3D Shape Measuring Apparatus with Automatic Stage Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing three-dimensional shape measuring apparatuses face inefficiencies in measuring large objects due to the need for manual definition of measurement areas, leading to overlapping captures and missed areas, especially when using movable stages.
Innovation Solution
A three-dimensional shape measuring apparatus with a movable stage that automatically determines measurement areas by illuminating objects with a predetermined light pattern, using a processor to generate shape data and control stage movements for comprehensive measurement without user concern for image capture areas, incorporating rotation and translation stages for comprehensive data acquisition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If measurement areas are manually defined for three-dimensional measurement, then measurement coverage can be controlled, but time and effort are increased and measurement efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically determines measurement areas by analyzing the three-dimensional shape data of the measurement object itself. The processor identifies the exterior shape and autonomously defines measurement regions without requiring manual user input, enabling the system to serve itself in the area definition task.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary three-dimensional shape measurement to obtain overall shape data before conducting detailed measurements. This preliminary action provides the basis for automatically determining subsequent measurement areas, allowing the system to plan and execute targeted measurements efficiently.
2Ease of operation
If measurement areas are not properly defined, then manual effort is reduced, but overlapping captures increase and measurement efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The processor automatically analyzes the three-dimensional shape data to determine optimal measurement areas, eliminating the need for manual area definition while ensuring proper coverage without overlap. The system self-regulates the measurement planning process based on the object's geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from the preliminary three-dimensional shape measurement results to automatically adjust and optimize measurement area definitions. The processor continuously refines measurement plans based on the acquired shape data to achieve efficient coverage.
3Area of stationary object
If a movable stage is used to measure large objects, then measurement coverage is improved, but the complexity of controlling measurement areas increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically determines measurement areas and generates control commands for the movable stage based on the three-dimensional shape data. The processor autonomously manages the coordination between stage movement and measurement area selection, reducing operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts measurement areas based on the actual three-dimensional shape of the measurement object. The measurement regions are flexibly determined according to the object's geometry rather than using fixed predetermined areas, allowing adaptive optimization.
4Productivity
If automatic determination of measurement areas is implemented, then measurement efficiency is improved, but the need for user control over capture areas is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The processor automatically determines measurement areas by analyzing the three-dimensional shape data, eliminating the need for manual user input. The system independently performs area definition, measurement planning, and stage control based on the object's geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously refines measurement area definitions based on feedback from three-dimensional shape measurement results. The processor uses this feedback to automatically optimize measurement plans, improving efficiency while maintaining measurement accuracy.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient and automatic three-dimensional measurement of objects by optimizing stage movement and data generation, reducing the need for manual area definition and improving measurement accuracy and coverage.
Implementation Method 1
an illuminator that illuminates the measurement object, which is placed on the stage, with measuring light having a predetermined pattern; a photoreceptor that receives the measuring light which is reflected by the measurement object illuminated by the illuminator
Data Source
AI summary
A three-dimensional shape measuring apparatus includes a photoreceptor that receives measuring light which is reflected by a workpiece illuminated by an illuminator, and provides light-reception signals representing a light reception amount; and a processor that generates a set of shape data representing three-dimensional shape of a part of the workpiece which is included in the field of view at a particular position of the stage based on the signals, repeats movement of the stage by using a movement controller based on the generated data corresponding to the part of the workpiece to obtain a set of data corresponding to other part of the workpiece which is located in proximity to the part of the workpiece and the generation of a set of data of the workpiece at the position where the stage is moved, and generates combined data including the entire shape of the workpiece by combining the repeatedly obtained sets of data.