Modular Vision System With Interchangeable Optical Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional machine vision systems are often limited to operating with a single, fixed optical device and are not adaptable to accommodate a wide variety of operations and conditions, requiring cumbersome and inefficient switching of lenses or sensors.
Innovation Solution
A modular sensor system with interchangeable optical modules and a faceplate that allows for quick and easy transitions between different optical devices, featuring complementary squared mounting profiles for secure and rotatable attachment, enabling operation in multiple orientations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single fixed optical device is used in conventional machine vision systems, then the system structure is simple, but the system cannot accommodate various operations and conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separate modular components: a standardized faceplate with mounting apertures and interchangeable optical modules. Each optical module contains specific optical devices (lenses, sensors, illuminators) as independent segments that can be individually selected and swapped based on operational requirements, enabling versatility without requiring complete system redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The faceplate is designed as a universal mounting structure with standardized apertures that can accommodate multiple types of optical modules. The squared mounting bodies with complementary engagement features provide a universal interface that works with various optical device configurations, allowing one base structure to serve multiple functions across different applications.
2Productivity
If optical devices are swapped in conventional systems, then different operations can be performed, but the switching process is cumbersome and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system transitions from fixed to dynamically interchangeable configurations. Optical modules can be quickly attached and detached from the faceplate using the standardized squared mounting interface, allowing rapid reconfiguration of the system for different operations without cumbersome adjustment procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The squared mounting body acts as an intermediary component between the optical module and the faceplate. This standardized interface mediates the connection, providing consistent alignment and secure attachment while enabling quick swapping. The complementary squared profiles serve as the intermediary mechanism that simplifies the swapping process.
3Adaptability or versatility
If optical modules are mounted in fixed orientations, then alignment is simplified, but the system cannot operate in multiple orientations
Solution Approach 1:
The squared mounting bodies and apertures use asymmetric geometric profiles with specific orientation features (squared corners, flat sides) that provide precise angular reference. This asymmetric design enables the system to achieve precise alignment in multiple discrete orientations (0°, 90°, 180°, 270°) while maintaining manufacturing precision through the geometric constraints of the squared interface.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular sensor system for use with a faceplate mountable to a housing can include first and second optical modules. Each of the optical modules can be configured to be removably receivable within either of a first mounting aperture or a second mounting aperture of the faceplate, in either of a first orientation or a second orientation.