Device and Method for Aligning an Axis

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention describes a device and method for the precise alignment (adjustment) of a rotational axis, especially useful in optical systems like plane grating monochromators. The device consists of a stator that attaches to the axis to be adjusted and a rotor with a tiltable plane mirror. The rotor can be locked in four positions offset by 90° each, facilitating systematic alignment steps even when the axis itself can rotate only a limited amount. The alignment process uses optical tools such as a theodolite with autocollimation capabilities, allowing high-accuracy setting of the axis relative to a reference direction.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Precise alignment of rotation axes in scientific optical equipment (e.g., synchrotron or X-ray monochromators)
• Adjustment of axes in precision instruments where only limited rotational movement is possible
• Calibration of optical setups in laboratories and research facilities
• Setting up and maintaining astronomical telescopes or similar observation devices
• Alignment processes in manufacturing equipment that requires optical calibration

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Allows highly precise axis alignment even when the axis itself can only rotate within a small range
• Improves the quality and accuracy of monochromator and optical device performance
• Enables quicker and more reliable setup or maintenance of scientific and industrial equipment
• Uses standard optical measurement tools (theodolite), making the process accessible and reproducible
• The device's modular and detachable design increases its versatility and convenience

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The present invention relates to a device and a method for adjusting an axis, so as also to respond as an axis of rotation, as is used, for example, in a plane grating monochromator for rotating a plane mirror and plane grating. The device (V) comprises a stator (2) for static connection to an axis (A1, A2) to be adjusted, and a rotor (1), wherein the rotor (1) is lockable on the stator (2) in four positions (7a, 7b, 7c, 7d) offset in each case by 90°, and also means for the form-fitting and coaxial mounting of the device on an axis (A1, A2) to be adjusted are arranged on the stator (2), a plane mirror (3), which is arranged on the rotor (1) and is tiltable with respect to the rotor (1) at at least two tilting points (4a, 4b), and wherein the plane mirror and the at least two tilting points (4a, 4b) are arranged symmetrically with respect to the centre point of the rotor, and a target mark (8) which is centred for rotation of the rotor (1). The method according to the invention which is associated with the device (V) is distinguished in that first of all the device is adjusted to the axis of rotation of an axis (A1, A2) to be adjusted, which axis, for this purpose, needs itself to be rotatable only in a limited range, to be precise using the full rotational range of the rotor (1) of the device (V), and the axis (A1, A2) to be adjusted is subsequently adjusted in a predetermined direction in space using the previously adjusted device (V). The method makes use here of a second theodolite with autocollimation and a focally adjustable telescope (T).