Focused Light Beam Alignment for Vehicle Centerline Fixtures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for aligning a movable fixture relative to a vehicle, such as a camera or other device, are often labor-intensive and require multiple individuals, particularly when using a plumb bob for centerline determination.
Innovation Solution
Utilizing a focused light beam generator and receptor to align the beam along the vehicle's centerline, allowing for the alignment of a movable fixture with the vehicle, where the receptor is positioned between the generator and the vehicle, and the beam is directed onto a receiving surface to square the receptor with the centerline, enabling single-person alignment of the fixture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a plumb bob is used to align a movable stand with the vehicle centerline, then alignment accuracy is achieved, but the operation requires two persons and becomes labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical plumb bob system with an optical system consisting of a laser beam generator and a receiver with alignment markings. The laser projects a visible beam that aligns with vehicle centerline markings, eliminating the need for manual plumb bob handling while maintaining alignment precision. This substitution transforms a mechanically-intensive two-person operation into a simpler optical alignment process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a receiver with vertical markings or slots as an intermediary between the laser beam and the alignment target. This receiver provides visual references that facilitate precise alignment without requiring direct manual manipulation of alignment tools, thereby reducing the skill level and number of personnel needed while maintaining measurement accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If a plumb bob alignment system is used, then proper centerline alignment is achieved, but the process time increases due to manual positioning requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The optical laser alignment system eliminates the time-consuming manual positioning and visual estimation required by plumb bob methods. The laser beam provides an immediate, visible reference line that can be quickly aligned with vehicle centerline markings, significantly reducing the time needed to establish accurate alignment while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the visible light property of the laser beam to provide an immediate visual indicator of alignment status. The bright laser line and the contrasting markings on the receiver provide clear visual feedback that allows for rapid alignment verification and adjustment, reducing the time required compared to the subtle visual cues of a plumb bob system.
3Measurement precision
If traditional alignment methods are used, then alignment capability is provided, but the complexity of the alignment system increases due to multiple components and procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent simplifies the alignment system by replacing complex mechanical assemblies with a compact optical system. The laser beam generator and receiver with integrated markings eliminate the need for separate positioning devices, adjustment mechanisms, and multiple alignment tools, thereby reducing system complexity while maintaining alignment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The receiver component serves multiple functions: it provides visual alignment references through its markings or slots, acts as a positioning aid, and enables verification of alignment accuracy. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed in the alignment system, simplifying the overall system while maintaining comprehensive alignment capability.
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 efficient and precise alignment of movable fixtures to the vehicle centerline, reducing the need for multiple personnel and enhancing operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a focused light beam generator; and a focused light beam receptor with a focused light beam receiving surface for receiving a focused light beam from the focused light beam generator
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus including a focused light beam receptor apparatus configured to be positioned proximate a first end of a vehicle, a focused light beam generator; and wherein the focused light beam receptor apparatus includes a focused light beam receiving surface for receiving a focused light beam from the focused light beam generator to provide alignment of the focused light beam receptor relative to a centerline of the vehicle. A method of aligning a focused light beam receptor, focused light beam generator and a movable alignment stand relative to a centerline of a vehicle is also provided.