Spectra-physics Gmbh

Lawrence J Meyers

Joseph F Rando

Gary Lynn Cain

Ted L Teach

Theodore J Markley

A transmitter for an alignment system in which a field of electromagnetic radiation is propagated in a non-planar reference cone is disclosed. The transmitter includes a chassis with a source fixed to the chassis for providing a beam of electromagnetic radiation and an optical deflector which converges toward the source reflects the beam into an omni-directional cone of radiation. A flexible support having an omni-directional stiffness supports the optical deflector in the beam to reflect the reference field in a level orientation when the chassis is level. An angular error in the orientation of the chassis from level results in the optical deflector deviating from the aligned position to maintain the reference field in the level orientation. Damping of the deflector is also provided for and sensors detect when the angular error of the chassis has exceeded an allowable amount.

Self leveling transmitter for laser alignment systems

A transmitter for an alignment system in which a field of electromagnetic radiation is propagated in a non-planar reference cone is disclosed. The transmitter includes a source for providing a collimated beam of electromagnetic radiation directed parallel to a beam axis. A cantilever strand supports a bob within the beam. The bob has a conical reflecting surface to reflect the collimated beam conically. Optimally, the cantilever strand and bob are chosen to provide a deflection between the bob and plumb which is substantially one-half of any angular error between the beam axis and plumb. In an especially preferred form, a housing surrounds the bob and has inner and outer surfaces which minimize temperature effects on the orientation of the reference plane. Also, detectors are provided to sense when the angular error between the beam axis and plumb is outside of an acceptable range.

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Dayton, OH, United States of America

Lawrence J Meyers