Infrared Sensor Asymmetry for Cross-Direction Resolution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current infrared spectroscopic sensors face limitations in achieving optimal cross-direction spatial resolution during the measurement of flat sheet products, such as paper and plastics, due to the design of radiation sources and receivers, which affects the precision and detail of property analysis.
Innovation Solution
The design is optimized by aligning the long dimensions of the infrared radiation source and detector in the machine direction, utilizing an elongated beam profile and rectangular geometry to maximize cross-direction resolution, allowing for more precise measurement of sheet properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the radiation source and detector use conventional circular or square geometry, then the device complexity is reduced, but the cross-direction spatial resolution is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by changing the radiation source and detector from conventional circular or square geometry to rectangular geometry, where the long dimension is aligned in the machine direction and the short dimension provides enhanced resolution in the cross direction. This asymmetric configuration optimizes the spatial resolution without requiring complex additional components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the rectangular geometry to effectively use both dimensions of the source and detector. By aligning the long dimension in the machine direction and the short dimension in the cross direction, the design maximizes the use of available dimensions to achieve superior cross-direction spatial resolution.
2Measurement precision
If the beam profile is circular or square, then the optical system is simpler, but the spatial resolution and detail information of sheet properties are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the beam profile from circular or square to rectangular, with the long dimension aligned in the machine direction and the short dimension in the cross direction. This asymmetric beam profile provides enhanced spatial resolution and detail information about sheet properties while maintaining a relatively simple optical system.
3Measurement precision
If the source and detector dimensions are not optimized, then the manufacturing process is simpler, but the online measurement accuracy of sheet properties is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the dimensions of the radiation source and detector by changing from conventional equal-dimension designs to rectangular designs with specific aspect ratios. The long dimension is aligned in the machine direction and the short dimension in the cross direction, providing enhanced online measurement accuracy for sheet properties during manufacturing.
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 configuration enhances the spatial resolution and detail of information obtained from sheet properties, leading to more accurate and precise online measurements during the manufacturing process.
Implementation Method 1
IR radiation is partly absorbed, reflected and transmitted by the sample depending on its various properties
Implementation Method 2
IR radiation is partly absorbed, reflected and transmitted by the sample depending on its various properties
Implementation Method 3
IR radiation is partly absorbed, reflected and transmitted by the sample depending on its various properties
Implementation Method 4
the band pass filters which are interference-type filters
Implementation Method 5
The hand pass filters are configured to pass IR radiation at selected regions of the infrared spectrum. IR radiation, which is not within the selected region of the spectrum, is reflected by the filters back to the beam splitter
Implementation Method 6
Depending on the intensity of the radiation detected, the detector generates an analog electrical signal that may be converted to a digital signal for observation
Data Source
AI summary
Scanning sensor for measuring properties of continuous flat sheet, that is moving in the machine direction, employs an IR radiation source for directing a beam of incident IR radiation that impinges the sheet. The IR source has elongated lamp filament that generates IR radiation and the corresponding spot size formed on the sheet has elongated dimensions with its long axis being aligned with the machine direction. Aligned with the MD maximizes sensor spatial resolution in the cross direction. The sensor can employ a receiver having rectangular geometry with its long axis being aligned also in the MD. Scanning sensor can operate in the reflective, transmissive, or offset transmission mode to monitor characteristics of flat sheets, particularly of paper or plastic products.