Grating Element Intensity Modulation for 3D Surface Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current borescopes and endoscopes face challenges in obtaining accurate 3D surface mapping and dimensional measurements due to limitations in existing technologies, such as size constraints, high computational requirements, and the need for skilled technicians, especially when trying to achieve full-field object measurements.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an intensity modulating element with a plurality of light emitters and grating elements that project fringe sets for phase-shift analysis, allowing for more accurate phase-shift analysis and enabling the creation of a structured-light pattern for precise 3D surface mapping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional imaging methods are used in borescopes/endoscopes, then the device can be kept simple and compact, but accurate 3D surface mapping and dimensional measurements cannot be obtained
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging element is divided into multiple independently controllable light emitters arranged in columns, with each column capable of being selectively activated to project fringe patterns at different phases. This segmentation enables 3D surface mapping through phase-shift analysis while keeping each individual emitter simple and compact.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the phase parameter of projected fringe patterns by selectively activating different columns of light emitters. By varying the phase shift between columns and analyzing the resulting image changes, the system achieves accurate 3D surface mapping and dimensional measurements without requiring complex external equipment.
2Measurement precision
If phase-shift analysis with multiple fringe sets is implemented, then measurement precision improves, but computational requirements and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The light emitter array is segmented into multiple columns that can be independently controlled to project fringe patterns with different phases. This segmentation allows the system to acquire multiple phase-shifted images sequentially rather than requiring complex simultaneous multi-pattern projection, reducing computational burden while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic activation of different light emitter columns to project fringe patterns at successive phases. By using periodic switching between columns and analyzing the temporal sequence of images, the system achieves accurate phase-shift measurement with reduced computational complexity compared to simultaneous multi-pattern approaches.
3Area of stationary object
If traditional single-line or dot projection methods are used, then the probe remains compact, but full-field surface mapping and accurate dimensional measurements are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The light emitter configuration is segmented into multiple columns arranged across the field of view, with each column capable of projecting fringe patterns independently. This segmentation enables full-field surface mapping by simultaneously covering the entire area, while each individual column remains a simple, compact light emitting element.
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 provides more accurate and efficient 3D surface mapping and dimensional measurements, reducing the need for complex computations and skilled operators, while accommodating the size constraints of borescopes and endoscopes.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of grating elements having a grating period... to project a plurality of fringe sets onto a surface
Data Source
AI summary
An intensity modulating element for a probe having a plurality of light emitters for phase-shift analysis and measurement is disclosed. The intensity modulating element comprises a plurality of columns of a plurality of grating elements formed by two opposing patterns.