A Hyperspectral Imaging Instrumentation Architecture Based on Accessible Optical Disc Technology and Frequency-Domain Analyses

Hyperspectral imaging (HSI) is an emergent instrumentation technology with great potential in many applications, due to its ability to measure important spectral features. However, the widespread adoption of HSI requires the development of accessible (i.e., inexpensive and uncomplicated) HSI instrumentation architectures. In this paper, we present, design, develop, and evaluate an accessible HSI instrumentation architecture, with snapshot operation, based on the integration of readily available components and frequency multiplexing with Fourier analyses. In the experimental work, an incident image beam is divided into spatial image channels, each with an assigned dynamic binary code via a dynamic coded aperture. This dynamic coded aperture is constructed from repurposed diffractive optical disc technologies and is patterned with strategic opaque and transparent regions. When it is rotated by a motor, dynamic binary codes are used, along with Fourier analyses, to identify the diffraction of each spatial image channel. The spatially overlapped spectra from the diffraction are directed onto a charge-coupled device sensor, and each spatial image channel is distinguished through Fourier analyses. The resulting Fourier amplitude spectra are transformed into corresponding functions of wavelength, and this transformation is based on the experimental instrumentation geometry. The performance of the HSI instrumentation architecture is evaluated using a comparison with data from a commercial spectrometer. The presented HSI instrumentation architecture can be adapted for 2-D operation. Ultimately, the presented HSI instrumentation architecture can benefit regions of the world that have limited financial resources and a need for accessible HSI technologies.