JP2004198439A - Spectral apparatus and spectral image recording apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a spectral apparatus, capable of simultaneously generating spectral images corresponding to a plurality of wavelengths, or to provide a spectral image recorder for recording the spectral images generated. <P>SOLUTION: The spectral apparatus comprises a prism 202 that acts as a part of an image generating means for generating a plurality of identical images 206 from a single input image, by dividing the pupil of an optical system, and a wavelength-selecting filter array 203 that acts as a spectral means for generating a plurality of spectral images, corresponding to each of the plurality of identical images, by extracting prescribed wavelength components corresponding to each of the plurality of identical images. The image-generating means has a visual field mask 201, that specifies size and shape of the plurality of identical images to be generated. The spectral image recording apparatus, in addition to this, is provided with an imaging element 205, that acts as an imaging means for recording the plurality of spectral images generated by the spectral means. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a spectral device that simultaneously generates a plurality of identical spectral images and a spectral image recording device that records the generated spectral images.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a spectral device and a spectral image recording device (hereinafter, referred to as Conventional Example 1) as disclosed in, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 5-248555 have been known.

  The invention of Conventional Example 1 employs a method of photographing a subject image based on a specific wavelength component selected by a spectral unit such as a wavelength selection filter or a diffraction grating. According to the invention of Conventional Example 1 to which such a method is applied, for example, by changing a filter or controlling an incident angle of light incident on a diffraction grating, an imaging process corresponding to various wavelength components is performed. Will be

Further, for example, a spectral device and a spectral image recording device (hereinafter, referred to as disclosed in JP-A-61-3574 and Canadian Journal of Remote Sensing, vol. 18, pp. 233-242 (SKBabey and RJSoffer; 1992)) , Referred to as Conventional Example 2) is set such that the wavelength component of light taken in by the light receiving element array changes in one direction. According to the invention of Conventional Example 2 described above, a spectral image is photographed by repeating photographing at each point in time while moving the subject or the photographing apparatus main body such that the subject image moves in the one direction. Will be.
JP-A-5-248955 JP-A-61-3574 Canadian Journal of Remote Sensing, vol.18, pp.233-242 (SKBabey and RJSoffer; 1992)

  However, the inventions of Conventional Examples 1 and 2 cannot simultaneously capture a plurality of spectral images. For this reason, in order to obtain all the necessary spectral image data, it is necessary to repeat photographing a plurality of times. As a result, there is a problem that the photographing time is required and the photographing efficiency is reduced.

  In particular, the invention of the prior art 1 requires exchange control of a plurality of types of wavelength selection filters or highly accurate angle control of the diffraction grating, and the invention of the prior art 2 moves the subject or the photographing apparatus body. It is necessary to shoot while controlling.

  As described above, in the inventions of Conventional Examples 1 and 2, it is necessary to perform spectral image recording while performing some kind of drive control. Therefore, it is impossible to record an object whose position, shape, or the like changes with time. It is.

  The present invention has been made to solve such a problem, and an object of the present invention is to provide a spectral device capable of simultaneously generating spectral images corresponding to a plurality of wavelengths or a spectral image recording capable of recording the generated spectral images. It is to provide a device.

  In order to achieve such an object, a spectroscopic device according to the present invention includes: an image generating unit configured to generate a plurality of identical images from one input image by dividing a pupil of an optical system including an objective lens; A spectral unit that generates a plurality of spectral images corresponding to each of the plurality of the same images by extracting a predetermined wavelength component corresponding to each of the plurality of the same images; and the image generating unit includes: A field mask that defines the size and shape of a plurality of identical images to be generated; the objective lens is set so that its image plane coincides with the surface of the field mask.

  In order to achieve the above object, the spectroscopic device of the present invention also includes: an image generating means for generating a plurality of identical images from one input image by dividing a pupil of an optical system; A spectral unit that generates a plurality of spectral images corresponding to each of the plurality of the same images by extracting a predetermined wavelength component corresponding to each of the same images; and the image generating unit generates the plurality of spectral images. A field mask is provided which is formed on the same image plane as an image plane of a plurality of identical images to define the size and shape of the plurality of identical images to be generated.

  In order to achieve the above object, the spectroscopic device of the present invention also includes: an image generating means for generating a plurality of identical images from one input image by dividing a pupil of an optical system; Spectral means for generating a plurality of spectral images corresponding to each of the plurality of same images by extracting a predetermined wavelength component corresponding to each of the same images; and the image generating means includes a field mask. Forming both the image planes of the plurality of identical images to be generated and the image of the visual field mask on the same image plane to define the size and shape of the plurality of identical images to be generated. And

  In order to achieve the above object, a spectral image recording apparatus according to the present invention includes: an image generation unit that generates a plurality of identical images from one input image by dividing a pupil of an optical system including an objective lens. And spectral means for generating a plurality of spectral images corresponding to each of the plurality of identical images by extracting a predetermined wavelength component corresponding to each of the plurality of identical images; and Imaging means for recording a plurality of spectral images; the image generating means includes a field mask for defining the size and shape of the plurality of identical images to be generated; It is installed so as to coincide with the surface of the visual field mask.

  In order to achieve the above object, the spectral image recording apparatus of the present invention further comprises: image generating means for generating a plurality of identical images from one input image by dividing a pupil of an optical system; Spectral means for generating a plurality of spectral images corresponding to each of the plurality of identical images by extracting a predetermined wavelength component corresponding to each of the plurality of identical images; and a plurality of spectral elements generated by the spectral means Imaging means for recording an image; wherein the image generation means forms the same plurality of identical images by forming an image on the same imaging plane as the plurality of identical images to be generated; A field mask for defining the shape is provided.

  In order to achieve the above object, the spectral image recording apparatus of the present invention further comprises: image generating means for generating a plurality of identical images from one input image by dividing a pupil of an optical system; A spectral unit that generates a plurality of spectral images corresponding to each of the plurality of the same images by extracting a predetermined wavelength component corresponding to each of the plurality of the same images; and Imaging means for recording a plurality of generated spectral images; wherein the image generating means includes a field mask for defining the size and shape of the plurality of identical images to be generated, and The method is characterized in that both the plurality of identical images to be generated and the image of the field mask are formed on a surface.

  In order to achieve the above object, the spectral image recording apparatus of the present invention further comprises: image generating means for generating a plurality of identical images from one input image by dividing a pupil of an optical system; Spectral means for generating a plurality of spectral images corresponding to each of the plurality of identical images; a rotating member having the image generating means and the spectral means, capable of rotating about an optical axis as a center of rotation; An imaging unit having an element and recording a plurality of spectral images generated by the spectral unit; wherein the rotating member is capable of adjusting a relative position between a pixel array of the imaging element and the spectral image. Are arranged.

  In order to achieve the above object, the spectral image recording apparatus of the present invention also includes: an image generating means for generating a plurality of identical images from one input image by dividing a pupil of an optical system; A plurality of wavelength selection filters that selectively transmit the wavelength components of the plurality of the same images, and extract a predetermined wavelength component corresponding to each of the plurality of the same images, thereby obtaining the plurality of the same images. A spectral member that generates a plurality of spectral images corresponding to each of the following: a rotating member that has the image generating device and the spectral device and that can rotate around an optical axis as a rotation center; Imaging means for recording a plurality of spectral images generated by the spectral means; wherein the rotating member is arranged so as to adjust a relative position between a pixel array of the image sensor and the spectral image. This The features.

  In order to achieve the above object, the spectral image recording apparatus of the present invention further comprises: image generating means for generating a plurality of identical images from one input image by dividing a pupil of an optical system; Spectral means for generating a plurality of spectral images corresponding to each of the plurality of identical images by extracting a predetermined wavelength component corresponding to each of the plurality of identical images; and a plurality of spectral elements generated by the spectral means Recording means for recording an image; wherein the recording means has solid-state imaging means for capturing a plurality of spectral images generated by the spectral means; and the image generating means and the spectral means And a wavelength selection filter array comprising a filter for selecting a predetermined wavelength corresponding to each pixel of the solid-state imaging means.

  According to the spectroscopic device of the present invention, which is configured as described above, it is possible to simultaneously generate spectral images corresponding to a plurality of wavelengths. Further, according to the spectral image recording apparatus of the present invention, which is configured as described above, spectral images corresponding to a plurality of wavelengths can be simultaneously generated, and the generated spectral images can be recorded.

  Hereinafter, a spectral device and a spectral image recording device of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 1A schematically shows a configuration of a spectral image recording apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 1A, a spectral image recording apparatus according to the present embodiment includes an image generation unit 101 that generates a plurality of identical images based on an input image, and a plurality of image generation units that are generated by the image generation unit 101. The apparatus includes a spectroscopic unit 102 for extracting a specific wavelength component from the same image, and an imaging unit 103 for recording a plurality of the same images separated by the spectroscopic unit 102.

  According to such a configuration, the subject image input to the image generating unit 101 is transmitted to the spectral unit 102 after being divided into a plurality of identical images. The spectroscopy unit 102 extracts a specific wavelength component from the wavelength components of the individual images constituting the plurality of identical images to generate a plurality of identical spectral images 104 (see FIG. 1B). Then, the plurality of identical spectral images 104 generated by the spectral unit 102 are transmitted to the imaging unit 103.

  As shown in FIG. 1B, a plurality of identical spectral images 104 generated by the spectral unit 102 are divided into, for example, four identical images and arranged in a 2 × 2 matrix.

  The plurality of identical spectral images 104 transmitted to the imaging unit 103 are temporarily stored in the image data storage unit 111 after being captured by the imaging device 110. Then, it is stored in the memory 112 as needed.

  Here, a plurality of pieces of spectral image data corresponding to a plurality of identical spectral images 104 captured by the image sensor 110 or a plurality of identical spectral images 104 called from the memory 112 and temporarily stored in the image data storage unit 111 Are transferred to the image processing unit 120 via the image data transfer unit 113.

  The plurality of identical spectral image data transferred to the image processing unit 120 is divided into, for example, four identical spectral image data 121 (see FIG. 1C), and each identical spectral image data is subjected to analysis processing. You.

  Note that the spectral image recording apparatus of the present embodiment has a feature in the configuration of the image generating unit 101 and the spectral unit 102. Therefore, in the description of each embodiment described later, the characteristic portion will be described in detail. However, a description of the imaging unit 103 and the image processing unit 120 will be omitted.

  FIG. 2 schematically shows a configuration of an optical system of a characteristic portion of a spectral image recording apparatus to which a prism 202 is applied as the image generating unit 101.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the image generating unit 101 (see FIG. 1) applied to the spectral image recording apparatus of the present embodiment applies a normal to the field mask 201 in a direction different from the optical axis of the optical system. And a lens 204 having a plurality of light refracting surfaces formed thereon.

  The prism 202 is installed near the pupil plane of the lens 204 so that the pupil plane of the lens 204 is divided into four by each light refracting surface of the prism 202. As a result, a plurality of identical images are generated on the image sensor 205 provided on the image plane of the lens 204.

  In the figure, a prism 202 is formed with four light refracting surfaces, and on an image sensor 205, a plurality of identical spectral images 206 in which individual images of four identical images are composed of different wavelength components, respectively. Is formed.

  The field mask 201 has a light-transmitting portion or an opening formed near the center thereof. The shape and dimensions of the light-shielding portion or the opening are different for each of a plurality of identical images generated on the image sensor 205. It is preferable to define the images so that they do not overlap each other.

  If the field mask 201 is not installed, all the same images generated on the image sensor 205 are superimposed on each other with an optical displacement caused by the prism 202. As a result, the image quality of each of the plurality of images constituting the same image is significantly deteriorated.

  It is preferable that the position of the field mask 201 be set in the vicinity of the subject or in a position optically conjugate with the subject so that the outlines of the individual images constituting the same image become clear.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 2, the spectral unit 102 (see FIG. 1) applied to the spectral image recording apparatus of the present embodiment uses a plurality of wavelength selection filters 213 that selectively transmit a specific wavelength component. And a wavelength selection filter array 203 composed of

  As the wavelength selection filter 213, for example, an optical filter that selects a specific wavelength component such as an interference filter, a multilayer filter, a color filter, or the like corresponds.

  The wavelength selection filter array 203 is configured by two-dimensionally arranging the above-described plurality of types of wavelength selection filters 213 so as to match each of the light flux positions split by the prism 202.

  Each filter 213 of such a wavelength selection filter array 203 is provided at a position where a light beam is divided corresponding to a plurality of individual images constituting the same image (for example, in the vicinity of the prism 202 and at the position of the image sensor 205). (In the vicinity of the object side or at a position optically conjugate with the prism 202 and the image sensor 205).

  According to such a configuration, a plurality of identical images generated on the imaging element 205 are formed as a plurality of identical spectral images 206 each of which has a different wavelength component.

  However, in the configuration shown in FIG. 2, when the subject is arranged close to the spectral image recording apparatus, the viewpoints of the individual images constituting the same image are different due to parallax. There is a disadvantage that the spatial structure is distorted in each of the images.

  As a means for overcoming such drawbacks, for example, as shown in FIG. 3, setting the objective lens 301 so that its image forming surface coincides with the surface of the field mask 201 can be cited.

  According to such a configuration, since the field mask 201 and the image sensor 205 are defined in an optically conjugate positional relationship by the lens 204, both the subject image and the image of the field mask 201 are formed on the image sensor 205. In addition to being able to image, the influence of parallax can be reduced.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, there is provided a spectral image recording apparatus capable of simultaneously recording a plurality of identical spectral images 206 and allowing a subject whose position, shape, or the like changes with time to be recorded. It becomes possible.

  FIG. 4 shows an optical structure of a spectral image recording apparatus according to the present embodiment in which first and second camera photographing lenses 401 and 411 are applied as an image generating unit 101 and a spectral unit 102 (see FIG. 1). The configuration of the system is shown schematically.

  In the optical system shown in FIG. 4, a rectangular opening is formed in the center of the field mask 403 provided on the image forming surface (film surface) of the first camera taking lens 401. One end of the field mask 403 is sandwiched between the other end of the first extension member 402 and one end of the second extension member 404 joined to the first camera taking lens 401.

  A first ring-shaped member 407 for mounting the prism 405 is joined to the other end of the second extension member 404, and the first ring-shaped member 407 is connected via a screw (not shown). It is fixed to the second ring-shaped member 410.

  The second ring-shaped member 410 is fixed to the second camera lens 411.

  A ring-shaped rotating member 408 is rotatably sandwiched between the first and second ring-shaped members 407 and 410 via a lubricant, and the rotating member 408 rotates around the optical axis. It is configured to be rotatable over an angle of approximately several degrees as a moving center.

  Further, in the optical system shown in FIG. 4, since the lever 409 is attached to the rotating member 408, the rotating member 408 is moved from the outside of the first and second ring-shaped members 407 and 410 in a predetermined direction. The rotating member 408 is configured to be rotatable in the first and second rings by tightening a screw (not shown) connecting the lever 409 and the rotating member 408. It is configured so that it can be fixed to the shape members 407 and 410.

  In such an optical system, the rotating member 408 has a prism 405 (a configuration similar to that of the prism 202 of FIG. 2) having a plurality of light refracting surfaces having normals in different directions with respect to the optical axis of the optical system. And a wavelength selection filter array 406 comprising a plurality of types of wavelength selection filters (having the same configuration and effect as the wavelength selection filter 213 in FIG. 2) that selectively transmit a specific wavelength component. Has been.

  Therefore, by rotating such a rotating member 408 in a predetermined direction, the relative positions of the prism 405 and the wavelength selection filter array 406 can be finely adjusted, so that the image forming surface of the second imaging lens 411 ( This makes it possible to make the positional relationship between the pixel array of the imaging element (not shown) installed on the film surface) and the spectral image uniform.

  In the optical system of FIG. 4, the second ring-shaped member 410 and the second camera shooting lens 411 are configured such that the prism 405 is installed near the pupil plane of the second camera shooting lens 411. Preferably, they are positioned and connected to each other. Further, in a normal use state, the second camera photographing lens 411 is arranged such that an image of the field mask 403 is formed on an image pickup device (not shown) installed on the image forming surface (film surface) (that is, the image is formed). The optical action of the prism 405 is adjusted and held so that a plurality of field mask images are formed on the image sensor.

  In such a configuration, the subject image captured by the first camera taking lens 401 is formed on the surface of the field mask 403 provided on the image forming plane (film surface) of the first camera taking lens 401. After the image is formed, a plurality of identical spectral images having different wavelength components are formed on the image sensor. As a result, it is possible to provide a spectral image recording apparatus capable of simultaneously recording a plurality of identical spectral images and allowing a subject whose position, shape, or the like changes with time as a recording target.

  Next, a spectral image recording apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. In the description of the present embodiment, the same components as those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

  In the spectral image recording apparatus shown in FIG. 5, a pupil plane is divided by placing a prism 202 near a pupil plane of a lens 204, and a wavelength selective filter array 203 is matched with each of the divided light beams to perform spectral separation. Are the same as in the first embodiment.

  In the present embodiment, in addition to the configuration of the first embodiment, a wavelength selection filter array 501 including a wavelength selection filter 511 having the same kind of spectral characteristics as the wavelength selection filter 213 is provided in the vicinity of the image sensor 205. It is characterized in that the light is re-spread by being added.

  The light beams separated by the individual wavelength selection filters 213 constituting the wavelength selection filter array 203 are respectively imaged on the image sensor 205 with a positional shift due to the optical action of the prism 202. By positioning each wavelength selection filter 511 at each image forming position, it becomes possible to improve the wavelength component separation characteristics.

  According to such a configuration, a plurality of identical spectral images 206 can be accurately formed on the image element 205 by appropriately selecting the spectral characteristics of the wavelength selection filters 213 and 511 constituting the two wavelength selection filter arrays 203 and 501. Can be formed. For example, the spectral transmittance of each wavelength selection filter 511 is set so that each wavelength selection filter 511 exclusively selects only one kind of light flux of various wavelengths transmitted through the wavelength selection filter array 203. By setting, it is possible to reduce the overlap between the plurality of identical spectral images 206.

  As a result, the field mask 201 (see FIGS. 1 and 2) used in the first embodiment is not required, so that a relay optical system for installing the field mask is not required. For this reason, since the configuration of the optical system can be simplified, the size and weight of the spectral image recording device can be reduced. Note that other effects of the present embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment, and a description thereof will be omitted.

  Next, a spectral image recording apparatus according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the spectral image recording apparatus of the present embodiment has a configuration similar to that of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 2, except that the prism 202 serves as the image generating means 101 (see FIG. 1). The present embodiment is characterized in that a lens array 602 including a plurality of lenses 612 is disposed near the wavelength selection filter array 603 instead of using the lens 204 and the lens 204. Note that, in the present embodiment, the image sensor 604 is arranged on each image plane of the plurality of lenses 612.

  The wavelength selection filter array 603 includes a plurality of types of wavelength selection filters 613 (having the same configuration and effects as those of the wavelength selection filter 213 in FIG. 2). It is positioned and inserted in each optical path connecting the individual lenses 612 constituting the array 602 and the imaging positions of these lenses 612.

  According to such a configuration, a plurality of identical images generated on the image sensor 604 by the lens array 602 and the wavelength selection filter array 603 are formed as a plurality of identical spectral images 605 each of which has a different wavelength component. Will be done. As a result, it is possible to provide a spectral image recording apparatus capable of simultaneously recording a plurality of identical spectral images and allowing a subject whose position, shape, or the like changes with time as a recording target.

  Also in the case of the present embodiment, it is necessary to avoid overlapping of the spectral images 605 on the image sensor 604 by installing the field mask 601 as shown in the figure. In this regard, it is preferable to reduce the influence of parallax by installing an objective lens (not shown) on the object side of the field mask 601 as in the first embodiment. Further, similarly to the second embodiment, instead of installing the visual field mask 601, another overlapping wavelength selection filter is provided on the object side of the image sensor 604 to reduce the overlap between the spectral images 605. Is also preferred.

  Next, a spectral image recording apparatus according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 7, an image generating unit 101 (see FIG. 1) applied to the spectral image recording apparatus of the present embodiment includes a lens array 701 including four lenses 711, a field mask array 703, And a relay optical system 704 including the lenses 713 and 714.

  The lens array 701 is composed of lenses 711 having substantially equal focal lengths, and these lenses 711 are two-dimensionally arranged.

  The field mask array 703 includes a plurality of light-transmitting portions or openings (for example, short openings). The plurality of light-transmitting portions or openings are similar to the individual lenses 711 of the lens array 701. They are formed at an array pitch.

  Such a field mask array 703 is provided on the image plane of the lens array 701, and an object image generated at this position and an aperture image of the field mask are placed on the image sensor 705 via the relay optical system 704. It is configured to be transmitted.

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to avoid overlapping between individual images constituting a plurality of the same images, and to form an appropriate combination by combining lenses constituting the same image (in the figure, a combination of a pair of lenses 713 and 714). It is possible to change the image magnification.

  Further, the spectral unit 102 (see FIG. 1) applied to the spectral image recording apparatus of the present embodiment includes a plurality of types of wavelength selection filters 712 (the wavelength selection filters 213 of FIG. 2) that selectively transmit specific wavelength components. The wavelength selecting filter array 702 has the same configuration and effect as described above.

  As the wavelength selection filter 712, for example, an optical filter that selects a specific wavelength component such as an interference filter, a multilayer filter, a color filter, or the like corresponds.

  The wavelength selection filter array 702 is configured by two-dimensionally arranging the above-described plurality of types of wavelength selection filters 712 so as to match each opening position of the field mask array 703.

  Such a wavelength selection filter array 702 is installed near each lens 711 or near the object side of the image sensor 705.

  Note that the wavelength selection filter array 702 can be provided near the opening of the field mask array 703. In this case, the surface of the field mask array 703 and the surface of the image sensor 705 are optically conjugate with each other. Therefore, it is necessary to consider that an image of dust or the like attached to the surface of the wavelength selection filter 712 does not form on the image sensor 705.

  According to such a configuration, individual images of a plurality of identical images generated on the image sensor 705 are formed as a plurality of identical spectral images having mutually different wavelength components. As a result, it is possible to provide a spectral image recording apparatus capable of simultaneously recording a plurality of identical spectral images and allowing a subject whose position, shape, or the like changes with time as a recording target.

  FIG. 8 shows an optical system configuration of a characteristic portion of a spectral image recording apparatus to which first and second camera photographing lenses 806 and 808 are applied as an image generating unit 101 and a spectral unit 102 (see FIG. 1). Is shown schematically.

  In the optical system of FIG. 8, a lens array 801 including a plurality of lenses is fixed to one end of a support member 803 via a lens array support member 811.

  Further, in the vicinity of the lens array 801, a wavelength selection filter array 802 including a plurality of wavelength selection filters (having the same configuration and effect as the wavelength selection filter 213 in FIG. 2) matched with the lens array of the lens array 801. It is fixed to the support member 803 via the filter support member 812.

  The field mask array 804 arranged on the image plane of the lens array 801 has a plurality of rectangular openings aligned with the lens array of the lens array 801 at the center thereof. It is sandwiched between the other end of the support member 803 and one end of the extension member 805.

  A first camera taking lens 806 is attached to the other end of the extension member 805, and the first camera taking lens 806 is connected to a second camera taking lens 808 via the extension member 807. Have been. A relay lens system is configured by a combination of the first camera photographing lens 806, the extension member 807, and the second camera photographing lens 808.

  As shown in FIG. 8, when the same type of first and second camera photographing lenses 806 and 808 are arranged to face each other, a relay optical system capable of canceling out optical characteristics such as aberration is realized. Further, in a normal use state, the second camera photographing lens 808 is provided with an image of a plurality of field mask arrays 802 and a subject image on an image sensor (not shown) installed on the image forming surface (film surface). Adjusted and held to tie.

  In such a configuration, the subject image captured by the lens array 801 forms an image on the surface of the field mask array 804 provided on the image forming surface (film surface) of the lens array 801 and then differs on the image sensor. It will be formed as a plurality of identical spectral images having wavelength components. As a result, it is possible to provide a spectral image recording apparatus capable of simultaneously recording a plurality of identical spectral images and allowing a subject whose position, shape, or the like changes with time as a recording target.

  Next, a spectral image recording apparatus according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 9 schematically shows a configuration of a wavelength selection filter array 901 applied to the spectral image recording apparatus of the present embodiment. The wavelength selection filter array 901 includes an image generation unit 101 and a spectral unit 102. (See FIG. 1).

  The wavelength selection filter array 901 applied to the present embodiment is configured by regularly arranging 16 types of wavelength selection filters. Specifically, the wavelength selection filter array 901 is formed by using 16 types of wavelength selection filters arranged in a portion surrounded by a thick line in FIG. 9 as a basic unit and regularly arranging the basic units in a two-dimensional direction. Is configured.

  Such a wavelength selection filter array 901 is mounted near the object side of the image sensor so that each wavelength selection filter covers the light receiving area of each pixel of the image sensor (not shown).

  Note that the subject image data captured by the imaging device to which the wavelength selection filter array 901 is attached is transferred from the imaging unit 103 (see FIG. 1) to the image processing unit 120 (see FIG. 1). After a plurality of image data having different wavelength components are thinned out by the image processing means 120, a single image is reconstructed based on the same type of wavelength components.

  When a wavelength selection filter array 901 as shown in FIG. 9 is used, the spatial resolution of the wavelength selection filter array 901 is reduced to 1/4 each in the vertical and horizontal spatial resolutions as compared with the spatial resolution of the image sensor itself. As a result, a plurality of identical spectral images having 16 wavelength components are simultaneously formed on the image sensor.

  According to such a configuration, a plurality of identical images can be generated without using an optical member such as a prism or a lens array, so that the MTF (spatial frequency characteristic) due to the optical action of the optical member is reduced. It is possible to avoid local deterioration (particularly, deterioration of image quality in peripheral portions of a plurality of identical images). As a result, it is possible to realize a spectral image recording device capable of capturing a spectral image having an arbitrary spatial frequency characteristic with a certain accuracy. Note that other effects are the same as those of the first embodiment, and a description thereof will be omitted.

  Next, a spectral image recording apparatus according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 10, the spectral image recording apparatus of the present embodiment has a configuration similar to that of the fourth embodiment (see FIG. 7 and FIG. 8), but has a wavelength as the spectral unit 102 (see FIG. 1). The feature is that a beam splitter 1002, first and second plane mirrors 1003 and 1005, and first and second field mask arrays 1004 and 1006 are provided instead of using a selective filter array.

  The first and second plane mirrors 1003 and 1005 are respectively positioned near the image plane of the lens array 1001, and the first and second field mask arrays 1004 and 1006 are mounted above the first and second plane mirrors 1003 and 1006, respectively. Have been.

  As shown in FIG. 10, a subject image, that is, a light wave captured through each lens of the lens array 1001 enters a beam splitter 1002.

  A part of the light wave incident on the beam splitter 1002 is reflected from the beam splitter 1002 and reaches the second plane mirror 1005. On the other hand, the remaining light waves reach the first plane mirror 1003 after passing through the beam splitter 1002.

  The reflected lights reflected from the first and second plane mirrors 1003 and 1005 are optically coupled by a beam splitter 1002 and then imaged on an image sensor 1008 via a relay lens system 1007 including a pair of lenses 1011 and 1012. Is done.

  At this time, a plurality of identical images are generated on the image sensor 1008.

  Here, when at least one of the first and second plane mirrors 1003 and 1005 is tilted by a small angle, the optical path length of the light wave transmitted through the beam splitter 1002 among the light waves transmitted through each lens of the lens array 1001 is determined. Therefore, an optical path difference occurs between the reflected light wave and the optical path length. At this time, these two light waves interfere with each other, so that only a specific wavelength component is extracted. This is the same function and effect as when the wavelength selection filter is installed in the optical path, and a plurality of identical spectral images 1009 are formed on the image sensor 1008.

  As described above, according to the spectral unit applied to the present embodiment, by controlling the relative inclination of the first and second plane mirrors 1003 and 1005, a plurality of identical spectral components formed on the image sensor 1008 are formed. The wavelength component of the image 1009 can be changed in various ways, and the degree of freedom in wavelength selection increases. Note that other effects are the same as those of the first embodiment, and a description thereof will not be repeated.

  Next, a spectral image recording apparatus according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. In the description of this embodiment, the same components as those of the sixth embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 11, the spectral image recording apparatus according to the present embodiment has a configuration similar to those of the fourth and sixth embodiments (see FIGS. 7, 8, and 10). As shown in FIG. 1), the beam splitter 1002, the first and second plane mirrors 1003 and 1005, the first and second field mask arrays 1004 and 1006, and the second field mask array 1006 and the beam splitter 1002 And a liquid crystal element array 1101 arranged in the optical path.

  As shown in FIG. 11, a subject image, that is, a light wave captured through each lens of the lens array 1001 enters a beam splitter 1002.

  A part of the light wave incident on the beam splitter 1002 is reflected from the beam splitter 1002 and reaches the second plane mirror 1005. On the other hand, the remaining light waves reach the first plane mirror 1003 after passing through the beam splitter 1002.

  The reflected lights reflected from the first and second plane mirrors 1003 and 1005 are optically coupled by a beam splitter 1002 and then imaged on an image sensor 1008 via a relay lens system 1007 including a pair of lenses 1011 and 1012. Is done.

  At this time, a plurality of identical images are generated on the image sensor 1008.

  Here, the spectroscopic image recording apparatus of the present embodiment is configured to change the refractive index of the liquid crystal element array 1101 instead of controlling the relative inclination of the first and second plane mirrors. This embodiment is different from the above embodiment.

  For this reason, the liquid crystal element array 1101 applied to the present embodiment is configured such that by applying a predetermined voltage, the liquid crystal molecules of each liquid crystal element rotate around an axis orthogonal to the optical axis. .

  Therefore, when a predetermined voltage is applied to the liquid crystal element array 1101, of the light waves transmitted through the lenses of the lens array 1001, the light path length of the light wave transmitted through the beam splitter 1002 and the light path length of the reflected light wave An optical path difference will occur. At this time, these two light waves interfere with each other, so that only a specific wavelength component is extracted. This is the same operation and effect as when the relative inclination of the first and second plane mirrors 1003 and 1005 is controlled, and a plurality of identical spectral images 1009 are formed on the image sensor 1008. .

  As described above, according to the spectral unit applied to the present embodiment, distortion of spectral image 1009 on image sensor 1008 caused by controlling the relative inclination of first and second plane mirrors 1003 and 1005, or Since the error of the selected wavelength band can be avoided, a plurality of identical spectral images 1009 can be formed on the image sensor 1008 with high accuracy, and the voltage applied to the liquid crystal element array 1101 can be controlled. By doing so, it is possible to easily change the selection of wavelength components, and the degree of freedom in wavelength selection is increased. Note that other effects are the same as those of the first embodiment, and a description thereof will not be repeated.

(A) is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of the spectral image recording apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention, (b) is a diagram showing a plurality of identical spectral images, and (c) is a diagram showing a plurality of spectral images. The figure which shows spectral image data. FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically showing a configuration of an optical system of a characteristic portion of a spectral image recording apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention in which a prism is applied as an image generating unit. FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration of an optical system of a characteristic portion of the spectral image recording device according to the first embodiment of the present invention in which an objective lens is installed. FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically showing a configuration of an optical system of a characteristic portion of a spectral image recording apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention to which a camera photographing lens is applied as an image generating unit and a spectral unit. FIG. 5 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration of a spectral image recording apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration of a spectral image recording apparatus according to a third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration of a spectral image recording device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a diagram schematically showing a configuration of an optical system of a characteristic portion of a spectral image recording apparatus according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention to which a camera photographing lens is applied as an image generating unit and a spectral unit. FIG. 13 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration of a spectral image recording device according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration of a spectral image recording device according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration of a spectral image recording apparatus according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

Explanation of reference numerals

  Reference numeral 201 denotes a visual field mask, 202 denotes a prism, 203 denotes a wavelength selection filter array, 204 denotes a lens, 205 denotes an image sensor, 206 denotes a plurality of identical spectral images, and 213 denotes a wavelength selection filter.

Claims (24)

Image generating means for generating a plurality of identical images from one input image by dividing a pupil of an optical system including an objective lens;
By extracting a predetermined wavelength component corresponding to each of the plurality of identical images, spectral means for generating a plurality of spectral images corresponding to each of the plurality of identical images,
The image generating means includes a visual field mask that defines the size and shape of the plurality of identical images to be generated,
The objective lens is installed such that its image plane coincides with the surface of the field mask.
A spectroscopic device, comprising: Image generating means for generating a plurality of identical images from one input image by dividing a pupil of the optical system;
By extracting a predetermined wavelength component corresponding to each of the plurality of identical images, spectral means for generating a plurality of spectral images corresponding to each of the plurality of identical images,
The image generating means includes a field mask that forms an image on the same image plane as the image planes of the plurality of same images to be generated and defines the sizes and shapes of the plurality of same images to be generated.
A spectroscopic device, comprising: Image generating means for generating a plurality of identical images from one input image by dividing a pupil of the optical system;
By extracting a predetermined wavelength component corresponding to each of the plurality of identical images, spectral means for generating a plurality of spectral images corresponding to each of the plurality of identical images,
The image generating means includes a field mask, and the size of the plurality of the same images to be generated by forming both the image planes of the plurality of the same images to be generated and the images of the field mask on the same image plane. And shape,
A spectroscopic device, comprising: Image generating means for generating a plurality of identical images from one input image by dividing a pupil of an optical system including an objective lens;
Spectral means for generating a plurality of spectral images corresponding to each of the plurality of the same images by extracting a predetermined wavelength component corresponding to each of the plurality of the same images,
Imaging means for recording a plurality of spectral images generated by the spectral means,
The image generating means includes a visual field mask that defines the size and shape of the plurality of identical images to be generated,
The objective lens is installed such that its image plane coincides with the surface of the field mask.
A spectral image recording device characterized by the above-mentioned. Image generating means for generating a plurality of identical images from one input image by dividing a pupil of the optical system;
Spectral means for generating a plurality of spectral images corresponding to each of the plurality of the same images by extracting a predetermined wavelength component corresponding to each of the plurality of the same images,
Imaging means for recording a plurality of spectral images generated by the spectral means,
The image generating means includes a field mask that forms an image on the same image plane as the image planes of the plurality of same images to be generated and defines the size and shape of the plurality of same images to be generated.
A spectral image recording device characterized by the above-mentioned. Image generating means for generating a plurality of identical images from one input image by dividing a pupil of the optical system;
Spectral means for generating a plurality of spectral images corresponding to each of the plurality of the same images by extracting a predetermined wavelength component corresponding to each of the plurality of the same images,
An imaging unit having an imaging element and recording a plurality of spectral images generated by the spectral unit,
The image generating means includes a visual field mask that defines the size and shape of the plurality of identical images to be generated, and the plurality of identical images to be generated and the image of the visual field mask are formed on an imaging surface of the image sensor. Image both,
A spectral image recording device characterized by the above-mentioned.   4. The image generating unit according to claim 1, further comprising a prism provided with a plurality of light refracting surfaces having normals in different directions with respect to an optical axis of the optical system. Item 2. The spectroscopic device according to item 1.   The image generating unit includes a lens array including a plurality of lenses arranged such that an optical axis is parallel to an optical axis of the optical system and an image forming plane of each lens coincides with each other. The spectroscopic device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein   The spectroscopic device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the spectroscopy unit includes a wavelength selection filter array having a plurality of filters arranged two-dimensionally. .   The spectroscopic device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the field mask is configured to include a plurality of translucent portions or openings.   7. The image generating device according to claim 4, wherein the image generating unit includes a prism provided with a plurality of light refracting surfaces having normals in different directions with respect to an optical axis of the optical system. Item 2. The spectral image recording device according to item 1.   The image generating unit includes a lens array including a plurality of lenses arranged such that an optical axis is parallel to an optical axis of the optical system and an image forming plane of each lens coincides with each other. The spectroscopic device according to any one of claims 4 to 6.   The spectral image according to any one of claims 4 to 6, 11, and 12, wherein the spectral unit includes a wavelength selection filter array having a plurality of filters arranged two-dimensionally. Recording device.   The spectral image recording apparatus according to any one of claims 4 to 6, and 11 to 13, wherein the visual field mask includes a plurality of translucent portions or openings. Image generating means for generating a plurality of identical images from one input image by dividing a pupil of the optical system;
Spectral means for generating a plurality of spectral images corresponding to each of the plurality of identical images,
A rotating member having the image generating unit and the spectral unit, and rotatable around an optical axis as a rotation center;
An imaging unit having an imaging element and recording a plurality of spectral images generated by the spectral unit,
The rotating member is arranged so that the relative position between the pixel array of the imaging device and the spectral image can be adjusted,
A spectral image recording device characterized by the above-mentioned. Image generating means for generating a plurality of identical images from one input image by dividing a pupil of the optical system;
A wavelength selection filter array composed of a plurality of types of wavelength selection filters that selectively transmit a specific wavelength component is provided, and by extracting predetermined wavelength components corresponding to each of the plurality of identical images, the plurality of identical wavelength components are extracted. Spectral means for generating a plurality of spectral images corresponding to each of the images,
A rotating member having the image generating unit and the spectral unit, and rotatable around an optical axis as a rotation center;
An imaging unit having an imaging element and recording a plurality of spectral images generated by the spectral unit,
The rotating member is arranged so that the relative position between the pixel array of the imaging device and the spectral image can be adjusted,
A spectral image recording device characterized by the above-mentioned.   17. The image generating unit according to claim 15, wherein the image generating unit includes a prism provided with a plurality of light refracting surfaces having normals in different directions with respect to an optical axis of the optical system. Spectral image recording device.   18. The spectral image recording apparatus according to claim 15, further comprising a visual field mask for defining a size and a shape of an image generated by the image generating unit.   19. The spectral image recording apparatus according to claim 18, wherein the optical system includes an objective lens, and the field mask is disposed on an imaging plane of the objective lens.   20. The spectral image recording apparatus according to claim 18, wherein the field mask is provided with a rectangular opening at a central portion thereof. Image generating means for generating a plurality of identical images from one input image by dividing a pupil of the optical system;
Spectral means for generating a plurality of spectral images corresponding to each of the plurality of the same images by extracting a predetermined wavelength component corresponding to each of the plurality of the same images,
Recording means for recording a plurality of spectral images generated by the spectral means,
The recording unit has a solid-state imaging unit for capturing a plurality of spectral images generated by the spectral unit, and the image generating unit and the spectral unit correspond to each pixel of the solid-state imaging unit. It is constituted by a wavelength selection filter array comprising a filter for selecting a predetermined wavelength,
A spectral image recording device characterized by the above-mentioned.   22. The spectral image recording apparatus according to claim 21, wherein the wavelength selection filter array is configured by regularly arranging 16 types of wavelength selection filters.   The wavelength selection filter array is configured by arranging the 16 types of wavelength selection filters in a 4 × 4 two-dimensional manner as a basic unit, and regularly arranging the basic units in a two-dimensional direction. 23. The spectral image recording device according to claim 22, wherein:   24. An image processing apparatus according to claim 21, further comprising an image processing unit configured to form an image from pixel signals having the same wavelength component among pixel signals corresponding to each pixel from the solid-state imaging unit. Item 8. The spectral image recording device according to item 1.

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