Optical Filter Module Switching Set Values

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current optical measurement systems require multiple filters for different types of special light, limiting the number of special observations that can be performed and requiring lengthy adjustments when switching between measurements.

Innovation Solution

A measurement system with detachable optical filter modules and a control unit that automatically switches set values for adjustment based on the specified filter, allowing for multiple special measurements with a single device.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple optical filters are mounted to perform multiple special observations, then the number of measurable types increases, but the device complexity and adjustment time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of measurable typesVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal measurement system where a single measurement apparatus can perform multiple special observations by detachably mounting different optical filter modules. Each filter module is designed with a standardized interface and identification mechanism, allowing the system to adapt to different measurement types without requiring separate dedicated devices for each observation type.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent divides the optical filtering function into separate, detachable filter modules rather than integrating all filters into a single complex unit. Each filter module is an independent component that can be individually mounted, detected, and adjusted. This segmentation reduces the complexity of the overall system by allowing filters to be changed independently without affecting other components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple optical filters are mounted to perform multiple special observations, then the number of measurable types increases, but the adjustment time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of measurable typesVSAvoidadjustment time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates an identification mechanism in each filter module that automatically detects and communicates the filter type to the control unit before measurement begins. This preliminary identification action allows the system to pre-load the appropriate set values and adjustment parameters for the detected filter, eliminating the need for manual adjustment procedures and reducing the time required to switch between different special observations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The measurement system automatically adjusts its parameters based on the detected filter type without requiring manual intervention. The control unit receives identification information from the filter module and autonomously selects and applies the corresponding set values, making the system self-adjusting and eliminating the time-consuming manual adjustment process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Measurement precision

If complicated set values are adjusted manually when switching special measurements, then measurement precision can be maintained, but the switching time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement precisionVSAvoidswitching speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the filter module's identification information is automatically detected and fed back to the control unit. Based on this feedback, the control unit automatically selects and applies the appropriate set values for the detected filter type. This closed-loop system ensures that the correct measurement parameters are always used, maintaining measurement precision while eliminating manual adjustment and significantly increasing switching speed.

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 efficient switching between different special measurements without manual adjustment, increasing the number of measurable types and reducing measurement time and costs.

Implementation Method 1

optical filters that each transmit different types of special light such as infrared light, visible light, and ultraviolet light

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical filtering: Filter (optical)

Data Source

PatentUS10088420B2Measurement system and method for switching set value for adjustment
Publication Date: 2018.10.02 MITUTOYO CORP
  • US10088420B2 patent drawing
  • US10088420B2 patent drawing
  • US10088420B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A measurement system includes detachable parts, on which one filter module out of a plurality of filter modules including optical filters that each transmit different types of special light is detachably mounted, a specification part that specifies the optical filter of the one filter module mounted on the detachable parts, and a set value switching part that switches, according to the specified optical filter specified by the specification part, set values for adjustment used in a measurement using a specific optical filter.