Light Curtain Receiver Layout Using Deflected Multi-Channel Optics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional light grids incur high production costs due to the large number of light receivers required for multiple receiving channels.
Innovation Solution
A light grid design utilizing a spatially resolving light receiver with deflecting elements to separate receiving channels on a single light receiver, reducing the number of light receivers needed by directing received light onto non-overlapping sub-areas of the receiver's surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If each receiving channel is assigned its own light receiver, then object detection accuracy is improved, but production costs increase due to the large number of light receivers required
Solution Approach 1:
The receiving surface of the single light receiver is divided into multiple non-overlapping sub-areas, with each sub-area corresponding to a specific receiving channel. This segmentation allows one light receiver to perform the function of multiple light receivers, reducing production costs while maintaining detection accuracy for each channel
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses deflecting elements to spatially separate light from different receiving channels and direct them onto different sub-areas of the receiving surface. This dimensional separation in space allows a single light receiver to process multiple channels simultaneously without crosstalk, resolving the contradiction between detection accuracy and manufacturing cost
2Measurement precision
If multiple light receivers are used for multiple receiving channels, then detection resolution is improved, but space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple light receivers are merged into a single light receiver by utilizing its spatially resolving capability. The receiving surface is divided into sub-areas that are electronically or physically associated with different receiving channels, allowing the system to maintain high detection resolution while occupying minimal physical space
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a physical array of multiple light receivers occupying significant space to a single light receiver with a divided receiving surface. The spatial separation of channels is achieved through deflecting elements that direct light from different channels to different sub-areas, maintaining resolution without increasing the physical footprint
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 manufacturing costs and space requirements by minimizing the number of light receivers while maintaining effective object detection and resolution, allowing for a more economical and compact light grid setup.
Implementation Method 1
at least a part of the receiving axes passes through the at least one deflecting element
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a light grid for detecting objects present in a monitoring area, comprising at least one receiving module, wherein the at least one receiving module comprises a spatially resolving light receiver with a light-sensitive receiving surface and at least one deflecting element, and has at least two receiving channels, wherein each receiving channel has a respective light entry aperture and a receiving axis passing through the light entry aperture, wherein the receiving surface is divided into at least two non-overlapping sub-surfaces, wherein each receiving channel is assigned a respective sub-surface, and wherein at least a part of the receiving axes passes through the at least one deflecting element.