3D Scanning Device With Semiconductor Photomultiplier Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-beam measuring devices for three-dimensional geometric recording face challenges in reducing complexity while maintaining quick and precise measurements with high point density, and in increasing the range of these systems.
Innovation Solution
A measuring device with a rotatable transmitter-receiver platform and angular data capture system, utilizing multiple transmission channels with Semiconductor photomultiplier sensors for precise distance measurement, and a computing unit to generate three-dimensional point clouds, which reduces the need for complex orientation and minimizes cross-talk between channels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple transmission channels are used for parallel distance measurements, then measurement productivity is improved, but device complexity increases due to complex orientation and cross-talk between channels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the measurement task by using multiple transmission channels that operate in parallel with different elevations. Each channel independently measures distance to points at specific angular positions, dividing the overall scanning task into concurrent sub-tasks that collectively achieve high-speed 3D recording without requiring complex coordination between channels
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a universal sensor arrangement where Semiconductor photomultiplier sensors serve multiple transmission channels. The same sensor array processes signals from all channels, eliminating the need for separate reception systems for each channel and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining parallel measurement capability
2Adaptability or versatility
If the measurement range is extended, then adaptability is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to increased complexity and cross-talk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends measurement range by adding the elevation dimension to the traditional horizontal scanning. Multiple transmission channels are arranged at different elevations relative to the rotation axis, enabling the system to capture three-dimensional spatial information simultaneously across multiple angular and vertical planes, thereby expanding the measurable volume without compromising precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses Semiconductor photomultiplier sensors as intermediaries that efficiently detect and differentiate signals from multiple transmission channels. These sensors serve as mediators between the optical signals and the processing system, enabling extended measurement range through multi-channel operation while maintaining precision by clearly distinguishing individual channel signals
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
Enables efficient and precise three-dimensional geometric recording with high point density and extended range, reducing complexity and improving measurement accuracy by using Semiconductor photomultiplier sensors and a computing unit to process data from multiple transmission channels.
Implementation Method 1
send out pulpted electromagnetic radiation, such as laser light, to a goal to be measured and subsequently receive an echo from this goal as a referring object, whereby the distance to the goal, for example, on the basis of the term, form, and/orthe phase of the pulse can be determined
Implementation Method 2
a sensor arrangement of M Semiconductor photomultiplier sensors (SPM sensors), wherein each of the M Semiconductor photomultiplier sensors has a plurality of microcells and operates in a Geiger mode
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a measuring device 1 in a housing 5 for the three-dimensional geometric acquisition of an environment by means of a rotating transmitter-receiver platform and a plurality of transmission channels for emitting pulsed distance measurement beams, wherein each of the transmission channels can scan a different elevation α with respect to a reference plane orthogonal to the axis of rotation 3. Furthermore, the measuring device 1 has a receiver unit with a sensor array of semiconductor photomultiplier sensors (SPMs), wherein the number of SPMs is less than the number of transmission channels, and wherein at least two of the transmission channels are assigned to a common SPM sensor, which generates distance measurement data with respect to the at least two transmission channels. The transmission channels define a vertical fan plane 9. Distance measurement beams from simultaneously active different transmission channels are each projected onto different SPMs.To generate the multiple transmission channels, the transmission channel includes, for example, a laser diode, such as a pulsed laser diode, a strip laser, or a laser bar. According to another embodiment, the transmission channel comprises a first laser beam source and an optical beam splitter, wherein the laser beam source generates a pulsed laser beam and the optical beam splitter divides the pulsed laser beam into several pulsed partial beams. For example, the optical beam splitter comprises a Dammann grating, a fiber optic splitter, a holographic element, and/or a diffractive optical element. The beam splitter can be selectively switched on and off.In another variant, at least part of the transmitter-receiver platform can be tilted about the rotation axis 3 by a tilting angle, and the multitude of transmission channels is generated based on differently set tilting angles, in particular whereby the differently set tilting angles create an extension of the elevation field of view of the measuring device.