Laser Profiler Conical Mirror 360 Ring Light
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipeline profiling systems using multiple laser diodes suffer from alignment issues and produce inaccurate data due to varying line thickness and overlap, resulting in unreliable information.
Innovation Solution
A single laser diode mounted within a cylindrical housing with a conical mirror and transparent shroud is used to project a 360° ring of light, eliminating the need for multiple diodes and ensuring a uniform width by shielding misaligned light.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple laser diodes are used to project a 360° ring of light, then the coverage area is improved, but the alignment complexity and data accuracy deteriorate due to varying line thickness and overlap
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single laser diode's beam into multiple segments using a polygonal mirror or series of flat mirrors arranged in a circle. Each mirror segment reflects a portion of the laser beam to create the complete 360° ring, eliminating the need for multiple laser diodes while maintaining uniform line thickness and avoiding overlap issues
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a polygonal mirror or series of flat mirrors as an intermediary component between the single laser diode and the pipeline interior. This intermediary device distributes the laser beam uniformly around the 360° circumference, solving the alignment and consistency problems that would arise from using multiple independent laser diodes
2Area of stationary object
If multiple laser diodes are used to increase coverage, then the illumination area is improved, but the device complexity and alignment time worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple laser diodes into a single laser diode combined with a polygonal mirror or series of flat mirrors. This consolidation reduces the number of independent components that require alignment, simplifying the device while maintaining the ability to illuminate the entire 360° circumference of the pipeline interior
Solution Approach 2:
The single laser diode combined with the polygonal mirror or series of flat mirrors serves multiple functions: it generates the laser beam, distributes it uniformly around the circumference, and creates the complete 360° illumination pattern, replacing what would otherwise require multiple specialized laser diodes
3Area of stationary object
If adjacent laser diodes are used to cover the full circumference, then the coverage is improved, but the line thickness uniformity deteriorates due to overlap and varying thickness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the laser beam path using a polygonal mirror or series of flat mirrors, where each mirror reflects a specific angular portion of the beam. This segmentation ensures that each segment of the 360° ring is created by a controlled reflection, maintaining uniform line thickness without the overlap problems that occur when multiple independent laser diodes are used
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 solution provides accurate and reliable data surveys by producing a crisp, uniform ring of light, reducing alignment complexities and improving data consistency.
Implementation Method 1
A beam produced by the laser diode is directed to the conical mirror and is reflected therefrom at 360° through the transparent shroud to produce a ring of light
Data Source
AI summary
A laser profiler includes: a laser diode mounted within a substantially cylindrical housing; a conical mirror positioned upstream from the laser diode within the cylindrical housing; and a transparent shroud positioned to surround the conical mirror. A beam produced by the laser diode is directed to the conical mirror and is reflected therefrom at 360° through the transparent shroud to produce a ring of light.