360° Angular Measuring Instrument with Retro-Reflector and Encoders
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current precision measuring systems, such as laser tracking systems, have limited angular working ranges, requiring reconfiguration and recalibration for extended measurements, which hinders the ability to quickly switch between probing and scanning modes and restricts access to hidden points and deep recesses.
Innovation Solution
A multi-dimensional measuring system with a portable, hand-held instrument integrating point and line scanning capabilities, utilizing encoders for 360° motion about each axis, allowing seamless switching between probing and scanning modes with a full 360° angular range, enabling precise measurements of hidden points and surfaces without the need for reconfiguration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the angular working range is extended beyond ±35°, then the ability to measure hidden points and deep recesses is improved, but the device requires reconfiguration and recalibration which increases complexity and reduces productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement instrument is designed with multiple sensors (retro-reflector, position-sensitive detectors, encoders) that enable it to perform both probing and scanning functions within a single device. This multi-functionality allows the instrument to maintain a universal 360° angular working range without requiring reconfiguration or recalibration when switching between measurement modes, thereby resolving the technical contradiction between extended adaptability and device complexity
2Measurement precision
If separate probing and scanning devices are used, then measurement precision and speed are optimized respectively, but the need to switch between devices increases time loss and reduces overall productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of separate probing and scanning devices into a single integrated measurement instrument. The device combines a retro-reflector for precise angular measurement with position-sensitive detectors and encoders for both probing and scanning operations. This integration allows operators to switch between probing and scanning modes instantly without changing devices, thereby maintaining both high measurement precision and productivity while eliminating the time loss associated with device switching
3Ease of manufacture
If the retro-reflector acceptance angle is limited to ±35°, then the device structure is simpler, but hidden points and deep recesses become inaccessible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic angular measurement capabilities using encoders and position-sensitive detectors that can track the laser beam position across the full 360° range. This dynamic measurement system allows the retro-reflector assembly to maintain structural simplicity while achieving extended adaptability by dynamically adjusting and recording angular positions beyond the traditional ±35° acceptance angle limit through continuous rotational encoding
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
Enables precise and large-scale point and line measurements across 360°, facilitating access to previously inaccessible areas with enhanced measurement speed and accuracy, eliminating the need for separate devices and reducing calibration requirements.
Implementation Method 1
The target includes a retro-reflector with an acceptance angle of ±35° in pitch and yaw
Implementation Method 2
A position-sensitive detector, or the pitch and yaw sensor, is disposed behind the aperture to receive the laser beam passing through and detects the relative pitch and yaw position
Implementation Method 3
The pitch and yaw working range of the optical target is expanded to 360° with the use of a pitch/yaw range expansion encoder
Data Source
AI summary
A optical target assembly is disclosed herein. The optical target assembly is movable about orthogonal pitch, yaw and roll axes and includes a reflector, a pitch and yaw angular sensor assembly, and a roll sensor assembly. The reflector is configured to engage a source of laser light. The pitch and yaw angular sensor includes a laser light sensor and an angle detection sensor. The pitch and yaw angular sensor assembly is configured to measure 360 degrees of motion about the pitch and the yaw axes. The roll sensor assembly is configured to measure 360 degrees of motion about the roll axis. The reflector can include an aperture configured to permit a portion of laser light incident on the reflector to pass through the reflector and onto the laser light sensor. The roll sensor assembly can include a roll angle sensor and a roll level sensor coupled to a two-dimensional pendulum.