Optical Depth Gage Using Intersecting Laser Beams
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Inspection of complex internal features in engine members, such as turbine airfoils, is challenging due to limited access, making it difficult to accurately measure depth using conventional methods.
Innovation Solution
A depth measurement device utilizing two laser beams that intersect at the internal feature, with a mirror and eyepiece for visualization, indicating if the feature is at the desired dimension by coinciding or not coinciding at the internal feature, and a third light source for illumination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional measurement methods are used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates due to limited access to internal features
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical measurement methods with an optical measurement system using laser beams. The first and second laser beams project onto the internal feature at different angles, and their intersection point indicates the depth measurement. This optical substitution enables precise measurement of internal features that are difficult to access mechanically, thereby improving measurement precision without requiring complex mechanical access mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a mirror as an intermediary optical element to redirect the laser beams into the internal feature space. The mirror enables the laser beams to reach internal features that are not directly accessible from the exterior, acting as a mediator that extends the measurement capability into confined spaces while maintaining system simplicity.
2Measurement precision
If access to internal features is limited, then ease of operation is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical probing methods with non-contact optical measurement using laser beams. The first and second laser beams can penetrate or reflect off internal features without requiring physical access, enabling precise depth measurement of brazed joints and other internal features that are difficult to reach with conventional mechanical tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The mirror serves as an intermediary that redirects laser beams into internal features with limited access. By positioning the mirror at an appropriate angle, the system can illuminate and measure internal features through narrow openings or at angles that would be inaccessible to direct mechanical measurement tools.
3Measurement precision
If visual inspection is performed on internal features, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases due to additional optical components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical measurement devices with a simplified optical system. Instead of using mechanical probes or microscopes that require complex positioning mechanisms, the system uses laser beams that can be precisely directed and whose intersection point provides direct visual indication of depth, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the visual property of light intersection to indicate measurement results. When the first and second laser beams intersect at the internal feature, their overlapping position provides a clear visual indicator of the correct depth. This optical visualization method eliminates the need for complex electronic sensors or processing systems, achieving precise measurement with minimal 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
Enables accurate depth measurement of internal features by visualizing the intersection of laser beams, facilitating quality control and overcoming access limitations, ensuring precise determination of feature dimensions.
Implementation Method 1
a first light source configured to direct a first beam of light, a second light source configured to direct a second beam of light
Implementation Method 2
a mirror for viewing at least one of the first beam of light and the second beam of light
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B~1C
Figure 2A~2B
AI summary
Systems and methods for depth measurement are described herein. A depth measurement device (100) may comprise a first light source (120) configured to direct a first beam of light (122), a second light source (124) configured to direct a second beam of light (126), and a mirror (130). The mirror may be for viewing at least one of the first beam of light (122) and the second beam of light (126). The depth measurement device (100) may further comprise a housing (110). The depth measurement device (100) may further comprise an eyepiece (112). The first beam of light (122) and the second beam of light (126) may be configured to intersect at a desired location. The eyepiece (112) may be configured to maintain a consistent line-of-sight between the eyepiece (112), the mirror (130), and the desired location. In various embodiments, the second beam of light (126) may be oriented at an acute angle (α) with respect to the first beam of light (122).