With Reflection Of A Unidirectional Source Beam From A Planar Or Nonretroreflective Surface Patents (Class 356/152.2)
-
Patent number: 12162737Abstract: A control method for a mobile object automatically moving includes: causing the mobile object to move along a first path; causing a sensor of the mobile object to detect a position and an attitude of a target object while the mobile object is moving along the first path; setting a second path up to a target position at which predetermined position and attitude with respect to the target object are achieved based on the position and the attitude of the target object; switching the first path to the second path to move the mobile object along the second path; executing optimization calculation based on an evaluation function, to set a third path; and switching the second path to the third path to move the mobile object along the third path.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2022Date of Patent: December 10, 2024Assignee: MITSUBISHI LOGISNEXT CO., LTD.Inventors: Yasuo Fujishima, Ryoji Araki, Kazushige Takaki, Kenji Takao, Yohei Chishiki
-
Patent number: 11867955Abstract: A system for monitoring laser luminous power and method, and a collimating lens thereof are provided, which relate to the field of optical communications. The collimating lens includes a lens main body, where the lens main body includes a light-incident surface into which a divergent beam is input; a first light exit surface from which a collimated beam is output; a second light exit surface; and a reflective surface which reflects a certain proportion of the light beam to the second light exit surface for output. The system includes a laser, the collimating lens described above, and a photoelectric conversion chip. The laser is connected to the light-incident surface of the collimating lens via an optical path, and the photoelectric conversion chip is connected to the second light exit surface of the collimating lens via an optical path.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2021Date of Patent: January 9, 2024Assignee: HANGZHOU MO-LINK TECHNOLOGY CO. LTDInventors: Hao Wang, Hai Tang Qin
-
Patent number: 11300971Abstract: Provided is a cargo container butting method executed by a robot. The method includes: in a case of traveling to a butting region of a target cargo container, determining a reference position according to a position of a target marker on the target cargo container and adjusting a travel direction of the robot according to the reference position, traveling into a bottom of the target cargo container according to the adjusted travel direction, traveling to a butting position of the target cargo container, and butting the target cargo container on the bottom of the target cargo container. Provided further are a robot and a storage medium.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2020Date of Patent: April 12, 2022Assignee: BEIJING GEEKPLUS TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.Inventor: Bin Hu
-
Patent number: 11143517Abstract: A system and method for driver guidance are presented. A position sensor is mounted to a vehicle. The position sensor is configured to identify a position of the vehicle and a heading of the vehicle. A device is configured to generate a plurality of outputs. A controller is connected to the position sensor and the display device. The controller is configured to access, via a wireless communications network, a database to identify a target loading location for the vehicle, determine a location and a heading of the target loading location for the vehicle, and modify at least one of the plurality of outputs of the display device based upon at least one of the location and the heading of the target loading location.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2018Date of Patent: October 12, 2021Assignee: MODULAR MINING SYSTEMS, INC.Inventors: Michael W. Lewis, Lucas Van Latum, Andree Röttig, William Casson
-
Patent number: 10554312Abstract: Methods and systems for measuring interferometric visibility of telescopic signals using resources having imperfect quantum entanglement are disclosed. The novel methodology employed by embodiments of the present invention takes into account the difficulty in creating entanglement between distance telescopes, and describes how to incorporate problems associated with distributing quantum entanglement into the measurement procedure. This allows the distance that two telescopes in an optical array are spaced apart to be increased while still interacting.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2018Date of Patent: February 4, 2020Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the ArmyInventors: Siddhartha Santra, Brian T. Kirby, Vladimir S. Malinovsky, Michael Brodsky
-
Patent number: 9838006Abstract: A switch module of a photoelectric integrated mechanical shaft keyboard, having a casing and a key cap a driving device, a photoelectric switch, a movable optical module and a fixed optical module. The photoelectric switch has a PCB, an SMD IR integrated on the PCB and an SMD PT tube. By pressing down the key cap, the driving device drives the movable optical module to move up and down to control the relative positions of the movable optical module and the fixed optical module. When light emitted by the SMD IR tube is coupled into the SMD PT tube, an optical path is connected, so that the photoelectric switch is turned on; and when the light emitted by the SMD IR tube cannot be coupled into the SMD PT tube, the optical path is disconnected, so that the photoelectric switch is turned off.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2015Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Inventor: Zhongfeng Chen
-
Patent number: 9638799Abstract: Laser radar systems include a pentaprism configured to scan a measurement beam with respect to a target surface. A focusing optical assembly includes a corner cube that is used to adjust measurement beam focus. Target distance is estimated based on heterodyne frequencies between a return beam and a local oscillator beam. The local oscillator beam is configured to propagate to and from the focusing optical assembly before mixing with the return beam. In some examples, heterodyne frequencies are calibrated with respect to target distance using a Fabry-Perot interferometer having mirrors fixed to a lithium aluminosilicate glass-ceramic tube.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2013Date of Patent: May 2, 2017Assignees: Nikon Corporation, Nikon Metrology NVInventors: Eric Peter Goodwin, Daniel G. Smith, Alexander Cooper, Mina A. Rezk, Anthony R. Slotwinski, Thomas M. Hedges
-
Patent number: 9639985Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for detecting angular displacement of a display element relative to a reference position on a head mounted display device for presenting a mixed reality or virtual reality experience. Once the displacement is detected, it may be corrected for to maintain the proper binocular disparity of virtual images displayed to the left and right display elements of the head mounted display device. In one example, the detection system uses an optical assembly including collimated LEDs and a camera which together are insensitive to linear displacement. Such a system provides a true measure of angular displacement of one or both display elements on the head mounted display device.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2013Date of Patent: May 2, 2017Assignee: Microsoft Technology Licensing, LLCInventors: Steven John Robbins, Drew Steedly, Nathan Ackerman, Quentin Simon Charles Miller, Andrew C. Goris
-
Patent number: 9310598Abstract: The invention is based on an autofocus method in which light from a light source (12) is focused at a measurement light focus (52) in a sample (6) and is reflected from there and the reflected light is guided through an optical system (22) in two light paths (48, 50) onto at least two detector elements (72, 74). In order to achieve fast and accurate automatic focusing on the sample, it is proposed that the measurement light focus (52) is moved in layers of the sample (6) which reflect light to different extents, and the detector elements (72, 74) are arranged in such a way that, in this case, profiles of a radiation property registered by the detector elements (72, 74) are different and a focus position is set in a manner dependent on the profiles.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2010Date of Patent: April 12, 2016Assignee: SAKURA FINETEK U.S.A., INC.Inventors: Paul Hing, Sven Hensler
-
Patent number: 8923359Abstract: The presently disclosed technique presents laser-based method and apparatus for use in remote sensing. In general, objects within a field of view are lased by a long cavity laser apparatus. Returns are detected, captured, and processed to identify actual objects of interest. These can then be communicated to a user. Over time, the actual objects of interest can be auto-tracked.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2011Date of Patent: December 30, 2014Assignee: Lockheed Martin CorporationInventors: Gary Paul Perryman, Mark K. Browder, James Richard Wood
-
Patent number: 8830452Abstract: A geodetic target 1 for use in geodesy comprises an orienting device 10 with a bearing direction P, a first inclinometer 20 with a first axis of inclination 20A, a reflector 30 reflecting incident measurement beams S, an imaging optics 40 that focuses the incident measurement beams S, a matrix sensor 50, whose receiving surface 51 is situated in an image plane of the imaging optics 40, and an interface 60, which is connected to the first inclinometer 20 and the matrix sensor 50. The spatial arrangement and orientation of the optical axis and/or axis of symmetry 30A of the reflector 30 relative to the bearing direction P of the orienting device 10 is predetermined here. The first axis of inclination 20A makes an angle ? other than zero with an optical axis 40A of the imaging optics 40. The optical axis 40A of the imaging optics 40 coincides with an optical axis 30A and/or axis of symmetry of the reflector 30 or is parallel to it or make an angle with it.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2013Date of Patent: September 9, 2014Assignee: TRIMBLE Jena GmbHInventor: Michael Vogel
-
Patent number: 8817247Abstract: Precision approach path indicator (PAPI) measurement systems and methods are described herein. One system includes a number of light sensor modules, wherein each light sensor module is configured to determine an intensity of a beam of light from a PAPI unit, a memory, and a processor configured to execute executable instructions stored in the memory to determine a transition angle of the beam of light from the PAPI unit, an elevation angle of the beam of light with respect to horizontal, and a width of a transition region of the beam of light, based, at least in part, on the intensity of the beam of light determined by each light sensor module.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2012Date of Patent: August 26, 2014Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Fazludeen Ruknudeen, Vivek Viswambharan, Shinu Gervasis
-
Patent number: 8792092Abstract: An optoelectronic inclination sensor determines the inclination of a reference plane relative to the horizontal. A sensor body has a liquid layer, the free surface of which represents a horizon that can be inclined relative to the reference plane, forming an optical boundary to the adjacent medium. A light source disposed below the liquid layer emits a light beam onto the boundary. An optical sensor surface below the liquid layer detects the light beam reflected by the boundary. An analysis unit determines the inclination of the reference plane as a function of the amount of light received by the sensor surface. A deflecting element for deflecting or initially totally reflecting the beam is disposed between the source and the liquid layer. The beam is inclined as a result of said deflection or initial total reflection. A second total reflection occurs at the boundary in both the inclined and non-inclined orientation.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2011Date of Patent: July 29, 2014Assignee: Sartorius Lab Instruments GmbH & Co. KGInventor: Ralf Müller
-
Patent number: 8711345Abstract: An annular position detection method provides a plurality of light emitters on a first imaginary circle centered on an axis, the emitters directing individual, well-defined, overlapping light beams to a pair of light detectors positioned on a second imaginary circle centered on that axis. The detectors include pairs of diametrically opposite photosensors producing outputs depending upon the areas thereof exposed to light from the emitters. A light blocker is rotatably mounted on the axis so that the blocker blocks light to different extents of the photosensors depending upon its orientation about the axis. The outputs from all of the photosensors are processed to produce a position signal that varies with the angular position of the blocker and the relative intensities of the emitters are adjusted so that the position signal is substantially linear at all operative angles of the blocker. Apparatus for practicing the method is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 2012Date of Patent: April 29, 2014Assignee: Nutfield Technology, Inc.Inventors: Carl Brian Candiloro, Brian Patrick Stokes, Robert T. Milkowski
-
Patent number: 8582092Abstract: Various technologies pertaining to aligning and focusing mirrored facets of a heliostat are described herein. Updating alignment and/or focus of mirrored facets is undertaken through generation of a theoretical image, wherein the theoretical image is indicative of a reflection of the target via the mirrored facets when the mirrored facets are properly aligned. This theoretical image includes reference points that are overlaid on an image of the target as reflected by the mirrored facets of the heliostat. A technician adjusts alignment/focus of a mirrored facet by causing reflected reference markings to become aligned with the reference points in the theoretical image.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 2011Date of Patent: November 12, 2013Assignee: Sandia CorporationInventors: Julius E. Yellowhair, Clifford Kuofei Ho, Richard B. Diver, Timothy A. Moss
-
Patent number: 8537346Abstract: A light emitter 320 is so mounted to a mounting portion 170 provided at a predetermined position of the tool mounting rotation arm 160 that a light beam LB is emitted toward a swing arm 150, the light beam LB is caused to be emitted from the light emitter 320, and the swing arm 150 and the tool mounting rotation arm 160 are so positioned that the light beam LB from the light emitter 320 is irradiated to an allowable range of a light receiving portion 410 for receiving the light beam LB from the light emitter 320.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2011Date of Patent: September 17, 2013Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Kobe Seiko ShoInventors: Hiroshi Nakagiri, Sungjae Yoon, Tatsuji Minato, Makoto Kondo
-
Patent number: 8300219Abstract: Methods and apparatuses are provided that can be utilized for accurate pre-aiming and installation of devices. The devices are pre-set to an aiming orientation relative to a universal reference plane. The reference plane is then correlated to a feature of a pole, tower, or other structure that will be used to elevate or suspend the devices. A position sensing subsystem is utilized to inform a worker when each device is correctly angularly oriented to the reference plane. The worker simply moves the mounting structure for the device to the correct three-dimensional angular orientation, uses the position sensor to confirm the correct orientation to within a highly accurate margin of error, and either locks the device in that orientation or marks the orientation. The pole, tower, or other elevating structure is then preliminarily erected at its pre-designed location and pre-designed rotational orientation with the pre-aimed devices.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2009Date of Patent: October 30, 2012Assignee: Musco CorporationInventors: Myron Gordin, David L. Barker, Timothy J. Boyle, Christopher T. Chantos, Philip D. Hol, Darrell D. Rogers, Kenneth G. Lewis, Jr., Timothy D. McGill
-
Publication number: 20110303820Abstract: A method for optimizing the alignment of an optical package includes directing a beam spot of a laser along a folded optical path and onto a waveguide portion of a wavelength conversion. The output intensity of the wavelength conversion device is measured as a position of an adjustable optical component is adjusted about a first scanning axis and a second scanning axis thereby traversing the beam spot along a first and second scan lines on the waveguide portion of the wavelength conversion device. The change in the output intensity of the wavelength conversion device is then determined based on the adjusted position of the adjustable optical component. The adjustable optical component is then positioned on the first scanning axis and the second scanning axis based on the determined changes in the output intensity of the wavelength conversion device such that the output intensity of the wavelength conversion device is maximized.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 11, 2010Publication date: December 15, 2011Inventors: Jacques Gollier, Garrett Andrew Piech, Daniel Ohen Ricketts
-
Patent number: 8059267Abstract: Improvements to the art of orientation measurement are disclosed whereby the phase angle of each of the plurality of orientation dependent radiation patterns is measured at a single common and unique point of measurement on the observation surface and correspondingly in the image of the observation surface, and whereby a central landmark is located at the point of measurement without loss of accuracy in the determination of the plurality of phase angles of orientation dependent radiation so that the precise point of measurement can be determined in the image without errors introduced by an offset between the positions of landmarks and the position of phase angle measurement.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 2009Date of Patent: November 15, 2011Assignee: Go Sensors, LLCInventor: Brian Stewart Randall Armstrong
-
Patent number: 7838808Abstract: A modulated laser light detector that converts laser light energy into electrical signals which exhibit a frequency that is substantially the same as the laser light modulation frequency, in which these signals allow the detector unit to determine a position where the laser light is impacting upon a photodiode array. A superheterodyne receiver circuit is used to provide high gain at an improved signal-to-noise ratio to improve the range at which the modulated laser light signal can be reliably detected. Various types of signal detection circuits are available. Various processing algorithms are disclosed, including one which rejects laser light strikes that are due to reflections, rather than due to a direct strike from the laser transmitter.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2007Date of Patent: November 23, 2010Assignee: Trimble Navigation LimitedInventor: DuWain K. Ake
-
Publication number: 20100290027Abstract: A method for inputting information by an input device with photosensitive elements uses laser light to illuminate a target and two photosensitive elements to sense the time at which beams reflected by the target and then reflected respectively by rotatable first and second mirrors, and determines an included angle between a virtual connecting line of the target and the first mirror and a virtual connecting line of the first mirror and the second mirror and an included angle between a virtual connecting line of the target and the second mirror and the virtual connecting line of the first and second mirrors depending on the time, thereby calculating a coordinate of the target and taking it as relative input information, capable of saving the time for obtaining the target's coordinate and the production cost of the input device.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 11, 2010Publication date: November 18, 2010Inventor: CHIH-HSIUNG LIN
-
Patent number: 7668343Abstract: A measuring apparatus for measuring a position of a surface of an object while the object is scanned in a scanning direction in an X-Y plane.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2009Date of Patent: February 23, 2010Assignee: Canon Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Takenobu Kobayashi, Yuji Kosugi
-
Patent number: 7633602Abstract: A measurement apparatus having a measurement light source for emitting measurement light, a projection unit on which reflected light formed when the measurement light is reflected from the mirror plane is projected as a projected light spot, an image pickup unit for picking up an image of the projection unit on which the reflected light is projected as the projected light spot, a control unit for controlling an inclination of the mirror plane and a measurement unit for measuring a quantity of movement of the projected light spot, which moves according to a change of the inclination of the mirror plane, on the basis of the image of the projection unit. This enables the measurement of a deflection characteristic of a mirror system having the mirror plane variable to arrange the inclination within a short period of time and with high accuracy.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2007Date of Patent: December 15, 2009Assignee: Fujitsu LimitedInventors: Katsumi Fujihara, Hidetoshi Ohba
-
Patent number: 7614144Abstract: The present invention is intended to realize a hold posture inspection of a plurality of components sucked by a plurality of nozzle rows provided on a head with a single scanning operation, thereby reducing the time for the hold posture inspection and improving the accuracy thereof. In order to achieve such objections, the present invention includes: a head on which at least two nozzle rows are disposed, each of which includes at least one nozzle; a circuit board holding unit for holding a circuit board on which components conveyed by the head are mounted; and an inspection unit, provided on a moving path of the head from a supplying unit to the circuit board holding unit, for inspecting hold postures of the components held by the nozzles of the head and including sensors for posture inspection independent for the respective nozzle rows.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 2004Date of Patent: November 10, 2009Assignee: Panasonic CorporationInventors: Hiroshi Ota, Nobuhiro Nakai, Kensuke Kawasumi, Kimio Iizuka, Hirotsugu Uemori, Yoshinori Mochida, Keizo Izumida
-
Patent number: 7599044Abstract: An apparatus for detecting a person's presence without requiring the person to provide auditory or tactile input. The invention may be incorporated into an electronic device, such as a desktop computer or notebook computer. The embodiment may employ a variety of radiation emissions to determine when a person enters the embodiment's field of detection and, in response to the person entering, activate the electronic device. This may prove particularly useful where, for example, the electronic device consumes significant power and/or may suffer deleterious effects if left active for too long.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2005Date of Patent: October 6, 2009Assignee: Apple Inc.Inventors: Steve P. Hotelling, Scott A. Brenneman
-
Patent number: 7544924Abstract: A directional input device with a light directing shaft that avoids wear and tear caused by physical contact between a shaft and a sensor surface. A directional input device according to the present teachings includes a light emitter and a shaft having a surface that reflects light from the light emitter. A directional input device according to the present teachings further includes a set of light sensing elements that are positioned to detect a position of the shaft by sensing light reflected from the shaft.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2006Date of Patent: June 9, 2009Assignee: Avago Technologies ECBU IP (Singapore) Pte. Ltd.Inventors: Siang Leong Foo, Boon Keat Tan, Yee Loong Chin
-
Patent number: 7539328Abstract: A method of measuring a position of a surface of an object while the object is scanned relative to a detection unit in a scanning direction in an X-Y plane. The detection unit is configured to detect the position of the surface in a Z direction perpendicular to the X-Y plane.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2004Date of Patent: May 26, 2009Assignee: Canon Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Takenobu Kobayashi, Yuji Kosugi
-
Patent number: 7515257Abstract: A laser target reflector assembly for mounting upon spacecraft having a long-range reflector array formed from a plurality of unfiltered light reflectors embedded in an array pattern upon a hemispherical reflector disposed upon a mounting plate. The reflector assembly also includes a short-range reflector array positioned upon the mounting body proximate to the long-range reflector array. The short-range reflector array includes three filtered light reflectors positioned upon extensions from the mounting body. The three filtered light reflectors retro-reflect substantially all incident light rays that are transmissive by their monochromatic filters and received by the three filtered light reflectors. In one embodiment the short-range reflector array is embedded within the hemispherical reflector.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2004Date of Patent: April 7, 2009Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space AdministrationInventors: Fred D. Roe, Thomas C. Bryan
-
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
-
Patent number: 7474256Abstract: A transmitting apparatus and a receiving apparatus of a position detecting system execute a program including the steps of transmitting a laser beam; detecting an azimuth ?(Y) at which the laser beam is transmitted; detecting an azimuth ? at which the reflected laser beam is received; calculating a distance L(1) between the transmitting apparatus and a moving body from ?(Y), ? and a distance D between the transmitting apparatus and the receiving apparatus; and calculating a distance L(2) between the receiving apparatus and the moving body.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2004Date of Patent: January 6, 2009Assignee: Sharp Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Yoshiji Ohta, Keita Hara, Masaki Hamamoto
-
Patent number: 7456944Abstract: An apparatus for detection of optical systems in a terrain area, has at least: a laser arrangement with a laser light source, a moving mirror for scanning the terrain area and a photoelement for detection of retroreflected laser radiation from the laser light source, a scan position sensor for detection of a scanning direction, and a controller for determination of the position of an optical system to be detected, from a measurement which is carried out by means of the laser arrangement by evaluation of the intensity of retroreflected laser radiation from an optical surface of the optical system, and evaluation of the associated scanning direction detected by the scan position sensor, with the controller having an electronic interface via which information relating at least to the intensity and the elevation of the detected retroreflected laser radiation can be transmitted to at least one display apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2007Date of Patent: November 25, 2008Assignee: Carl Zeiss Optronics GmbHInventors: Hubertus Haan, Gunther Kuerbitz, Herbert Schmidt
-
Publication number: 20080204731Abstract: A microlens array includes plural powered microlenses or microlens elements for tilting different light-emitting elements or portions of a light-emitting device. Each microlens or microlens element both has optical power, and adjusts the tilt of the wavefront so that in combination the individual microlenses act like a more complex multiple-element optic where each element shifts light from only a portion of the light-emitting device. Such an optical device may be incorporated into eyewear for projecting subtitles or other information above or below a far-away image, such as on a movie screen. Another potential use of the microlens array is for use in a heads-up display. Still another potential use for the microlens array to provide soft focusing of emitted laser light to achieve a target light spot of a desired diameter.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 23, 2007Publication date: August 28, 2008Inventor: Darin S. Williams
-
Patent number: 7388654Abstract: Embodiments may comprise methods, apparatuses, systems, and one or more computer-readable media having computer-readable instructions thereon for adjusting a laser retroreflector to compensate for passing laser light through a window of the retroreflector comprising: determining an adjustment factor to compensate for propagation errors due to passing laser light through the window of the retroreflector; and adjusting a location of a reflection point of the retroreflector to minimize the propagation errors based on the adjustment factor.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2005Date of Patent: June 17, 2008Assignee: Faro Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Simon Raab, Lawrence B. Brown, Robert E. Bridges
-
Publication number: 20080074651Abstract: According to the present invention, there is provided a measurement apparatus having a measurement light source for emitting measurement light, a projection unit on which reflected light formed when the measurement light is reflected from the mirror plane is projected as a projected light spot, an image pickup unit for picking up an image of the projection unit on which the reflected light is projected as the projected light spot, a control unit for controlling an inclination of the mirror plane and a measurement unit for measuring a quantity of movement of the projected light spot, which moves according to a change of the inclination of the mirror plane, on the basis of the image of the projection unit. This enables the measurement of a deflection characteristic of a mirror system having the mirror plane variable to arrange the inclination within a short period of time and with high accuracy.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 30, 2007Publication date: March 27, 2008Applicant: FUJITSU LIMITEDInventors: Katsumi Fujihara, Hidetoshi Ohba
-
Publication number: 20080074650Abstract: According to the present invention, there is provided a measurement apparatus comprising a measurement light source for emitting measurement light onto a mirror plane, a projection unit on which reflected light formed when the measurement light emitted from the measurement light source is reflected from the mirror plane is projected and an image pickup unit for picking up an image of the projection unit on which the reflected light is projected. This enables the measurement of a deflection characteristic of the mirror system having the mirror plane variable to arrange an inclination within a short period of time and with high accuracy.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 30, 2007Publication date: March 27, 2008Applicant: FUJITSU LIMITEDInventors: Katsumi Fujihara, Hidetoshi Ohba
-
Publication number: 20080036995Abstract: A light source 165 of a projection unit 16 AM modulates an electric current supplied to a built-in LED. The projection unit 16 projects the modulated light on a projection screen. A photoreceiver 171 receives, with a time lag, a reflected portion of the modulated light from the screen, which corresponds to a time required for the light to travel from its projection to its reception. A calculation unit 173 acquires a phase difference between the projected light and its reflection at a respective one of a plurality of points on the screen, acquires a distance from the projector to the respective one of the plurality of points on the screen, and then acquires an inclination angle of the screen. Because the distance from the projector to a respective one of the plurality of points on the screen is acquired based on the corresponding phase difference, the measurement accuracy is improved compared to the triangular distance measuring method.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 10, 2007Publication date: February 14, 2008Applicant: Casio Computer Co., Ltd.Inventor: Hideaki Inoue
-
Patent number: 7268865Abstract: A method of detecting foreign objects in display manufacturing process, wherein the method comprising steps as flows: First a laser source and a laser detector are provided on a first side of a target to be measured, wherein the laser detector is supported by an adjustable gauge to provide the laser detector both horizontal and vertical movement. Then, a reflector located is provided on a second side of the target, wherein a laser beam coming from the laser source passes through a detecting position over the surface of the target, and is reflected to the laser detector by the reflector. Subsequently the intensity of the reflected laser beam is received and measured of by the laser detector.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2005Date of Patent: September 11, 2007Assignee: Chunghwa Picture Tubes, Ltd.Inventors: Shuei-De Chou, Tzu-Chien Chiang
-
Patent number: 7268893Abstract: There is provided an optical projection system for projecting an image onto an object that is being manufactured and/or inspected. The system includes an image-projecting device, a target-locating device for determining the orientation of the image-projecting device relative to the object, and an image-rendering device for rendering the image that is projected onto the object. The target-locating device advantageously comprises a camera that locates at least one target in mechanical communication with the object to determine the orientation of the image-projecting device relative to the object. The image-rendering device advantageously stores a three-dimensional representation of the object that is converted into a two-dimensional image that is projected upon the object. The image projected upon the object is advantageously used during assembly and/or inspection of the object.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 2004Date of Patent: September 11, 2007Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventor: John W. Palmateer
-
Patent number: 7227627Abstract: A fast and accurate non-contacting angle sensor. According to one aspect of the described sensor and method of operation thereof, the angular orientation of an inner payload relative to an outer structure is monitored with a 2 axis optical angle sensor for azimuth and elevation angles. The sensor operates on the same principle as an autocollimator, thus it measures both azimuth and elevation angles simultaneously. The angle sensor measurements are highly accurate in the angles of interest, while having low sensitivity to translation in three axes and low sensitivity to roll angle between the inner payload and the outer structure.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2005Date of Patent: June 5, 2007Assignee: L-3 Communications Sonoma EO, Inc.Inventor: Paul Emerson Bussard
-
Patent number: 7184136Abstract: An optical feedback technique is utilized for accurately determining the angular orientation of a collimator relative to an electro-optical (EO) system, and for aligning the two. A mirror assembly mounted on the EO system comprises a plurality of mirror elements positioned to receive light from the exit aperture of the collimator and to reflect the light back into the collimator through the aperture, each of the mirror elements having a reflecting surface oriented at a predetermined, unique angle. A beam of light reflected from one of the plurality of mirror elements forms a light spot on a photosensitive surface at the focal plane of the collimator. The relative orientation of the collimator and the EO system is determined by comparing the position of the light spot on the photosensitive surface with a reference position.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 2005Date of Patent: February 27, 2007Assignee: Santa Barbara Infrared, Inc.Inventor: Steve McHugh
-
Patent number: 7110103Abstract: An apparatus for determining the orientation and/or position of a structure comprises a light source (28) for generating a light beam. A structure (31) is mounted in the optical path of the light beam such that the position and/or orientation of the structure, relative to the light beam, may be altered. The apparatus further comprises first capture means (32) for capturing a diffraction pattern produced by the first structure. Information about the alignment of the structure may be obtained from the diffraction pattern, and the position and/or orientation of the structure (31) relative to the light beam may be adjusted if necessary.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2003Date of Patent: September 19, 2006Assignee: Sharp Kabushiki KaishaInventors: David James Montgomery, Christopher Jones
-
Patent number: 7079259Abstract: A primary mirror 22 defines an active concave surface 24, a first planar 40 and a first concave 42 alignment surfaces, each facing an active surface 30 defined by a secondary mirror 28. The secondary mirror also defines a second planar 46 a second concave 48 alignment surfaces, each opposite the active surface 30. Alignment beams 64, 66, 68, 70 are reflected from each of the four alignment surfaces, which all face the same direction, to adjust the mirrors. The first planar alignment surface is used to adjust tip and tilt of the primary mirror; the first concave alignment surface is used to position a retro reflector 50 relative to the primary mirror; the second planar alignment surface is used to adjust tip and tilt of the second mirror, and the second concave alignment surface is used to adjust the second mirror in the x, y and z direction relative to the first mirror. The apparatus and method are described for two and three mirror telescopes.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2003Date of Patent: July 18, 2006Assignee: Raytheon CompanyInventor: William Conrad Stenton
-
Patent number: 6864969Abstract: A calibration system for ccalibrating orientation parameters of a digital optoelectronic sensor system includes an attitude and position determining system arranged in a mobile carrier, such as an airplane or a satellite, for determining the orientation parameters in flight. An optoelectronic component emits light in a defined direction with respect to the mobile carrier. A planar optical detector is arranged relative to the optoelectronic device for detecting the reflection of radiation emitted from the optoelectronic device and reflected off of a reference module arranged on the ground. The orientation parameters of the reference module are known, wherein the offsets of the orientation parameters of the attitude and position determining system may be determined by evaluating the radiation emitted by the light-emitting component, reflected from the reference module and received by the planar detector.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2000Date of Patent: March 8, 2005Assignee: Deutsches Zentrum Für Luft-und Raumfahrt e.V.Inventor: Anko Börner
-
Patent number: 6856388Abstract: An optical sensor for measuring the distance and/or inclination of a surface, particularly relative to a reference plane, or for detecting the distance and/or change in inclination of a surface, wherein a light spot is generated on a detector in that a light beam that is collimated in a first direction is focused in a direction perpendicular to the first direction, so that a line focus is effected along the first direction on the surface and the line focus is imaged on the detector in the second direction and, at the same time, the beam that is reflected at the surface and collimated in the first direction is focused on the detector, wherein the line focus is perpendicular to the reflection plane defined by the impinging, reflected beam.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 2001Date of Patent: February 15, 2005Assignee: Carl Zeiss Jena GmbHInventor: Stefan Schmidt
-
Patent number: 6825923Abstract: A laser alignment system is provided. The system includes a plurality of lasers which are sequentially operative for producing first and second laser beams that are parallel to one another. The system further includes a target assembly. The target assembly includes lenses and mirrors disposed such that the first laser beam impinges directly on the target to provide displacement data. The second laser beam is focused and reflected so that the focal point of the reflected second beam impinges on the target. In a similar manner, a third parallel beam may be provided and may be focused to impinge on the target. Additionally, the plural laser beams may be substituted for by a single laser plane. The second and/or third beams provide alignment data, while the first beam provides displacement data.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2003Date of Patent: November 30, 2004Assignee: Hamar Laser Instruments, Inc.Inventors: Martin R. Hamar, Carlos Araujo
-
Patent number: 6784986Abstract: A device for aligning two machine shafts which are coupled to one another has: at least one laser light source for emitting laser light; at least one reflector for reflecting the laser light; at least one receiving device for receiving the laser light; a first arithmetic computing device for determining parallel and angular offset of the machine shafts; and an evaluation and arithmetic computing device for determining the distance of the machine mounting elements relative to the plane of symmetry which lies between the machine shafts. The plane of symmetry intersects the axes of the machine shafts essentially perpendicular to longitudinal axes of the shafts, i.e. with an angular error of less than 6°.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 2002Date of Patent: August 31, 2004Assignee: Pruftechnik Dieter Busch AGInventors: Heinrich Lysen, Dieter Busch
-
Patent number: 6727986Abstract: Method and device for measuring a folding angle of a sheet (6,25,26) in a folding machine, whereby a number of distances are measured in a plane (28) that crosses the sheet (6,25,26) and the element (4,24,7), whereby a distance profile (19) of the measured distances is determined, and whereby the folding angle (A) of the sheet (6,25,26) is determined as a function of the angle (B,B1,B2) between the sheet (6,25,26) and the element (4,24,7).Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2000Date of Patent: April 27, 2004Assignee: LVD Company NVInventor: Wim Serruys
-
Patent number: 6697147Abstract: A position measurement apparatus and method using laser includes a laser generating device, an image device, and a control unit. The laser generating device generates three or more laser beams progressing in parallel with each other at regular intervals. The image device obtains a picture for three or more points formed on a target by the laser beams. The control unit calculates a position relative to the target using number of pixels between pairs of neighboring ones of the three or more points in the picture. Thus, the present invention is advantageous in that laser pointers and a CCD camera having simple constructions and low prices are used, so that the position measurement apparatus is handled conveniently and is economical.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2002Date of Patent: February 24, 2004Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Won-Jun Ko, Soo-Sang Yang
-
Publication number: 20040027561Abstract: A deflection angle detecting device includes a light source, a path switching plane switching the optical path of part of light radiated from the light source, a detecting reflection surface placed on the optical path switched by the path switching plane and provided to the light-deflecting element, and a photodetector receiving light reflected by the detecting reflection surface to detect the deflection angle of the light-deflecting element in accordance with the position where the light is received. In this case, a transmission surface with positive power is interposed between the detecting reflection surface and the photodetector.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 1, 2003Publication date: February 12, 2004Applicant: OLYMPUS OPTICAL CO., LTDInventors: Koichi Takahashi, Junko Takahashi
-
Patent number: 6643004Abstract: Field-deployable spatial positioning or measurement systems are provided for improved versatility, reliability and performance. The spatial positioning or measurement systems use rotating laser fans or beams for positioning and measuring and include a system integrated field-deployable length standard that uses a reelable tape with positional indents. The systems further include the use of labyrinth seals at interface volumes between rotating laser heads and transmitter assemblies to prevent ingress of contaminants and allow for elimination of the use of rotary seals. Further, new dynamic leveling techniques are provided to plumb positional laser transmitter systems. Still further, strobe beam configurations are provided for improved near/far performance and a vertical mode sensing scheme that allows switching to measuring tall structures when needed.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2002Date of Patent: November 4, 2003Assignee: Trimble Navigation LimitedInventors: Philip L. Detweiler, James E. Denney, Nathan A. Corey, Jonathan A. Jackson, Frank B. Douglas