Apparatus and method for measuring color
First Claim
1. An apparatus for measuring the color of an object with a probe as the probe is moved with respect to the object, comprising:
- a probe having a central source fiber optic and a plurality of receiver fiber optics spaced apart from the central source fiber optic, wherein light from the central source fiber optic reflects into the plurality of receiver fiber optics;
sensors coupled to receive light from the receiver fibers, wherein at least some of sensors measure the value of the intensity of light in predetermined color bands;
a processor coupled to receive data from the light sensors;
wherein the processor monitors the intensity values for one or more of the receiver fiber optics and stores data from the sensors at time when the one or more receiver fiber optics simultaneously have a peak intensity value.
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Abstract
Color measuring systems and methods are disclosed. Perimeter receiver fiber optics are spaced apart from a central source fiber optic and receive light reflected from the surface of the object being measured. Light from the perimeter fiber optics pass to a variety of filters. The system utilizes the perimeter receiver fiber optics to determine information regarding the height and angle of the probe with respect to the object being measured. Under processor control, the color measurement may be made at a predetermined height and angle. Various color spectral photometer arrangements are disclosed. Translucency, fluorescence and/or surface texture data also may be obtained. Audio feedback may be provided to guide operator use of the system. The probe may have a removable or shielded tip for contamination prevention.
101 Citations
1 Claim
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1. An apparatus for measuring the color of an object with a probe as the probe is moved with respect to the object, comprising:
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a probe having a central source fiber optic and a plurality of receiver fiber optics spaced apart from the central source fiber optic, wherein light from the central source fiber optic reflects into the plurality of receiver fiber optics;
sensors coupled to receive light from the receiver fibers, wherein at least some of sensors measure the value of the intensity of light in predetermined color bands;
a processor coupled to receive data from the light sensors;
wherein the processor monitors the intensity values for one or more of the receiver fiber optics and stores data from the sensors at time when the one or more receiver fiber optics simultaneously have a peak intensity value.
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Specification
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- Resources
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Current AssigneeRPX Corporation
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Original AssigneeAlan R. Loudermilk, Russell W. Jung, Wayne D. Jung
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InventorsJung, Russell W., Loudermilk, Alan R., Jung, Wayne D.
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Granted Patent
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Time in Patent OfficeDays
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Field of Search
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US Class Current356/419
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