Non-contact Probe Marker Alignment Method
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Users face difficulties in ensuring that non-contact probes and objects are properly aligned for inspection, especially when the probe is mounted on a positioning apparatus, as it can be awkward and time-consuming to use a range finder to achieve the desired relationship, such as being within the optical inspection system's depth of field.
Innovation Solution
A method where a user manually positions a non-contact probe and object to align a projected marker feature with a point of interest, and then the positioning apparatus guides subsequent motion to achieve a desired relationship between the probe and object, ensuring the marker feature intersects the object's surface at the same position, allowing for precise alignment without manual adjustment of the probe's position relative to the object.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a user manually uses a range finder to align the non-contact probe and object, then the desired relationship (e.g., depth of field alignment) can be achieved, but the process becomes awkward and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a marker feature as an intermediary element that mediates between the user and the alignment process. The marker is projected onto the object surface and serves as a visual reference that automatically indicates when the probe and object are in the desired relationship, eliminating the need for manual range finder operations while maintaining alignment precision
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service alignment by projecting a marker feature that automatically indicates proper positioning. The marker's position and appearance provide self-evident feedback to the user about whether the probe is correctly aligned with the object, allowing the system to guide its own positioning without requiring manual measurement tools
2Reliability
If the non-contact probe is mounted on a positioning apparatus, then stable and precise positioning is achieved, but manual alignment becomes more awkward and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The marker feature acts as an intermediary that simplifies the interaction between the positioning apparatus and the user. By projecting the marker onto the object surface, the system provides a clear visual indicator that guides the positioning apparatus to the correct location, making operation easier while maintaining the stability benefits of mounted positioning
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical alignment operations with an optical indication system. Instead of requiring the user to manually adjust the positioning apparatus based on mechanical measurements, the system uses projected optical markers to indicate proper positioning, substituting mechanical alignment procedures with optical guidance
3Ease of operation
If the projector axis is coaxial with the optical inspection system's optical axis, then the alignment process is simplified, but the marker feature cannot be projected onto the object surface for visualization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent deliberately uses asymmetric positioning of the projector relative to the optical axis. The projector is offset at a specific angle (e.g., 45 degrees) from the optical axis, creating an asymmetric configuration that allows the marker to be projected onto the object surface while still providing effective alignment guidance. This asymmetric arrangement resolves the contradiction by enabling both marker visibility and alignment ease
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 method simplifies the alignment process by allowing users to focus on identifying the point of interest with the marker feature, while the positioning apparatus ensures the probe and object are correctly positioned for inspection, reducing the complexity and time required for setup.
Implementation Method 1
a marker feature, which is projected by the non-contact probe along a projector axis
Implementation Method 2
optical inspection system, such as a camera
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A method of putting a feature of interest on an object and an optical inspection system of a non-contact probe mounted on a positioning apparatus in a desired relationship. The method comprises: a) identifying a target point of interest on the object to be inspected by arranging the non-contact probe and object at a first relative configuration at which a marker feature, projected by the non-contact probe along a projector axis that is not coaxial with the optical inspection system's optical axis, identifies the target point of interest; and b) subsequently moving the non-contact probe and/or object so as to put them at a second relative configuration at which the target point of interest and optical inspection system are at the desired relationship, in which the positioning apparatus is configured to guide such motion in accordance with the control path.