Project brief
This concept would examine a small integrating-sphere photometer as an optical measurement exercise. The design would use a diffuse cavity, a source port, and a baffled detector port to explore how geometry and detector placement affect repeatability. The electronics study would focus on sensor readout stability, dark measurements, and avoiding saturation. A calibration plan would distinguish relative comparisons from absolute photometric measurements, which require appropriate reference equipment and spectral considerations. Proposed deliverables include a sectioned cavity design, a sensor interface outline, and a bench procedure using low-power visible sources. No absolute luminous-flux accuracy, coating performance, or calibration traceability is claimed. The project would make the assumptions behind optical comparisons visible before any measurement results are published.
Design concept developed for this portfolio. The diagrams describe the proposed system; implementation and testing are part of the validation plan.
The engineering challenge
Collect diffuse optical signals repeatably while controlling direct illumination, detector saturation, and calibration ambiguity.
Engineering approach
- Define source and detector port geometry.
- Model baffling and basic cavity packaging.
- Plan dark subtraction and repeatability checks.
- Separate relative measurements from absolute calibration work.
Validation plan
- Repeat source insertion to assess fixture consistency.
- Check for detector saturation across the intended range.
- Compare relative readings with an appropriate reference instrument when available.
Concept scope
- Diffuse cavity layout
- Baffled detector port
- Interchangeable source holder
- Dark-measurement workflow
- Calibration assumption record
Software & engineering tools
FreeCAD, Python, Photodiode readout, Low-power LED sources