Optical Surface Angle Validation Using Parallel Beam Folding
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for high-precision metrology of angular tolerances between optical surfaces require complex and high-end optical components, making them unsuitable for mass production demands.
Innovation Solution
A method and system using two parallel light beams, a light folding component, and a light sensor to measure the angular deviation between external flat surfaces of a sample, allowing for precise determination of the actual inclination angle without the need for high-end components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If physical fiducial markers are used for registration, then registration accuracy is improved, but the risk of contamination and infection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical fiducial markers with optical markers that are projected onto the patient's anatomy. This substitution eliminates the need for physical markers that could introduce contamination or infection, while maintaining registration accuracy through optical detection systems that capture images of the projected markers and calculate spatial relationships computationally.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces projected optical markers as an intermediary between the registration system and the patient's anatomy. These markers are projected onto the skin surface and detected by imaging systems, serving as a non-contact reference that enables accurate spatial registration without requiring physical contact or placement of foreign objects on the patient.
2Measurement precision
If mechanical registration methods are used, then initial alignment is improved, but the complexity of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical registration devices with a streamlined optical projection and imaging system. By using projected markers that can be captured by standard imaging equipment and processed through computational algorithms, the system achieves accurate initial alignment while reducing mechanical complexity and the number of moving parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the registration approach from mechanical physical marker placement to optical parameter-based registration. By projecting markers with specific optical properties and using image processing to extract spatial parameters, the system achieves precise alignment through computational methods rather than mechanical adjustments, thereby reducing system complexity.
3Measurement precision
If multiple imaging modalities are integrated, then image guidance accuracy is improved, but the time required for image acquisition and processing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-planning the registration scheme and pre-positioning the optical projection system before the surgical procedure begins. The projected markers are prepared and the imaging system is configured in advance, allowing for rapid acquisition during the actual procedure without requiring time-consuming setup or multiple sequential imaging steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple imaging modalities into a unified optical marker-based registration system. By integrating the projection system with the imaging and navigation software into a single coordinated system, the patent enables simultaneous multi-modal imaging and processing, reducing the time required compared to separate sequential imaging procedures while maintaining comprehensive image guidance accuracy.
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 fast, simple, and precise measurement of angular deviations between flat surfaces, suitable for mass production environments.
Implementation Method 1
a projector to project a set of optical markers onto the patient
Implementation Method 2
an image sensor to capture images of the projected markers
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B~1C
Figure 2A~2B
AI summary
Disclosed herein is an optical-based method for validating angles between external, flat surfaces of samples. The method includes: (i) providing a sample including an external, flat first surface and an external, flat second surface nominally inclined at a nominal angle relative to the first surface; (ii) generating a first incident light beam (LB), directed at the first surface, and a second incident LB parallel to the first incident LB; (iii) obtaining a first returned LB by reflection of the first incident LB off the first surface; (iv) obtaining a second returned LB by folding the second incident LB at the nominal angle, reflecting the folded LB off the second surface, and folding the reflected LB at the nominal angle; (v) measuring a first angular deviation between the returned LBs; and (vi) deducing an actual inclination angle between the first second surfaces, based at least on the measured first angular deviation.