MEMS Laser Scanning Module for Precise Aircraft Surface Defect Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 3D scanning technologies for detecting damage on aircraft surfaces are bulky, power-hungry, costly, and lack precision, particularly in the context of portable handheld scanners needed for aerospace maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A detection module utilizing MEMS micro scanning mirrors for laser projection and reception, combined with RGB imaging and a processor for defect detection, including features like high dynamic range imaging and pattern projection to enhance precision and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional 3D scanning technology is used, then measurement capability is provided, but device size and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical scanning systems with MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) technology. The MEMS mirror array can be integrated into a compact form factor while providing 3D scanning capability, thus reducing device size and weight compared to traditional mechanical scanners.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent integrates multiple functional components (laser source, MEMS mirrors, sensors, processor) into a compact handheld module structure. The scanning unit, RGB image sensor, and processor are nested within a unified housing that can be held in one hand, achieving miniaturization while maintaining measurement functionality.
2Measurement precision
If traditional 3D scanning technology is used, then measurement capability is provided, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses pulsed laser emission synchronized with MEMS mirror scanning movements. The laser operates in periodic pulses rather than continuous mode, and the MEMS mirrors scan in periodic cycles, reducing overall power consumption while maintaining effective measurement coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the reflected laser light itself for both 3D measurement and RGB imaging, eliminating the need for separate illumination sources. The MEMS mirrors redirect the same laser beam to different positions on the surface, and the sensor captures both depth information and color information from the reflected light, improving energy efficiency.
3Measurement precision
If traditional 3D scanning technology is used, then measurement capability is provided, but device cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a multi-functional handheld device where a single unit performs both 3D scanning and RGB imaging functions. The same laser source and sensor are used for both depth measurement and color capture, eliminating the need for separate systems and reducing overall device cost while providing comprehensive measurement capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses digital image processing and computational methods to achieve measurement functionality rather than relying solely on expensive hardware. The processor stitches multiple laser images and combines them with RGB images to create comprehensive 3D models, using software algorithms to complement the hardware capabilities and reduce manufacturing costs.
4Volume of moving object
If MEMS scanning mirrors are used, then device size is reduced, but measurement precision needs improvement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses multiple MEMS mirrors arranged in specific geometries to scan the surface from different angles simultaneously. By utilizing angular dimensions and spatial arrangements of the mirrors, the system achieves comprehensive coverage and high measurement precision within a compact form factor.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines laser scanning data with RGB image data in a unified processing system. The processor integrates information from both sources to enhance measurement precision, using the complementary strengths of both technologies to achieve accurate 3D reconstruction and defect detection in a compact device.
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 solution provides a compact, efficient, and precise method for detecting defects on aircraft surfaces, improving detection efficiency and standardizing measurement operations while reducing device size.
Implementation Method 1
at least two MEMS micro scanning mirrors configured to reflect laser emitted by the laser source onto the detected surface
Implementation Method 2
a laser receiving device configured to receive the reflected laser from the detected surface to obtain at least two laser images of the detected surface
Implementation Method 3
a RGB image sensor configured to capture a RGB image of the detected surface
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed are a detection module (10), a detection device, a detection system, and a detection method. The detection module includes: a scanning unit (11) configured to perform 3D scanning on a detected surface and comprising a laser projecting device including a laser source (111) and at least two MEMS micro scanning mirrors (1131,1132) configured to reflect laser emitted by the laser source onto the detected surface, and a laser receiving device (114) configured to receive the reflected laser from the detected surface to obtain at least two laser images of the detected surface; a RGB image sensor (12) configured to capture a RGB image of the detected surface; and a processor (13) connected to the scanning unit and the RGB image sensor, and configured to stitch the at least two laser images, and detect a defect of the detected surface based on the stitched laser image and the RGB image.