Gemstone Light Performance Evaluation System

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional methods for evaluating gemstone cuts are subjective and lack reproducibility, failing to account for the quality and internal structure of the stone, leading to inconsistent and flawed assessments.

Innovation Solution

A computer-implemented system that measures light performance properties of gemstones using a processor, memory, and automated positioning mechanisms to generate an objective grade, capturing light return, optical symmetry, and scintillation properties through primary and secondary imaging devices.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional subjective evaluation methods are used to assess gemstone cuts, then the assessment process is simple and quick, but the results lack reproducibility and objectivity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveevaluation accuracyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the traditional mechanical/visual inspection system with an optical measurement system that uses light sources, imaging devices, and automated positioning mechanisms to objectively measure light performance properties of gemstones, thereby eliminating subjectivity and improving measurement precision

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the evaluation parameters from purely dimensional measurements to optical performance measurements including light return, brilliance, optical symmetry, scintillation, and light dispersion, providing a more comprehensive and objective assessment of gemstone quality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Loss of information

If traditional dimensional evaluation methods are used, then the evaluation process is straightforward, but it fails to account for internal structure and quality of the stone

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinformation completenessVSAvoidmeasurement complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a multi-functional evaluation system that simultaneously measures multiple light performance properties (light return, brilliance, optical symmetry, scintillation, light dispersion) and captures both external dimensions and internal structure characteristics, providing comprehensive information without requiring separate evaluation processes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If manual evaluation of gemstone cuts is performed, then the equipment requirements are minimal, but the results are subject to different interpretations and lack consistency

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveevaluation consistencyVSAvoidautomation level
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSExtent of automation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual visual evaluation with an automated optical measurement system that uses computer-controlled light sources, imaging devices, and positioning mechanisms to objectively measure and record light performance properties, ensuring consistent and reproducible results across different evaluations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the imaging devices capture light performance data, the processor analyzes this data against established criteria, and the system provides objective grading results, creating a closed-loop evaluation process that ensures consistency and reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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

Provides an objective and reproducible evaluation of gemstone quality, accounting for both external dimensions and internal structure, enhancing accuracy and consistency in gemstone cut assessments.

Implementation Method 1

a light source for directing a focused beam of light onto the gemstone to produce an output of the internal refraction and reflection characteristics of the gemstone

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRefraction: Refraction

Implementation Method 2

a light source for directing a focused beam of light onto the gemstone to produce an output of the internal refraction and reflection characteristics of the gemstone

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS9746422B2Gemstone registration and recovery system, and systems for evaluating the light performance of a gemstone and capturing forensic characteristics of a gemstone
Publication Date: 2017.08.29 GEMOLOGICAL APPRAISAL ASSOC
  • US9746422B2 patent drawing
  • US9746422B2 patent drawing
  • US9746422B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A computer-implemented system is provided and includes a processor and a memory accessible by the processor, with the system being configured to measure light performance properties of a gemstone and generate an objective grade for the gemstone.