Detecting positions of light reflecting objects, e.g. for testing vehicle shock absorbers - measuring intensity of light reflected from object, e.g., bar=code, and detecting steps in intensity distribution

摘要

A method of detecting the positions of light reflecting objects involves detecting (8) light from a light source at least partially reflected by the object. Light from the source (2) is deflected towards the object (1) by a rotary mirror (4) and fanned out over a defined measurement path (6) so that a light spot is linearly scanned over the surface (11) at a defined frequency. The light is focussed by a transmission lens before or after the mirror and by a receiver lens. The light intensity is detected over the entire measurement path and any steps in intensity interpreted as a transition in the surface structure or one end of the object. ADVANTAGE - Enables position of light reflecting object to be detected at low equipment cost and with compact arrangement.