Laser Alignment System Using Photodiodes for Machine Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for aligning machines in industrial processes, such as in aerospace and defense, often require complex and expensive mechanical or optical systems, which can be large and immobile, lacking a practical solution for precise and efficient alignment.
Innovation Solution
A laser alignment system comprising a laser source, photodiodes, and a controller with a positioning model, where the laser source communicates with photodiodes to generate alignment indicators, enabling precise machine alignment without the need for extensive mechanical systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If complicated mechanical systems or optical arrangements are used for alignment, then alignment precision can be improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complicated mechanical alignment systems with an optical-based laser alignment system. A laser source emits a laser beam that serves as a reference alignment line, and photodiodes detect the laser signal to determine alignment status. This substitution of mechanical systems with optical systems achieves high alignment precision while reducing device complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a laser beam as an intermediary element to establish a reference alignment line between components. The laser beam acts as a mediator that enables precise alignment measurement without requiring direct mechanical contact or complex optical arrangements between the aligned components.
2Measurement precision
If large immobile optical systems are used for alignment, then alignment precision can be improved, but ease of operation and portability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment system is segmented into portable, modular components including a handheld laser source and separate photodiode detectors. This segmentation allows the system to be easily transported and deployed in different locations while maintaining alignment precision, resolving the contradiction between portability and measurement accuracy.
3Reliability
If traditional alignment methods are used, then reliability can be improved through established procedures, but loss of time increases due to lengthy alignment processes
Solution Approach 1:
The photodiodes detect the laser signal and provide real-time feedback about the alignment status. This feedback mechanism enables rapid determination of whether components are properly aligned, significantly reducing alignment time while maintaining reliability through objective, measurable criteria rather than subjective assessment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces time-consuming manual alignment procedures with an automated optical detection system. The laser-photodiode system automatically measures alignment status, eliminating the need for lengthy manual measurement and adjustment processes, thereby reducing alignment time while maintaining or improving reliability.
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 system allows for precise machine alignment, reducing wear and increasing operational predictability, supporting accurate production and faster alignment processes, and can be applied to various industrial settings, including robotic arms and complex systems.
Implementation Method 1
A laser alignment system comprising a laser source, photodiodes, and a controller with a positioning model, where the laser source communicates with photodiodes to generate alignment indicators
Implementation Method 2
photodiodes, each of the plurality of photodiodes being oriented in a different direction and able to communicate with the laser source
Data Source
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AI summary
A laser alignment system (10) may comprise a machine (14), a laser source (18) attached to the machine (14), a photodiode (26;70,74,78,82) able to communicate with the laser source (18), and a receiver (22) including the photodiode (26;70,74,78,82), wherein a signal is generated upon communication between the photodiode (26;70,74,78,82) and the laser source (18).