Optical Triangulation Sensor Mask Segmentation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Optical triangulation sensors face difficulties in measuring complex surfaces or objects due to the absence of clear reference points, especially when features are closely proximate or obscured by sealant, making it challenging to accurately determine gaps, flush conditions, and feature measurements.
Innovation Solution
The optical triangulation sensor employs a patterned planar light beam with discrete beams and a mask to create visually distinguishable regions, allowing for precise alignment and measurement by restricting the light beam to form a predetermined configuration, and includes a guide element for centering the beam over holes and a sub-feature locator for accurate positioning of sub-features.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a continuous planar light beam is used to illuminate the measurement surface, then the measurement coverage is maximized, but it becomes difficult to identify reference points and distinguish adjacent features when surfaces are closely proximate or obscured by sealant
Solution Approach 1:
The continuous planar light beam is segmented into multiple discrete planar light beams using a mask with multiple apertures. This segmentation creates distinct illuminated regions on the measurement surface, allowing the sensor to differentiate between adjacent features and identify reference points even when surfaces are closely proximate or obscured by sealant, while maintaining comprehensive measurement coverage through the array of beams
2Measurement precision
If the planar light beam is restricted to form a predetermined pattern with discrete beams, then reference points and feature edges become clearly identifiable, but the device complexity increases due to the mask and beam configuration requirements
Solution Approach 1:
A mask is introduced as an intermediary component between the light source and the measurement surface. The mask contains multiple apertures that shape the planar light beam into discrete beams with a predetermined pattern. This intermediary element enables precise feature identification and reference point detection without requiring complex optical systems, as the mask simply transmits or blocks light according to its aperture configuration
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 consistent and repeatable measurements by providing clear reference points and reducing errors associated with user judgment, improving the accuracy and reliability of feature identification and measurement.
Implementation Method 1
a light source arranged to emit a planar light beam; and a detector located out of the plane of the light beam for detecting light from the planar light beam that is reflected at an angle to that plane
Data Source
AI summary
An optical e.g. laser triangulation sensor is disclosed in which a configuration of an output light beam is controlled using a mask (19) in front of a light source. The configuration may include a plurality of coplanar spatially separated planar light beams. The mask may be movable to provide different light beam configurations. Masking parts of the light beam enables unwanted features on the measurement surface to be omitted. Also disclosed is a guide element (200) for an optical sensor for facilitating hole diameter measurement. The guide element has contact surfaces (212, 214, 216) lying on a virtual conical surface which abut the hole edge to enable consistent placement of the light beam with respect to the hole centre. Also disclosed is a guide element (300) for an optical sensor having an aperture for framing surface features (e.g. rivet) to permit accurate location of the light beam therewith.