Lens-Integrated Visual Marker for Safety Sensor Calibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical safety devices require precise installation of visual markers outside the field of view to ensure accurate calibration and diagnostics, which can be cumbersome and prone to damage.
Innovation Solution
A marker element is integrated into the through channel of the safety device case, surrounding the lens element, allowing for easier installation and protection by forming a visual marker in the optical image projected on the image sensor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the visual marker is placed outside the field of view in a fixed position, then the calibration and diagnostic accuracy is improved, but the installation becomes cumbersome and the marker is prone to damage
Solution Approach 1:
The marker element is merged with the lens element by being received within its cylindrical support structure. The marker element is positioned in the annular space between the lens support and the lens, integrating the marker function into the existing optical component assembly. This eliminates the need for separate marker installation while maintaining calibration accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The marker element is nested within the lens support structure. The cylindrical marker element fits into the annular space created by the lens support, effectively placing one component (marker) inside the structural framework of another component (lens support). This nesting provides both installation ease and protection.
2Measurement precision
If the visual marker is placed outside the field of view in a fixed position, then the calibration and diagnostic accuracy is improved, but the marker is prone to damage
Solution Approach 1:
The marker element is merged with the lens element assembly, where the lens support provides structural protection to the marker. The lens support acts as a protective framework that shields the marker from environmental damage while maintaining its visibility and calibration function.
Solution Approach 2:
The lens support structure provides beforehand cushioning and protection to the marker element. By positioning the marker within the protected annular space of the lens support, the system prepares the marker against potential environmental hazards before they occur, ensuring long-term durability.
3Measurement precision
If the marker is installed in a fixed position outside the field of view, then the diagnostic function is improved, but the installation requires case-by-case positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The lens support structure serves multiple functions: it holds the lens, provides structural support, and accommodates the marker element within its annular space. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate marker mounting mechanisms and standardizes the installation across different applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The marker installation is merged with the lens assembly process. Since the lens support already exists as a necessary component for mounting the lens, the marker element is installed simultaneously during the same assembly operation, eliminating separate positioning and installation steps.
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
Facilitates simpler and more durable marker installation, enhancing diagnostic and calibration functions while maintaining accuracy and robustness against environmental conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The lens focuses an optical image of a field of view on a focus area located at least in part on the optical sensor
Implementation Method 2
the marker portion has a color (which may be any kind of color, including black or white) in order to contrast the color of the channel wall of the through channel
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A safety device (1) for monitoring targets comprises an image sensor (4) arranged in a main case (2), and an optical lens (31) fitted in a through channel (24) of the case (2), which projects on the image sensor (4) an optical image of a field of view. A marker element (6) is mounted in the through channel (24) and surrounds the lens element (3). A marker portion (61) of the marker element (6) is arranged to appear in the optical image as a predetermined visual marker. In the preferred marker element (6), the marker portion (61) is removably fitted in the channel (24) and is formed by prongs (63) projecting from an annular mounting portion (62) and contrasting with a color of the channel wall (25). A monitoring system (7) performs a safety function, by detecting targets in the environment based on environment image data, and a diagnostic and/or calibration function based on marker image data, both collected by the image sensor (4).