Laser Scanning Device Using Variable-Size Markings for Axis Correction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Laser scanning apparatuses experience measurement errors due to temperature-induced deformations and distortions within the apparatus, affecting the optical axis and resulting in inaccurate data.

Innovation Solution

A laser scanning apparatus with an optical system and a housing that includes an error calculating unit to determine errors in the optical axis direction using a diagram with varying size in the scanning direction, allowing for correction of these errors based on laser scan data.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If laser scanning is performed using a conventional apparatus, then the scanning operation can be executed, but measurement errors occur due to temperature-induced deformations and optical axis deviations

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemeasurement accuracyVSAvoidmeasurement consistency

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by performing laser scanning on a reference diagram before actual measurement to detect optical axis deviations. The system calculates deviation amounts based on scanned positions of the reference diagram and uses these deviations to correct subsequent measurement data, thereby eliminating temperature-induced errors before they affect measurement accuracy

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring the positions of scanned points on the reference diagram and using this information to calculate optical axis deviations. The calculated deviations are then fed back to correct the measurement data, creating a closed-loop system that automatically compensates for temperature-induced errors and maintains measurement reliability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

2Productivity

If the laser scanning apparatus operates for extended periods, then productivity increases, but measurement errors increase due to heat accumulation and thermal deformation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvescanning outputVSAvoiddata accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies continuity of useful action by performing reference diagram scanning continuously during operation rather than stopping measurements for calibration. The system continuously scans the reference diagram, calculates optical axis deviations in real-time, and corrects measurement data without interrupting the scanning workflow, thereby maintaining both productivity and accuracy over extended operation periods

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements self-service by enabling the laser scanning apparatus to automatically detect and correct its own optical axis deviations using the reference diagram. The system performs self-diagnosis through laser scanning and self-correction by applying calculated deviation amounts to measurement data, eliminating the need for external calibration equipment or manual intervention and maintaining accuracy during continuous operation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Measurement precision

If a reference diagram with constant size is used for error calculation, then the calculation process is simple, but it cannot accurately detect optical axis deviations in the scanning direction

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedeviation detection accuracyVSAvoiddiagram design complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies asymmetry by designing the reference diagram with non-uniform dimensions where the size in the scanning direction differs from the size in the perpendicular direction. This asymmetric geometry enables the system to independently detect and calculate optical axis deviations in both the scanning direction (Δθy) and the perpendicular direction (Δθx) by analyzing the scanned positions of different portions of the diagram, thereby achieving comprehensive deviation detection capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #4Asymmetry

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

Reduces measurement errors in laser scanning by calculating and correcting optical axis deviations, enhancing data accuracy and reducing inaccuracies caused by temperature-related distortions.

Implementation Method 1

an optical system emitting laser scanning light

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLaser: Laser

Data Source

PatentUS20250271562A1Laser scanning device, laser scan data processing method, and program

Publication Date: 2025.08.28 TOPCON CORPORATION

AI summary

Error in measurement is reduced in a laser scanning apparatus, the laser scanning apparatus 100 includes reflection mirror 105 rotating and being an optical system emitting laser scanning light; the horizontal rotating unit 103 being a housing holding the reflection mirror in a rotatable condition; and an error calculating unit calculating error of the laser scanning light in its optical axis direction, and in the laser scanning apparatus, the marking for optical axis correction 106 having a part arranged on the horizontal rotating unit 103, a certain part on which laser scanning is performed by the laser scanning light, the marking for optical axis correction 106 is a diagram in which size in a direction parallel to the laser scanning direction is not constant, and the error is calculated based on laser scan data of the diagram.