Concentric Laser Target Sphere Mount for SMR Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Laser tracking devices face challenges in precisely measuring the position of a target sphere when it is mounted on a second sphere, as existing solutions do not ensure that both spheres share the same center point, affecting the accuracy of laser scanning systems.
Innovation Solution
A laser target sphere with an internal kinematic mount, featuring three positioning spheres and a magnet, is designed to concentrically mount on a Spherical Mounted Retroreflector (SMR), ensuring the same center location for both spheres and facilitating precise positioning using laser scanners.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a target sphere is mounted on a second sphere using conventional methods, then the mounting is simple, but the center points of the two spheres do not coincide, reducing measurement precision
Solution Approach 1:
The target sphere is nested within a mounting structure that contains three positioning spheres, which in turn are positioned on the SMR. This nested arrangement ensures concentric alignment while maintaining a compact, integrated design that does not significantly increase overall complexity
Solution Approach 2:
Three positioning spheres are introduced as intermediary elements between the target sphere and the SMR. These positioning spheres serve as mediators that establish precise geometric relationships, ensuring the center points coincide while providing a stable mounting interface
2Measurement precision
If a kinematic mount with three positioning spheres is used to ensure concentric alignment, then measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting function is segmented into three separate positioning spheres rather than using a single complex mounting mechanism. Each positioning sphere independently contributes to the concentric alignment, distributing the functional complexity across multiple simple, identical elements
Solution Approach 2:
The three positioning spheres serve multiple functions: they provide mechanical support, establish geometric constraints for concentric alignment, and define the kinematic mounting relationship. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components
3Ease of operation
If a magnet is used to retain the target sphere on the SMR, then ease of operation is improved, but the positioning precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The three positioning spheres are pre-configured in fixed positions within the mounting structure before the magnet engages. This preliminary geometric arrangement ensures that when the magnet secures the assembly, the concentric alignment is already established by the mechanical constraints of the positioning spheres
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning spheres act as intermediaries that mediate between the magnetic retention force and the precision alignment requirement. They translate the simple magnetic holding action into a precisely aligned concentric mounting configuration
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
This configuration allows the laser scanner and target sphere system to utilize the same defined points as the SMR, enhancing precision and accuracy in position measurement by ensuring the target sphere and SMR share the same center point, thereby improving the overall measurement process.
Implementation Method 1
The magnet is positioned to attract but not touch the SMR, thus retaining the SMR against three positioning spheres to concentrically mount the target sphere on the SMR.
Data Source
AI summary
A laser target sphere is used in conjunction with a laser scanner. The target sphere has an ideal lambertian reflectance appropriate for laser scanning systems facilitating the laser scanner finding the center of the target sphere. The target sphere includes an internal kinematic mount configured to concentrically mount the target sphere to a Spherical Mounted Retroreflector (SMR) providing a same center location of the two spheres. By adapting the target sphere to mount concentrically on the SMR, the laser scanner and target sphere system can use the same points defined for the SMR.