Optical Encoder Adjustment Device Using Automated Resistance Matrix

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing optical encoder adjustment methods are manual, complex, and not automated, making them difficult for unqualified operators to use and not adaptable to varying environmental conditions such as extreme temperatures, which affects signal amplitude stability.

Innovation Solution

A device and method for adjusting optical encoders with a rotating member, adjustment member, and control unit that allows for easy setup and automated adjustment of photodetector signals to match setpoint amplitudes, using telescopic connectors and an adjustable resistor matrix to modify resistance values, facilitating quick and reliable signal amplitude correction.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual adjustment methods with decade substitution boxes are used, then signal amplitude can be adjusted, but the operation becomes complex and requires skilled operators

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal amplitude adjustment precisionVSAvoidoperator skill requirement
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-adjustment through automated control. The microprocessor controls the rotation mechanism to position the encoder disk, activates photodetectors sequentially, measures signal amplitudes, and automatically adjusts resistance values through the resistor matrix without requiring manual intervention or skilled operators.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The manual mechanical adjustment using decade substitution boxes is replaced by an automated electromechanical system. The microprocessor-based control system with automated rotation mechanism and electronic resistance adjustment replaces the manual mechanical switching and wiring operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Productivity

If automated adjustment is implemented, then operation becomes easier and faster, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustment speedVSAvoidsystem structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The adjustment device is designed as a universal solution that can adjust multiple encoders of the same type through sequential adjustment. The same mechanism and control system serve multiple photodetectors and encoder tracks, making the complex system reusable and efficient for批量 adjustments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The adjustment process is segmented into distinct automated steps: rotation positioning, photodetector activation, signal measurement, and resistance adjustment. The resistor matrix is segmented into individually controllable resistance elements that can be adjusted independently for each photodetector.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Reliability

If photodetector amplitude differences are not corrected, then the encoder can operate, but signal stability deteriorates under extreme temperatures

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveencoder operation capabilityVSAvoidsignal amplitude stability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements feedback control by measuring the actual signal amplitude from each photodetector, comparing it with the desired amplitude, and automatically adjusting the resistance values to eliminate amplitude differences. This closed-loop feedback ensures stable operation under varying temperature conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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 quick, reliable, and easy adjustment of optical encoder signals, ensuring consistent amplitude across photodetectors, even in extreme conditions, without requiring special tools or knowledge, and allows for simultaneous or successive adjustment of multiple encoders.

Implementation Method 1

An optical beam emitted by infrared diodes passes through the transparent areas of the rotating disk and strikes photodetectors, creating an analog signal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric Effect: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentEP4145093B1Device for adjusting an optical encoder with photodetectors and adjustment method
Publication Date: 2025.01.22 CODECHAMP
  • EP4145093B1 patent drawingFigure 1~3
  • EP4145093B1 patent drawingFigure 4~6
  • EP4145093B1 patent drawingFigure 7

AI summary

The adjustment device for an optical encoder (3) with photodetectors comprises an optical encoder (3) to be adjusted, a rotating member (4, 5) for the optical encoder (3), and an adjustment member (7) adapted to removably fit the optical encoder onto the rotating member (4, 5). This adjustment member (7) is adapted to send a setpoint signal to the rotating encoder (3), to collect a response signal emitted by the encoder (3), and to modify the rotation of the encoder (3). The device also includes a control member (12) and a monitoring member (11). The invention also relates to an adjustment method.