Patent ID: 6873931
Filing Date: 2005-03-29
Classification: G01B,G01C

Abstract:
1. An alignment system for aligning a centerline of a first shaft with a centerline of a second shaft comprising: an analyzer having memory, a mounting bracket having engagement surfaces for engaging the first shaft and securing the bracket to the first shaft, a sensor head having a facing surface and a rear surface in opposing relation disposed on the mounting bracket and extending in a substantially perpendicular orientation with respect to the centerline of the first shaft, a collimated light source mounted on the sensor head for transmitting a beam of energy in a direction that is substantially parallel to the first shaft, a photosensitive sensor mounted on the sensor head for sensing light and generating a position signal corresponding to a position of a light beam impinging upon the photosensitive sensor, at least one accelerometer mounted on the sensor head for generating a signal corresponding to the angular orientation of the sensor head with respect to the first shaft, and a microprocessor for processing the signal generated by the at least one accelerometer, operable to provide an output corresponding to the angular position of the sensor head relative to the first shaft.