Hollow Scan Sphere with Magnet for Precision Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing precision scan spheres require replacement with larger spheres from the same manufacturer to maintain consistency in mounting structure, limiting their adaptability and precision in scanning systems.
Innovation Solution
A super precision scan sphere with a hollow interior and a magnetized structure that can be securely placed over existing smaller spheres, providing a larger surface area and maintaining the same center point, allowing for enhanced precision and adaptability with existing systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a larger scan sphere is used to improve measurement precision, then the scanning tolerance is reduced, but the mounting structure consistency deteriorates when switching between different manufacturers
Solution Approach 1:
The scan sphere is designed with a hollow interior chamber that fits over the existing smaller sphere, creating a nested configuration. This allows the larger scan sphere to incorporate the smaller sphere while maintaining the same center point, thereby improving measurement precision without requiring removal of the original mounting structure. The nested design enables compatibility with existing systems from different manufacturers.
Solution Approach 2:
The scan sphere is divided into separate functional components: an outer spherical shell providing the measurement surface, an interior chamber for housing, and a magnetic securing mechanism. This segmentation allows the scan sphere to be assembled over existing spheres without modifying the original mounting structure, maintaining adaptability while achieving improved precision through the larger outer diameter.
2Measurement precision
If a larger scan sphere is installed to enhance precision, then the scanning accuracy is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional mounting requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The scan sphere incorporates a magnetic securing mechanism that automatically attaches the sphere to the mounting structure without requiring external fasteners or complex assembly procedures. The magnet embedded in the interior chamber creates a self-securing connection that simplifies installation while maintaining the precision benefits of the larger sphere diameter.
3Weight of moving object
If the scan sphere is made hollow to reduce weight, then the mass is reduced, but the structural strength may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The hollow scan sphere incorporates strategic reinforcement elements at critical locations to maintain structural integrity while preserving the weight benefits of the hollow design. The interior chamber is configured with localized strengthening features that prevent deformation during scanning operations without filling the entire interior, thus maintaining the weight advantage.
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 achieves increased precision with a scanning tolerance of +/-2-3 thousandths of an inch and allows for easy integration with any scanning system, regardless of the manufacturer, enhancing accuracy and versatility.
Implementation Method 1
The scan sphere can be secured to the smaller sphere, for example, by a magnet in the interior portion of the scan sphere.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention is directed to a target in the form of a super precision scan sphere that can be utilized in existing systems having smaller scan spheres. The present scan sphere has an interior chamber and can be placed over an existing sphere. A magnet in the interior chamber can be used to adhere the scan sphere to the smaller existing sphere.