Multi-angle colorimeter

摘要

A multi-angle colorimeter employs a multi-angle mode and a symmetrical arrangement mode in an optical arrangement. Light detection on both sides of the symmetrical arrangement is performed by a single photodetector unit. The photodetector unit is used on both sides, and thus, the device becomes simpler, without any impact on individual difference in characteristics of multiple photodetector units. Conversely, elements for illumination can be used on both sides. Also in a case where multiple photodetector units are used, the size and cost of the device can be reduced with the use of a photodetector unit having a relatively low wavelength resolution as a photodetector unit to be used on one side. This enables to reduce an attitude error due to relative tilting of a measurement surface while reducing the size and cost of the device.

主权项

1. A multi-angle colorimeter comprising:
(a) multiple first illumination sections that are respectively arranged on a virtual reference plane including a predetermined reference line and perform light irradiation at different angles toward a predetermined measurement point defined on said reference line; (b) multiple second illumination sections that are respectively arranged on said reference plane, symmetrically with said multiple first illumination sections about said reference line and perform light irradiation toward said predetermined measurement point; (c) a photodetector section including:
first and second light receiving windows respectively arranged on said reference plane, face said measurement point, and are arranged symmetrically about said reference line; anda single photodetector unit including a photoelectric conversion element that receives first and second lights respectively received through said first and second light receiving windows and converts the received lights into electric signals; and (d) a computing section that determines detection values of said first and second lights based on said signals and obtains color information of a measurement surface located at said measurement point based on said detection values.