High-velocity measurement method in dual-frequency laser interference tracker based on beam expander and acousto-optic modulator

Abstract

The laser tracker, as a new large-scale measuring instrument of combining conventional measurement technology and modern control technology, has the advantages of intelligence, portability, large measurement space, high measurement accuracy and short detection period. However, the laser tracker has strict requirements on the moving speed of the spherically mounted retroreflector. This deficiency not only limits the application of the measuring instrument in the field of high-velocity measurement, but also greatly reduces the measurement efficiency. In this work, we analyze the factors that affect the tracking velocity of the laser tracker, and propose for the first time to use the beam expander device to improve the transverse tracking measurement velocity of the instrument. The experimental results show that the laser tracker miss distance can reach 2.25 mm. The transverse tracking velocity and acceleration can reach 4.34 m/s and 2.4 g, respectively. Additionally, the acousto-optic modulator is used to increase the frequency difference between the reference beam and the measuring beam, so that the value is greater than 19 MHz. The radial tracking measurement velocity can reach 6.2 m/s. The high-velocity laser interference tracker developed by this new method can be used in the field of large-scale space precision measurement such as nuclear power, medical treatment and rail transit.