Anomaly Detection in Transparent Objects Using Total Internal Reflection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for detecting anomalies such as cracks and scratches in transparent or translucent objects like windows are time-consuming and labor-intensive, often requiring visual inspection, which can be difficult and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a light source, a light transmission element with a textured surface, and an optical couplant to induce total internal reflection within the object, highlighting anomalies through illumination, allowing for quick and easy detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If visual inspection by individuals is used to detect anomalies in windows, then the process is simple and requires minimal equipment, but it is time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection with an automated optical inspection system that uses light sources, cameras, and image processing algorithms to detect anomalies in windows, thereby increasing detection speed and productivity while reducing labor requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary optical system comprising light transmission elements, couplants, and imaging devices that mediate between the window being inspected and the detection system, enabling automated anomaly detection without direct human visual contact
2Measurement precision
If manual visual inspection is used to detect anomalies, then equipment requirements are minimal, but detection accuracy is reduced due to difficulty in seeing scratches and cracks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs optical illumination techniques that cause anomalies to manifest as visible light patterns, reflections, or intensity variations, transforming invisible or difficult-to-see defects into clearly visible indicators that enhance detection accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces human visual perception with automated optical sensing systems including cameras and image processing algorithms that can detect and measure anomalies with higher precision and consistency than manual inspection
3Ease of operation
If inspectors use a lift to examine windows, then access to different areas is improved, but the process becomes more time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic inspection system with movable components including articulating arms, movable platforms, or robotic systems that can automatically position and orient inspection devices to access various areas of windows without requiring manual lifting or repositioning of inspectors
Solution Approach 2:
The inspection system is designed to autonomously navigate and inspect windows without human intervention during the actual inspection process, with automated positioning, lighting, and image capture functions that eliminate time-consuming manual operations
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 rapid and effective identification of anomalies within transparent or translucent objects, improving detection efficiency and accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
A system utilizing a light source, a light transmission element with a textured surface, and an optical couplant to induce total internal reflection within the object, highlighting anomalies through illumination
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for detecting an anomaly of an optically transparent or translucent object are disclosed. The system and method include a light source configured to emit light, a light transmission element having a textured surface, and an optical couplant configured to be disposed between the light transmission element and the object. At least a portion of the light emitted by the light source is configured to pass into the light transmission element through the textured surface and pass into the object through the optical couplant. At least a portion of the light that passes into the object internally reflects within the object and impinges on the anomaly to provide an illumination that indicates the location of the anomaly.