What Is a Hyperspectral Camera?
A Hyperspectral Camera is an advanced device capable of capturing a broad range of wavelength light.
Using optical filters and spectrometers, it divides incident light into fine wavelength bands, enabling the recording of light intensity at each wavelength. It allows for more detailed analysis of the same scene compared to regular cameras, finding applications in various fields such as pollutant detection and food quality management.
Therefore, a Hyperspectral Camera can non-destructively evaluate the characteristics of substances. It plays a particularly crucial role in fields like medical diagnostics and food quality management, enabling the investigation of the internal conditions of tissues and food, and facilitating the assessment of quality and health.
Uses of Hyperspectral Camera
Hyperspectral Cameras are primarily employed in the following applications, utilizing detailed wavelength information.
1. Food Industry
They can acquire spectral information from food, enabling the evaluation of quality and components. For instance, it can non-destructively measure the sugar content and fat content of fruits and vegetables. It is also used to inspect ripeness and the progression of decay, contributing to the improvement of food preservation and distribution.
2. Medical
In the medical field, spectral information from blood and tissues is analyzed for disease diagnosis and evaluating treatment effectiveness. It also contributes to assessing the components and quality of medications, aiding pharmaceutical manufacturing and quality control.
3. Environmental Monitoring
In environmental monitoring, it can detect the absorption spectra of specific gases and pollutants in the atmosphere, enabling the monitoring of air pollution and identification of pollution sources. Additionally, it assists in observing the absorption and reflection of light in water in detail, helping evaluate changes in water quality and the health of underwater ecosystems. It is widely used in oceanography and water resource management.
4. Agriculture
In agriculture, recording the reflection spectrum of crops allows for assessing crop health and predicting harvest yields. This enables effective land management, optimizing yields. Early detection of diseases and pests also helps minimize crop losses.
Principles of Hyperspectral Camera
A Hyperspectral Camera works by finely dividing incident light into narrow wavelength bands, collecting spectral information of light at each wavelength.
Firstly, light is introduced to the camera’s sensor using mirrors and lenses. The incident light often includes wavelengths not only in the visible spectrum but also in the near-infrared and infrared regions. The collected light is dispersed into various wavelengths by a dispersive device, creating a series of wavelength bands containing spectral information.
The dispersed light is detected by the sensor of the Hyperspectral Camera. The sensor detects the intensity of light at each wavelength, converting it into electrical signals. This process allows for obtaining information on the intensity of light for each wavelength.
The collected data is processed using spectral analysis software. This displays the spectrum of light at each wavelength, enabling the identification of specific characteristics or patterns. Spectral analysis allows for extracting information such as the type of substance, concentration, or composition.
How to Choose a Hyperspectral Camera
When choosing a Hyperspectral Camera, several important factors need to be considered.
1. Detection Wavelength Range
The detection wavelength range refers to the range of wavelengths the camera can capture. A camera covering the entire visible spectrum is suitable for general applications, but specific applications may require targeting the infrared or ultraviolet wavelength ranges. Confirm the detection wavelength range and choose a camera that suits the application.
2. Wavelength Resolution
Wavelength resolution is the camera’s ability to distinguish adjacent wavelength bands. A camera with high wavelength resolution can collect detailed spectral information but may be more expensive. Depending on the application, choose a camera with the necessary wavelength resolution.
3. Frame Rate
The frame rate indicates how many frames of spectral data the camera can collect per second. A camera with a high frame rate is suitable for monitoring dynamic processes but is generally more expensive. Consider the required data acquisition speed and choose a camera accordingly.
4. Spatial Resolution
Spatial resolution indicates the size of the area the camera can capture at once. A camera with high spatial resolution can analyze small objects with high precision. Consider the required spatial resolution for the application when selecting a camera.