Dynamic Light Beam Steering for Position Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical measurement methods for position determination and surface measurement, such as those using laser beams, face challenges in achieving high accuracy and efficiency, particularly in determining positions in three-dimensional spaces with lengths of several meters, as they often result in low signal intensity due to the expansion of light beams to illuminate large volumes, leading to inefficient use of laser power and reduced signal-to-noise ratios.
Innovation Solution
The use of guiding means to direct the light beam only to the specific area where the reflector is present, along with alignment mechanisms for detectors to improve light gathering efficiency, allows for more efficient use of irradiation intensity and enhanced signal detection, employing short-pulse lasers and beam splitters for three-dimensional position determination, and collecting optics for surface measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the light beam is expanded to illuminate the complete measurement volume, then the measurement volume is fully covered, but the signal intensity at the detector becomes small compared with the incident laser power
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamic tracking of the light beam to follow the movement of the measurement head or reflector. Instead of statically illuminating the entire measurement volume, the system dynamically adjusts the beam position and orientation to continuously track the target object, ensuring the beam remains focused on the reflector throughout the measurement range.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by concentrating the light beam precisely on the reflector rather than distributing it uniformly across the entire measurement volume. This localized illumination ensures high intensity at the target position while minimizing energy waste in surrounding areas, thereby improving the signal-to-noise ratio at the detector.
2Measurement precision
If laser power is increased to improve signal intensity, then detection accuracy improves, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of beam orientation and position dynamically to optimize the coupling between the light beam and the reflector. By adjusting these parameters in real-time based on the measured position of the measurement head or reflector, the system maintains high detection accuracy without requiring increased laser power, thus reducing energy consumption.
3Illumination intensity
If the light beam is focused to a small area, then signal intensity increases, but the measurement volume coverage is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction through dynamic beam steering that tracks the movement of the measurement head or reflector within the measurement volume. The focused beam is continuously repositioned to follow the target, maintaining both high intensity and comprehensive coverage throughout the measurement range.
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 efficient use of laser power, improving the signal-to-noise ratio and allowing for accurate position determination and surface measurement with reduced power requirements, thereby enhancing measurement precision and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
at least one light source for generating a light beam... detector means for detecting light reflected from the reflector... for determining a position of the object on the basis of the detected light
Implementation Method 2
detecting light reflected from the reflector... at least one retroreflector mounted to the object
Data Source
AI summary
In an embodiment a method for position determination of an object in a spatial area is provided in which the object is illuminated with at least one light beam. The light beam does not cover the complete spatial area and is guided into a part of the spatial area in which the object is present depending on the position of the object. In another aspect a method for measuring a surface is provided.