Optical Module Tilt Washers for Infrared Thermometer Alignment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The assembly of infrared thermometers is inconvenient due to the need for precise calibration of the optical axis between a small visible laser emitter and an infrared sensor, requiring additional precision tools that complicate the process.
Innovation Solution
An optical module with a base, a first optical component, and at least two washers that tilt with respect to each other, allowing for easy adjustment of the optical component's orientation without external tools by sandwiching the washers between the base and the flange, enabling rapid alignment of the laser emitter or infrared sensor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a small visible laser emitter is used to indicate the measurement position, then the precision of position indication is improved, but the complexity of assembly and adjustment increases due to the need for precise optical axis calibration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a visible laser emitter as an intermediary tool to indicate the measurement position. The laser emitter serves as a mediator between the infrared sensor and the user, providing visual feedback about the measurement point without interfering with the infrared measurement function. This resolves the contradiction by adding a helpful indication mechanism while maintaining measurement precision.
2Manufacturing precision
If additional precision adjusting tools are used to calibrate the optical axis, then the alignment precision between laser emitter and infrared sensor is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to the complicated adjustment process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the optical module to perform self-alignment through the laser emitter. The laser provides real-time visual feedback about the measurement position, allowing operators to intuitively adjust the infrared sensor position without requiring complex precision tools. The system essentially guides its own alignment process through the laser indication, dramatically simplifying the adjustment operation while maintaining high alignment precision.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the laser emitter is fixed by glue after adjustment, then the stability of the optical axis alignment is improved, but the ease of repair and re-adjustment deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions the optical module from a static fixed state (glued) to a dynamic adjustable state. By providing an adjustable mounting structure for the infrared sensor, the system allows the optical axis alignment to be dynamically adjusted and re-adjusted as needed. This resolves the contradiction by making the previously permanent glue fixation reversible and modifiable, enabling both stable operation during use and easy re-adjustment when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
An optical module includes a base, a first optical component and at least two washers. The first optical component is disposed on the base and the first optical component has a flange. The washers are disposed on the first optical component and sandwiched in between the base and the flange. Each of the washers has a first side surface and a second side surface, wherein the first side surface and the second side surface tilt with respect to each other by an angle.