Optical Alignment Platform With Parallel Rotation and Linear Offset
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional laser alignment systems suffer from accuracy issues due to manual angle measurement and single-bolt securing, leading to decreased stability and infeasibility for off-axis parabolic optical alignment.
Innovation Solution
A platform with independent parallel rotations and linear offset capabilities, utilizing first and second plates, disks, and a translational interface for precise angular and linear adjustments, enabling dual independent rotation and translation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual rotation and protractor measurement are used for angle adjustment, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision and stability of optical alignment deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual protractor measurement with a rotary encoder that provides digital angular position feedback. The encoder mechanically couples to the rotation stage and electronically measures the angle, substituting the manual mechanical measurement process with an automated sensing system that achieves arcsecond-level precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a rotary encoder as an intermediary between the rotation stage and the control system. This encoder acts as a mediator that converts mechanical rotation into precise electrical signals, enabling accurate angle measurement without direct manual intervention or external protractors.
2Device complexity
If a single tensioned bolt is used to secure the axis angle, then the device complexity is reduced, but the stability and reliability of optical alignment deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single-bolt securing mechanism into multiple independent fastening points distributed around the rotation stage. This segmentation allows the system to achieve superior mechanical stability through distributed loading, where multiple bolts share the securing load rather than relying on a single critical fastener.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates precision mechanical features such as pre-loaded spring mechanisms or compliant mounting elements that compensate for thermal expansion and mechanical settling before they can affect alignment. This beforehand cushioning prevents drift by anticipating and counteracting sources of instability.
3Device complexity
If conventional translation stages are used without independent rotation control, then the device complexity is reduced, but the manufacturing precision and adaptability for off-axis parabolic alignment deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamically coupled rotation-translation stages where the translation axis can be independently rotated to any angle while maintaining precision perpendicularity. This dynamic reconfigurability allows the same mechanism to serve multiple alignment functions, achieving the precision required for off-axis parabolic alignment without requiring separate fixed-angle stages for each orientation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous variation of the translation axis angle as a controllable parameter, allowing precise adjustment to the specific angles required for off-axis parabolic optical alignment. By making the axis angle a variable parameter rather than a fixed geometric constraint, the system can be precisely configured for different optical configurations.
Data Source
AI summary
A platform is provided for aligning and securing an instrument, and being attachable to a mount stand. The platform angularly aligns plural independent and parallel rotations separated by linear offset. The platform includes first and second plates, first and second disks and a translational interface. The first plate attaches to the mount stand. The first disk is disposed onto the first plate and can rotate on a first axis. The linear translation assembly includes a block flanked by a pair of flanges. Each flange is disposed on the first disk. The second disk is disposed onto the block and can rotate on a second axis parallel to the first axis. The block slides to translate relative to the pair of flanges. The second plate attaches to the second disk and receives the instrument.