Hyperspectral technology enables us to detect what our eyes can’t see. The technology allows for a detailed observation of the spectral signature in a range of materials. We can differentiate materials from a distance or detect biological conditions in humans. The data acquired unleashes new opportunities for a wide range of industries from consumer applications such as food and health to remote sensing and Earth observation.
Key facts
Hyperspectral imaging can be used to identify the chemical composition of an object. The technology can be integrated into mobile phones as well as nanosatellites.
VTT’s hyperspectral technologies enable both low-cost solutions that don’t compromise performance as well as extremely high-performance solutions.
VTT has developed a unique, software-defined, tuneable Fabry-Perot filter technology that allows us to select the spectra we want to analyse.
Hyperspectral technology allows us to see the unseen
Hyperspectral technology allows us to see objects or phenomena that have a spectral signature, at every wavelength. Thus, we are able to see beyond the visible. Going beyond the Red-Green-Blue (RGB) colour space and spectral limitations of the human eye unlocks countless opportunities, such as differentiating materials or detecting biological processes and conditions in humans or in the environment. The technology can be used in anything from microscopes to nanosatellites.
Hyperspectral technology for demanding applications
By expanding our vision system with valuable spectral information, we can see the unseen in many different applications.
In the food sector, for instance, hyperspectral technologies can be employed to analyse food or track macronutrients. For the health industry, hyperspectral technologies provide a way to detect skin cancer, for example. The forest industry benefits from the technology when mapping tree species and monitoring their health using remote sensing.
Other sectors that can benefit from hyperspectral technologies include agriculture, cosmetics and space exploration, just to name a few.
VTT’s core competencies in hyperspectral technology
VTT is focused on researching and developing hyperspectral imaging solutions that can be used in e.g. state-of-the-art hyperspectral cameras for demanding applications as well as low cost, mass manufacturable consumer solutions. Our know-how covers the whole research and development chain from 1) technology development and application 2) unique design 3) prototyping to 4) small-scale manufacturing of sensors.
Our programmable cameras are universal and can be used in any application, at any wavelength.
The hyperspectral technologies developed by VTT enable mobile, low cost and high-performance visible and short-wave infrared hyperspectral imaging.
Video: Seeing beyond the obvious with high performance imaging technologies
Our offering
We can offer you:
- Research and development of new hyperspectral camera technologies
- Tailored hyperspectral cameras with advanced image sensors and optics design.
- Optimised prototypes for all application fields (for example CubeSats, food industry, healthcare) in a variety of wavelengths: UV, VIS, SWIR, MIR, TIR
- Miniature hyperspectral cameras with large aperture or MEMS-based systems
- IP licenses and technology transfers
- Image processing with AI and machine learning
Why work with VTT on hyperspectral technology?
VTT’s global leading edge in the field of hyperspectral technologies is based on decades of research and development, and it is backed-up with our strong IPR portfolio. Our know-how and competencies include the following.
Design
- Our hyperspectral cameras use frame imaging instead of push broom. Thus, the technology can be used in anything from stationary systems to drones to satellites and medical systems
- Geometrical accuracy
- Stereophotography (3D, topography)
- The full spatial resolution of the image sensor is exploited
- High spectral resolution
- The open Python interface allows for customer-specific tailoring
- Cameras are fully programmable: you can pick any wavelength or scan the entire spectrum
Silicon microfabrication technology (MEMS)
- Mass manufacturable MEMS for consumer market
- Ultra-low power with MEMS
- MEMS based tuneable light sources or setups, including continuous lasers for active hyperspectral remote sensing
Optical and system integration
- Any image sensors and possible retrofitting of all existing imaging systems
What’s in store for the future?
We believe hyperspectral imaging is to imaging what digital photography was to film photography. It will empower consumers and industries to see the unseen and deepen our understanding of the world around us. Armed with this knowledge, we can make better-informed decisions and see beyond the obvious.
Experts behind the service
VTT’s team of experts knows how hyperspectral solutions and applications can be harnessed to benefit your business.
Timo Dönsberg is researcher in the field of spectroscopy, especially supercontinuum laser based active hyperspectral imaging. He has over 10 years of experience on optics, electronics, and system design.
Developing hyperspectral imaging solutions for small satellites since 2011. Example missions include world’s first nanosatellite hyperspectral cameras for both visible and infrared wavelengths.
How to work with us
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Contact us!
Tell us what you want to do, and we will figure out how to do it. After the initial assessment, we might be able to offer some of the following options. -
Customised partnership
Every research case is unique, and we’re happy to tailor our services to your needs. We’ll take you from idea to prototype without hassle. -
Technology transfer and licensing
We are happy to grant licenses to our IPR for the development of successful commercial products.
