Laser Scanning Device for Multi-Object Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for optically scanning and measuring objects, such as coordinate measuring machines (CMM) and laser scanning devices, are time-consuming, require significant initial investment, and pose safety hazards due to the need for robot arms and safety cages, limiting manufacturing efficiency and increasing costs.
Innovation Solution
A method and system using a laser scanning device that moves along a fixed structure to emit a beam of light on geometrically identical objects in different spatial orientations, eliminating the need for robot arms and safety cages, allowing for simultaneous or sequential scanning and measurement of multiple sides of objects, reducing measurement time and improving safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a horizontal arm CMM is used to measure big bodies or structures, then measurement accuracy is improved, but measurement time increases significantly (more than six hours per part) and initial investment costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical horizontal arm CMM system with a laser scanning device that uses optical fields to measure objects. The laser scanning device emits laser beams that reflect off the object surface and are detected by sensors, eliminating the need for physical contact and complex mechanical positioning, thereby reducing measurement time while maintaining accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic positioning systems that allow the laser scanning device to move rapidly and precisely along predefined paths. The system dynamically adjusts the scanning position and orientation to optimize measurement efficiency, enabling complete object scanning in under 30 minutes compared to the static, time-consuming horizontal arm CMM process
2Adaptability or versatility
If a laser scanning device is used with a robot or robot arm to achieve line of sight for the laser beam, then measurement capability is improved, but safety devices such as caged cell with lockout are required, occupying large space and reducing manufacturing rate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the robot arm and its associated safety caging from the measurement system. Instead of using a robot to position the laser scanner, the system uses a fixed or simply positioned laser scanning device with automated scanning mechanisms, eliminating the need for extensive safety infrastructure while maintaining measurement versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces automated positioning systems and programmable scanning paths as intermediaries between the operator and the measurement process. These intermediaries enable the laser scanning device to achieve complex measurement trajectories without requiring a robot arm, thereby eliminating the need for safety cages while preserving adaptability
3Extent of automation
If a robot arm is used to carry the laser scanning device, then automated measurement is improved, but safety devices are required to prevent accidents, which reduces manufacturing rate and occupies large space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the robot arm mechanical system with an automated laser scanning system that uses optical fields and programmable control. The laser scanning device remains stationary or uses simple positioning mechanisms, while automation is achieved through automated scanning sequences and data processing, eliminating safety concerns and improving productivity
4Measurement precision
If a skilled operator is required to operate the measuring equipment, then measurement quality is improved, but operational complexity and training requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service features where the laser scanning system automatically performs calibration, positioning, and measurement operations without requiring skilled manual intervention. The system includes automated quality control algorithms that ensure measurement precision while simplifying the operator's role to basic setup and data retrieval, thereby reducing training requirements while maintaining quality
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 approach significantly reduces measurement time, eliminates the need for skilled operators, and enhances safety by allowing operators to perform other tasks nearby, resulting in a cost-effective and efficient scanning process capable of completing whole-object measurements in under 30 minutes compared to traditional methods.
Implementation Method 1
Emitting at least a beam of light on each of the at least two geometrically identical objects sequentially by means of the laser scanning device
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for optically scanning and measuring at least two geometrically identical objects (14) by means of at least one laser scanning device (12), the method comprising: emitting at least a beam of light on each of the at least two geometrically identical objects (14) sequentially by means of the at least one laser scanning device (12), moving the at least one laser scanning device (12) between at least two points along a fixed structure (24) and/or moving at least the beam of light emitted by the at least one laser scanning device (12) relative to the fixed structure (24), moving the at least two geometrically identical objects (14), wherein the at least two geometrically identical objects (14) are mounted in different spatial orientations, relative to the fixed structure (24), wherein the at least two geometrically identical objects (14) are moved at the same time or in succession and measuring position coordinates of points on the at least two geometrically identical objects (14) by means of the at least one laser scanning device (12) by receiving a reflected beam of the at least one emitted beam of light, which is the at least partially reflected beam of light from each of the at least two geometrically identical objects (14).