Motorized Off-Axis Guider Prism Assembly for Telescope Star Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current off-axis guiders for telescopes are cumbersome, difficult to use, and obstruct light, making it challenging to maintain alignment and focus for extended astronomical observations, particularly when trying to track stars for image stabilization.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight, dual-port off-axis guider assembly with bi-directional motion capabilities, utilizing motors and gears for precise movement without disturbing the main imaging camera, allowing for 360-degree access and automation for improved star tracking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a manually operated off-axis guider is used, then the device can be operated without motors, but the position of the object in the camera's imaging area is disturbed and manual adjustments are time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with motorized control systems. The off-axis guider incorporates motors that can be controlled automatically or remotely, eliminating the need for manual manipulation of the prism or mirror positioning mechanisms. This substitution resolves the contradiction by maintaining mechanical simplicity while dramatically improving ease of operation through automated control.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the prism is made large to improve light redirection, then light redirection capability is improved, but light obstruction and shadow casting on the image plane increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the light redirecting element by using a smaller prism or mirror with optimized dimensions and positioning. By carefully selecting the size, shape, and location of the prism, the system achieves sufficient light redirection capability while minimizing the blocking of light paths and shadow casting on the image plane.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the off-axis guider allows extensive prism movement, then star acquisition flexibility is improved, but the device becomes harder to control and more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control of the prism positioning system, allowing the device to adapt its configuration based on observing conditions and target requirements. The motorized mechanisms enable flexible movement to different positions for acquiring various stars, while automated control algorithms manage the complexity of coordinating these movements across multiple degrees of freedom.
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 precise and stable tracking of celestial objects, reducing the need for manual adjustments and minimizing light obstruction, facilitating longer exposure times and improved image quality.
Implementation Method 1
The off axis guider accessory has internal assemblies that is composed of either 1 or 2 independently controlled, bi-directional access ports which will allow a specific or auxiliary camera to view a small right angle prism
Data Source
AI summary
An Off Axis Guider specifically designed with internal mechanically controlled placement of one or more prisms which allow the user to select stars in the telescope's field of view without obscuring the primary cameras' image capturing ability.