Rotary Boring Tool Laser Alignment and Depth Indication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users of rotary boring tools face difficulties in maintaining correct alignment and determining the depth of the tool during drilling operations, as existing systems lack effective visual feedback and require complex sensors or computing.
Innovation Solution
A rotary boring tool alignment and depth indication system utilizing a laser-based system with beam splitters and mirrors to project annular ring patterns on a work surface, providing visual feedback for alignment and depth indication, allowing users to quickly correct misalignment and monitor drilling depth without sensors or computing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a laser-based system with beam splitters and mirrors is used to provide visual feedback, then alignment accuracy and depth monitoring capability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The laser-based alignment system is divided into separate functional modules: a laser source, beam splitters, mirrors, and projection elements. Each component performs a specific function (light generation, beam division, reflection, and pattern projection), allowing for independent optimization and easier assembly. This segmentation enables the system to achieve high measurement precision through specialized components while managing overall complexity through modular design.
2Loss of information
If multiple beam splitters and mirrors are used to project annular ring patterns, then visual feedback quality is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple beam splitters and mirrors are combined into an integrated optical assembly that projects annular ring patterns. By merging these optical elements into a unified structure, the system maintains high visual feedback quality through coordinated light paths while simplifying manufacturing compared to assembling separate alignment components. The combined structure ensures proper alignment and spacing of optical elements without requiring complex individual adjustments.
3Measurement precision
If a laser-based alignment system is implemented, then alignment monitoring capability is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The laser-based alignment system provides self-service alignment monitoring by projecting visual patterns that automatically indicate misalignment conditions. The system eliminates the need for external sensors, computing devices, or operator interpretation skills - the projected annular rings self-indicate alignment status through their visual pattern, reducing implementation costs by removing expensive electronic components while maintaining high measurement precision.
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
The system enables users to maintain perpendicular alignment and accurately monitor drilling depth, improving the usability and accuracy of rotary power tools by providing continuous visual feedback, regardless of work surface orientation, and is cost-effective and simple to implement.
Implementation Method 1
A rotary boring tool alignment and depth indication system utilizing a laser-based system with beam splitters and mirrors to project annular ring patterns on a work surface
Implementation Method 2
laser-based system with beam splitters and mirrors to project annular ring patterns
Implementation Method 3
laser-based system with beam splitters and mirrors to project annular ring patterns on a work surface
Data Source
AI summary
A device for assisting an operator of a boring instrument having a penetrating element for penetration a work surface that includes a retention member adapted to be connected to a rotating element of the boring instrument and adapted to receive a laser and a plurality of mirrors including a beam splitting alignment mirrors that directs a laser beam in a direction parallel with a penetrating element and perpendicular to a work surface, and a depth indication mirror that reflects a light beam at an angle of less than 90 degrees from said retaining member to a location on said work surface wherein the location of the beams from the alignment beams is maintained at a fixed radial position when the retention member perpendicularly moves towards a work surface and wherein the beam is rotated defines a circle.