Two-Sided Reflector for Distance Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current geodetic measurement technologies face challenges with accuracy and complexity due to the need for multiple reflectors and emission sources, especially when measuring distances with reflectors and natural surfaces, leading to errors and limitations in distance measurement precision and range.
Innovation Solution
A two-sided reflector with planar reflection elements of different refractive indices and arrangements, allowing for accurate distance measurements without additional correction constants, suitable for use with single emission sources and diffraction-limited beams, and capable of handling measurements from various angles and distances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple reflectors and emission sources are used to measure distances to different surfaces and at different distances, then measurement versatility is improved, but device complexity and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single reflector that can be used with a single emission source for measuring distances to both reflectorless targets and reflectors. The reflector incorporates multiple retroreflective elements with different optical properties (different beam divergences) that allow it to work effectively with a single diffraction-limited emission source across various measurement scenarios, eliminating the need for multiple specialized reflectors and emission sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple retroreflective elements with different optical characteristics into a single integrated reflector assembly. This combination allows the reflector to handle both diffraction-limited beams and divergent beams, effectively combining the functionality of multiple separate reflectors into one unit that works with a single emission source.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple reflectors with different optical properties are used, then adaptability to different measurement conditions is improved, but the number of addition constants and correction requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by incorporating retroreflective elements with different local optical properties within the same reflector assembly. Each element has a specific beam divergence characteristic optimized for particular measurement conditions, allowing the single reflector to adapt to different scenarios without requiring multiple different reflectors and their associated addition constants.
3Measurement precision
If a diffraction-limited beam with small beam cross-section is used, then measurement precision for reflectorless targets is improved, but the ability to accurately align with reflectors at large distances deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by using retroreflective elements with different beam divergence parameters. The assembly includes elements that can return both diffraction-limited beams (maintaining precision for reflectorless targets) and divergent beams (improving alignment reliability with reflectors at large distances). This variation in optical parameters within a single reflector enables it to handle both measurement scenarios effectively.
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
The reflector achieves precise distance measurements across a wide range of distances and angles with reduced errors, eliminating the need for multiple reflectors and emission sources, and allows for efficient use with devices designed for reflectorless measurements, enhancing measurement accuracy and reducing operational complexity.
Implementation Method 1
optical beams of specified wavelength and/or divergence which are directed at the reflector... are finally reflected back—substantially in the direction of incidence
Implementation Method 2
Depending on the refractive index, shape, thickness and arrangement of the reflection elements, an addition constant can be assigned
Data Source
AI summary
A two-sided reflector for the reflection of a diffraction-limited optical beam bundle is embodied such that a planar first and second reflection element such as, for example, a reflection film and a cat's eye reflector are arranged with respect to a reference axis of the reflector in such a way that an absolute addition constant of zero results from the targeted choice of the properties of the first and second reflection element and the arrangement thereof with respect to the reference axis for a distance measurement. The distance measurement therefore essentially corresponds to a distance measurement on a natural surface. The distance measurement can therefore be referred directly to the reference axis without additional correction.