Fiber-Optic 3D Imager Using Segmented Sensor Array
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 3D scanning technologies face challenges with precision, bulkiness, and practicality, particularly in non-contact methods, which are either cumbersome or lack precision, making it difficult to scan large or hard-to-reach surfaces effectively.
Innovation Solution
A compact fiber-optic imager using LEDs and an array of collector optic fibers that capture illumination reflected from a target surface within specific acceptance cones, forming an areal distribution corresponding to the surface geometry, allowing for the construction of a three-dimensional model without the need for device scanning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If non-contact 3D scanning methods are used, then scanning speed is improved and object damage is prevented, but measurement precision deteriorates compared to contact methods
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system is segmented into multiple individual fiber optic sensors arranged in an array, where each fiber independently measures surface height at its specific location. This segmentation allows parallel measurement across the entire surface area, achieving high-speed non-contact scanning while maintaining precision through the collective data from multiple discrete measurement points
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical contact-based measurement systems with an optical system using fiber optic sensors. Each fiber acts as an independent optical probe that measures surface height through light reflection principles, eliminating mechanical contact while achieving precise non-contact measurement of surface topography
2Object-affected harmful factors
If confocal or structured light scanners are used, then non-contact scanning capability is achieved, but device size increases making the system bulky and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential measurement function from bulky optical systems by using individual fiber optic sensors that can be directly positioned on or near the surface being measured. Each fiber is a minimal-sized component that performs height measurement at its location, eliminating the need for large confocal or structured light projector systems while maintaining non-contact measurement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The fiber optic sensor array can be configured in flexible arrangements and positioned close to the surface being measured, allowing adaptation to complex geometries and hard-to-reach areas. The thin, flexible nature of individual fibers enables deployment in spaces where bulky scanners cannot operate, while maintaining non-contact measurement
3Measurement precision
If stereovision scanners are used, then non-contact 3D measurement is achieved, but the target object must be moved which is impractical in certain settings
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of moving the object to be measured (as in stereovision systems), the patent inverts the approach by moving the measurement system itself - specifically, the fiber optic sensor array can be positioned and repositioned to measure different areas of the object. This allows the object to remain stationary while the sensors are brought to the required measurement locations
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 provides a precise and compact 3D imaging capability, enabling accurate topographical modeling of surfaces without damaging the object and facilitating scanning of large or difficult-to-access areas with improved precision and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
capture the illumination reflected from one of the target areas within an acceptance cone within a full acceptance angle of each of the fibers
Implementation Method 2
an array of collector optic fibers, each fiber of the array configured to capture the illumination reflected
Implementation Method 3
one or more illuminators operative to direct illumination toward target areas of a target surface; the illuminators are implemented as light emitting diodes (LEDs)
Data Source
AI summary
A fiber-optic, three-dimensional imager using focal length of fiber optic units as a discriminative feature to identify surface geometries of a target area based on reflection intensity of reflected illumination. The focal length defined in accordance with lens power, lens proximity to an optic fiber, chromatic lens aberration, or illumination wavelength. Captured reflections are directed to a light sensor and form an areal intensity distribution on the sensor that is rendered into a topographical model of the general target surface using a construction algorithm.