Multi-axis Flexure Tilt Mount for Laser Diode Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rotational mounts for optical systems require complex multi-axis adjustments, which are tedious, costly, and difficult to realign, often necessitating exposure of the entire assembly and skilled technicians, while lacking simple and inexpensive solutions for precise alignment and access from multiple directions.
Innovation Solution
The design of rotational mounts featuring a flexure member with orthogonal first and second flexures, secured by clamps and adjustment mechanisms, allowing for independent rotations about three mutually orthogonal axes from a common direction, facilitated by ball clamps and screws, enabling easy access and adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional multi-axis rotational mounts are used, then precise alignment can be achieved, but the alignment process becomes tedious and requires multiple adjustments from multiple directions
Solution Approach 1:
The rotational mount is segmented into independent flexure elements, each responsible for a specific rotational axis. The first flexure element handles rotation about the first axis while the second flexure element handles rotation about the second axis, allowing independent adjustment of each axis without interfering with the others.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a third rotational dimension through the clamp mechanism that rotates about a third axis orthogonal to both the first and second axes. This third dimension of rotation provides an additional degree of freedom for alignment, enabling precise positioning from a single access direction.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional rotational mounts requiring access from multiple directions are used, then multi-axis rotation can be achieved, but the entire assembly must be exposed by removing protective covers
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple adjustment functions are merged into a single accessible location. The first flexure element, second flexure element, and clamp mechanism with its third axis rotation are all integrated so that adjustments for all three rotational axes can be made from a single direction, eliminating the need to expose the entire assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp acts as an intermediary mechanism that provides rotation about the third axis while also serving as a mounting interface. This intermediary structure allows the optical component to be positioned and oriented in three dimensions without requiring direct access to each adjustment mechanism from different directions.
3Measurement precision
If complex multi-axis adjustment mechanisms are used, then precise rotational alignment can be achieved, but production costs increase and manufacturing becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the physical parameters of the flexure elements by varying their thickness, length, and material properties to achieve the desired rotational stiffness and range of motion. By adjusting these geometric parameters during manufacturing, precise alignment capability is achieved without requiring complex mechanical structures, thereby simplifying production.
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 solution simplifies the alignment process, reduces production costs, and allows for precise multi-axis rotational adjustments without exposing the entire assembly, making it easier to access and adjust optical systems with reduced need for specialized equipment.
Implementation Method 1
the flexure portion defines a first flexure and a second flexure associated with rotations about a first axis and a second axis, respectively, wherein the second axis is orthogonal to the first axis
Data Source
AI summary
Adjustable rotation stages include a dual-axis flexure that define first and second axes of rotation A clamp secures a laser diode beam generator or other components to the dual-axis flexure and provides adjustable rotation about a third axis that if different from the first and second axes. Rotation adjustments can be made with screws facing in a common direction.