Dual-Angle Optical Surface Measuring Device for Refractive Index Compensation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for determining optical surface properties are subjective and influenced by surface curvature and index of refraction, leading to inconsistent results for surfaces that appear optically similar.

Innovation Solution

An apparatus using two measurement methods, one providing an intensity-based signal and the other a locally resolved image, allows for objective evaluation by comparing results and accounting for distortions caused by different indices of refraction, with both methods using radiation devices and detection devices positioned at specific angles relative to the surface.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If gloss measuring technology is used to determine surface optical properties, then objective measurement is achieved, but measurement results are influenced by surface curvature and index of refraction

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveobjectivity of measurementVSAvoidinfluence of surface curvature and index of refraction

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The measurement system is divided into two independent measuring devices, each performing a specific measurement function. The first measuring device measures scattered radiation intensity, while the second measuring device captures images of the surface. This segmentation allows each device to be optimized for its specific function and reduces the influence of confounding factors like surface curvature and index of refraction on the overall measurement accuracy.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A processor is introduced as an intermediary that receives measurement data from both measuring devices and generates a comprehensive evaluation result. The processor compares and correlates the intensity-based measurements with the image-based measurements, mediating the final assessment to account for surface curvature and index of refraction effects that would otherwise bias the results.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If intensity-based measurement method is used, then measurement is not dependent on index of refraction, but insufficient light scattering from matt surfaces prevents accurate measurement

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveindependence from index of refractionVSAvoidlight scattering from matt surfaces

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The system merges two different measurement approaches: intensity-based measurement (which is independent of index of refraction) and image-based measurement (which captures surface scattering characteristics). By combining both measurement types, the system can accurately assess matt surfaces that scatter light insufficiently for intensity-based methods alone, while maintaining independence from index of refraction effects through the complementary image data.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Reliability

If two different measurement methods are used simultaneously, then measurement results can be verified and cross-checked, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveverification of measurement resultsVSAvoidnumber of measuring devices

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Both measuring devices utilize the same fundamental components (radiation source, radiation detector) but configure them differently for complementary functions. The first device optimizes for intensity measurement, while the second device optimizes for image capture. This multi-functionality approach allows the system to verify measurement results through cross-checking while minimizing the increase in device complexity by reusing core components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 approach enables more accurate and objective assessment of surface quality by verifying results and compensating for variations in index of refraction, ensuring consistent measurements across different surfaces.

Implementation Method 1

receives at least a proportion of the radiation directed from the first radiation device onto the material and scattered back from the material

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectScattering: Scattering

Implementation Method 2

the first radiation detection device emits a first characteristic signal which is characteristic of the intensity of the radiation incident on the first radiation detection device

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhotoelectric Effect: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS8928886B2Surface measuring device having two measuring units

Publication Date: 2015.01.06 BYK GARDNER

AI summary

An apparatus for determining optical properties of materials including a first measuring device having a first radiation device which directs radiation onto the material under a first specified angle of radiation and a first radiation detection device which is located under a first angle of reception with respect to the material, and a second measuring device which includes a second radiation device which directs radiation onto the material under a second specified angle of radiation and a second radiation detection device which is located at a second angle of reception with respect to the material and allows a locally resolved evaluation of the radiation incident thereon and emits at least one second characteristic signal which is characteristic of the radiation incident on the second radiation detection device.