Automated Rotation Mechanism for Spherically Mounted Retroreflector Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 3D coordinate measurement systems, such as trackers, face challenges in automating the process of aligning retroreflector targets when measuring objects from multiple directions, requiring manual rotation of spherical mounted retroreflectors (SMRs) which is inefficient, especially in automated or robotic setups.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a kinematic nest system with a rotation mechanism and processor to automatically rotate SMRs while maintaining contact, allowing for automated alignment and measurement of 3D coordinates from various angles without human intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual rotation of SMRs is used for alignment, then measurement setup is simple, but automation is reduced and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The SMR rotator enables the retroreflector to automatically align itself with the tracker beam through automated rotation, eliminating the need for manual intervention. The system self-adjusts by rotating the SMR until proper alignment is achieved, allowing fully automated measurement processes.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical rotation of the SMR is replaced with an automated rotation mechanism controlled by a processor. The mechanical system is substituted with an automated control system that can rotate the SMR precisely without human intervention, enabling automation while managing complexity through systematic control.
2Productivity
If manual alignment of SMRs is performed, then device complexity is low, but time consumption increases and productivity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The rotation mechanism preliminarily positions and orients the SMR automatically before the measurement process begins. By pre-aligning the retroreflector through automated rotation, the system eliminates time-consuming manual alignment steps during the actual measurement process, thereby increasing productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from the tracker to determine whether the SMR is properly aligned. The processor receives alignment status information and automatically adjusts the SMR rotation until the correct orientation is achieved, reducing alignment time through iterative feedback-based adjustment.
3Productivity
If automated rotation mechanism is implemented, then productivity increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The SMR rotator is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate different sizes and types of spherical mounted retroreflectors. The rotation mechanism serves multiple functions: holding the SMR, rotating it to various angles, and maintaining precise positioning. This multi-functionality consolidates several operations into a single device, managing complexity through integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The processor acts as an intermediary between the tracker system and the rotation mechanism. It receives commands from the tracking system and translates them into precise rotation commands for the SMR holder, mediating between the measurement requirements and the mechanical execution to manage system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes a kinematic nest that supports an element having a spherical surface, a rotation mechanism that rotates the element, and processor that activates the rotation mechanism.