Handheld Position-Sensing Tool for Precise Edge Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tools face challenges in accurately determining the position of their edges or tips relative to a work surface, especially when working with flat or smooth materials like plywood, leading to difficulties in precise machining and edge detection.
Innovation Solution
The system employs a handheld tool with a digital processor, sensors, and a probe of known geometry to detect the 3D position of the tool and workpiece, using techniques such as lateral probing and force sensors to determine the tool's position and edge detection, while also incorporating dust management through airflow and vacuum systems to maintain clarity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual visual guides are drawn on material, then the user can see the cutting path, but it is difficult for the user to follow manually and determine tool position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual tracking with an automated optical sensing system. A camera mounted on the tool captures images of fiducial markers on the material, and a processing system automatically calculates the tool's position and orientation relative to the cutting path, eliminating the need for manual visual following.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces fiducial markers as intermediary objects placed on the material. These markers serve as reference points that the camera system detects to determine tool position, acting as a mediator between the tool and the material surface for precise positioning.
2Measurement precision
If the tool uses sensors and cameras to determine position accurately, then positioning precision improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the tool multi-functional by integrating both cutting functionality and positioning/sensing capabilities into a single device. The camera system serves multiple purposes including position determination, path verification, and guidance, reducing the need for separate positioning equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool is equipped with its own sensing and positioning system, making it self-sufficient. The camera and processing system onboard the tool enable it to independently determine its position and automatically follow the cutting path without external positioning equipment or complex external control systems.
3Measurement precision
If the tool probes the edge of material to detect position, then edge detection accuracy improves, but the time required for positioning increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by placing fiducial markers on the material before the cutting operation begins. These pre-placed markers provide immediate reference points for the camera system, eliminating the need for time-consuming edge probing and allowing instant position determination when the tool is activated.
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 approach enables precise edge detection and positioning, improving the accuracy of machining operations and maintaining a clear working environment by effectively managing dust, thus enhancing the tool's ability to follow complex paths and designs.
Implementation Method 1
incorporating dust management through airflow and vacuum systems to maintain clarity
Data Source
AI summary
A position sensing tool for enabling topographical measurements of a working surface is provided. The tool includes sensors for mapping the tool environment and for positioning of the tool within the environment. The tool enables tracking of tool activity within the environment. The tool enables design and fabrication collaboration with other computer systems. The tool enables user and tool environment safety using tool positional, user position and tool environment awareness. Certain embodiments of the tool permit automated guidance of tasks in the tool environment.