Imaging Device Misalignment Analysis for Infrared Thermometry

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Solution Overview

Problem

Non-contact temperature measurement devices, such as infrared thermometers, often require frequent manual alignment inspections to ensure proper alignment with targets, which is inefficient due to their remote and hard-to-reach locations, leading to potential misalignment and inaccurate readings.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a misalignment analysis feature that automatically detects and corrects the positioning of the imaging device relative to the target, eliminating the need for periodic manual inspections by using visual indicators and image processing algorithms to compare initial and subsequent images for alignment verification.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual alignment inspection is performed frequently, then alignment accuracy is improved, but operation complexity and time consumption increase due to remote location

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvealignment accuracyVSAvoidinspection time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The imaging device performs self-diagnosis by automatically detecting its own alignment status through the processor comparing captured images against reference data, eliminating the need for external manual inspection and enabling the system to monitor itself continuously

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The manual mechanical inspection process is replaced with an automated electronic system where the processor analyzes image data and alignment indicators to determine alignment status, substituting human operators with computational analysis

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

2Measurement precision

If manual alignment inspection is performed frequently, then alignment accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases due to remote monitoring requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvealignment accuracyVSAvoidmonitoring system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The imaging device integrates multiple functions including normal imaging, alignment detection, and self-diagnosis within a single system, where the processor handles both operational control and alignment analysis, reducing the need for separate dedicated monitoring equipment

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

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses an automated communication interface as an intermediary to transmit alignment status data between the imaging device and remote monitoring systems, simplifying the complexity of direct remote monitoring by using standardized data exchange protocols

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Productivity

If automated misalignment detection is implemented, then productivity is improved by eliminating manual inspection, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinspection efficiencyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system captures reference images and establishes alignment criteria during an initial setup phase, preparing all necessary data and parameters in advance so that subsequent alignment detection can proceed automatically without complex real-time processing

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The processor continuously compares current image data against reference alignment data and provides feedback signals that trigger automated adjustment mechanisms or alert operators, creating a closed-loop system that maintains alignment without requiring complex manual intervention

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentEP3300351B1Imaging device with alignment analysis
Publication Date: 2023.08.02 FLUKE CORP
  • EP3300351B1 patent drawingFigure 1A~1B
  • EP3300351B1 patent drawingFigure 1C
  • EP3300351B1 patent drawingFigure 1D

AI summary

Disclosed is an imaging device employing a measurement zone directed at a target, where the imaging device can be used in conjunction with a misalignment analysis feature. The imaging device can capture first and second images at different times. The first and second images may be compared, such as by comparing a location of the measurement zone of the imaging device in the first image with a location of the measurement zone of the imaging device in the second image. Based on the comparison, a misalignment indication of the imaging device relative to the target can be provided.