Optics: measuring and testing – Range or remote distance finding – With photodetection
Patent
1992-09-04
1994-05-03
Buczinski, Stephen C.
Optics: measuring and testing
Range or remote distance finding
With photodetection
356141, 359201, 359211, G01C 308, G01B 1126, G02B 2608
Patent
active
053092120
ABSTRACT:
An optical scanning rangefinder has been developed that creates a depth map of its surroundings by scanning a beam of modulated, collimated light and observing reflections from proximate surfaces. The scanning system uses dual rotating prisms to deflect the transmitted beam and collect a portion of the reflected light, which is focused on a photodetector and converted to an electrical signal. This signal is amplified, AC coupled, and inverted. The inverted signal drives the modulator for the light source. When sufficient light is received by the detector, this sytem forms an oscillator, the frequency of which depends on the distance to the illuminated surface. This frequency can easily be measured to a high degree of accuracy, and the distance to the surface derived from it. The scanner achieves a field of view of 360 degrees horizontally by 52 degrees vertically.
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Buczinski Stephen C.
Yaskawa Electric Corporation
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