Rotational Position Detection Using Dual Cam Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical apparatuses require complex calculation processing to detect the position of movable members, such as lenses, using output signals from potentiometers and encoders, which complicates the detection process.
Innovation Solution
A position detecting apparatus with a rotating member featuring first and second cams, and corresponding detectors that output signals to acquire the rotational position, allowing for simpler configuration and processing by using the signals from these cams to determine the rotational position of the movable member.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a potentiometer and magnetic or optical encoder are used to detect the position of the movable member, then the position detection capability is improved, but the calculation processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rotational range of the rotating member is divided into multiple discrete ranges, with each range detected by a dedicated detector. This segmentation allows each detector to specialize in a specific range, simplifying the detection logic and reducing calculation complexity while maintaining position detection capability across the full range.
Solution Approach 2:
Each detector is designed with specific cam profiles optimized for its designated rotational range. The first detector has a first cam for the first rotational range and a second cam for the second rotational range, while the second detector has a third cam for the third rotational range. This local optimization allows each detector to provide accurate position information for its specific range without requiring complex global calculations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple detectors with different rotational ranges are used, then the detection coverage is improved, but the device configuration complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple detectors are merged into a unified position detection system where each detector handles a specific rotational range. The detectors work together in a coordinated manner, with the rotational position acquirer integrating signals from different detectors based on the current rotational range. This merging approach extends detection coverage while maintaining a relatively simple overall configuration through standardized detector modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different detectors based on the current rotational range of the rotating member. The rotational position acquirer determines which detector is currently active and processes signals accordingly. This dynamic allocation allows the system to adapt to different operational conditions without requiring a complex static configuration that handles all ranges simultaneously.
Data Source
AI summary
A position detecting apparatus includes a rotating member rotatable and having a first cam and a second cam, a first detector, a second detector, and a rotational position acquirer. The first cam moves the first moving unit in a first rotational range of the rotating member and a second rotational range following the first rotational range. The second cam moves the second moving unit in the second rotational range of the rotating member and a third rotational range following the second rotational range. The rotational position acquirer acquires the rotational position using the first signal in the first rotational range and in part on a first rotational range side in the second rotational range, and acquires the rotational position using the second signal in the third rotational range and in part on a third rotational range side in the second rotational range.