Triangulation Measurement Device with Optical Code Reading

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current triangulation measurement devices face challenges in efficiently and securely transmitting parameter data, as existing communication methods, such as BUS interfaces and radio modules, require complex setups and are prone to errors or manipulation, while manual input is cumbersome and error-prone.

Innovation Solution

The device switches between measuring and data reading modes, using a light receiver with spatial resolution to optically read coded parameter data from objects, eliminating the need for radio modules and reducing manual input errors, with optional additional lighting for two-dimensional codes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of information

If BUS interface or radio module is used for parameter data transmission, then data transmission capability is improved, but device complexity and security risks increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparameter data transmissionVSAvoidcommunication interface setup
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the parameter data transmission function from complex communication interfaces (BUS, radio modules) and implements it through a simple optical code reading mechanism using the existing light receiver, eliminating the need for dedicated communication hardware

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces electronic communication systems (BUS interfaces, radio modules) with an optical information carrier system where parameter data is transmitted through visually readable codes, substituting complex electronic data transmission with simple optical detection

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Device complexity

If manual input via control elements is used, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation and accuracy deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication interfaceVSAvoidparameter data input
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically reads parameter data from visual codes through the light receiver, eliminating the need for manual data entry by operators. The measuring device serves itself by optically acquiring parameter data without human intervention in the data input process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Ease of operation

If radio module is used for parameter data transmission, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability and security worsen due to electromagnetic interference and manipulation risks

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparameter data transmissionVSAvoiddata transmission security
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent removes the vulnerable radio module from the system and extracts the essential function of parameter data transmission to a simple optical code reading mechanism that is inherently more secure and immune to electromagnetic interference

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent converts the limitation of using only existing light receiver components into a benefit by creating a secure optical communication system that naturally resists electromagnetic interference and manipulation, turning a potential disadvantage into a security advantage

Inventive Principle:
Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

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 solution allows for secure, reliable, and efficient transmission of parameter data without the need for complex setups or radio modules, enhancing operational ease and security while reducing the risk of data manipulation.

Implementation Method 1

Light is reflected from the illuminated area of the object and detected by a light receiver

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight reflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

a transmitting optic for directing the illumination light into a light pattern, in particular into several light strips, in the direction of an object

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight propagation: Light

Data Source

PatentEP3315901B1Measuring device and method for triangulation measurement
Publication Date: 2019.06.05 PEPPERL & FUCHS GMBH
  • EP3315901B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3315901B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3315901B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A measuring device for triangulation measurement comprises a light transmitter for emitting illumination light; transmitting optics for guiding the illumination light in a light pattern towards an object; a light receiver for capturing an image; and a control and evaluation unit which, in a measurement mode, determines shape or position information of the object based on a measurement image from the light receiver. According to the invention, the control and evaluation unit can switch between measurement mode and data reading mode, wherein, in data reading mode, the control and evaluation unit evaluates the image with respect to coded parameter data and uses the parameter data read in this way in a subsequent measurement mode. Furthermore, a corresponding method for triangulation measurement is described.