
plurality of channels having the optical channels of the filters
and lenses extending therethrough. In some embodiments, the support
array comprise a single piece of material extending from the lens
array to the detector (i.e. CCD or CMOS array).
[0162] The lens array can be directly attached to the aperture
array 172, or can be separated by an air gap of at least 1, 2, 3,
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 30, 40, or 50
micrometers. The lens array can be directly on top of the support
array 178. Alternatively or in combination, the lens array can be
positioned such that each lens is substantially aligned with a
single support stopper or a single optical isolator in order to
isolate the optical channels and inhibit cross-talk. In some
embodiments, the lens array is positioned to be at a distance
approximately equal to the focal length of the lens away from the
image sensor, such that light coming from each lens is
substantially focused on the image sensor.
[0163] In some embodiments, the spectrometer module comprises an
image sensor 190. The image sensor can be a light detector. For
example, the image sensor can be a CCD or 2D CMOS or other sensor,
for example. The detector can comprise a plurality of regions, each
region of said plurality of regions comprising multiple sensors.
For example, a detector can be made up of multiple regions, wherein
each region is a set of pixels of a 2D CMOS. The detector, or image
sensor 190, can be positioned such that each region of the
plurality of regions is directly beneath a different channel of
support array 176. In many embodiments, an isolated light path is
established from a single of filter of filter array 170 to a single
aperture of aperture array 172 to a single lens of lens array 174
to a single stopper channel of support array 176 to a single region
of the plurality of regions of image sensor 190. Similarly, a
parallel light path can be established for each filter of the
filter array 170, such that there are an equal number of parallel
(non-intersecting) light paths as there are filters in filter array
170.
[0164] The image sensor 190 can be mounted on a flexible printed
circuit board (PCB) 184. The PCB 184 can be attached to a stiffener
186. In some embodiments, the stiffener comprises a metal stiffener
to prevent motion of the spectrometer module relative to the
spectrometer head 120.
[0165] FIG. 6 shows an isometric view of a spectrometer module 160
in accordance with embodiments. The spectrometer module 160
comprises many components as described herein. In many embodiments,
the support array 176 can be positioned on a package on top of the
sensor. In many embodiments, the support array can be positioned
over the top of the bare die of the sensor array such that an air
gap is present. The air gap can be less than 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4,
3, 2 or 1 micrometer(s).
[0166] FIG. 7 shows the lens array 174 within the spectrometer
module 160, in accordance with embodiments. This isometric view
shows the apertures 194 formed in a non-transmissive material of
the aperture array 172 in accordance with embodiments. In many
embodiments, each channel of the support array 176 is aligned with
a filter of the filter array 170, a lens of the lens array 174, and
an aperture 194 of the aperture array in order to form a plurality
of light paths with inhibited cross talk.
[0167] FIG. 8 shows a spectrometer 102 in accordance with
embodiments. The spectrometer can comprise an optical head which
can comprise a spectrometer module 160. The spectrometer can
further comprise a temperature sensor module. In many embodiments,
the spectrometer comprises an illumination module. In many
embodiments, the spectrometer comprises light emitting diodes 196
distinct from an illumination module. The spectrometer can also
comprise further components such as a Bluetooth.TM. module to
communicate data to another device, a spectrometer processor 106, a
power supply, or combinations thereof.
[0168] Although the detailed description contains many specifics,
these should not be construed as limiting the scope of the
disclosure but merely as illustrating different examples and
aspects of the present disclosure. It should be appreciated that
the scope of the disclosure includes other embodiments not
discussed in detail above. Various other modifications, changes and
variations which will be apparent to those skilled in the art may
be made in the arrangement, operation and details of the method and
apparatus of the present disclosure provided herein without
departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as described
herein.
[0169] As used herein like characters identify like elements.
[0170] While preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have
been shown and described herein, it will be obvious to those
skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of
example only. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will
be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the
scope of the present disclosure. It should be understood that
various alternatives to the embodiments of the present disclosure
described herein may be employed without departing from the scope
of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of the present
invention shall be defined solely by the scope of the appended
claims and the equivalents thereof.
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