Dual-Sided Optical Surface Metrology Without Repositioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing optical test devices for flat test objects suffer from reduced measurement accuracy due to the need for reclamping and repositioning the test object to measure both sides, which increases time and introduces measurement uncertainties.

Innovation Solution

An optical test device with a holder designed as a test standard, allowing simultaneous detection of both sides of the test object using two optical sensors, eliminating the need for repositioning by geometrically relating measurement values through the known geometry of the holder.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the test object is measured from one side using optical test equipment, then the testing process is simple, but the measurement accuracy deteriorates when measuring both sides due to reclamping and repositioning

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetesting process simplicityVSAvoidmeasurement accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines two separate measurement operations (measuring both sides of the test object) into a single simultaneous measurement process by positioning two optical sensors on opposite sides of the test object. This eliminates the need for reclamping and repositioning, thereby maintaining measurement accuracy while simplifying the testing process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from a one-sided measurement approach to a two-sided measurement approach by introducing a second optical sensor on the opposite side of the test object. This dimensional change enables simultaneous measurement of both surfaces without requiring the test object to be repositioned, thus resolving the contradiction between operational simplicity and measurement precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the test object is reclamped for measuring the other side, then both sides can be measured, but the test time increases and measurement accuracy worsens

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to measure both sidesVSAvoidtest time

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the measurement of both sides of the test object into a single simultaneous operation using two optical sensors positioned on opposite sides. This eliminates the sequential measurement process that requires reclamping, thereby reducing test time while maintaining the ability to measure both surfaces.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables continuous measurement of both sides of the test object simultaneously without interruption for reclamping or repositioning. The two optical sensors continuously capture data from both surfaces in one operation, eliminating the time loss associated with sequential measurement and maintaining measurement accuracy.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

3Adaptability or versatility

If the test object is reclamped for measuring the other side, then both sides can be measured, but alignment errors increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to measure both sidesVSAvoidalignment accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the measurement of both sides into a single simultaneous operation, eliminating the reclamping step that introduces alignment errors. By measuring both surfaces in one operation, the patent maintains consistent spatial relationships and reference frames, thereby preserving alignment accuracy while enabling measurement of both sides.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Measurement precision

If a holder is designed as test standard with known geometry, then measurement accuracy improves through reference, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemeasurement accuracyVSAvoidholder construction complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs the holder itself as the test standard with known geometry, allowing it to serve as the reference for measurement. The holder's precisely defined geometric features (such as a frame with window-shaped recesses and support structures) provide the reference framework needed for accurate measurement without requiring additional external reference components, thereby improving accuracy while limiting the increase in device complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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

Enhances measurement accuracy and speed by eliminating the need for repositioning, reducing measurement uncertainties, and simplifying the testing process.

Implementation Method 1

two optical sensors (8, 10) for detecting the three-dimensional surface topography of the test object (6)

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectOptical scanning and light reflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS12571628B2Optical test device

Publication Date: 2026.03.10 JENOPTIK IND METROLOGY GERMANY

AI summary

An optical test device for testing flat test objects comprises a holder for the test object and two optical sensors for detecting the three-dimensional surface topography of the test object. According to the invention, the holder is formed at least in sections as a test standard and is disposed with respect to the sensors in such a way that the sensors scan the test object from opposite sides and also detect the holder as a test standard at least in sections during the detecting of the test object.