Laser Contamination Sensing for Close-Proximity Moving Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical systems for contaminant measurement are costly, large, sensitive to damage, and unable to perform close proximity measurements, making them unsuitable for confined spaces and environments with relative movement, and they are prone to contamination by the materials they measure.
Innovation Solution
A laser sensor system with an infrared sensor and image processing module that performs close proximity measurements, includes an exposure subsystem for parasitic rejection, and uses image stitching for detailed analysis, capable of operating in confined spaces and environments with movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If digital imaging processing systems with camera equipment are used for contaminant measurement, then measurement capability is provided, but the system becomes large, expensive, and sensitive to damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical camera-based optical systems with a laser sensor system that uses laser light scattering detection. This substitution eliminates the need for complex camera lenses, sensors, and associated mechanical components, achieving contaminant measurement through optical scattering principles while dramatically reducing system size, cost, and fragility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a simple, inexpensive laser sensor design that can be easily replaced or recalibrated if contaminated or damaged. The system uses off-the-shelf laser diodes and photodetectors rather than expensive specialized camera equipment, making the system more cost-effective and easier to maintain in harsh environments.
2Measurement precision
If traditional optical camera systems are used, then imaging is possible, but the systems cannot focus on reduced distances and are too large for confined cavities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces camera-based optical systems with a laser scattering detection system that requires no focusing lenses or complex optical paths. The laser sensor can measure contaminants at extremely close distances (millimeter scale) by detecting light scattered from particles in the laser beam, enabling operation in confined cavities and tight spaces where traditional cameras cannot focus.
3Length of moving object
If laser sensor system is used for close proximity measurement, then compact size is achieved, but measurement of moving objects requires timing correlation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic timing correlation between the laser sensor and the moving deposition surface. The system adjusts the sampling timing based on the relative motion between the laser head and the object, using synchronization signals from the motion control system to correlate acquired images with the position of the moving surface, enabling accurate measurement despite relative motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from position sensors and motion controllers to adjust the timing and triggering of laser measurements. By continuously monitoring the position of the moving deposition surface and correlating this information with the laser sensor data, the system maintains measurement accuracy even during motion, effectively compensating for the dynamics of the moving target.
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 provides accurate, real-time, and robust contaminant measurement with high sample rates, avoiding damage and the need for larger optical systems, and can measure contaminants like dust and debris in confined spaces with relative movement.
Implementation Method 1
a laser sensor for sensing contaminant on an object to generate an image
Implementation Method 2
an image of laser light that is sensed on the object
Data Source
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AI summary
A system (100) and method for contamination measurement. The system includes a laser sensor (106) for sensing contaminant (102) on an object to generate an image (104), and a sensor interface and image processing module (108) that receives an image of laser light that is sensed on the object. The sensor interface and image processing module processes the image using image characterization and image processing to provide contaminant determination. Contaminant determination may include estimating a degree of change in contaminant level from an initial condition or measuring exact amounts of contaminant collected.