Contour Probe Linkage for Optical Comparator Depth Measurement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Horizontal beam optical comparators struggle to measure three-dimensional features, such as blind holes and concave/convex surfaces, that are out of their field of view without employing complex and expensive image data processing methods.

Innovation Solution

A contour probe linkage is developed, comprising a cylindrical connector block with a spherical ball and probe member, allowing for measurement and plotting of surface contours without refocusing, using a horizontal beam optical comparator with a 'X' axis stage and 'Y' axis stage, enabling the measurement of features out of the objective lens's depth of field.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If complex image data processing methods are used to measure three-dimensional features, then measurement capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemeasurement capabilityVSAvoidcomplexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A mechanical linkage system acts as an intermediary between the optical comparator and the workpiece surface. The linkage includes a follower roller that contacts the workpiece surface and converts three-dimensional surface variations into two-dimensional planar movements, enabling the optical system to capture depth information through lateral displacement without requiring complex image processing algorithms

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces complex optical/image processing systems with a mechanical linkage system to achieve three-dimensional measurement. The mechanical follower roller and linkage mechanism physically translate depth variations into measurable lateral movements, substituting mechanical means for what would otherwise require sophisticated computational imaging

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Measurement precision

If the field of view is limited to the lens depth of field, then measurement precision is maintained, but measurement scope is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveprecisionVSAvoidmeasurement scope

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The linkage system transforms three-dimensional depth variations into two-dimensional lateral displacements. As the follower roller moves over contours and recesses, the mechanical linkage converts vertical height changes into horizontal planar movements that can be captured within the existing lens depth of field, effectively adding depth measurement capability without expanding the optical field of view

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The mechanical linkage system is designed to dynamically adapt to varying workpiece surfaces. The follower roller maintains continuous contact with the workpiece surface while the linkage mechanism adjusts its position, enabling the system to track and measure three-dimensional features across different heights and depths while keeping the measurement point within the fixed depth of field

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS9797713B2Contour probe linkage for a horizontal beam optical comparator

Publication Date: 2017.10.24 DORSEY METROLOGY INT

AI summary

The present disclosure describes an improved horizontal beam optical comparator that includes a probe to follow the surface of a work-piece, moreover, providing a method for gathering changes in height and depth to measure, plot and delineate surface contours of work-pieces relative to a movable “X” axis stage, and depth along a moveable “Y” axis stage without presence in the objective lenses depth of field.