Optical Waveguide Position Visualization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for visualizing positions on component surfaces face challenges with accuracy, reproducibility, and residue-free marking, particularly on surfaces with varying roughness and in different observation directions, and require complex image recognition and cleaning processes.
Innovation Solution
An optical waveguide is used to generate high-intensity, optically detectable radiation that can be emitted in different spatial directions, creating a self-illuminating marking that can be easily recognized by cameras, regardless of surface roughness or observation direction, using a beveled or spherical light exit area to ensure precise and residue-free positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If manual marking using colored pencils is used, then the marking can be applied with sufficient contrast to the surface, but the positioning accuracy and reproducibility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical marking with an optical system that projects light structures onto the component surface. Instead of physically applying colored pencils, the system uses optical projection to create visible markings, thereby eliminating manual positioning errors while maintaining high contrast for optical detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an optical waveguide as an intermediary between the light source and the component surface. The waveguide transmits and directs light to create precise markings on the surface, serving as a mediator that enables accurate, reproducible positioning without direct manual contact.
2Manufacturing precision
If automated marking with water-soluble paint is used, then the positioning accuracy and reproducibility improve, but the need for cleaning steps increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the marking substance from the component surface by using light instead of physical markers. The optical projection creates temporary visual markings that leave no residue on the surface, eliminating the need for cleaning steps while maintaining high positioning accuracy and reproducibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical painting process with an optical projection system. Instead of applying physical paint that requires removal, the system projects light patterns that are visible during measurement but leave no trace, thereby simplifying the overall manufacturing process.
3Manufacturing precision
If conventional light or laser projection is used, then the positioning can be marked directly with high precision, but the recognition deteriorates on shiny or rough surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs multiple light sources and adjustable optical parameters to dynamically adapt to different surface conditions. The system can modify illumination intensity, angle, and spectral characteristics to ensure optimal marking visibility on various surface types, thereby maintaining both precision and detectability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes optical parameters such as wavelength, intensity, and angular distribution of the projected light to optimize marking visibility on different surface finishes. By adjusting these parameters, the system overcomes the limitations of shiny or rough surfaces while maintaining precise positioning.
4Device complexity
If image recognition extracts prominent component features, then the positioning can be achieved without marking, but the computing power requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial marking through optical projection rather than full feature extraction and complex image processing. By projecting simple light structures at the target position, the system achieves sufficient positioning information with minimal computational overhead, avoiding the need for extensive feature extraction algorithms.
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
This solution provides a cost-effective, constant, and accurate visualization of component locations for tool and measuring device positioning, enabling continuous and precise measurement without the need for complex lighting or cleaning, and is suitable for various surface structures and directions.
Implementation Method 1
an optical waveguide (4) whose light exit area (5) can be set relative to the surface (3)
Implementation Method 2
radiation emerging from a light exit area (5) of the optical waveguide (4) in a defined manner in a bundled spot
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
A device (1) and a method are described for visualizing positions (2) on a surface (3) by means of a marking which is produced by an optically detectable radiation. In order to permit a residue-free marking which can be observed with a camera (8) from partly extremely oblique observation directions, it is proposed that the device (1) have an optical waveguide (4) which is coupled to a radiation source (6) and whose light output region (5) can be located at a desired position (2) of the surface (3) in order to emit optically detectable radiation at the desired position (2) of the surface (3) through the optical waveguide (4). As a result, the radiation is emitted at the desired position (2) of the surface (3) in various spatial directions.