The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Nov. 13, 2007
Filed:
Jul. 13, 2004
Benjamin K. Jones, Seattle, WA (US);
Michael M. Nahum, Kirkland, WA (US);
Joseph D. Tobiason, Woodinville, WA (US);
Karl G. Masreliez, Banyuls sur Mer, FR;
Benjamin K. Jones, Seattle, WA (US);
Michael M. Nahum, Kirkland, WA (US);
Joseph D. Tobiason, Woodinville, WA (US);
Karl G. Masreliez, Banyuls sur Mer, FR;
Mitutoyo Corporation, Kawasaki-shi, JP;
Abstract
A system and method for improving the accuracy of a speckle-based image correlation displacement sensor provides ultra-high accuracy by ensuring that, in the absence of motion, the speckle image does not vary over time. In one embodiment, the speckle image is stabilized by reducing or compensating for laser diode wavelength changes. Various methods for stabilizing the wavelength include thermoelectric temperature control, measuring and correcting the wavelength by any suitable means, or providing a specific wavelength of light feedback from an external grating. Image stabilization may also be accomplished by monitoring the warm-up process of the system. Once the system is determined to have completed the warm-up process, an indicator is provided to the user to indicate that the system is ready for use. Sensor geometric configurations that reduce or eliminate wavelength-related errors are also disclosed.