Laser Tracker Retroreflector Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Laser trackers require manual measurement of retroreflector targets, which is prone to operator error and requires specialized skills, limiting their efficiency in measuring tools and parts, especially in applications where accuracy and speed are crucial.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that uses a laser tracker equipped with cameras and light sources to automatically identify and measure retroreflector targets, reducing the need for manual intervention and enhancing measurement accuracy and speed, even for unskilled operators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual measurement of retroreflector targets is used, then measurement can be performed with basic equipment, but operator error increases and specialized skills are required
Solution Approach 1:
The laser tracker system automatically identifies and measures retroreflector targets without requiring manual intervention. The camera captures images of targets, the processor automatically identifies them, and the system performs measurements autonomously, eliminating operator error and skill requirements while maintaining high measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement operations with an automated optical-electronic system. Cameras capture target positions, processors analyze images to identify retroreflectors, and computational algorithms perform measurements, substituting human operators with automated electronic systems that eliminate skill requirements
2Productivity
If manual measurement operations are performed, then system complexity remains low, but measurement speed and consistency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The laser tracker system integrates multiple functions into a single platform: camera-based target detection, automatic retroreflector identification, coordinate measurement, and data processing. This multi-functional integration increases productivity while managing system complexity through unified hardware and software architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The camera acts as an intermediary between the laser tracker and retroreflector targets, capturing visual information that the processor then analyzes for automatic identification. This intermediary component enables automated measurement without requiring direct manual intervention, significantly improving measurement speed
3Reliability
If automated measurement with cameras and processors is implemented, then operator error is reduced and unskilled operators can perform measurements, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses camera feedback to continuously monitor and identify retroreflector targets, with the processor analyzing captured images to confirm target detection and measurement validity. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures measurement consistency and reliability while automating the process
Solution Approach 2:
The camera captures images of targets before the actual laser measurement occurs, allowing the processor to pre-identify retroreflector positions and validate target placement. This preliminary action ensures measurement reliability by confirming target readiness before measurement begins
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
The system enables precise and rapid measurement of retroreflector targets, reducing operator error and the need for specialized training, improving measurement consistency and efficiency in tool inspection and monitoring across various applications.
Implementation Method 1
a collection of retroreflector targets including at least three non-collinear retroreflector targets
Implementation Method 2
The distance is measured with a distance-measuring device such as an absolute distance meter or an interferometer
Data Source
AI summary
Measuring with a system having retroreflector targets and a laser tracker includes storing a list of coordinates for three targets and at least one added point; capturing on a photosensitive array a portion of the light emitted by a light beam and reflected off the targets; obtaining spot positions on a photosensitive array of a tracker camera from the reflected light; determining a correspondence between three spot positions on the photosensitive array and the coordinates of the targets; directing a beam of light from the tracker to the targets based at least in part on the coordinates of the first target and the first spot position; measuring 3-D coordinates of the targets with the tracker; determining 3-D coordinates of the at least one added point based at least in part on the measured 3-D coordinates of the targets and the coordinates of the at least one added point.