Modular 3D Laser Scanner Measuring Head Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional 3D laser scanners are expensive, inflexible, and require the purchase of a new instrument for upgrades or repairs, leading to high costs and downtime due to their complex and specialized nature.
Innovation Solution
A modular 3D laser scanner design with interchangeable modules for the measuring head, rotary drives, rotary mirror, transmitter, receiver, and computer, allowing users to upgrade specific components and simplify servicing by replacing only faulty modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a laser scanner is designed as a complete integrated instrument, then it provides complete functionality and reliability, but it increases cost and reduces flexibility for upgrades and repairs
Solution Approach 1:
The laser scanner is divided into separate functional modules (measuring head, computer, rotary drive) that can be independently selected, assembled, and replaced. This segmentation allows users to configure systems with different levels of functionality and upgrade specific components without replacing the entire instrument, thereby maintaining reliability while improving adaptability.
2Measurement precision
If a laser scanner is designed with high specifications, then it provides high precision and measuring range, but it increases purchase cost
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into modular components with varying specification levels. Users can assemble a system with high-precision components only where needed (e.g., measuring head) while using standard components elsewhere, thereby achieving high measurement precision at a lower overall cost compared to conventional integrated high-spec instruments.
Solution Approach 2:
Different modules are designed with different quality levels according to their specific functional requirements. The measuring head, which directly affects measurement precision, can be equipped with high-precision components, while other supporting modules can use standard components, optimizing the cost-performance ratio.
3Measurement precision
If a laser scanner uses specialized components, then it achieves required measuring performance, but it increases repair complexity and downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The laser scanner is segmented into standardized modular components with uniform connection interfaces. This segmentation enables quick identification and replacement of faulty modules without complex disassembly or specialized tools, significantly improving serviceability while maintaining high measurement performance through the use of specialized components within each module.
Solution Approach 2:
The modules are designed with universal standardized interfaces and mounting mechanisms that can accommodate different specification levels. This universality allows any module to be replaced with another of the same type regardless of its specific configuration, simplifying repair operations and reducing downtime.
4Measurement precision
If a laser scanner is configured for specific operational requirements, then it meets precise measuring needs, but it reduces adaptability to changing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into independent modular components that can be individually selected and reconfigured. Users can start with a basic configuration meeting current requirements and gradually replace individual modules (measuring head, computer, rotary drive) with higher-spec versions as needs evolve, providing both initial precision and future adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system configuration is made dynamic through modular design, allowing users to adapt the system to changing requirements by replacing specific modules rather than being locked into a fixed configuration. This enables the system to evolve from basic to advanced specifications over time.
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 cost-effective upgrades and reduced downtime by allowing users to customize specifications and replace individual modules, increasing flexibility and reducing the need for new instrument purchases, while facilitating quick and localized repairs.
Implementation Method 1
a transmitter arranged in the measuring head for transmitting a light beam
Implementation Method 2
a receiver arranged in the measuring head for receiving the light beam after a reflection thereof by an object
Data Source
AI summary
A laser scanner has a first axis and a second axis extending essentially transversely to the first axis. A measuring head is adapted to be rotated about the first axis. The measuring head has at least a first, a second, and a third module, wherein at least the first module and the third module are releasably connected to each other. A first rotary drive for rotating said measuring head is comprised within the first and the second modules. A rotary mirror is adapted to be rotated about the second axis. The rotary mirror is comprised within the third module. A second rotary drive is provided for rotating the rotary mirror. The second drive is likewise comprised within the third module. A transmitter is provided in the measuring head for transmitting a light beam. A receiver is provided in the measuring head for receiving the light beam after a reflection thereof by an object located at a distance from the laser scanner. A computer is provided in the measuring head for processing signals embedded within the received light beam.