Temperature Control in Scanning Beam Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Scanning beam devices, such as scanning fiber endoscopes, face positional inaccuracy due to temperature variations affecting the properties of materials associated with the movement of scanning optical elements, leading to image distortion, which existing calibration and remapping methods cannot fully address, especially in rapidly changing environmental conditions.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a temperature adjustment device, like an electrical resistance heater or self-regulating resistive heater, within the scanning beam device to maintain a substantially constant temperature, thereby reducing positional inaccuracy and image distortion by regulating the temperature of the scanning optical element.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If calibration and remapping are performed to reduce image distortion, then manufacturing precision is improved, but reliability deteriorates under rapidly changing environmental conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing calibration and remapping operations before actual scanning beam operations. The system pre-determines correction parameters and stores them in memory, so that when environmental changes occur during operation, the pre-computed correction data can be applied without real-time recalibration, maintaining reliability under varying conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the scanning beam device adaptable to different environmental conditions through stored correction parameters. The system can select appropriate correction data from memory based on current environmental conditions, allowing the device to dynamically adjust to temperature variations and other environmental factors without requiring real-time recalibration.
2Reliability
If a temperature adjustment device is added to maintain constant temperature, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the temperature adjustment function with the existing scanning beam device structure. The temperature adjustment device is integrated into the housing or mounting structure of the scanning beam device, combining thermal control with mechanical support functions. This reduces overall system complexity compared to having separate independent temperature control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies self-service through self-regulating resistive heaters that automatically maintain temperature without requiring external control systems. These heaters inherently limit their own power consumption and temperature output based on their thermal characteristics, eliminating the need for complex feedback control circuits while maintaining reliable temperature stability.
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 temperature adjustment device effectively maintains a stable temperature, reducing image distortion and positional inaccuracy, enhancing the accuracy of image construction and acquisition in scanning beam devices, even in varying environmental conditions.
Implementation Method 1
Incorporating a temperature adjustment device, like an electrical resistance heater or self-regulating resistive heater, within the scanning beam device to maintain a substantially constant temperature
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
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AI summary
Scanning beam devices are disclosed. In one aspect, an apparatus may include a housing having a transparent portion. A scanning optical element may be enclosed within the housing. Light may be directed between the scanning optical element and the transparent portion of the housing. The device may include a temperature adjustment device to adjust a temperature within the housing. Methods of using such apparatus are also disclosed, as are base stations to control the adjustment of the temperature.