3D Positioning Device Using Fanned Laser and Linear Sensor Arrays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for three-dimensional positioning and orientation of machine parts or cylindrical objects face limitations in precision and measurement range, particularly in lateral and transverse dimensions, making them unsuitable for applications requiring high resolution and large measurement ranges.
Innovation Solution
A device that emits a fanned laser beam with a crosshair or star-shaped cross section, utilizing multiple linear optoelectronic sensor arrays to determine the incidence points of the beam in multiple planes, enhanced with diffraction gratings, holograms, or microlens arrays, and replacing conventional sensors with arrays of CCD or CMOS technology for improved precision and range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional single-point laser sensors are used, then device complexity is low, but measurement precision and measurement range are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides a single two-dimensional sensor into multiple linear sensor arrays (at least three, preferably four) arranged in specific geometric patterns. Each linear array detects light intensity along one dimension, and by combining data from multiple arrays, the system achieves high-precision two-dimensional position detection. This segmentation allows the system to achieve measurement precision comparable to single-point sensors while dramatically expanding the measurement range.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from single-point detection to line-based detection by introducing multiple linear sensor arrays. This dimensional expansion from point to line enables the system to capture positional information across a larger area, effectively increasing the measurement range while maintaining precision through the geometric arrangement of the linear arrays.
2Area of stationary object
If conventional single-point laser sensors are used, then device complexity is low, but measurement range is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides a single two-dimensional sensor into multiple linear sensor arrays (at least three, preferably four) arranged in specific geometric patterns. Each linear array detects light intensity along one dimension, and by combining data from multiple arrays, the system achieves high-precision two-dimensional position detection. This segmentation allows the system to achieve measurement precision comparable to single-point sensors while dramatically expanding the measurement range.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from single-point detection to line-based detection by introducing multiple linear sensor arrays. This dimensional expansion from point to line enables the system to capture positional information across a larger area, effectively increasing the measurement range while maintaining precision through the geometric arrangement of the linear arrays.
3Measurement precision
If precision optical components are used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a laser beam with inherent cross-sectional structure (e.g., crosshair or star shape) that self-organizes into patterns suitable for detection. The system uses the natural properties of the laser beam and simple linear sensor arrays rather than requiring complex precision optical components. The laser beam's own structure provides the reference patterns needed for accurate measurement, eliminating the need for additional precision optics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces expensive precision optical components with simpler, more economical linear sensor arrays and standard laser sources. The system achieves high measurement precision using affordable components arranged in specific geometric configurations, significantly reducing manufacturing costs and complexity while maintaining measurement accuracy.
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
The solution significantly enlarges the measurement range, increases optical resolution, enhances precision and linearity, allows detection of additional angular coordinates, and reduces costs, enabling high-precision alignment and measurement in various applications, including metrology and construction.
Implementation Method 1
there is preferably a diffraction grating, for example, in the form of a point grating. Alternatively, instead, there can be a hologram or a microlens array
Implementation Method 2
a means which emits a repeatedly fanned light beam, especially a double-flat laser light beam
Implementation Method 3
at least two, preferably at least three or more, linear optoelectronic sensor arrays or position-sensitive diodes (PSDs) for direct or indirect determination of the incidence points of the light beam
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and a method that can be used for qualitative or quantitative determination of the three-dimensional location of two bodies relative to one another which can be used, for example, to determine the mutual position of two bodies according to angular or translational coordinates. Furthermore, the apparatus and method can be used in a measurement robot or in a coordinate measurement device. The device composed of a device for emitting a light beam which is fanned in several planes and at least three, preferably four or more, optoelectronic line sensors or linear sensors for determination of the incidence points of the light beam which has been flared in several planes on the line sensors or an upstream target surface.