Hyperspectral Imaging Standardization: Defining the Future of a Growing Industry

As hyperspectral imaging (HSI) technology advances, the demand for clarity and consistency in representing its capabilities has become more urgent. This article delves into the purpose and impact of a new HSI standardization effort, the key challenges it addresses, and the role of Specim and other industry leaders in driving this transformative initiative.

Why Standardization Matters

The hyperspectral imaging industry needs a unified framework to define key performance and functional parameters. The absence of standardization creates variability in terminology and presentation across manufacturers, making it challenging for customers to compare cameras accurately. Users deserve a fair way to evaluate different models, and manufacturers benefit from a level playing field with standard criteria for comparison.

The standardization aims to unify terminology and establish reference methods for measuring performance parameters. This will enable users to make well-informed comparisons based on standardized datasheets and metadata, fostering greater fairness and transparency in the industry.

Collaborative Effort of Key Players

The standardization initiative, led by John Gilchrist from ClydeHSI, Torbjorn Skauli from the University of Oslo, and Chris Durell from Labsphere Inc. began with a 2018 workshop at SPIE DSS. Under the IEEE Standards Association (IEEE SA), the project brought together a diverse group of participants, including leading HSI camera manufacturers, research institutions, and end-users, creating a collaborative environment with diverse perspectives. With open participation rules, the IEEE SA facilitated valuable discussions and debates that incorporated all perspectives. The final standard is expected to reflect this diversity, offering a balanced solution that meets the needs of various stakeholders.

Mr. Hannu Holma, Principal Physicist and R&D HW Team Manager, and Dr. Kari Kataja, Senior Optical Designer at Specim, actively participated in the standardization effort. They contributed technical expertise and insights into industrial HSI applications to ensure the standards addressed the practical and technical requirements crucial for industrial settings, where HSI technology faces unique applications and challenges. Their involvement ensured that the specific needs of industrial users and manufacturers were considered, making the standards relevant and aligned with real-world use cases.

Key Themes in HSI Standardization

The work of the standardization group naturally divided into three main focus areas, which together form the foundation of the new HSI standard:

• Terminology Definitions – The first step was to define consistent terminology. Starting with “hyperspectral,” the standard creates a common language for specifications across manufacturers, allowing users to interpret datasheets and compare products more easily, enhancing communication across the industry.
• Camera Characterization Methods – The standard outlines reference methods for measuring performance parameters, enabling consistent product comparisons. It allows flexibility in measurement techniques, letting manufacturers apply the standard to their unique technologies while ensuring reliable, comparable data for customers.
• Metadata Requirements – Hyperspectral data needs additional information, like spectral band wavelengths, for accurate interpretation. The standard specifies essential metadata to ensure data consistency across applications.

Implications and Benefits for Industry and Users

The most significant outcome of this work is the creation of a HSI standard that will provide a consistent framework for characterizing hyperspectral cameras, enabling manufacturers to produce comparable datasheets. This transparency empowers users to make informed decisions and confidently choose the most suitable equipment. For manufacturers, it fosters fair competition, builds industry credibility, and enhances customer trust through reliable, standardized data.

Next Steps in the Standardization Process

Currently, IEEE SA is reviewing the proposed standard for accuracy and completeness. After review, registered working group members will provide final comments before voting. IEEE SA will publish the standard upon approval, making it available to the HSI community and focusing on broad acceptance and industry adoption.

Conclusion

The HSI standard marks a milestone for the industry, offering a foundation for transparent, reliable comparisons that benefit both users and manufacturers. Specim’s active role ensured that industrial needs were considered, reinforcing the company’s commitment to advancing HSI technology. As hyperspectral imaging expands into new fields, this standardization effort lays a strong foundation for growth, innovation, and trust within a common framework that helps drive the industry forward.