Laser Scanner Locking Mechanism for Backlash-Free Scanning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing laser scanner devices face issues with static strains and dynamic loads due to non-uniform clamping and moments of inertia, which affect the accuracy and stability of optical scanning and measurement.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a locking mechanism between the measuring head and the base, using conical or wedge-shaped elements, along with a mechanical connection that eliminates backlash, and the use of lightweight materials for the housing to reduce weight and enhance protection, while maintaining a stable support structure.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If the measuring head is clamped to the base with a fixed connection, then the mechanical stability is improved, but static strains and dynamic loads cause measurement precision degradation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemechanical stabilityVSAvoidmeasurement precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting device is segmented into multiple independent mounting elements that distribute the clamping force across multiple contact points. This segmentation allows the measuring head to be securely held while reducing concentrated static strains that would otherwise degrade measurement precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting device incorporates counterbalancing mechanisms that compensate for the moments of inertia of the measuring head during rotation. By providing counteracting forces, the system reduces dynamic loads on the pivot bearing, thereby maintaining measurement precision while preserving mechanical stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #8Anti-weight (Counterweight)

2Reliability

If conical or wedge-shaped elements are used for mechanical connection, then backlash is eliminated improving reliability, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidmounting structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Conical elements with tapered surfaces are used to create a self-aligning, backlash-free mechanical connection. The curved conical surfaces naturally guide the components into proper alignment during assembly, eliminating backlash without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms, thus maintaining relatively simple device structure while improving connection reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

3Weight of moving object

If lightweight materials like plastic shells and aluminum yokes are used, then the weight of the laser scanner is reduced improving ease of operation, but structural strength may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelaser scanner weightVSAvoidhousing strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Weight of moving objectVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The housing combines plastic shells for the main structure with aluminum yokes for reinforcement and mounting functions. This composite material approach leverages the low weight and corrosion resistance of plastic while utilizing the high strength-to-weight ratio of aluminum in critical load-bearing areas, achieving both weight reduction and maintained structural strength.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Data Source

PatentUS9417056B2Device for optically scanning and measuring an environment
Publication Date: 2016.08.16 FARO TECHNOLOGIES INC
  • US9417056B2 patent drawing
  • US9417056B2 patent drawing
  • US9417056B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A laser scanner device for optically scanning and measuring an environment includes a base, a measuring head which is rotatable relative to the base, and a mirror which is rotatably relative to the measuring head, wherein, in at least one operating mode, the laser scanner is mounted on a cart by a mounting device, the cart moves the base which is fixedly connected with the mounting device, the measuring head rests relative to the base, the mirror rotates, and the measuring head is locked with the mounting device by a locking mechanism.