Modular Photodetector Housing for Wavelength-Split Light Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing detection apparatuses for laser beam welding have fixed photodetector arrangements, limiting their adaptability and flexibility in detecting returned light.
Innovation Solution
A modular detection apparatus comprising multiple housings with interchangeable photodetectors and dichroic mirrors, allowing for adjustable photodetector placement and improved light path alignment, enhancing detection accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed photodetector arrangement is used in a detection apparatus, then the device structure is simple, but the adaptability and flexibility of light detection are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The detection apparatus is divided into multiple independent housings, each capable of holding different photodetectors. This segmentation allows the system to be configured flexibly by assembling different housing units together, enabling adaptability in photodetector arrangement while maintaining relatively simple individual housing structures.
Solution Approach 2:
Each housing is designed with universal features including multiple types of connecting portions (first, second, third connecting portions) that can accommodate different photodetector types and arrangements. The housings can be connected in various sequences and configurations, allowing the same housing design to serve multiple detection purposes through different assembly arrangements.
2Measurement precision
If multiple photodetectors are used to improve detection accuracy, then the measurement precision increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple photodetectors are combined within integrated housing units that include necessary optical components like dichroic mirrors. This merging allows multiple detection functions to be achieved while organizing the complexity into manageable modular units rather than scattered components.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows dynamic reconfiguration of photodetector arrangements by connecting and disconnecting housing units in different sequences. Users can adapt the number and arrangement of photodetectors based on specific detection requirements, optimizing measurement precision while avoiding unnecessary complexity for simpler applications.
3Manufacturing precision
If dichroic mirrors are used to separate light wavelengths, then the light path alignment and detection accuracy improve, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The dichroic mirror is integrated into specific housing units rather than being part of a complex overall structure. This segmentation allows the mirror to be installed and aligned within a single modular housing unit, simplifying the manufacturing and assembly process compared to integrating it into a monolithic detection apparatus.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing structure serves as an intermediary that pre-position and support the dichroic mirror in the correct orientation and location. This intermediary structure simplifies the installation process by providing built-in mounting features and alignment references, reducing the complexity of directly installing and aligning the mirror within the overall apparatus.
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 flexible and accurate detection of returned light by allowing photodetector arrangement changes, improving the determination of welding quality through precise light intensity measurement.
Implementation Method 1
The dichroic mirror allows light having a first wavelength in incident light from the third opening to pass through the dichroic mirror toward the first opening, while the dichroic mirror reflects light having a second wavelength in the incident light toward the second opening
Implementation Method 2
a first photodetector connectable to a corresponding one of the two or more housings such that the first photodetector detects light incident on the first opening
Data Source
AI summary
A detection apparatus according to one aspect of this disclosure includes: two or more housings connectable to each other; a first photodetector connectable to a corresponding one of the two or more housings; and a second photodetector connectable to a corresponding one of the two or more housings. Each of the housings includes a first connecting portion to which the first photodetector is connectable, a second connecting portion to which the second photodetector is connectable, and a third opening facing the first connecting portion. At least one of the housings includes a dichroic mirror placed between a first opening and the third opening. The dichroic mirror allows light having a first wavelength in incident light from the third opening to pass through the dichroic mirror toward the first opening, while the dichroic mirror reflects light having a second wavelength in the incident light toward the second opening.