Laser Measurement of Vehicle Frame Deformations
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity and variability of vehicle frames make it difficult to determine if a vehicle's frame has been deformed and to accurately adjust it back to its original position, which can affect structural integrity and increase wear on components.
Innovation Solution
A laser measurement system that includes a scanner device with a rotating support, a motor, and an optics assembly with a rhombic prism to split laser beams, allowing for precise measurement and reporting of frame deformations, and a method for wirelessly transmitting data to facilitate repair authorization and remote assistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional measurement methods are used for vehicle frames, then the measurement process is simpler, but the measurement precision is insufficient to accurately detect frame deformations
Solution Approach 1:
The laser beam is divided into multiple beams using beam splitters and rhombic prisms, creating multiple measurement paths simultaneously. This segmentation allows the system to measure multiple points on the frame at once, improving both precision and efficiency while managing complexity through modular optical components
Solution Approach 2:
Retroreflective targets are introduced as intermediaries between the laser source and the frame surface. These targets reflect laser beams back to detectors, enabling precise measurement of frame deformations without requiring direct laser contact with the frame, thus improving measurement accuracy while maintaining system manageability
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If manual inspection methods are used, then the equipment required is simpler, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring frame deformations increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple optical functions (beam splitting, reflection, detection) are merged into integrated assemblies. The beam splitters and rhombic prisms are combined with detectors in fixed geometric arrangements, reducing the need for separate adjustment mechanisms and lowering detection difficulty despite the quantity of components
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement system is designed with symmetric optical paths and equipotential detection planes, where multiple detectors are positioned at equivalent geometric relationships to the frame. This symmetry simplifies the detection process by providing consistent measurement conditions across different frame locations
3Reliability
If comprehensive frame measurement is performed, then the reliability of structural integrity assessment is improved, but the time required for measurement and repair increases
Solution Approach 1:
The laser beams are swept across the frame in periodic scanning patterns, systematically covering all measurement points. This periodic action ensures comprehensive coverage for reliable structural assessment while maintaining a rhythmic, efficient measurement pace that minimizes total measurement time
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple laser beams operate simultaneously and continuously across different frame sections, eliminating idle time between measurements. The system maintains continuous useful action by having multiple measurement paths active at once, improving both reliability through comprehensive coverage and efficiency by reducing measurement time
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
Enables accurate identification of frame deformations and generation of repair reports, improving the ability to restore the frame's original position and maintain structural integrity, thereby reducing wear and enhancing repair efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the optics assembly including at least one rhombic prism arranged and configured to split a laser beam from the laser device into at least two laser beams
Implementation Method 2
at least one rhombic prism arranged and configured to split a laser beam from the laser device into at least two laser beams
Data Source
AI summary
A laser measurement system operates to measure portions of a vehicle, such as a vehicle frame. The measurements are used, for example, to determine if the portions of the vehicle are bent or damaged. The measurement system includes a laser scanner and at least one target assembly that can be connected to a point of the vehicle. The laser scanner emits a laser beam that is detected by the target. Time and laser position information detected by the target are used to determine the location of the target, as well as the location of the point of the vehicle. The location of the point is then compared to an original location of the point to determine if damage has occurred.