Method and apparatus for detection of inclusion in glass
AssigneeAgency for Science, Technology and Research
InventorsZhongping Fang, Tong Liu, Xiang Li, Ivan Reading
Life of this patent
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Abstract
Inclusions in a transparent panel (5) are detected by placing a light transmissive interface (3) in contact with the panel (5), and transmitting a beam of light (1) through interface (3) into panel (5). Within the panel (5), the light beam (7) propagates along a path including total internal reflections at surfaces of panel (5). When the light beam (1) intercepts inclusions (10) or other defects at least some of it is scattered, and leaves the panel (5). This scattered light is then observed. Thus, a large zone of the panel (5) can be inspected, with light only being detected in the case that it arises from scattering by inclusions or other defects.
Claims43
A method for detecting faults, such as inclusions, within a transparent panel which is located in an ambient atmosphere, the method comprising:
- directing light from a light source into an interface in contact with the transparent panel, the interface including one or more interface elements having a refractive index higher than the ambient atmosphere, at least some of the light passing through the interface into the transparent panel and propagating within the transparent panel along a path where total internal reflection is realized at surfaces of the transparent panel;
- and
- observing the light scattered by the faults and exiting the panel.
An apparatus for detecting faults, such as inclusions, within a transparent panel which is located in an ambient atmosphere, the apparatus comprising:
- a light source;
- an interface including one or more interface elements having a refractive index higher than the ambient atmosphere and transparent to light generated by the light source;
- light source support means for locating the light source in a positional relationship to the interface such that when the interface is contacting the panel, light generated by the light source is transmitted through the interface into the panel and propagates within the panel along a path where total internal reflection is realized at surfaces of the panel;
- and
- a detector for detecting light scattered by the faults and exiting the panel.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.