Laser Level Multi-Directional Beam Projection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional laser levels lack the capability to project laser fan beams and spot beams in multiple spatial directions efficiently, limiting their application in complex alignment tasks such as interior decoration, window installation, and engineering supervision.

Innovation Solution

The laser level incorporates two laser modules with collimating lenses, partially transmitting mirrors, and cylindrical lenses to generate horizontal and vertical fan beams and spot beams, allowing for precise projection in four spatial directions, with the mirrors inclined at 45° and a gradient reflective coating to minimize diffraction effects.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional laser levels are used, then the device structure is simple, but the capability to project laser fan beams and spot beams in multiple spatial directions is lacking

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecapability to project laser fan beams and spot beams in multiple spatial directionsVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The laser level is divided into multiple laser modules, each equipped with independent optical units containing collimating lenses, partially transmitting mirrors, and cylindrical lenses. This segmentation allows each module to independently generate and direct specific beam types (fan beams or spot beams) in different spatial directions, thereby achieving multi-directional projection capability while maintaining modular simplicity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Each laser module is designed as a multi-functional unit that can generate both fan beams and spot beams through its optical components. The partially transmitting mirrors enable the same optical unit to produce both reflected spot beams and transmitted fan beams, allowing a single module to perform multiple functions that would otherwise require separate devices

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple laser modules with complex optical units are used, then multi-directional beam projection is achieved, but the alignment precision and beam quality may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-directional beam projectionVSAvoidalignment precision and beam quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The optical components within each laser module are specifically optimized for their local function: collimating lenses are positioned at precise distances from laser diodes to achieve optimal beam collimation; partially transmitting mirrors are inclined at exactly 45° angles to correctly divert beams; cylindrical lenses are configured with specific focal lengths to shape fan beams. This local optimization ensures high beam quality and alignment precision despite the multi-functional design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The partially transmitting mirrors are designed with specific optical parameters (reflectivity between 10-50%, 45° inclination angle) that allow them to simultaneously produce both spot beams and fan beams with adequate intensity and directionality. These parameter optimizations ensure that the beam quality and alignment precision are maintained across different beam types and directions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 enables the laser level to project clear and stable fan beams and spot beams in multiple directions, enhancing its utility in various alignment tasks by providing precise reference lines and points, improving alignment accuracy and efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

each of the optical units comprises a collimating lens arranged along the beam path following the laser diode, and configured for collimating a beam emitted by the laser diode

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCollimation: Lens

Implementation Method 2

a pair of partially transmitting mirrors, each arranged along the beam path following the collimating lens, and configured for laterally reflecting less than half of the collimated beam in terms of the beam cross-section, and in terms of the beam intensity

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 3

a cylindrical lens arranged along the beam path after the pair of partially transmitting mirrors, and configured for shaping the incoming beam, consisting of the parts of the collimated beam which transmitted through the pair of partially transmitting mirrors and the part of the collimated beam which bypassed the pair of partially transmitting mirrors, into a fan beam

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRefraction: Refraction

Data Source

PatentEP3425334B1Laser level
Publication Date: 2022.09.07 LEICA GEOSYSTEMS AG
  • EP3425334B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3425334B1 patent drawingFigure 3a~4
  • EP3425334B1 patent drawingFigure 5a~5c

AI summary

The invention relates to a laser level comprising a first laser module and a second laser module, each comprising a laser diode and an optical unit, a holder arranging the first laser module and the second laser module in a fixed relative position, and a housing, in which the holder is suspended with a gimbal or ball joint, wherein each of the optical units comprises a collimating lens arranged along the beam path following the laser diode, and configured for collimating a beam emitted by the laser diode; a pair of partially transmitting mirrors, each arranged along the beam path following the collimating lens, and configured for laterally reflecting less than half of the collimated beam in terms of the beam cross-section, and in terms of the beam intensity; and a cylindrical lens arranged along the beam path following the pair of partially transmitting mirrors, and configured for shaping the collimated beam into a fan beam.