Method and apparatus for measuring distance by laser beam

Details Method and apparatus for measuring distance by laser beam Method and apparatus for measuring distance by laser beam

1986-02-20

1988-03-08

Willis, Davis L.

Optics: measuring and testing

Range or remote distance finding

With photodetection

356349, 356358, G01B 902

Patent

active

047296534

ABSTRACT:
A method and an apparatus for determining distance by the use of laser beam is disclosed. An optical measuring system which derives a measuring beat wave in a known manner is combined with an optical reference system which derives a reference beat wave for allowing the distance to be determined to a higher precision. An optical measuring system causes laser beam to be reflected from an object being determined and also causes the laser beam to be reflected from a standard reflector which is spaced by a given distance. The both reflected beams are superimposed upon each other to produce a measuring beat wave. The optical reference system causes the laser beam to be refected from a first and a second reference reflector, which are spaced by given distances, to provide reflected beams, which are superimposed upon each other to produce a reference beat wave. A ratio of the number of waves in the measuring beat wave to the number of waves in the reference beat wave is determined, and this ratio is used in combination with known distances to the reflectors to calculate the distance to the object being determined.

REFERENCES:
patent: 3588254 (1971-06-01), Rhoades
Lavan et al., "Heterodyne Interferometer to Determine Relative Optical Phase Changes", Rev. Sci. Instrum., vol. 46, No. 5, pp. 525-527, 5/75.
Grace, "A Laser Calibrator-Compensator to Upgrade the Long-Term Accuracy of a Commercial Laser Interferometer", Proc. Soc. Photo-Optical Instrum. Eng. vol. 247, pp. 192-199, 1980.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

Rating

Method and apparatus for measuring distance by laser beam does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this patent.

If you have personal experience with Method and apparatus for measuring distance by laser beam, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Method and apparatus for measuring distance by laser beam will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFUS-PAI-O-229304