Coordinate Measurement Device Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing noncontact optical measurement devices lack the ability to seamlessly switch between high accuracy measurements using cooperative targets and faster, lower accuracy measurements without active operator assistance, limiting their versatility and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
An optical measurement device that integrates both laser tracker and laser scanner functionalities, allowing operators to select between modes of operation based on the need for high accuracy or speed, utilizing a gimbaled beam-steering mechanism, multiple light sources, and advanced distance measurement techniques like absolute distance meters and interferometry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the device uses cooperative targets (retroreflectors) for high accuracy measurements, then measurement precision is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to requiring active operator assistance to place targets
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service operation by automatically detecting surfaces and performing measurements without requiring operator placement of retroreflector targets. The laser scanner autonomously identifies measurement points and executes measurements, eliminating the need for active operator assistance while maintaining measurement capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the target placement function from the measurement process. By removing the requirement for cooperative targets and their manual placement, the system simplifies operation while incorporating alternative surface detection and measurement techniques that work with passive surfaces.
2Measurement precision
If the device operates in high accuracy mode with cooperative targets, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to slower measurement speed
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between two operational modes: a first mode optimized for high accuracy measurements using retroreflectors, and a second mode optimized for rapid measurements of passive surfaces. This dynamic adaptability allows the device to optimize measurement speed when high precision is not required, thereby improving overall productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates dual functionality, serving both as a traditional laser tracker for high-precision work and as a laser scanner for rapid scanning. This multi-functionality enables the system to handle diverse measurement requirements, selecting the appropriate mode based on the specific application needs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the device integrates both laser tracker and laser scanner functionalities, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges laser tracker and laser scanner functionalities into a single integrated device. By combining these two measurement systems with shared components such as the gimbaled beam-steering mechanism and control electronics, the system achieves operational versatility while managing complexity through component sharing and integration.
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 high accuracy measurements with cooperative targets while also allowing for rapid, lower accuracy measurements without operator assistance, enhancing operational flexibility and reducing noise from electronics and atmospheric turbulence.
Implementation Method 1
the first mode of operation determining a first distance to a retroreflective target based at least in part on the speed of light
Implementation Method 2
the second mode of operating determining a second distance to a surface that diffusely scatters light emitted from the coordinate measurement device
Implementation Method 3
emitting a first light from at least one light source of the coordinate measurement device
Implementation Method 4
receiving a second light with an optical detector of the coordinate measurement device, wherein the second light is a reflection of the first light
Data Source
AI summary
A method of operating a coordinate measurement device includes selecting an operating mode on the coordinate measurement device. A first light is emitted from at least one light source of the coordinate measurement device. At least two angles associated with the emitting of the first light are measured. A second light is received with an optical detector of the coordinate measurement device. The second light is a reflection of the first light off of at least one of the retroreflector and the surface. A first distance is determined based at least in part on a mode of the coordinate measurement device that is selected, the emitting of the first light, and the receiving of the second light. Three dimensional coordinates of a point in the environment is determined based on the measuring of the at least two angles and at least one of the first distance and the second distance.