Terahertz Measuring Device Distance Optimization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current terahertz measuring devices face challenges in determining the optimal distance and angular position for accurate measurements, leading to suboptimal results due to positioning and alignment errors, especially when using less precise drives like robots for positioning the measuring head relative to the object.

Innovation Solution

The method involves varying the distance and angular position of a terahertz measuring device's head relative to an object, emitting and receiving terahertz signals, and determining parameters such as integral power in the time or frequency domain to identify optimal measuring distances and angles, which are then stored for future measurements, and using reference measurement information to compensate for errors.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If less precise positioning systems like robots are used to position the measuring head, then device complexity and cost are reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates due to positioning and alignment errors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning system complexityVSAvoidmeasurement accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary measurements at multiple candidate distances and angular positions before the actual measurement. By evaluating signal quality parameters (such as signal strength, signal-to-noise ratio, or other quality metrics) at each candidate position, the system identifies the optimal measuring distance and angular position in advance. This preliminary optimization compensates for the imprecision of robot positioning, allowing the system to select the best available position from multiple candidates rather than relying on a single predetermined position.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Measurement precision

If multiple distance values are measured to determine optimal distance, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases due to repeated measurements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedistance optimization accuracyVSAvoidtuning process time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent measures signal quality parameters at multiple distance values (excessive action) to ensure finding the true optimum, but implements this efficiently by using a systematic approach. The system evaluates candidate distances within a predetermined range and selects the optimal one based on signal quality criteria. This partial optimization approach balances thoroughness with efficiency, avoiding unnecessary measurements while ensuring the best position is identified.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Measurement precision

If the measuring head is repositioned multiple times to find optimal position, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity decreases due to repeated positioning operations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition optimization accuracyVSAvoidmeasurement throughput
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary positioning and optimization measurements before the actual production measurement. By identifying the optimal measuring distance and angular position in advance through signal quality evaluation, the system minimizes the need for repeated positioning adjustments during actual measurements. This preliminary action approach allows robot-based positioning to be less precise while still achieving optimal measurement conditions, thereby improving overall productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 allows for more precise terahertz-based measurements by determining and utilizing optimal measuring distances and angles, reducing errors and improving measurement accuracy, even when using less precise positioning systems like robots.

Implementation Method 1

a THz receiver (120) configured to receive a reflected portion of the THz signal that has been reflected by the object (10)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS12146733B2Measuring device and method of operating a measuring device
Publication Date: 2024.11.19 HELMUT FISCHER GMBH & CO INSTITUT FUER ELEKTRONIK UND MESTECHNIK
  • US12146733B2 patent drawing
  • US12146733B2 patent drawing
  • US12146733B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A measuring device comprises a Terahertz, THz, transmitter configured to emit a THz signal to an object to be measured and a THz receiver configured to receive a reflected portion of said THz signal that has been reflected by said object. The said THz transmitter and said THz receiver are arranged in a measuring head of said measuring device. The measuring device may vary a distance between said measuring head and said object to be measured, emit, by means of said THz transmitter, said THz signal to said object to be measured, receive said reflected portion of said THz signal, and determine a first parameter characterizing a detected signal proportional and/or related to said received reflected portion of said THz signal.