Six-DOF Probe Target Light Selection Using Color Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current laser trackers used for measuring 3D and six-degree-of-freedom coordinates face challenges in selecting illuminated target lights amidst background light, obtaining correspondence among image spots, and conveniently obtaining compensation parameters.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a six-degree-of-freedom (six-DOF) probe with a retroreflector and target lights, where a tracker measures distance and angles to the retroreflector, captures images of target lights, and uses processors to select and determine 3D coordinates based on similarity criteria and image analysis, including adjusting focal length based on temperature.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a laser tracker captures images of target lights to determine 3D coordinates, then measurement capability is improved, but difficulty in selecting target lights amidst background light increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses color information from captured images to identify and select target lights. The system analyzes the color characteristics of light sources in the image and compares them against known target light color signatures, enabling reliable target light selection even in the presence of background light with different color profiles.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an image capture device as an intermediary between the laser tracker and the target lights. This intermediary captures visual information about the target lights and their spatial arrangement, providing additional data that helps distinguish target lights from background light sources through image analysis algorithms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a laser tracker measures six degrees of freedom coordinates, then measurement versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple measurement functions into a single integrated system. The laser tracker is merged with image capture capabilities and target light detection functions, allowing the system to perform both traditional laser ranging and visual target identification using a unified measurement platform.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a multi-functional measurement system that can handle various measurement tasks including 3D coordinate measurement, target light detection, and image capture. This universal system replaces the need for separate specialized devices, achieving six-DOF measurement capability while managing system complexity through functional integration.
3Measurement precision
If image processing algorithms are used to select target lights, then measurement accuracy is improved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary organization of target light spatial information before actual measurement. The system pre-establishes the geometric relationships and expected positions of target lights based on image analysis, creating a reference framework that accelerates real-time target light selection during measurement operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex real-time image processing with pre-computed geometric relationships. Instead of continuously analyzing image data during measurement, the system uses predetermined spatial configurations of target lights derived from initial image processing to quickly identify targets during active measurement, reducing processing time while maintaining accuracy.
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 effectively selects target lights, improves correspondence, and facilitates compensation parameters, enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of 3D coordinate measurement.
Implementation Method 1
A method involves a six-degree-of-freedom (six-DOF) probe with a retroreflector and target lights, where a tracker measures distance and angles to the retroreflector
Implementation Method 2
capturing images of target lights
Data Source
AI summary
A six-DOF probe includes a retroreflector, a collection of target lights, and a stylus having a probe tip. A laser tracker measures a distance, a first angle, and a second angle to the retroreflector and captures an image of the illuminated target lights. A processor determines the three-dimensional coordinates of the probe tip based at least in part on the measured distance, measured first angle, measured second angle and on a central portion of the captured image, the size of the central portion based at least in part on the measured distance.