Design of a Large-Format Low-Light Imaging System Based on the RGB Filter Wheel

Abstract

In order to capture true-color information of distant targets under extremely low light, a large-format low-light imaging system is designed based on an RGB filter wheel. By decomposing the system indicators, this study proposes a method for acquiring low-light true-color images using a large-aperture, low-distortion optical lens combined with an RGB filter wheel capable of multi-line sequential exposure. The optical field segmentation is achieved using a four-panel optical reflective prism, and the images from four high-sensitivity SCOMS detectors are stitched together to form a composite image. The working principle of the system is explained, and the low-light imaging capability is thoroughly evaluated. The dimensions and rotation speed of the filter wheel are then calculated in detail, ensuring accurate synchronization of the filter wheel’s speed and exposure time. The calculation method for the parameters of the four-panel reflective prism structure is investigated, mathematical expressions for the geometric parameters of the prism assembly are provided, and a prism assembly suitable for four-way spectral separation is designed. Based on the research and design results, a large-swath-width, low-light true-color imaging system is developed that is suitable for an environmental illuminance of 0.01 lux. The system achieves a ground pixel resolution of 0.5 m (at an altitude of 5 km) and an effective image resolution of 4 K × 4 K, and is capable of accurately reproducing target color information. Laboratory and field flight tests verified that the large-swath-width images obtained by the imaging system are clear, with high contrast and resolution. After image fusion and spectral registration, the color images exhibit full saturation and high fidelity, meeting the requirements of low-light true-color imaging under airborne conditions. The design methodology of this low-light imaging system can serve as a reference for the development of airborne low-light imaging equipment.