3D Position Detector Using Light Deflecting Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing position detection methods for objects in three-dimensional spaces, such as pipette tips, are inefficient due to long determination times and require synchronization of robot motion with light barrier signal evaluation, limiting precision and applicability to objects with small well spacing.
Innovation Solution
A position detector using a camera and at least one light deflecting element to generate simultaneous two-image recordings from different viewing directions, allowing for rapid and precise 3D position determination by imaging light beams in two distinct ways onto an image sensor, enabling orthogonal viewing directions and undistorted imaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If light barrier scanning method is used for position determination, then position can be determined, but determination time becomes relatively long
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual image of the light barrier using a mirror, allowing the camera to capture the position information indirectly through the reflected light path. This copying approach enables simultaneous capture of position data without requiring sequential scanning, thus reducing determination time while maintaining precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical scanning system with an optical imaging system. Instead of physically moving light barriers or objects to determine position, the system uses a camera to capture the position of a light barrier's virtual image, substituting mechanical motion with optical field measurement for faster, simultaneous position detection
2Measurement precision
If light barrier scanning method is used, then position determination can be performed, but synchronization with robot motion is required
Solution Approach 1:
By creating a virtual image of the light barrier through mirror reflection, the system captures position information in a single static image rather than requiring synchronized temporal measurement during robot motion, eliminating the need for complex synchronization mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The light barrier is positioned in advance at a known location, and its virtual image is captured by the camera before robot motion begins. This preliminary capture of reference position information eliminates the need for real-time synchronization during subsequent robot movements
3Device complexity
If conventional imaging is used, then simple structure is achieved, but 3D position determination is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a mirror element that adds an optical dimension to the imaging system. By reflecting light paths, the mirror enables the camera to capture depth information through the position of the virtual image, transforming a 2D imaging system into one capable of 3D position determination while maintaining relatively simple structure
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 quick and precise determination of 3D spatial coordinates, overcoming the limitations of existing methods by reducing determination time and improving precision, allowing for accurate positioning of objects like pipette tips in complex environments, such as well plates with small well spacing.
Implementation Method 1
at least one first light deflecting element arranged in the imaging area... producing a first image by light beams deflected at the first light deflecting element
Data Source
AI summary
A position detector for generating 3D position information of an object in a position determination space for the object. The position detector has a camera with a lens and an image sensor that defines an imaging area with one first light deflecting element arranged in the imaging area as the camera and the at least one light deflecting element are adapted to simultaneously produce on the image sensor at least two images of the position determination space, a first image being produced by light beams deflected at the first light deflecting element, the at least two images differ with respect to the viewing direction of the position determination space.