Encoder Light-Receiving Module with Fiber Optic Plate for Accurate Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
The detection accuracy of encoders is reduced due to light diffusion when the light-receiving surface cannot be brought close to the light passage pattern, and the light-receiving element is not adequately protected from physical contact.
Innovation Solution
A light-receiving module with a fiber optic plate positioned to guide light to the light-receiving surface, where the input surface is closer to the light passage pattern than the side wall, and a resin member covers wiring and terminals to protect them, ensuring accurate light detection while preventing physical contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the light-receiving element is disposed on the bottom wall part surrounded by the side wall part, then the light-receiving element is protected from physical contact, but the light-receiving surface cannot be brought close to the light passage pattern, reducing detection accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a resin member as an intermediary substance that fills the space between the side wall part and the light-receiving element. This resin member allows the light-receiving surface to be positioned closer to the light passage pattern while the side wall part continues to provide mechanical protection. The resin member mediates between the conflicting requirements of protection and proximity, enabling both goals to be achieved simultaneously.
2Measurement precision
If the light-receiving surface is brought close to the light passage pattern, then detection accuracy is improved, but the light-receiving element becomes vulnerable to physical contact
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by positioning the side wall part to extend beyond the light-receiving element in the radial direction, creating a protective barrier before any physical contact can occur. The side wall part acts as a cushioning structure that prevents direct contact between the light-receiving element and external objects, allowing the light-receiving surface to be positioned close to the light passage pattern without compromising protection.
3Measurement precision
If the input surface of the fiber optic plate is positioned close to the light passage pattern, then light diffusion is suppressed and detection accuracy is improved, but the side wall part cannot adequately protect the light-receiving element
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves the contradiction by utilizing the radial dimension of the encoder structure. The side wall part is designed to extend radially beyond the light-receiving element, creating protection in the radial direction while the input surface of the fiber optic plate is positioned close to the light passage pattern in the axial direction. This dimensional separation allows both protection and proximity to be achieved without conflict.
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 configuration enhances detection accuracy by minimizing light diffusion and protecting the light-receiving element, allowing for reliable operation while maintaining close proximity to the light passage pattern.
Implementation Method 1
the fiber optic plate is disposed on the light-receiving element such that the output surface faces the light-receiving surface. As a result, the light incident on the input surface can be reliably guided to the light-receiving surface
Data Source
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AI summary
A light-receiving module 6 includes a support body 11 having a bottom wall part 16 and a side wall part 17, a light-receiving element 12 disposed on the bottom wall part 16 such that a light-receiving surface 21a faces one side S and surrounded by the side wall part 17 when viewed from the one side S, and a fiber optic plate 13 having an input surface 13a constituted by surfaces of one end of a plurality of optical fibers and an output surface 13b constituted by surfaces of the other end of the plurality of optical fibers and disposed on the light-receiving element 12 such that the output surface 13b faces the light-receiving surface 21a. An end surface 17b of the side wall part 17 on the one side S is positioned more to the one side S than the light-receiving surface 21a and the input surface 13a is positioned more to the one side S than the end surface 17b.