Movable Light Probe for 3D UV Curing Tube Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional light measuring systems for optical fiber curing lack the ability to effectively measure critical process parameters such as light intensity and uniformity within the confined volume of a curing tube, particularly for ultraviolet light applications.
Innovation Solution
A light measuring system comprising a light collecting probe with a rod-shaped body and a tip portion, capable of moving within the curing tube, which absorbs light and provides a 2D or 3D light map, utilizing a data acquisition system to determine light levels and wavelength distribution, and includes various probe designs with cap portions and diffusive surfaces to ensure omni-directional measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional light measuring systems are used, then the system structure is simple, but the ability to measure critical process parameters (light intensity, light uniformity) within the confined volume of a curing tube is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a movable probe system that can dynamically reposition itself within the curing tube to measure light parameters at multiple locations. The probe includes a positioning mechanism that allows it to move along the tube axis and rotate to different angular positions, enabling comprehensive 3D light mapping. This dynamic capability transforms a static measurement system into one that can systematically sample the entire measurement volume, resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from conventional point measurements to three-dimensional light mapping by adding spatial dimensions to the measurement capability. The probe system measures light intensity and uniformity not only at a single point but across multiple spatial dimensions within the curing tube. By combining axial positioning, radial positioning, and angular orientation, the system creates a comprehensive 3D light distribution map, significantly improving measurement precision without proportionally increasing complexity.
2Measurement precision
If a movable probe system is implemented to achieve 3D light mapping, then measurement precision and spatial resolution are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The probe system is designed as a multi-functional measurement device that can perform various light parameter measurements (intensity, uniformity, spectral distribution) at different spatial positions and orientations. A single probe assembly incorporates positioning mechanisms, detection sensors, and control systems that work together to provide comprehensive 3D light mapping. This universal design consolidates multiple measurement functions into one integrated system, improving measurement precision while limiting the increase in overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical positioning systems with automated control mechanisms that can precisely position the probe at desired locations and orientations. Electronic control systems, such as motorized positioning stages or robotic end-effectors, substitute for purely mechanical adjustment mechanisms. This substitution enables more precise and repeatable positioning while simplifying the overall control architecture through software-based positioning algorithms and feedback control.
3Measurement precision
If light is measured at multiple locations and orientations, then light uniformity and angular distribution are accurately characterized, but measurement time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The probe system is designed to continuously scan through the measurement volume without interruption, maintaining constant motion between measurement points. The probe moves continuously along predefined trajectories that systematically cover all required spatial positions and angular orientations. This continuous scanning approach eliminates idle time between measurements and ensures that the entire 3D light distribution map is captured in a single uninterrupted measurement cycle, significantly reducing total measurement time while maintaining comprehensive data collection.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement system employs periodic scanning patterns where the probe systematically revisits different regions of the curing tube in a repeating cycle. The probe performs multiple passes through the measurement volume, each pass covering a specific portion of the 3D space. This periodic action allows for efficient data collection by overlapping measurement paths and reducing the total number of unique positions that must be measured. The periodic scanning pattern optimizes the balance between measurement completeness and measurement time.
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 high spatial resolution and 3D light mapping, providing angular distribution and irradiance uniformity data, enhancing the predictability and performance of ultraviolet curing systems by characterizing the radiation within the curing tube.
Implementation Method 1
a light collecting probe configured to absorb light within the tube
Data Source
AI summary
A system for measuring light in a tube is provided. The system includes a tube, a light collecting probe configured to absorb light within the tube, a data acquisition system for determining a level of light associated with light absorbed by the light collecting probe, and a motion system for moving the light collecting probe within the tube.