Variable Laser Line Module With Alvarez Micro-Lens Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laser line triangulation devices require manual recalibration and measurement interruptions to adjust the measurement range for objects of different sizes, limiting their suitability for automated use and increasing total measuring time.
Innovation Solution
A laser line module with a line adjusting unit comprising two micro-lens arrays and an actuator allows for easy variation of the laser line length without changing the working distance, using an Alvarez configuration to manipulate the refractive power through relative movement of the micro-lens arrays.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual exchange of camera and projector objectives is performed to adjust measurement range, then measurement adaptability to different object sizes is improved, but measurement time increases and automation capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the laser line length continuously adjustable through relative movement of the two micro-lens arrays. The actuator enables dynamic reconfiguration of the optical system without manual intervention, allowing the measurement range to adapt to different object sizes while maintaining automated operation and reducing measurement time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by varying the refractive power of the combined micro-lens array system through controlled displacement of one array relative to the other. This changes the divergence angle of the laser line, thereby adjusting the measurement range parameter to suit different object sizes without requiring physical exchange of components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual exchange of camera and projector objectives is performed to adjust measurement range, then measurement adaptability to different object sizes is improved, but device complexity and operation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static fixed objectives to a dynamic configuration where the laser line length can be continuously adjusted. The actuator automatically repositions the micro-lens arrays based on the desired measurement range, eliminating the need for manual objective exchange and simplifying operation while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical system performs self-adjustment through the actuator-controlled relative movement of the micro-lens arrays. The system automatically reconfigures its own optical parameters to adapt to different measurement requirements without external manual intervention, thereby improving ease of operation while preserving measurement range adaptability.
3Device complexity
If fixed laser line length is used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to objects of different sizes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces controlled dynamics into the optical system by enabling relative movement between the two micro-lens arrays. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the laser line length to be varied according to measurement requirements, providing adaptability to objects of different sizes while maintaining relatively simple optical components.
Solution Approach 2:
The combined micro-lens array system serves multiple functions by adjusting the divergence angle of the laser line. The same optical components can adapt to measure objects of varying sizes through controlled relative displacement, making the system universal and eliminating the need for multiple fixed configurations or additional components.
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 precise and accurate measurement of objects of varying sizes within a defined measuring range with reduced data volume and direct visual feedback, enhancing measurement efficiency and suitability for automated applications.
Implementation Method 1
The Alvarez element comprises a first micro-lens array (15) and a second micro-lens array (16) arranged successively to be irradiated by the measuring radiation of the light emitting assembly (10a). The first and second micro-lens arrays (15; 16) are arranged and configured to manipulate the measuring radiation to provide the laser line with a defined laser line length.
Data Source
AI summary
A laser line module LLM for projecting a laser line onto a surface of a distant target object comprising a light emitting assembly configured to emit measuring radiation, the light emitting assembly comprising a laser diode and a beam shaping assembly, wherein the laser diode and the beam shaping assembly are arranged and configured to guide the measuring radiation along an optical axis of the laser line module. The LLM comprises a line adjusting unit successively arranged to be irradiated by the measuring radiation of the light emitting assembly and configured to manipulate the measuring radiation to provide the laser line with a defined laser line length, the line adjusting unit comprising a first micro-lens array having a first beam-manipulation surface having a multitude of first microlenses which define a first periodic height profile and providing a first refractive power.