Hybrid Optical/Digital Imaging for Automatic Inspection

摘要

During this project a revolutionary system for digital imaging was demonstrated. This system is based on the newly-developed imaging technology of Wavefront Coding (WFC). WFC employs specialized aspheric optics and digital signal processing to greatly increase the depth of field and depth of focus. WFC can also simultaneously decrease the size, weight, and cost of a variety of digital imaging systems. During this effort new WFC single lens systems were designed and simulated that can perform as well as expensive multi-lens systems. WFC systems were also shown to passively athermalize IR imaging systems. A high- magnification WFC microscope was constructed. Images from this system showed revolutionary increases in performance. Applications of Wavefront Coding include high magnification biological and materials microscopy, endoscopy, inexpensive miniature imaging systems, bar code scanners, and machine vision systems. For further information see STTR Report.