Optical reflective edge or contrast sensor
AssigneePhoton Control Inc.
InventorYuriy Syvenkyy
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A precision edge detection system and sensor assembly is provided that uses a reflection technique to provide an energy efficient device that can be achieved using a relatively small form factor. There is provided an optical reflective sensor assembly that includes a light source, an optical element positioned to collimate and focus light from the light source to generate a focused beam, and at least one photodetector positioned adjacent the light source. The at least one photodetector is configured to detect light from the focused beam that has been reflected by an object positioned opposite the light source.
Claims23
An optical reflective sensor assembly, comprising:
- a light source;
- an optical element positioned to collimate and focus light from the light source to generate a focused beam;
- and
- a single photodetector surrounding the light source, the light source being positioned within an opening in the photodetector, the photodetector configured to detect light from the focused beam that has been reflected by an object positioned opposite the light source;
- wherein the optical element is positioned at an edge of the opening.
An optical reflective detection system, comprising:
- a substrate;
- at least one optical reflective sensor assembly supported at least in part by the substrate, each sensor assembly comprising:
- a light source;
- an optical element positioned to collimate and focus light from the light source to generate a focused beam;
- and
- a single photodetector surrounding the light source, the light source being positioned within an opening in the photodetector, the photodetector configured to detect light from the focused beam that has been reflected by an object positioned opposite the light source, wherein the optical element is positioned at an edge of the opening;
- and
- a controller coupled to the at least one sensor assembly, the controller comprising a processor and memory, the memory storing computer executable instructions for operating the detection system to generate the focused beam and to detect reflected light.
A method for detecting a signature of reflected light, the signature being indicative of a surface or edge of an object, the method comprising:
- directing light from a light source through an optical element positioned to collimate and focus light from the light source to generate a focused beam;
- and
- detecting light from the focused beam that has been reflected by an object positioned opposite the light source, by a single photodetector surrounding the light source, the light source being positioned within an opening in the photodetector, wherein the optical element is positioned at an edge of the opening.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.