Coordinate Measuring Probe Illumination Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional coordinate measuring systems waste energy due to continuous infrared light emission from IR detectors, even after sufficient light is received for position determination, leading to increased power consumption.
Innovation Solution
A coordinate measuring system with a probe and position detection apparatus that includes image capture apparatuses with line sensors and a calculation control device, which detects brightness distributions and controls the illumination time of the measurement light source based on distance data, allowing the light source to be turned off once sufficient data is received, thereby reducing power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the IR detector continuously emits infrared light, then the position detection accuracy is maintained, but the power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by controlling the IR detector to emit infrared light only during necessary measurement intervals rather than continuously. The control unit activates the measurement light source based on operational requirements, creating periodic emission cycles that maintain detection accuracy while significantly reducing overall power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies feedback control through the control unit that monitors detection requirements and adjusts the IR detector's operation accordingly. When position detection is required, the control unit activates the measurement light source; when not required, it deactivates the source, creating a feedback-based on-demand operation mode that balances accuracy with energy efficiency.
2Reliability
If the measurement light source illuminates for a longer time, then the position detection reliability is improved, but the energy waste increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by making the measurement light source operational status adaptive rather than fixed. The control unit dynamically adjusts the illumination timing based on real-time detection needs, allowing the system to optimize between reliability and energy consumption by activating the light source only when and for as long as position detection is required.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action through the control unit that anticipates measurement requirements and activates the measurement light source in advance of actual detection needs. This ensures that when detection is required, the light source is already active and ready, maintaining reliability while avoiding unnecessary extended illumination periods that would waste energy.
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
The system effectively inhibits power consumption by controlling the illumination time of the measurement light source, reducing unnecessary energy use while maintaining accurate position detection, and allows for flexible measurement of various-sized and shaped work pieces.
Implementation Method 1
a measurement light source and capable of being moved to a desired position
Implementation Method 2
a position detection apparatus receiving light from the measurement light source and detecting the position of the probe
Implementation Method 3
a pair of first optical systems provided so as to be separated from each other and collecting the light from the measurement light source on a first axis
Implementation Method 4
collecting the light from the measurement light source on a first axis
Data Source
AI summary
A coordinate measuring system includes a probe provided with first to ninth infrared LEDs, and an image capture apparatus and calculation controller detecting the position of the probe. The probe includes a distance obtainer acquiring distance data for a distance from the probe to the image capture apparatus; and an illumination controller controlling an illumination time of the first to ninth infrared LEDs based on the distance represented by the distance data.