Optical Probe for Cylinder Rod Position Sensing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing absolute position sensing technologies for rods within cylinders lack efficient and cost-effective methods for determining the absolute position of rods with predefined patterns, particularly in terms of manufacturing complexity and tolerance requirements.
Innovation Solution
A probe system utilizing a light source, a gradient index lens, and a detector to emit and focus light onto a pattern on the rod, allowing for accurate detection of the rod's position through a controller responsive to the detected light signals, with a housing and cassette design that supports the optical components and maintains focal distances for precise image formation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional position sensing technologies are used, then position detection capability is achieved, but manufacturing complexity and tolerance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical or complex optical position sensing systems with a simplified optical detection system using a light source, light pipe, and detector. This substitution reduces manufacturing complexity while maintaining position detection accuracy through the use of standard optical components and a predefined pattern on the rod.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a predefined pattern copied onto the rod surface that can be optically detected. This pattern serves as a reference that simplifies the sensing mechanism, allowing position determination through optical imaging rather than complex mechanical or electronic systems, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity.
2Measurement precision
If conventional position sensing technologies are used, then position detection capability is achieved, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs inexpensive optical components such as standard light sources, light pipes, and detectors that can be easily manufactured and replaced if needed. These components are simpler and less costly than conventional position sensing systems, reducing overall manufacturing costs while maintaining detection accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
By replacing expensive mechanical or complex electronic position sensing systems with a simple optical detection system using readily available components, the patent significantly reduces manufacturing costs while preserving position detection accuracy.
3Ease of manufacture
If larger manufacturing tolerances are used, then manufacturing complexity and costs are reduced, but measurement precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a predefined pattern segmented into distinct features on the rod surface. This segmentation allows the optical detector to accurately determine position based on pattern recognition rather than requiring precise mechanical tolerances, enabling larger manufacturing tolerances while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the approach from relying on precise mechanical dimensions to using optical parameters such as light reflection and pattern recognition. This parameter change allows the system to tolerate larger manufacturing variations in the rod and housing while maintaining accurate position detection through optical means.
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 probe system provides accurate and cost-effective absolute position sensing with larger manufacturing tolerances, reducing complexity and costs while maintaining precise position determination capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
A light source (44) is provided for emitting light. A light pipe (48) is provided for directing light emitted by the light source onto the pattern
Implementation Method 2
A lens (50) is provided for producing an image of a portion of the pattern illuminated by the light on the detector
Implementation Method 3
A lens (50) is provided for producing an image of a portion of the pattern illuminated by the light on the detector
Implementation Method 4
A detector (46) is provided for detecting light and providing a signal indicative of the detected light
Data Source
AI summary
A probe for determining an absolute position of a rod relative to a cylinder with the rod having an associated pattern for indicating position includes a light source for emitting light. The probe further includes a light pipe for directing light emitted by the light source onto the pattern of the rod. A detector of the probe detects light and provides a signal indicative of the detected light. A lens produces an image of a portion of the pattern illuminated by the light on the detector and a controller is responsive to the signal from the detector for determining an absolute position of the rod relative to the cylinder.