A DMD-Based Adaptive Modulation Method for High Dynamic Range Imaging in High-Glare Environments

TL;DR

This paper introduces a DMD-based adaptive HDR imaging system capable of capturing high-contrast scenes with over 120 dB dynamic range, significantly improving measurement accuracy in high-glare environments.

Contribution

The paper presents a novel DMD-based adaptive modulation method that achieves 127 dB dynamic range and enhances digital image correlation accuracy in extreme lighting conditions.

Findings

Achieved a 127 dB dynamic range in HDR imaging.

Reduced strain error by 78% in experiments.

Improved DIC positioning accuracy under high glare.

Abstract

Background The accuracy of photomechanics measurements critically relies on image quality,particularly under extreme illumination conditions such as welding arc monitoring and polished metallic surface analysis. High dynamic range (HDR) imaging above 120 dB is essential in these contexts. Conventional CCD/CMOS sensors, with dynamic ranges typically below 70 dB, are highly susceptible to saturation under glare, resulting in irreversible loss of detail and significant errors in digital image correlation (DIC). Methods This paper presents an HDR imaging system that leverages the spatial modulation capability of a digital micromirror device (DMD). The system architecture enables autonomous regional segmentation and adaptive exposure control for high-dynamic-range scenes through an integrated framework comprising two synergistic subsystems: a DMD-based optical modulation unit and an adaptive computational imaging pipeline. Results The system achieves a measurable dynamic range of 127 dB, effectively eliminating satu ration artifacts under high glare. Experimental results demonstrate a 78% reduction in strain error and improved DIC positioning accuracy, confirming reliable performance across extreme intensity variations. Conclusion The DMD-based system provides high fidelity adaptive HDR imaging, overcoming key limitations of conventional sensors. It exhibits strong potential for optical metrology and stress analysis in high-glare environments where traditional methods are inadequate.