Patent ID: 7495583
Filing Date: 2009-02-24
Classification: G01D

Abstract:
1. A reflection-based optical encoding apparatus for the detection of position and/or motion of a mechanical device, the apparatus comprising: an encoding medium comprising at least a first reflective portion; and an encoder housing comprising a light-emitting source and a light-detecting sensor embedded within, the encoder housing being placed in proximity to the encoding medium such that a functional light path can be established from the light-emitting source to the light-detecting sensor via the first reflective portion of the encoding medium; the the encoder housing further comprising: a first flat facet positioned between the light-emitting source and the encoding medium, the first flat facet having a first angle relative to a common geometric plane such that light passing from the light-emitting source to the encoding medium is refracted along a first angled path toward a desired location of the encoding medium, wherein the first flat facet does not comprise a diffraction grating.