Multiple Laser Time of Arrival Probe for Rotating Part Stress Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current laser time of arrival probes are ineffective for measuring high order/frequency modes of vibration in rotating parts due to low signal-to-noise ratios and sensitivity to manufacturing variations, requiring numerous probes and being impractical for consistent measurement across varying parts.
Innovation Solution
A multiple laser time of arrival probe system that emits two laser beams of different wavelengths, using a redirector and lens assembly to converge and redirect the beams onto specific targets on rotating parts, allowing for simultaneous measurement of multiple locations and improved deflection detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple probes are used to measure high order/frequency modes, then measurement coverage increases, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides a single probe into multiple functional segments by incorporating multiple laser beams (e.g., multiple wavelengths) that target different locations on the rotating part. Each laser beam acts as an independent measurement channel, enabling the single probe to perform measurements at multiple locations simultaneously, thereby achieving the coverage of multiple probes without the associated complexity and cost
Solution Approach 2:
The single probe assembly is designed to perform multiple measurement functions by emitting multiple laser beams with different wavelengths that can measure vibratory deflections at different locations on the rotating part. This multi-functional design allows one probe to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate probes, reducing device complexity while maintaining comprehensive measurement coverage
2Measurement precision
If probes are located at specific locations to capture maximum deflection, then measurement precision improves, but adaptability to manufacturing variations decreases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the measurement capability across multiple laser beams targeting different locations, the system ensures that at least one beam will capture the maximum deflection point regardless of manufacturing variations. The multiple target locations are distributed to cover potential variations in where maximum deflection occurs
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs more laser beams than the minimum single beam would require, creating an excessive measurement capability where multiple redundant measurements are taken at different locations. This ensures that even if manufacturing variations shift the maximum deflection location, the system still captures adequate signal strength from at least one of the multiple measurement points
3Device complexity
If single wavelength laser is used, then device simplicity is maintained, but measurement capability for multiple locations is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the wavelength parameter of the laser to enable multi-location measurements. By using multiple laser beams with different wavelengths, the system can simultaneously measure at multiple locations without requiring physically separate probes. The wavelength differentiation allows the system to distinguish between measurements from different locations while maintaining a relatively simple single-probe architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The laser emission system is designed with multi-functionality by incorporating multiple wavelengths within a single probe assembly. This allows the same physical device to perform multiple measurement tasks simultaneously at different locations, significantly improving measurement efficiency and productivity without proportionally increasing device complexity
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
Enhances the probability of measuring local maximum vibratory deflections, improving the efficiency and confidence of stress measurement on rotating parts by enabling accurate detection of high order/frequency modes with reduced noise interference.
Implementation Method 1
laser time of arrival probe system for stress measurement
Implementation Method 2
The probe assembly may be configured to output a first reflected laser beam onto a first target on the rotatable part
Implementation Method 3
The lens assembly may be mounted proximal to the redirector and configured to converge the first laser beam onto the redirector and to converge the second laser beam onto the redirector
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for performing stress measurement on rotating parts is disclosed. The system may include a laser assembly configured to emit a plurality of laser beams having different wavelengths, and a probe assembly mounted proximal to a rotatable part in a device. The probe assembly may be configured to output a reflected laser beam onto a first target on the rotatable part. The probe assembly may be configured to output another reflected laser beam onto a second target on the rotatable part. The probe assembly may include a redirector, and a lens assembly mounted proximal to the redirector and configured to converge the laser beams. The redirector may be configured to change the direction of each emitted laser beam.