Optical Beam Steering Mechanism for Compact Instrument Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical instruments, such as microscopes, face challenges in aligning beam paths due to mechanical drift and the need for compact, stable, and cost-effective solutions, particularly with limited space and the requirement for precise angular deviations.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an optical beam steering mechanism using a pair of lenses with equal but opposite focal lengths, coupled with rotary motors, allows for adjustable optical beam paths. This mechanism includes first and second lenses with focal lengths of equal magnitude but opposite polarity, positioned to directly receive the optical beam, and is powered by rotary motors that swing the lenses in an arcuate path.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional beam alignment methods are used in optical instruments, then the beam path can be aligned initially, but mechanical drift and vibrations cause loss of alignment precision over time
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary alignment using a alignment tool and reference beam before actual measurements. The alignment process establishes initial precise positioning of optical components, and the system maintains this alignment during operation. The alignment tool is positioned to receive the reference beam and direct it through optical components to the detector, creating a stable reference frame that compensates for subsequent mechanical drift and vibrations during measurements.
2Reliability
If complex alignment mechanisms are used to maintain beam path precision, then alignment stability improves, but device size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the optical components themselves (lenses, mirrors, detectors) to perform the alignment function. The alignment tool utilizes the existing optical path and components to establish and maintain beam alignment. By making the optical components self-aligning through the reference beam method, the system avoids adding complex external alignment mechanisms while maintaining stability during measurements.
3Measurement precision
If alignment mechanisms are designed for high precision, then beam path alignment improves, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment tool uses inexpensive optical components (lenses, mirrors, detectors) that can be easily manufactured and replaced. Rather than investing in expensive precision-machined alignment mechanisms, the system employs affordable optical elements that achieve sufficient alignment precision through the reference beam method. These components can be manufactured cost-effectively and maintained during operation.
4Volume of moving object
If the optical instrument is made compact to reduce size, then portability improves, but space for alignment mechanisms is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment function is merged with the existing optical path and components. The alignment tool integrates with the instrument's lenses, mirrors, and detector system, utilizing the same spatial volume for both alignment and measurement functions. This eliminates the need for separate dedicated alignment mechanisms and reduces the overall instrument size while maintaining alignment precision during compact operation.
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
This solution provides improved design flexibility and robustness with reduced size, cost, and complexity, enabling precise alignment of optical beams and maintaining positional reliability throughout measurements, even against gravity and vibrations.
Implementation Method 1
a first lens defining a first focal length having a first magnitude and a first polarity and a second lens defining a second focal length having a second magnitude and a second polarity. The first and second magnitudes are substantially equal and the first and second polarities are opposite
Implementation Method 2
at least one rotary motor coupled to one of the first lens and the second lens and configured to swing the lens coupled thereto in an arcuate path
Data Source
AI summary
An optical steering mechanism and methods for using the same. One optical steering mechanism includes a first lens defining a first focal length having a first magnitude and a first polarity and a second lens defining a second focal length having a second magnitude and a second polarity. The first and second magnitudes are substantially equal and the first and second polarities are opposite, and wherein the second lens is positioned to directly receive an optical beam passing through the first lens. The optical beam steering mechanism also includes at least one rotary motor coupled to one of the first lens and the second lens and configured to swing the lens coupled thereto in an arcuate path. An optical beam path of the optical beam passed through the second lens is adjustable by operating the rotary motor.