Optical Strain Detection in Drive Devices Using Plasmonic Markers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing strain detection methods for drive units, such as electrical-type strain gauges and the moire method, fail to simultaneously achieve rapid detection and high impact resistance.
Innovation Solution
A drive device incorporating a drive member with a material that generates plasmons, a light source, a marker with a periodic fine structure on its surface, and a signal processor to calculate strain based on light intensity changes, allowing for rapid and impact-resistant strain detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If electrical-type strain gauges are used to detect strain rapidly, then detection speed is improved, but impact resistance deteriorates because the strain gauges are fragile and easy to break
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electrical-type strain gauges with an optical detection system using a moire marker. Light reflects off the marker's grid pattern, and strain is detected by analyzing changes in the reflected light pattern, eliminating fragile electrical components while maintaining detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a moire marker with a grid pattern that reflects light, where strain detection is achieved by analyzing changes in the optical pattern (color/light intensity variations) rather than electrical resistance changes. This optical approach provides both rapid detection and impact resistance
2Reliability
If the moire method with a grid pattern inscribed on the drive body is used to achieve high impact resistance, then impact resistance is improved, but detection rate deteriorates because image analysis takes time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the marker design by using a specific grid pattern configuration and size that is tailored for rapid optical detection. The marker's local structural properties are designed to produce distinct light reflection patterns that can be quickly analyzed, achieving both high impact resistance and fast detection rate
3Measurement precision
If a sensor is attached to a drive unit to detect strain, then measurement capability is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional components and wiring
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex electrical sensing systems with a simple optical marker that can be directly observed or imaged. The strain measurement function is achieved through optical pattern analysis rather than electrical signal processing, significantly reducing system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a visual copy or representation of strain through the moire marker's grid pattern deformation. Instead of converting strain directly to electrical signals, the system creates an optical copy of the strain state that can be easily captured and analyzed, simplifying the measurement process
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 rapid strain detection with high impact resistance by utilizing a hydrogen storage alloy and a nanostructured marker that reflects light, reducing the complexity of image analysis and enhancing the durability of the detection system.
Implementation Method 1
the marker reflects or transmits light emitted from the light source
Implementation Method 2
the marker reflects or transmits light emitted from the light source
Implementation Method 3
the drive member generating strain in response to input energy
Implementation Method 4
a drive member which includes at least a material which generates a plasmon, the drive member generating strain in response to input energy
Data Source
AI summary
A drive device includes a drive member, a light source, a marker, a detector, a signal processor and a strain controller. The drive member includes at least a material which generates a plasmon. The drive member generates strain in response to input energy. The marker is formed on a surface of the drive member. Strain occurs in the marker in accordance with a deformation of the drive member and the marker reflects or transmits light emitted from the light source. The detector detects a light intensity of light reflected from or transmitted through the marker. The signal processor calculates an amount of strain which occurs in the marker based on the light intensity. The strain controller controls an amount of strain of the drive member based on the amount of strain calculated by the signal processor.