Technology

Overview

Computer vision and its various applications use IR hyperspectral imaging and image processing to improve reality analysis. However, IR filtering until now captured a single wavelength and limited the range of available insights and analysis options. Hyperspectral imaging can extract a myriad of information layers from a standard IR camera.

Until now, this option was only available in high-end, expensive gear because basic IR cameras that are embedded in mobile phones or car safety devices, lack the multispectral capacity.

Unispectral deep five-year optic and MEMS technology R&D yielded a working, miniature tunable Fabry–Pérot NIR hyperspectral filter, ready for integration. It turns any IR compact camera into a powerful hyperspectral IR camera. This breakthrough removes the price, size and complexity barriers towards mass market adoption.

Unispectral technology makes spectral authentication and inspection accessible to all domains. Thanks to its mass-market design, the tunable hyperspectral filter cost is no longer a barrier for introduction of any application.

The filter is based on a Fabry–Pérot optical cavity. It is designed as an array of vapor-coated mirrors, mounted on a MEMS assembly. With controlled changes of the voltage applied on the upper mirror holder, the optical cavity changes to allow only a desired IR wavelength light to pass.

The hyperspectral filter is manufactured on a full wafer-level technology to provide a component ready for mounting and integrating with the camera assembly and device controllers.

MEMS Filter Diagram

  • Lower static mirror vapored with dielectric optical coating
  • Upper vertically moving mirror vapored with dielectric optical coating – actuator. The actuator is mounted on spring suspensions to allow vertical internal motion
  • The space between the mirrors is accurately controlled [±2nm] by the level of DC tension applied to the upper silicone frame, while the lower silicone frame is static and electrically grounded
  • The variable optical cavity between the mirrors creates a constructive interference, allowing only light with the desired wavelength [±15nm] to pass through.