Multi-Directional Optical Inspection for Smooth Surfaces and Defects
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional contactless inspection methods struggle to effectively illuminate and detect both smooth surfaces and minute defects on objects using a single light beam, as they often result in uneven luminance and difficulty in distinguishing between the two.
Innovation Solution
An optical apparatus with a light emission portion, a light direction selection portion, and an image-forming optical element that emits light beams of different wavelengths and directions, utilizing a diffuser to create multiple light beams with varying optical characteristics, allowing simultaneous illumination of multiple points on an object surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single light beam is used for illumination, then the inspection system is simple, but it cannot effectively illuminate both smooth surfaces and minute defects simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides a single light beam into multiple light beams with different directions and wavelengths using optical elements such as diffraction gratings and beam splitters. This segmentation allows different regions of the object surface (smooth areas and minute defects) to be illuminated simultaneously by appropriate light beams, resolving the contradiction between illumination versatility and system simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different optical characteristics (wavelengths, directions, intensities) to different light beams so that specific regions of the object surface receive optimized illumination. For example, certain wavelengths may be directed at smooth surfaces while others target minute defects, enabling localized quality optimization without requiring a completely complex multi-source system.
2Reliability
If multiple light beams with different directions are used, then both smooth surfaces and minute defects can be observed, but the luminance becomes uneven
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adjusts parameters such as light intensity, wavelength, and direction for each beam to compensate for uneven luminance. By dynamically changing these parameters, the system maintains uniform overall illumination while preserving the directional diversity needed to highlight both smooth surfaces and minute defects, thus resolving the contradiction between detection reliability and luminance uniformity.
3Ease of operation
If conventional inspection methods are used, then the system is simple to operate, but it is difficult to distinguish between smooth surfaces and minute defects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes different wavelengths (colors) of light to illuminate the object surface. By analyzing the reflected or scattered light at different wavelengths, the system can distinguish between smooth surfaces and minute defects based on their different optical responses. This color/wavelength differentiation enhances measurement precision while the automated optical setup maintains ease of 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
The apparatus enables clear observation of both smooth surfaces and minute defects by adjusting luminance and direction of light beams, enhancing detection reliability through intensity information.
Implementation Method 1
The light direction changer is configured to change a direction of the incident light beam to a different direction
Data Source
AI summary
According to an embodiment, an optical apparatus includes a light emission portion; a light direction selection portion; and an image-forming optical element. The light emission portion is configured to emit a first light beam of a first wavelength spectrum including a first wavelength. The light direction selection portion includes a first light direction selection region and a second light direction selection region on or near a focal plane of the image-forming optical element. The first light beam incident on the first light direction selection region or the second light direction selection region is emitted as a light beam having a different optical characteristic according to the regions, and at least one of the regions includes a light direction changer that is configured to change a direction of the incident light beam to a different direction and emits the light beam.