Automatic Following Or Aligning While Indicating Measurement Patents (Class 356/139.04)
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Patent number: 7525670Abstract: A method for measuring a distance between an object (256) and a light source (230) and sensing an object orientation includes applying light from a plurality of sources (230, 240 or 810) on the object; detecting a reflected energy (270) level from an object; measuring the reflected energy level from the object; computing a distance calibration function; determining at least one measuring range (301) indicated by a minimum value (302) and a maximum value (304) within the distance calibration function; computing an angle calibration function indicating energy level relation sampled at predetermined time slots within periods of a modulation function; and modulating each of the plurality of light sources with the modulation function (435, 445) such that a total energy applied from the plurality of light sources on the object during the time of the light emission is represented by a light emission predetermined function.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 2008Date of Patent: April 28, 2009Assignee: Eastman Kodak CompanyInventor: Vitaly Burkatovsky
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Patent number: 7508514Abstract: A laser beam may be used to provide a virtual reference axis of travel for the in-axis direction of motion of lenses in a zoom assembly to be positioned during a zoom operation. The virtual reference axis is projected along the optical axis, parallel to existing mechanical lens slides. The virtual reference axis passes through an aperture on each of the lens assemblies, and is sampled by a set of optics and detectors on each of the lens assemblies. The optics and detectors are arranged such that any change in the position of a lens cell within a lens assembly relative to the virtual reference axis is sensed and corrected using a feedback signal to a positioning motor. Since the same virtual reference axis is used for each lens in the zoom assembly, each lens can be independently corrected for off-axis position errors to very high precision.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2006Date of Patent: March 24, 2009Assignee: ASML Holding N.V.Inventor: Kevin J. Violette
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Patent number: 7471395Abstract: An optical alignment method is for a light-emitting module that includes a housing unit, a light-emitting unit disposed in the housing unit, and a lens unit. The optical alignment method includes: (a) through image-capturing techniques, finding a light-emitting point of the light-emitting unit and a predetermined reference point, and determining a total optical path length between the light-emitting point and an imaging plane; (b) finding a first center line that divides the total optical path length in half; (c) through image-capturing techniques, finding opposite first and second edges of the lens unit, and determining a lens length between the first and second edges; (d) finding a second center line that divides the lens length in half; and (e) assembling the lens unit to the housing unit so that the first and second center lines overlap. A light-emitting module and an assembly method therefor are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2007Date of Patent: December 30, 2008Assignee: Universal Scientific Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventor: Ming-Che Wu
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Patent number: 7456943Abstract: The position of an apparatus moving along a surface is determined by calculating a plurality of vertical angles between the apparatus and a known location, where the vertical angles vary only within a range having a largest expected maximum angle. A plurality of horizontal distances between the apparatus and the known location are determined, each of the horizontal distances associated with one of the vertical angles. The horizontal distances are computed to within a tolerance based at least in part on the largest expected maximum angle. A plurality of heights of the apparatus are then determined using the plurality of vertical angles and associated horizontal distances. In particular embodiments, the known location may be associated with a rotating laser used with a photodetector at the target to determine the vertical angle. Further, the target may comprise a GPS receiver for use in determining the horizontal distance measurements.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2005Date of Patent: November 25, 2008Assignee: Topcon Positioning Systems, Inc.Inventors: Clyde C. Goad, Vernon Joseph Brabec, Raymond M. O'Connor
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Patent number: 7446863Abstract: A surveying apparatus that is capable of automatic collimation based on an image obtained from an imaging device, which enables carrying out automatic collimation without using angle detectors, even when a telescope is rotating.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2006Date of Patent: November 4, 2008Assignee: Sokkia Co., Ltd.Inventors: Nobuyuki Nishita, Satoshi Yasutomi
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Patent number: 7443495Abstract: A surveying instrument and method determine a duration of a measuring period for obtaining readings of angle values of an angle measuring system in dependence of readings of an error signal produced by a tracking system. It is thus possible to determine a value of the angle represented by the readings of the angle signal with a desired accuracy in the presence of air turbulence wherein the measuring period is shorter at low degrees of air turbulence and longer at higher degrees of air turbulence.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2006Date of Patent: October 28, 2008Assignee: Trimble ABInventors: Mikael Hertzman, Thomas Klang, Mikael Nordenfelt
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Patent number: 7443494Abstract: A method and an apparatus are used for detecting optical systems, for example a sniper within a terrain. The terrain is optically scanned by means of a movable mirror and the position of the optical system is determined from a measurement made by a laser unit and is optically displayed. The position of the optical system is directly determined from the measurement made by the laser unit by evaluating the intensity of a light beam from the laser unit, after having been reflected by an optical surface of the optical system. The position is optically reflected into the field of vision of a telescope. The apparatus comprises a laser unit having a movable mirror, a control unit for detecting the position of the optical system from a measurement made by the laser unit, and a device for optically displaying the position. The device for optically displaying is a telescope, and means are provided for optically reflecting the position of the optical system into the field of vision of the telescope.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2006Date of Patent: October 28, 2008Assignee: Carl Zeiss Optronics GmbHInventor: Gunther Kuerbitz
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Publication number: 20080259320Abstract: A method and an apparatus are used for detecting optical systems, for example a sniper within a terrain. The terrain is optically scanned by means of a movable mirror and the position of the optical system is determined from a measurement made by a laser unit and is optically displayed. The position of the optical system is directly determined from the measurement made by the laser unit by evaluating the intensity of a light beam from the laser unit, after having been reflected by an optical surface of the optical system. The position is optically reflected into the field of vision of a telescope. The apparatus comprises a laser unit having a movable mirror, a control unit for detecting the position of the optical system from a measurement made by the laser unit, and a device for optically displaying the position. The device for optically displaying is a telescope, and means are provided for optically reflecting the position of the optical system into the field of vision of the telescope.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 1, 2006Publication date: October 23, 2008Inventor: Gunther Kuerbitz
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Patent number: 7440585Abstract: There are provided an autonomous vehicle, and an apparatus and method for estimating the motion of the autonomous vehicle and detecting three-dimensional (3D) information of an object appearing in front of the moving autonomous vehicle. The autonomous vehicle measures its orientation using an acceleration sensor and a magnetic flux sensor, and extracts epipolar geometry information using the measured orientation information. Since the corresponding points between images required for extracting the epipolar geometry information can be reduced to two, it is possible to more easily and correctly obtain motion information of the autonomous vehicle and 3D information of an object in front of the autonomous vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2003Date of Patent: October 21, 2008Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kyoung-sig Roh, Young Son, Joo-young Kwak
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Patent number: 7440090Abstract: A laser beam transmitter and a method of calibrating such a transmitter result in a beam of laser light that is projected in a desired direction with respect to a transmitter body. The transmitter and a beam target are positioned such that a properly calibrated beam will illuminate a desired point on the target, such as for example the target center. The transmitter is activated and the offset of the point illuminated on the target from the target center measured. A plurality of optical wedge correction elements having varying wedge angles is provided, and the appropriate one of these optical wedge correction elements that will correct for the measured offset is selected. The selected optical wedge correction element is positioned in the transmitter body in the path of the beam. The optical wedge correction element is rotated until the beam is substantially aligned to illuminate the target center. The optical wedge element is then affixed in place in the transmitter body.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2006Date of Patent: October 21, 2008Assignee: Trimble Navigation LimitedInventors: Kevin Marc Morrissey, Michael A. Stickelman
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Patent number: 7403277Abstract: A method (250) and apparatus (20) for measuring the face angle of a golf club (300), golf club head (302) or face component (304) of a golf club head is disclosed herein. The method (250) and apparatus (20) use a non-contact displacement measuring assembly (24) to determine the face angle. The method (250) and apparatus (20) is utilized with right-handed and left handed golf clubs (300), golf club heads (302) and face components (304). The apparatus (20) generally includes a base assembly (22), a non-contact displacement measuring assembly (24), a shaft center sensor assembly (26), a base plate assembly (28), a lie adjustment assembly (30) and a shaft support assembly (32).Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2007Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: Callaway Golf CompanyInventors: Andrew J. Goodjohn, James C. Wenck
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Publication number: 20080144020Abstract: The method of mobile radio positioning aided by a single fan laser comprising: generating a single sloping fan beam by using a stationary fan laser transmitter positioned in a location with known coordinates; detecting the single sloping fan beam by using the mobile laser detector; receiving the averaged low-passed filtered estimate of angular rate of the laser beam; receiving the plurality of main time tags; receiving the plurality of additional time tags; and timing the fan laser beam strike at the rover's location to improve an accuracy in determination of position coordinates of the rover.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 13, 2007Publication date: June 19, 2008Inventors: Mark E. Nichols, Nicholas C. Talbot, Gary L. Cain
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Patent number: 7385684Abstract: A head tracking system combines a plurality of sources of radiant energy, a plurality of sensors and at least one reflective element. As the reflective element moves, various radiant energy beams become incident thereon. The incident beams are reflected to respective sensors thereby providing head position signals.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2004Date of Patent: June 10, 2008Assignee: Lockheed Martin CorporationInventors: C. Gilbert Young, Victor Tisdel
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Patent number: 7382448Abstract: A method and apparatus is disclosed for aligning an optical instrument with respect to a celestial coordinate system, the optical instrument having a field of view and an optical instrument coordinate system, the celestial coordinate system having a plurality of objects each having celestial coordinates. The method includes the steps of receiving a plurality of captured optical instrument positions in the optical instrument coordinate system along with a plurality of associated capture times; calculating, for each associated capture time in the plurality of associated capture times, coordinates in the optical instrument coordinate system for the plurality of objects to create a plurality of calculated object positions for each associated capture time; and, determining, for each associated capture time, a match for each captured optical instrument position in the plurality of captured optical instrument positions with the plurality of calculated object positions to create a list of actual alignment objects.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2005Date of Patent: June 3, 2008Assignee: Celestron Acquisition, LLCInventors: Richard L. Hedrick, Andre Paquette
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Patent number: 7382449Abstract: Multi-point confocal microscopy, bright field microscope imaging, computer-controlled positioning stages, and an algorithm for automated leveling are the basis for a powerful but simple tool for aligning stamps used in precise pattern transfer to substrates. The system is relatively inexpensive and brings a capability similar to that of a photolithographic mask aligner to the world of elastomeric-stamp-based lithography. Alignment of the stamp and substrate is possible without contact between the two before printing.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2004Date of Patent: June 3, 2008Assignee: Alces TechnologyInventors: Mark C. Peterman, David M. Bloom
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Patent number: 7365832Abstract: A laser range finder measures the range between itself and another laser range finder by propagating a laser beam only in one way therebetween. A laser unit generates a short-pulse laser beam to be transmitted to the other laser range finder. A photodetector receives a short-pulse laser beam transmitted from the other laser range finder and detects the direction of the other laser range finder. A pointing unit adjusts the direction the laser beam generated by the laser unit is to be transmitted, into alignment with the direction of the other laser range finder. A controller stores in advance a holding time after the other laser range finder receives the short-pulse laser until the other laser range finder transmits the short-pulse laser, and calculates the range between the laser range finders from the time the short-pulse laser beam is transmitted, the short-pulse laser beam is received, and the holding time.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2004Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: Nec CorporationInventor: Teiji Kase
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Patent number: 7359041Abstract: An optical position-tracking system comprises a first light beam steering device for sweeping a first light beam through a first angular range to cause a reflection of the first light beam by a target. Additionally, the optical position-tracking system further comprises a second light beam steering device for sweeping a second light beam through a second angular range to cause a reflection of the second light beam by the target. Moreover, the optical position-tracking system enables determination of a position of the target using a triangulation technique utilizing a first angular value of the first light beam and a second angular value of the second light beam. The first angular value and the second angular value depend on the existence of the respective reflection.Type: GrantFiled: September 4, 2003Date of Patent: April 15, 2008Assignee: Avago Technologies ECBU IP Pte LtdInventors: Tong Xie, Marshall Thomas DePue, Douglas M. Baney
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Patent number: 7345748Abstract: In a survey system in which guide light is emitted from the side of a target, and, on the side of a surveying instrument, a telescope is directed roughly toward the target by receiving the guide light so as to shorten the time required for automatic collimation, the automatic collimation of the surveying instrument can be reliably performed by removing guide light reflected by reflective objects such as windowpanes. The target has a guide light remitter that emits guide light The guide light transmitter includes a light source, a polarizing plate that changes light emitted from this light source into linearly polarized light, and a quarter-wave plate that changes this nearly polarized light into circularly polarized guide light The surveying instrument includes a direction detector and a collimation preparing means. The direction detector includes a quarter-wave plate and a polarizing plate.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2005Date of Patent: March 18, 2008Assignee: Sokkia Co. Ltd.Inventors: Akinobu Sugiura, Minoru Chiba, Masaru Muraki, Masataka Kawakami
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Patent number: 7316938Abstract: A film frame aligner for automatically aligning a film frame includes a film frame support, a film frame pusher for pushing the film frame, and a film frame location mechanism for locating at least one notch in the film frame.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2004Date of Patent: January 8, 2008Assignee: Rudolph Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Steve Herrmann, Willard Charles Raymond, Matthew LaBerge
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Patent number: 7292326Abstract: The present invention features a system to determine relative spatial parameters between two coordinate systems, which may be a mold and a region of a substrate in which mold is employed to generate a pattern. The system senses relative alignment between the two coordinate systems at multiple points and determines relative spatial parameters therebetween. The relative spatial parameters include a relative area and a relative shape.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2004Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Molecular Imprints, Inc.Inventors: Pawan Kumar Nimmakayala, Tom H. Rafferty, Alireza Aghili, Byung-Jin Choi, Philip D. Schumaker, Daniel A. Babbs
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Patent number: 7292179Abstract: A method and apparatus for use in determining the range in a single time sample from a platform to a target are disclosed. The method includes receiving radiation emanating from the target at two points on the platform in a common time sample; detecting the received radiation and generating a signal representative thereof; and processing the signal. The signal is processed to determine a respective angle to target from two points on the platform by using a correlation between received signal amplitude and respective angle; and determine the range from the platform to the target from the respective angles and the separation distance between said two points in a single signal-to-noise sufficient sample. The apparatus includes a plurality of optical channels through which the apparatus can receive radiation emanating from the target, the optical channels and a plurality of electronics.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2005Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Lockheed Martin CorporationInventors: Wayne K. Schroeder, Brett A. Williams
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Patent number: 7289195Abstract: A system and method for determining whether the distance between an electromagnetic-energy emitting source and a predetermined location increased, decreased or remained constant between first and second times relies upon the selection of first and second energy bands whose average wavelengths are disparately absorbed as a function of transmission distance. Energy values corresponding to the intensity of detectable energy within each of the first and second sub-ranges at each of the first and second times are assigned.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 2005Date of Patent: October 30, 2007Assignee: Solid State Scientific CorporationInventors: Richard J. Nelson, James E. Murguia
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Publication number: 20070182952Abstract: A surveying apparatus that is capable of automatic collimation based on an image obtained from an imaging device, which enables carrying out automatic collimation without using angle detectors, even when a telescope is rotating.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 30, 2006Publication date: August 9, 2007Applicant: SOKKIA CO., LTD.Inventors: Nobuyuki NISHITA, Satoshi YASUTOMI
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Patent number: 7199873Abstract: A method and apparatus for balancing a motor vehicle wheel, in which after an unbalance measuring operation, at least one balancing weight is attached to at least one balancing plane in a given angular position of the rim of the motor vehicle wheel. The rim surface is scanned to determine its contour features. The contour features are compared to reference contour features of stored rim surfaces, to determine matching rim types and at least one balancing plane associated with the best match.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2004Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: Snap-On Equipment SRL a Unico SocioInventor: Francesco Braghiroli
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Patent number: 7180583Abstract: An apparatus, which is for assisting in calibration of an optical axis of a light beam generated by a light emitter of an instrument, includes a body, a sensor module, and an indicator module. The instrument includes a sighting unit that has a specified position relationship with the light emitter. The body has a surface provided with a reference mark. The sensor module is mounted on the surface of the body, generates an output signal upon receipt of the light beam generated by the light emitter of the instrument, and has a reference position relationship with the reference mark. The reference position relationship corresponds to the specified position relationship between the sighting unit and the light emitter. The indicator module is associated operably with the sensor module, and indicates position of an incident light beam received by the sensor module.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2004Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: Asia Optical Co., Inc.Inventors: Pie-Yau Chien, Bing Sheng, Li-Ming Lin
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Patent number: 7164473Abstract: A method (250) and apparatus (20) for measuring the face angle of a golf club (300), golf club head (302) or face component (304) of a golf club head is disclosed herein. The method (250) and apparatus (20) use a non-contact displacement measuring assembly (24) to determine the face angle. The method (250) and apparatus (20) is utilized with right-handed and left handed golf clubs (300), golf club heads (302) and face components (304). The apparatus (20) generally includes a base assembly (22), a non-contact displacement measuring assembly (24), a shaft center sensor assembly (26), a base plate assembly (28), a lie adjustment assembly (30) and a shaft support assembly (32).Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2004Date of Patent: January 16, 2007Assignee: Callaway Golf CompanyInventor: Andrew J. Goodjohn
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Patent number: 7110101Abstract: A method and a device are disclosed for establishing actual changes and intended changes of the spatial angle of a main axis (e) of a sensor or effector attached to a receiver (4.1). The receiver (4.1) is directly rotatable around the first axis of rotation (I) and indirectly rotatable around at least one further axis of rotation (b, a). An optical-electronic angular measurement device (5) having at least two measurement axes is attached to the receiver (4.1). For a first axis of rotation (I, b, a), a rotation is performed around this first axis of rotation (I, b, a), while any rotation around further axes of rotation is prevented. After each rotation step, a first actual change of the spatial angle of the main axis (e) is detected and stored by the angular measurement device (5), and a first intended change of the spatial angle of the main axis (e) is provided and stored by a coder device (10). During use of the device, a carrier base (8), onto which the receiver (4.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2003Date of Patent: September 19, 2006Inventor: Gabriel Schneider
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Patent number: 7099001Abstract: For detection of the inclination of the normal of a measurement-subject article, an auto-collimator applies a laser beam from a light source onto the measurement-subject article. Then, the return light reflected back from the measurement-subject article is concentrated by a convex lens. Further the return light is converted to parallel light by a concave lens and then projected onto a first screen. The auto-collimator is provided with a beam splitter provided between the convex lens and the concave lens for splitting off a portion of the return light traveling back from the measurement-subject article, and a coarse-adjustment verification screen for showing the split-off light split off from the return light by the beam splitter.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2004Date of Patent: August 29, 2006Assignees: Pioneer Corporation, Pioneer FA CorporationInventor: Yasuhisa Miyata
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Patent number: 7079233Abstract: An alignment detection system is disclosed for determining whether a modulated illumination field in an imaging system employing an illumination modulator is mis-aligned. The alignment detection system includes a modulator adjustment unit for providing a test pattern on the illumination modulator, a detector for receiving a modulated illumination field from the illumination modulator, a sampling unit for determining at least two sample values (A and C) for each of two areas of the modulated illumination field respectively, and an evaluation unit for determining whether the value |A?C| is greater than a threshold value.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2003Date of Patent: July 18, 2006Inventors: Bryan Comeau, Philip A. Rombult, Jeffrey Knox
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Patent number: 7072031Abstract: Apparatus and methods are disclosed for alignment of an input mirror and an output mirror in a photonic cross-connect.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2003Date of Patent: July 4, 2006Assignee: Nortel Networks, Ltd.Inventors: Humair Raza, Robert Ward, Rajiv Ramaswami, Babu Narayanan
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Patent number: 7030983Abstract: A method and an apparatus for aligning the longitudinal direction of grooves of a diffraction grating to a predetermined direction. The method and apparatus detect a diffracted light pattern sent from the diffraction grating, and displace the diffraction grating such that the direction of an arranging direction obtained from the diffracted light pattern is aligned in the predetermined direction.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2003Date of Patent: April 18, 2006Assignee: Nippon Sheet Glass Co., Ltd.Inventors: Fumitoshi Kobayashi, Katsuhide Shimmo
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Patent number: 7023537Abstract: The invention relates to a system for monitoring the movements, if any, of construction work parts. It comprises: a plurality of measurement taking stations (S1, S2 . . . ) able to sight targets; a plurality of reference targets (c?i) linked to at least one station; a plurality of monitoring targets (ci) mounted on the said construction work parts, at least one of the said monitoring targets (ki) being associated with at least two stations; means of control (30) of each station for measuring at successive instants the coordinates of the reference targets and of the monitoring targets which are associated therewith with respect to the said station; and means of processing (34) the coordinates of the reference targets and of the monitoring targets computed by the said stations at the said successive instants so as to deduce therefrom a displacement, if any, of a monitoring target between two measurement instants.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2003Date of Patent: April 4, 2006Assignee: SOLDATAInventors: Marie-Laure Labat, Eric Gastine, Martin Beth
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Patent number: 6957493Abstract: The present invention comprises an illumination portion (11), which is disposed in a surveying machine body (8), for illuminating measurement light toward a reflector (2), a light receiving portion (12), which is disposed in the surveying machine body (8), having an image sensor for receiving a reflection light image (M0) of the measurement light illuminated toward the reflector (2), arithmetic means (37) for calculating a position in an area (Q2) of the image sensor (27) for the reflection light image (M0) from the reflector, and a rotation mechanism for rotating the survey machine body (8) so as to position the reflector (2) on a light receiving optical axis (O2) of the light receiving portion (12) based on the position obtained by the arithmetic means (37), and a light receiving area (Q3) which is a smaller area than the area (Q2) of the image sensor (27) and has the light receiving optical axis (O2) as a center is provided in the area (Q2) of the image sensor (27).Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2003Date of Patent: October 25, 2005Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha TopconInventors: Kaoru Kumagai, Masahiro Saito, Shinji Yamaguchi
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Patent number: 6847450Abstract: Improved methods and systems for routing and aligning beams and optical elements in an optical device include a multiplexing device and/or a demultiplexing device, which includes an optical alignment element (OAE). The OAE can be configured to substantially compensate for the cumulative alignment errors in the beam path. The OAE allows the optical elements in a device, other than the OAE, to be placed and fixed in place without substantially compensating for optical alignment errors. The OAE is inserted into the beam path and adjusted. This greatly increases the ease in the manufacturing of optical devices, especially for devices with numerous optical elements, and lowers the cost of manufacturing. The multiplexing and/or demultiplexing device can reside within a standard small form factor, such as a GBIC. The devices fold the paths of the traversing beams with a geometry which allows a small package.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2002Date of Patent: January 25, 2005Assignee: Oplink Communications, Inc.Inventors: Jenkin A. Richard, Eric V. Chamness, George H. Guan, Anjul K. Katare, Steven J. Benerofe, Qunwen Leng
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Patent number: 6820508Abstract: An apparatus rotates a sample to facilitate an accurate analysis of the sample. The apparatus includes a sample stage on which a plurality of samples are supported, a rotatable cap and a linearly movable plate for placing a selected one of the samples at an analysis position, and a rotating stage that supports the sample stage, rotatable cap and movable plate. The rotating stage is rotatable about an axis of rotation that intersects the analysis position. Once the selected sample is placed at the analysis position by the rotation of the cap and the linear movement of the plate, the selected sample is rotated by the rotating stage. The analysis process can be selectively or sequentially carried out with respect to the plurality of samples with a high degree of efficiency and without the associated drive mechanisms experiencing high loads.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2002Date of Patent: November 23, 2004Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventor: Sang-Eun Lee
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Patent number: 6788398Abstract: A method and apparatus for rapid measurements of far-field radiation profiles having a large dynamic range from an optical source is disclosed. Some embodiments of the apparatus include a collector coupled to a rotating hub so that the rotation of an entrance to the collector defines a plane, a detector coupled to receive light captured at the entrance to the collector, and detector electronics having a programmable gain coupled to receive a signal from the detector, Some embodiments may include a rotatable entrance mirror for reflecting light from the optical source into the plane of the entrance of the collector. In some embodiments, the optical source is fixed relative to the plane of the entrance of the collector. In some embodiments, the optical source is rotatable in the plane defined by the entrance of the collector. In some embodiments, the source can be an optical fiber. In some embodiments, the source can be a material irradiated by a laser.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2000Date of Patent: September 7, 2004Assignee: Photon, Inc.Inventor: Jeffrey L. Guttman
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Patent number: 6741341Abstract: A dual mode seeker for intercepting a reentry vehicle or other target is disclosed. In one embodiment, the seeker is configured with an onboard 3D ladar system coordinated with an onboard IR detection system, where both systems utilize a common aperture. The IR and ladar systems cooperate with a ground based reentry vehicle detection/tracking system for defining a primary target area coordinate and focusing the IR FOV thereon. The IR system obtains IR image data in the IR FOV. The ladar system initially transmits with a smaller laser FOV to illuminate possible targets, rapidly interrogating the IR FOV. The ladar system obtains data on each possible target to perform primary discrimination assessments. Data fusion is employed to resolve the possible targets as between decoys/clutter and a reentry vehicle. The laser FOV is expandable to the IR FOV. Robust and reliable discrimination is obtained at high altitudes.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 2003Date of Patent: May 25, 2004Assignee: BAE Systems Information and Electronic Systems Integration IncInventor: Michael E. DeFlumere
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Patent number: 6704098Abstract: A method and apparatus for the contactless measuring of distances to aircraft when positioning the aircraft, such as when docking or parking. A scanning laser is arranged in front of the aircraft to be positioned and is directed toward a centerline along which an aircraft is to be moved in the course of positioning the aircraft. The laser emits measuring pulses stepwise or incrementally at different angles to detect a predetermined measurement volume. The laser is calibrated with the distance from the laser to the ground for at least some of the angles, and the distances at those angles is measured during positioning of an aircraft. The measured distances are compared with the calibrated distances, and the laser is considered to have measured the correct distance when there is a predetermined agreement between the measured distance and a calibrated distance corresponding with the same angle.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2002Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: FMT International Trade ABInventor: Nils-Erik Anderberg
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Patent number: 6674520Abstract: A missile tracking and deflection system for protecting a platform includes a missile warning system for detecting the presence of a missile and generating a warning signal. A countermeasure processor receives the warning signal and analyzes characteristics of the missile to prioritize a trajectory signal. A track processor receives the trajectory signal and generates a pointer signal. The system also includes a receiver, which is positioned by a pointer that receives the pointer signal, for receiving a passive and/or active signature of the missile to confirm the presence thereof. The countermeasure processor then directs a laser beam at the missile to determine its operational parameters and receives an active signature from the missile.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2002Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: Lockheed Martin CorporationInventors: Allen T. Hicks, Timothy E. MacKlin, Dennis L. Carter, Susan E. Hall
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Publication number: 20030211409Abstract: Photolithographic processes require alignment of substrate to mask prior to exposure. Alignment accuracy becomes critical as feature size diminishes. For alignment tolerances above 1&mgr;m, off-axis camera-based techniques are acceptable, but require frequent calibration. Through the lens (TTL) on-axis alignment is much preferred, not requiring frequent calibrations and having superior alignment accuracies, even though usually more complicated and expensive. This invention provides a simple, easy to incorporate TTL, on-axis alignment technique for alignment accuracies of 1&mgr;m, such as scan-and-repeat patterning systems that employ a unitary mask-substrate stage and a folded projection imaging system. There is a master alignment mark adjacent to the mask, which is imaged onto a phosphor screen with the same radiation as is to be used for patterning.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 10, 2002Publication date: November 13, 2003Inventor: Christopher C. Nunes
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Patent number: 6498959Abstract: An apparatus and method for controlling a mechanism for positioning video cameras for use in measuring vehicle wheel alignment includes optical targets for mounting to the wheels of a vehicle, at least one video camera for viewing said optical targets and producing at least one image thereof, a computer system for measuring said at least one image and for using said measurements to compute vehicle wheel alignment information, a positioning system for positioning said at least one video camera such that said optical targets are visible to said at least one video camera and such that said at least one video camera can produce said at least one image of said targets, and a controller for controlling said positioning system such that a user of said apparatus can cause said at least one video camera to be positioned in at least one desired position and such that said user can further cause said controller to remember said at least one desired position so that any user can, at a later time, cause said controller toType: GrantFiled: January 19, 2000Date of Patent: December 24, 2002Assignee: Hunter Engineering CompanyInventors: Daniel B. January, Nicholas J. Colarelli, III
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Publication number: 20020159051Abstract: A method for optical wavelength position searching and tracking with variable step values. During the searching process, if the optical power variation detected for two times has not reached a certain amplitude, then the rapid searching method with large steps will be used; while the optical power variation has reached a certain amplitude, the step value will be modified, and the fine searching method with small steps will be used. The method provided by the present invention has been implemented in the application of optical wavelength position searching, and has achieved good results, not only the requirement for rapid the searching process is satisfied, but also accurate optical signal processing is ensured, and the processing cost has not increased.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 30, 2001Publication date: October 31, 2002Inventor: Mingxian Guo
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Publication number: 20020154293Abstract: A system (16) for tracking a missile (22) in flight, the missile (22) having an optical beacon generator (32) that outputs a modulated signal (26) having a predetermined frequency, including an optical system (50, 52, 54) for transmitting image data along an optical path (68) onto an array of detectors (55), such that each detector in the array (55) receives substantially simultaneously the image data from the optical system (50, 52, 54). The system (16) further includes means for processing (46) the image data transmitted onto the array of detectors (55) in order to locate the optical beacon (32).Type: ApplicationFiled: April 19, 2001Publication date: October 24, 2002Inventors: Michael L. Wells, John A. Tyson
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Patent number: 6462810Abstract: The present invention provides a surveying system, which comprises a survey instrument main unit for receiving and detecting a guide light projected from a collimation target, a horizontal rotating mechanism 38 for rotating the survey instrument main unit in a horizontal direction, a control unit 37 for controlling the horizontal rotating mechanism, a rough direction detecting unit 24 capable to detect the guide light from all horizontal directions, and a precise direction detecting unit 25 arranged in a direction to collimate the survey instrument main unit from a telescope and detects said guide light only in a range of a predetermined angle, wherein said control unit controls the horizontal rotating mechanism so that a direction of the survey instrument main unit is aligned to the collimation target based on a result of a detection from said rough direction detecting unit, and collimates the survey instrument main unit is collimated to the collimation target based on a result of a detection from the precisType: GrantFiled: March 14, 2000Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha TOPCONInventors: Yoshiaki Muraoka, Ikuo Ishinabe, Sho-ujiro Takahashi
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Patent number: 6445446Abstract: A photodetecting system for an automatic surveying instrument equipped with an automatic tracking system is capable of controlling the automatic surveying instrument by simple photodetecting means. A collimating optical system collimates the surveying instrument with respect to an object, a splitting optical device splits incident light rays received from the collimating optical system into light rays that travel toward first and second photodetecting devices, respectively, a first light condensing device disposed on an optical path between the first photodetecting device and the splitting optical device gathers the light rays in a first direction, and a second light condensing device disposed on an optical path between the second photodetecting device and the splitting optical device gathers the light rays in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 1999Date of Patent: September 3, 2002Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha TopconInventors: Kaoru Kumagai, Fumio Ohtomo
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Publication number: 20020097390Abstract: A missile tracking and deflection system for protecting a platform includes a missile warning system for detecting the presence of a missile and generating a warning signal. A countermeasure processor receives the warning signal and analyzes characteristics of the missile to prioritize a trajectory signal. A track processor receives the trajectory signal and generates a pointer signal. The system also includes a receiver, which is positioned by a pointer that receives the pointer signal, for receiving a passive and/or active signature of the missile to confirm the presence thereof. The countermeasure processor then directs a laser beam at the missile to determine its operational parameters and receives an active signature from the missile.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 8, 2002Publication date: July 25, 2002Applicant: LOCKHEED MARTIN TACTICAL DEFENSE SYSTEMS,INCInventors: Allen T. Hicks, Timothy E. MacKlin, Dennis L. Carter, Susan E. Hall
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Patent number: 6394156Abstract: A method for cutting trees (18) in the vicinity of a power line (10) using a topping saw (17) suspended from a helicopter (15) in such a way that the helicopter is flown in the direction of the power line (10) so close to the electricity wires (12) that the topping saw suspended from the helicopter cuts the desired tops of the trees. The cutting line (14) of the topping saw (17) is determined in such a way that the helicopter is flown with the help of a video camera (21) attached to the suspension bar (16) for the topping saw at an angle of 45° and a monitor (22) placed in connection with the helicopter's cockpit so that the video camera is kept directed towards the electricity wire (12) of the power line (10). The distance (a, b) of the point where trees are to be cut from the electricity wire (12) is determined by adjusting the distance (h) of the video camera from the cutting blade (20) of the topping saw (17).Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 2000Date of Patent: May 28, 2002Assignee: Länsitec OyInventors: Jorma Ahvenlampi, Hannu Oksanen
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Patent number: 6369885Abstract: A missile tracking and deflection system for protecting a platform includes a missile warning system for detecting the presence of a missile and generating a warning signal. A countermeasure processor receives the warning signal and analyzes characteristics of the missile to prioritize a trajectory signal. A track processor receives the trajectory signal and generates a pointer signal. The system also includes a receiver, which is positioned by a pointer that receives the pointer signal, for receiving a passive and/or active signature of the missile to confirm the presence thereof. The countermeasure processor then directs a laser beam at the missile to determine its operational parameters and receives an active signature from the missile.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 1998Date of Patent: April 9, 2002Assignee: Lockheed Martin CorporationInventors: Danny E. Brown, Allen T. Hicks, Daniel E. Laird, Timothy E. Macklin
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Patent number: 6219133Abstract: A spatial optical transmission device and method of spatial optical transmission of a beam type that allow tracking of a light beam by simple control. A plurality of divergent type tracking beams (X1) are emitted from a transmitter (10), and from the distribution of the optical intensity of each of these tracking beams the positional difference between a tracking beam receiver (22) and a datum point is detected, this error information is transmitted from a receiver (20) to the transmitter (10), and using lenses (11, 13), the directions of the optical axes of the tracking beams are changed, and at the same time the direction of the optical axis of a data beam (40) is adjusted.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 1999Date of Patent: April 17, 2001Assignee: Seiko Epson CorporationInventors: Takeo Kawase, Shojiro Kitamura
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Patent number: 6172747Abstract: A tracking system having an acquisition sight for use by a pilot to acquire and track a target. Once the target is acquired an operator using a track handle can control tracking of the target. The operator monitors the target utilizing narrow and wide field of view monitors. A computer receives azimuth and elevation positional signals from the tracking device which may be the acquisition sight, the track handle, or other tracking device. The computer then processes the azimuth and elevation data and provides azimuth and elevation angle signals to a gimballed mirror steering the mirror to the target. The mirror receives image forming light from the target and then directs the image forming light to a wide field of view camera and a zoom telescope. The wide field of view camera is connected to the wide field of view monitor displaying the target on the monitor.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 1997Date of Patent: January 9, 2001Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventor: Christian L. Houlberg