Laser Scanner Housing Segmentation for 360-Degree Scanning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current laser scanners face challenges in scanning over 360° effectively and detecting objects in angular positions where a reference measure is taken, while also being compact and maintaining unimpeded scanning.
Innovation Solution
A laser scanner design where the motor, light source, and photodetector are housed on the same side of the sweep surface, allowing unobstructed scanning and simplifying electrical connections, with a transparent cap for the scanning mirror and opaque housing for other components, and a reference subsystem using a co-rotating reference target to provide a distinct reference light path.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the motor, light source, and photodetector are housed on the same side of the sweep surface, then the scanning is unobstructed and electrical connections are simplified, but the housing structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The housing is divided into two distinct portions: a first housing portion that is opaque and houses the motor, light source, and photodetector, and a second housing portion that is transparent and allows unobstructed light passage. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by organizing components into functionally dedicated zones, enabling both compact integration and unimpeded scanning.
2Measurement precision
If a reference target is used for calibration, then distance measurement accuracy is improved, but object detection may be interfered with at angular positions where reference measure is taken
Solution Approach 1:
A static reference deflecting mirror is introduced as an intermediary component to separate the reference light path from the object detection path. The mirror deflects a portion of the light beam toward the reference target while allowing the main beam to continue for object scanning. This intermediary element enables simultaneous calibration and object detection without mutual interference.
3Volume of moving object
If the laser scanner is made compact, then the overall assembly size is reduced, but the light collection path may be obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The light collection path is arranged in a three-dimensional configuration that passes through the hollow motor spindle, utilizing the internal volume of the motor assembly. The photodetector is positioned to receive light through this hollow space, effectively using the motor's internal volume for optical purposes. This dimensional arrangement enables compact integration without obstructing the light collection path.
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 reliable 360° scanning with accurate object detection and distance measurement, reducing interference and allowing for easy maintenance, while maintaining a compact and user-friendly design.
Implementation Method 1
a collimated light beam generated by a laser source periodically moves or sweeps over an area to be scanned or monitored. The light beam may be moved by a scanning mirror which rotates (or in other embodiments not of concern herein by a deflection unit which oscillates) to direct light beams over the area.
Implementation Method 2
The light reflected or scattered back by an object toward the laser scanner in the same direction from where it was emitted by the laser scanner—also referred to as 'remitted' or 're-emitted' in safety laser scanner technology—is collected and detected by a photodetector.
Implementation Method 3
Using the time of flight of pulses of light so reflected or scattered back by an object and the speed of light, the distance of the object may be determined.
Data Source
AI summary
A laser scanner (10) including a housing (12) having a window (14), a light source (34) for emitting a light beam (32), the window (14) being transparent to the wavelength(s) of the light beam (32), a scanning mirror (30) rotatable about an axis of rotation (X) for deflection of the light beam (32) toward a scanning area (SC) so that the light beam (32) periodically sweeps at least one sweep surface, and for deflection of return light from objects or persons in the scanning area (SC) into a light collection path, a motor (24) for rotating the scanning mirror (30), a photodetector element (42) for generating an electric signal, arranged in said light collection path, wherein the motor (24), the light source (34), and the photodetector element (42) are all housed within the housing (12) on a same side with respect to said at least one sweep surface.