Application of 3D printing technology to build a prototype 2D camera equipped with a temperature drift compensation model

FOUND COMPETITION: Proof of Concept, FNP

APPLICATION ROUND: 1/2023
TITLE: Application of 3D Printing Technology in Building a Prototype 2D Camera Equipped with a Temperature Drift Compensation Model
PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR: Marcin Adamczyk
TEAM: Anna Pakuła, Robert Sitnik, Wojciech Załuski, Jakub Dziedzic, Małgorzata Olewińska
PROJECT DURATION: October 1, 2024 – September 30, 2025
ALLOCATED FUNDS FOR PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION: PLN 601,650.00 PLN

PROJECT SUMMARY:

Temperature-induced image drift is a common issue observed in widely used cameras with CCD and CMOS sensors, as their optomechanical design is not optimized to mitigate this phenomenon. In nearly all metrological applications where cameras are used as sensors to capture measurement images, image deformation caused by temperature changes in the camera significantly deteriorates the overall performance of the application. Notably, while temperature drift is a common issue, it remains relatively unknown and under-researched. The project author, dedicating his scientific career to studying the causes and effects of temperature drift, has developed a compensation method that significantly reduces thermal image deformation. This method requires modifying the camera’s design by implementing a specialized sensor mount, which is currently hindered by the need for costly wire EDM (electro-discharge machining) technology. This is a technological bottleneck that impedes market implementation and commercialization.

Therefore, this project will focus on developing a prototype of a new compilant sensor mount utilizing metal powder 3D printing technology. The use of additive manufacturing technology should facilitate project commercialization by eliminating the technological bottleneck while retaining all the benefits of the developed compensation method. The goal of this project is to build a prototype 2D camera equipped with a specially modified optomechanical design and compensation model to reduce image drift due to temperature changes. The modification will be achieved using metal powder 3D printing technology, significantly reducing costs and simplifying the solution’s implementation in end-market applications.

PROJECT WEB PAGE: www.athermalized.com (under construction)