Patent Description:
The subject matter of this application may have common inventorship with and/or may be related to the subject matter of the following:.

Various embodiments relate generally to alignment of electronic sensing apparatus.

Manufacturing facilities produce useful articles by processing components into finished goods. The operations used to process the components may involve transformational steps that change the article from one state to another. Some of these transformational operations employ machineries, such as presses, cutting tools, conveyor systems, ovens, or chemical applicators, for example.

Some manufacturing facilities use machinery that can be dangerous to humans. For example, a worker who walks into a zone of operation of a large robotic arm is at risk of serious bodily harm if the arm's motion profile intersects the worker's body or clothing. In another example, a worker who places a workpiece in a press and reaches into the press while the press is activated could be severely injured.

To promote safety for operators and machines, many manufacturing machines are protected, either partially or entirely surrounded by light curtain systems, as for example shown in <CIT>. A light curtain safety system may cause a machine to be deactivated when an object interrupts any portion of the light curtain sensing zone. For example, a hand extending through the curtain of light may block one or more beams of the light curtain, which the light curtain may interpret as a potential danger condition. The light curtain may typically respond by causing the machine to be deactivated by, for example, engaging a braking system and/or interrupting electric power to motor drives that cause a press to move. A light curtain safety system may also prevent a machine from being activated when an object is present in any portion of the light curtain sensing zone. For example, prior to machine startup, an operator who is standing too close, or within hazardous proximity, to a machine may block one or more beams of the light curtain. The light curtain may interpret this as a danger condition and prevent machine startup.

Apparatus and associated methods relate to an alignment system including an alignment source module (ASM) and an alignment indicator module (AIM) configured to be releasably coupled to a first unit and a second unit, respectively, of a pair of optoelectronic arrays. In an illustrative example, the ASM may be oriented, when coupled, to emit an optical beam in substantial alignment with a first optical axis of the first unit. The AIM may, for example, be configured, when coupled, to provide a visible indication when the optical beam is within a predetermined near-alignment orientation range relative to a second optical axis of the second unit. Each of the AIM and the ASM may, for example, be configured to axially couple along respective longitudinal axes of the first unit and the second. Various embodiments may advantageously facilitate manipulation of the pair of optoelectronic arrays into near alignment with each other.

Various embodiments may achieve one or more advantages. For example, some embodiments may advantageously facilitate an operator(s) in manipulating a first unit and/or second unit of a pair of optoelectronic arrays into an (near) alignment state in which a curtain of light may be generated and/or in which an automatic alignment system may be advantageously employed. Some embodiments may, for example, advantageously actively generate one or more visual indicia such as, for example, to guide a user in alignment of one or more units. Various embodiments may advantageously provide for rapid, guided alignment of two optoelectronic units without undue and/or frustrating 'guesswork' manipulation trying to achieve a (predetermined) level of alignment suitable for alignment and/or for performing a final (precision) alignment method.

In various embodiments, an alignment module may, for example, be advantageously pluggably and releasably coupled into a desired orientation for alignment. Various embodiments may, for example, advantageously provide axial coupling of a pluggable alignment module to an end of a light stick. Such embodiments may, for example, advantageously prevent obstruction of one or more elements of an optoelectronic array(s) of the light stick.

A light stick may, for example, include an array of optical emitting elements. The light stick may, for example, extend along a longitudinal axis. The optical emitting elements may, for example, be distributed along an array axis parallel to the longitudinal axis. The optical emitting elements may, for example, emit light in at least one plane substantially orthogonal to the array axis. The light stick may, for example, be provided with one or more optical receivers. The receivers may, for example, be distributed along a second array axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis. The receivers may, for example, be configured to detect light incoming in one or more planes substantially orthogonal to the second array axis.

Various embodiments may, for example, advantageously disable a touch input such that accidental activation of an emitter may be advantageously prevented. Some embodiments may, for example, advantageously provide pluggable cascading of optoelectronic units.

The details of various embodiments are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below.

To aid understanding, this document is organized as follows. First, to help introduce discussion of various embodiments, an exemplary pluggable alignment system is introduced with reference to <FIG>. Second, that introduction leads into a description with reference to <FIG> of exemplary system embodiments. Third, with reference to <FIG>, exemplary pluggable alignment modules are depicted. Fourth, with reference to <FIG> exemplary methods related to operating a pluggable alignment module are discussed. Finally, the document discusses further embodiments, exemplary applications and aspects relating to pluggable alignment systems.

<FIG> depicts an exemplary pluggable alignment module (PAM) employed in an illustrative use-case scenario. In a depicted exemplary scenario <NUM>, a machine <NUM> (e.g., a hydraulic press) is deployed (e.g., on a shop floor). The machine <NUM> may, for example, require safeguarding. For example, the machine <NUM> may be safeguarded to avoid injury to workers working with the machine <NUM>. In this example, an optoelectronic safety guard (e.g., pair of light sticks) is being installed to safeguard the machine <NUM>. The optoelectronic safety guard includes a first unit <NUM> and a second unit <NUM>. The first unit <NUM> and the second unit <NUM> are being configured to generate a curtain of light <NUM>. Upon successful installation, the curtain of light <NUM> may, for example, be configured such that an operation of the machine <NUM> is stopped upon interruption of the curtain of light <NUM>.

Operations of the optoelectronic safety guard may, for example, depend upon proper alignment of the first unit <NUM> and/or the second unit <NUM>. For example, the curtain of light <NUM> may be generated only upon registration of an optoelectronic array (e.g., sensors, emitters) of the first unit <NUM> with an optoelectronic array of the second unit <NUM>. The first unit <NUM> and/or the second unit <NUM> may, for example, be pre-aligned by an operator. The pre-alignment may, by way of example and not limitation, include using a level, visual alignment (e.g., by an unaided human eye) of the first unit <NUM> and/or second unit <NUM> with each other, or some combination thereof. The first unit <NUM> and/or the second unit <NUM> may, by way of example and not limitation, include an automatic alignment system to precisely align the first unit <NUM> and/or second unit <NUM> with each other. The automatic alignment system may, for example, require a minimum threshold of alignment to be successfully employed. For example, the automatic alignment system may require that the first unit <NUM> and/or the second unit <NUM> be within a (predetermined) angle range (e.g., 'near-alignment') about a longitudinal axis of a corresponding optoelectronic array. The automatic alignment system may, for example, require a minimum angle of alignment (e.g., from parallel) between a longitudinal axis of the first unit <NUM> and a longitudinal axis of the second unit <NUM>. The minimum alignment may, for example, be difficult to achieve by unaided visual alignment of the first unit <NUM> and/or the second unit <NUM> (e.g., by 'eyeballing' the alignment) and/or by external alignment tools.

In the depicted exemplary scenario <NUM>, the first unit <NUM> is provided with a first pluggable alignment module <NUM>. The first pluggable alignment module <NUM> is (pluggably and/or releasably) coupled to an end of the first unit <NUM> along a longitudinal axis of the first unit <NUM>. The first pluggable alignment module <NUM> is provided with a touch input and indication module <NUM>. An emitter <NUM> emits an optical beam <NUM> (e.g., laser beam). The first pluggable alignment module <NUM> is coupled to the first unit <NUM> such that the emitter <NUM> emits the optical beam <NUM> substantially parallel to an optical axis of the optoelectronic array of the first unit <NUM>.

A second pluggable alignment module <NUM> is (releasably and pluggably) coupled to the second unit <NUM>. In the depicted example, the second pluggable alignment module <NUM> includes an indicator module <NUM>. The indicator module <NUM> may, for example, be at least partially made of a material having a reflective surface. As depicted, the first unit <NUM> is being rotated, thereby rotating the optical beam <NUM>. The reflective surface may, for example, generate at least one visual indicium upon the optical beam <NUM> impinging upon the indicator module <NUM>. The visual indicium may, for example, indicate that the first unit <NUM> and/or the second unit <NUM> are in near alignment with one another. For example, the visual indicium may indicate that respective longitudinal axes of the first unit <NUM> and the second unit <NUM> are in near parallel alignment and/or that optical axes of the first unit <NUM> and the second unit <NUM> are in near parallel alignment. Accordingly, an operator(s) may advantageously manipulate the first unit <NUM> and/or second unit <NUM> into an (near) alignment state in which the curtain of light <NUM> may be generated and/or in which an automatic alignment system may be advantageously employed.

In the depicted example, the first pluggable alignment module <NUM> further includes a coupling module <NUM> having a plug module <NUM>. The coupling module <NUM> may be configured to align and releasably couple the first pluggable alignment module <NUM> to an end of the first unit <NUM> along the longitudinal axis of the first unit <NUM>. The coupling module <NUM> may be configured, for example, to rotationally orient the first pluggable alignment module <NUM> about the longitudinal axis. The plug module <NUM> may electrically couple the first pluggable alignment module <NUM> to the first unit <NUM>. For example, the plug module <NUM> may operably couple the emitter <NUM> to a power source of the first unit <NUM>.

As depicted, the first pluggable alignment module <NUM> further includes an indicator module <NUM>. The indicator module <NUM> may, for example, be configured to generate at least one visual indicium in response to an impinging light (e.g., laser beam) from an opposing alignment module. For example, in some embodiments, the second pluggable alignment module <NUM> may be provided with an emitter <NUM> (not shown in the depicted example). Such embodiments may, for example, advantageously permit more accurate alignment of the second unit <NUM> with the first unit <NUM>. For example, the first unit <NUM> and the second unit <NUM> may be each repeatedly aligned in successive turns until the optical beam <NUM> and an optical beam launched from the second pluggable alignment module <NUM> are each in alignment with a (predetermined) target (e.g., a center, a visible hole for the emitter <NUM>) of the opposing alignment module.

In the depicted example, the second pluggable alignment module <NUM> is provided with a coupling module <NUM>. The coupling module <NUM>, as depicted, is not provided with a plug module <NUM>. Embodiments without a plug may, for example, not have an emitter <NUM>. Embodiments without a plug may, for example, have another source of electrical power. Such embodiments may, by way of example and not limitation, have an internal power source (e.g., rechargeable and/or replaceable battery), solar power, external electrical coupling such as a cord and plug, or some combination thereof.

<FIG> depicts an exemplary block diagram of an exemplary PAM. An exemplary pluggable alignment system <NUM> includes an alignment unit <NUM> coupled to an optoelectronics unit. In the depicted example, the optoelectronics unit is the first unit <NUM> (labeled as a 'light stick'). The alignment unit <NUM> includes an emitter <NUM>. The emitter <NUM> is operably electrically coupled to an operator control input receiver <NUM>. The operator control input receiver <NUM> may, for example, include a switch. An operator may, for example, operate the operator control input receiver <NUM> to enable and/or disable the emitter <NUM>.

The first unit <NUM> includes a power source <NUM>. The power source <NUM> may, for example, include an internal power source (e.g., a battery). The power source <NUM> may, for example, include an external power source (e.g., building power such as accessed by a pluggable connection with an electrical receptacle in a building). The first unit <NUM> may, for example, include a power control circuit configured to modify, condition, and/or distribute power from an internal and/or external power source.

The alignment unit <NUM> is mechanically (e.g., releasably, pluggably) coupled to the first unit <NUM>, as depicted by a double line. The operator control input receiver <NUM> operably (electrically) couples the power source <NUM> of the first unit <NUM> to the emitter <NUM>. Accordingly, the emitter <NUM> may selectively receive power from the power source <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts an exemplary block diagram of an exemplary PAM provided with a pass-through module connection module and a touch input module. An exemplary pluggable alignment system <NUM> includes an alignment unit <NUM> coupled to two optoelectronics units.

The alignment unit <NUM> includes a controller <NUM>. The controller <NUM> may, for example, include a control circuit. The controller <NUM> includes a microprocessor <NUM> (labeled "µP'') operably coupled to a non-volatile memory module <NUM> (labeled "NVM") and a random-access memory module <NUM> (labeled "RAM"). The non-volatile memory module <NUM> may, for example, store at least one program of instructions. The microprocessor <NUM> may, for example, be configured to execute the at least one program of instructions to perform operations for alignment of optoelectronic arrays.

The controller <NUM> is operably electrically coupled to an emitter <NUM> and an operator control input receiver <NUM>. The controller <NUM> may be configured to selectively activate and/or deactivate the emitter <NUM> in response to input from the operator control input receiver <NUM>. For example, an operator may manipulate the operator control input receiver <NUM>, thereby causing the operator control input receiver <NUM> to generate at least one signal configured to cause the controller <NUM> to operate the emitter <NUM>.

The controller <NUM> is operably electrically coupled to a touch input <NUM>. The touch input <NUM> may, for example, be configured to operate the operator control input receiver <NUM>. In some embodiments the operator control input receiver <NUM> may, by way of example and not limitation, be integral to the touch input <NUM> such that operation of the touch input <NUM> may operate the operator control input receiver <NUM>. In some embodiments, by way of example and not limitation, the touch input <NUM> may be configured as the operator control input receiver <NUM>. In some implementations, by way of example and not limitation, a touch input may correspond to touch (e.g., contact) of a portion of a user's body with the touch input <NUM>. For example, a transducer (e.g., the touch input <NUM>) may not translate (e.g., at all, noticeably) in response to the touch input. Such embodiments may, for example, advantageously reduce a number of moving parts and/or may provide a user easy access (e.g., to a large portion or entire portion of a dome) to provide input without having to specifically manipulate a moving part.

In some implementations, the transducer may, for example, be configured as a 'button,' toggle, slider, knob, and/or rocker that may move, flex, rotate and/or displace in response to a user input (e.g., pressing a button, manipulating the transducer).

The controller <NUM> is operably electrically coupled to a receiver <NUM>. The receiver <NUM> may, for example, include one or more circuits configured to transduce incoming electromagnetic signals. For example, the receiver <NUM> may be configured as an optical sensor. The optical sensor may, for example, be configured to generate at least one signal received by the controller <NUM> in response to an incoming optical signal (e.g., laser beam).

The controller <NUM> is operably electrically coupled to an indicator module <NUM>. The indicator module <NUM> may, for example, generate one or more visual indicia in response to one or more electrical signals from the controller <NUM>. The controller <NUM> may, by way of example and not limitation, generate such electrical signals to cause the indicator module <NUM> to generate one or more visual indicia in response to one or more signals from the receiver <NUM> generated in response to an incoming electromagnetic signal. Accordingly, various embodiments may advantageously actively generate one or more visual indicia such as, for example, to guide a user in alignment of the first unit <NUM> and/or an opposing unit (e.g., the second unit <NUM>). For example, the (active) visual indicia may indicate to a user a direction necessary to operate a unit for alignment. The visual indicia may indicate, for example, location of an impinging optical being. The visual indicia may indicate, for example, a level of alignment reached (e.g., misaligned, roughly aligned, nearly aligned, fully aligned, ready to activate an automatic alignment system).

The alignment unit <NUM> is mechanically coupled to the first unit <NUM> (labeled as "light stick"), as depicted by a double line. The alignment unit <NUM> is electrically coupled to the first unit <NUM> such that the controller <NUM> is electrically coupled to the power source <NUM> of the first unit <NUM>. The alignment unit <NUM> is further provided with a pass-through connector module <NUM>. The power source <NUM> is operably electrically coupled to the pass-through connector module <NUM>.

A connected optoelectronic unit <NUM> (labeled as "light stick") is coupled to the first unit <NUM> via the alignment unit <NUM>. As depicted, the connected optoelectronic unit <NUM> includes a power circuit <NUM>. The power circuit <NUM> is electrically coupled to the pass-through connector module <NUM>. Accordingly, the power circuit <NUM> is operably electrically coupled to the power source <NUM> via the pass-through connector module <NUM>. The connected optoelectronic unit <NUM> may, for example, be 'daisy-chained' to the first unit <NUM> via the alignment unit <NUM>. Accordingly, the connected optoelectronic unit <NUM> may, for example, advantageously be provided power via the first unit <NUM> with a shorter cable (e.g., only from the alignment unit <NUM> to the connected optoelectronic unit <NUM> instead of directly from a central power supply). Various such embodiments may, for example, advantageously simplify wiring. Such embodiments may reduce cabling costs. Various such embodiments may reduce tripping hazards.

The first unit <NUM> is provided with an optoelectronic array <NUM>. The optoelectronic array <NUM> is electrically coupled to the power source <NUM>. The connected optoelectronic unit <NUM> is provided with an optoelectronic array <NUM>. The optoelectronic array <NUM> is electrically coupled to the power circuit <NUM>. Accordingly, the optoelectronic array <NUM> is operably electrically coupled to the power source <NUM> via the pass-through connector module <NUM>. In some embodiments, the optoelectronic array <NUM> and the optoelectronic array <NUM> may, for example, be coupled (e.g., via data signal conduits) via the pass-through connector module <NUM>. In various embodiments, for example, the pass-through connector module <NUM> may include one or more ports. The pass-through connector module <NUM> may, for example, include one or more individual wires. In some embodiments the pass-through connector module <NUM> may include multiple groups of wires (e.g., cables with bunded electrical wires, such as for data and/or power).

<FIG> depicts an exemplary PAM having a reflective module and an optical emitter. An exemplary pluggable alignment module <NUM> includes a housing <NUM>. The housing <NUM> is provided with an emitter <NUM> and an indicator module <NUM>. The housing <NUM> is further provided with alignment members <NUM>. The alignment members <NUM>, as depicted, extend downward from the housing <NUM> substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of an optoelectronic unit (e.g., the first unit <NUM> as disclosed at least with reference to <FIG>). The exemplary pluggable alignment module <NUM> is provided with the coupling module <NUM>, as disclosed at least with reference to the first pluggable alignment module <NUM> of <FIG>. The coupling module <NUM> is provided with two alignment members <NUM>.

The alignment members <NUM>, the coupling module <NUM>, and/or the two alignment members <NUM> may, for example, be configured to be (releasably) received into corresponding mating cavities in an optoelectronic unit such that the exemplary pluggable alignment module <NUM> is (releasably) secured in a (predetermined) orientation. The exemplary pluggable alignment module <NUM> may, for example, be oriented, when releasably and pluggably coupled to an optoelectronic unit, such that an electromagnetic signal launched from the emitter <NUM> (e.g., a laser beam such as optical beam <NUM>) is (a) orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the optoelectronic unit, and/or is (b) parallel to an optical axis of an optoelectronic array (e.g., emitters and/or receivers) of the optoelectronic unit. Accordingly, the exemplary pluggable alignment module <NUM> may be advantageously pluggably and releasably coupled into a desired orientation for alignment.

The coupling module <NUM> is further provided with the plug module <NUM> (e.g., as disclosed at least with reference to first pluggable alignment module <NUM> of <FIG>). The plug module <NUM> may, for example, operably electrically couple the emitter <NUM> to an electrical source when releasably and pluggably coupled to an optoelectronic unit.

<FIG> depicts the exemplary PAM releasably, pluggably coupled to an exemplary light stick. An exemplary pluggable alignment system <NUM> includes the exemplary pluggable alignment module <NUM> pluggably and releasably coupled to a light stick <NUM>. The light stick <NUM> includes an upper module <NUM> and a lower module <NUM>. The light stick <NUM> may, by way of example and not limitation, be configured such as disclosed at least with reference to FIGS. 2A-<NUM> of <CIT>, and issued as <CIT>; and <CIT>, and issued as <CIT>, the entire contents of which applications are incorporated herein by reference.

In the depicted example, the light stick <NUM> is provided with a first optoelectronic array <NUM> including a (linear) array of receiver elements (e.g., optical sensors). The light stick <NUM> is further provided with a second optoelectronic array <NUM> including a (linear) array of emitter elements (e.g., laser emitters). As depicted, the first optoelectronic array <NUM> and the second optoelectronic array <NUM> are oriented along a longitudinal axis <NUM>. The longitudinal axis <NUM> is (substantially) parallel to a longitudinal axis <NUM> of the light stick <NUM>. Each emitter of the second optoelectronic array <NUM> is configured to emit along an optical axis parallel to an optical axis <NUM>. The optical axis <NUM> may be substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis <NUM>. The receivers of the first optoelectronic array <NUM> may, for example, be configured to receive along a corresponding optical axis parallel to the optical axis <NUM>. Accordingly, an optical plane may, for example, be defined by a plane containing the longitudinal axis <NUM> and the optical axis <NUM>. The orientation may, for example, be induced and/or maintained by the coupling module <NUM>, the alignment members <NUM>, the two alignment members <NUM>, the plug module <NUM>, or some combination thereof.

The exemplary pluggable alignment module <NUM> is pluggably assembled onto an end of the light stick <NUM> along the longitudinal axis <NUM>. The emitter <NUM> is thereby oriented to emit along an axis optical <NUM>. The optical axis <NUM> is (substantially) parallel to the optical axis <NUM>. The optical axis <NUM> may, for example, be in the optical plane. The indicator module <NUM> may, for example, be configured to generate at least one visual indicium in response to an impinging optical signal within a (predetermined) range (e.g., left / right) from the optical plane and/or within a (predetermined) range (e.g., up/down) from the optical axis <NUM>. The range may, for example, correspond to a predetermined 'near-alignment' range.

The exemplary pluggable alignment module <NUM> is further provided with a button <NUM>. The button <NUM> may, for example, be at least part of an operator control input receiver (e.g., operator control input receiver <NUM>, operator control input receiver <NUM>). The button <NUM> may be configured to selectively activate the emitter <NUM>. For example, operation of the button <NUM> may toggle the emitter <NUM> on/off.

In various embodiments, axial coupling of the exemplary pluggable alignment module <NUM> to an end of the light stick <NUM> may advantageously prevent obstruction of one or more elements of the first optoelectronic array <NUM> and/or the second optoelectronic array <NUM>. For example, the light stick <NUM> may be a 'full-length' light stick configured to generate a light curtain (e.g., curtain of light <NUM>) along substantially the entire length of the light stick <NUM>. Accordingly, axial coupling of the exemplary pluggable alignment module <NUM> to the end of the light stick <NUM> may advantageously permit alignment of the light stick <NUM> without occlusion of any portion of the first optoelectronic array <NUM> and/or the second optoelectronic array <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts an exemplary PAM having an exemplary lobular shaped reflective module. An exemplary pluggable alignment system <NUM> is depicted. In the depicted example, a pluggable alignment module <NUM> is axially releasably and pluggably coupled to the light stick <NUM>. The pluggable alignment module <NUM> is provided with a lobular reflective module <NUM>. As depicted, the lobular reflective module <NUM> is configured with extended regions in a +/- y direction (left-right relative to the optical plane) and in a +/- z direction (up-down relative to the optical axis <NUM>). The lobular reflective module <NUM> may, for example, advantageously provide indication when an opposing unit is nearing alignment in a first degree of freedom (e.g., up/down when a left or right lobe generates a visual indicium) even when the opposing unit is relatively farther from alignment in a second degree of freedom (e.g., to the left or right of the top and bottom lobes).

<FIG> depicts an exemplary PAM having an exemplary oval-shaped reflective module. An exemplary pluggable alignment system <NUM> is depicted. In the depicted example, a pluggable alignment module <NUM> is axially releasably and pluggably coupled to the light stick <NUM>. The pluggable alignment module <NUM> is provided with an oval reflective module <NUM>. The oval reflective module <NUM> may, for example, advantageously limit generation of visual indicia to a substantially continuously variable or a constant distance from an alignment target (e.g., a center of the oval reflective module <NUM>).

<FIG> depicts an exemplary PAM having an exemplary spatially separated reflective module and emitter module. An exemplary pluggable alignment system <NUM> is depicted. In the depicted example, a pluggable alignment module <NUM> is axially releasably and pluggably coupled to the light stick <NUM>. The pluggable alignment module <NUM> is provided with a rectangular reflective module <NUM>. The pluggable alignment module <NUM> further includes an emitter <NUM> positioned above the rectangular reflective module <NUM>. In various embodiments an opposing PAM may, by way of example and not limitation, include an indicator module positioned above an emitter. Accordingly, the corresponding pair of PAMs may advantageously indicate alignment without risk of a user 'losing' the alignment beam on the rectangular reflective module <NUM> when it is in perfect alignment (e.g., by the alignment beam shining into the (non-reflective) aperture for the emitter <NUM>). By offsetting the emitter <NUM> from the target (e.g., the center of the rectangular reflective module <NUM>) the target point and/or region may be advantageously uninterrupted and clearly visible. In some embodiments, a target visual indicium may be provided on the rectangular reflective module <NUM>. The target visual indicia may, by way of example and not limitation, include a dot. The target visual indica may include a crosshair. The target visual indicia may include a bullseye.

<FIG> depicts an exemplary PAM having an exemplary active indicia generation module. An exemplary pluggable alignment system <NUM> is depicted. In the depicted example, a pluggable alignment module <NUM> is axially releasably and pluggably coupled to the light stick <NUM>. The pluggable alignment module <NUM> is provided with an oval reflective module such as disclosed at least with reference to the oval reflective module <NUM> of <FIG>. The pluggable alignment module <NUM> is further provided with an active indicator module <NUM>. The active indicator module <NUM> may, for example, be configured as disclosed at least with reference to the indicator module <NUM> of <FIG>. The active indicator module <NUM> may, for example, be operated (e.g., by a controller such as the controller <NUM> as disclosed at least with reference to <FIG>) to emit (optical) visual indicia in response to a location of an impinging alignment beam (e.g., a laser beam from an opposing PAM). As depicted, the active indicator module <NUM> is configured in a "plus" configuration with up, down, left, and right arrows. One or more blocks in a grouping may be activated such as, for example, corresponding to a distance the opposing PAM must be rotated and/or moved to bring the unit into alignment. Accordingly, active (visual) feedback may be advantageously generated for a user. In some embodiments, audible (e.g., one or more tones corresponding to (levels of) alignment and/or misalignment) and/or tactile feedback (e.g., haptic such as vibration) may be advantageously generated in response to alignment and/or misalignment. In some embodiments, for example, tactile feedback modes of operation may be used to communicate alignment and/or misalignment.

<FIG> depicts an exemplary PAM of <FIG> having an exemplary touch input module. An exemplary pluggable alignment system <NUM> is depicted. In the depicted example, the first pluggable alignment module <NUM> is axially releasably and pluggably coupled to the light stick <NUM>. The first pluggable alignment module <NUM> is provided with the touch input and indication module <NUM>. The touch input and indication module <NUM> may, for example, be configured to operate the emitter <NUM> in response to touch input for a user. A user may, by way of example and not limitation, 'tap' the touch input and indication module <NUM> to turn the emitter <NUM> on and/or 'tap' the touch input and indication module <NUM> to turn the emitter <NUM> off. Accordingly, a user may easily operate the emitter <NUM> without having to locate a button. As depicted, the button (e.g., such as the button <NUM>) is also provided. The button may, for example, disable the touch input and indication module <NUM> such that accidental activation of the emitter <NUM> may be advantageously prevented.

The touch input and indication module <NUM> may, for example, be configured as an indicator module. The touch input and indication module <NUM> may, for example, generate at least one visual indicium (e.g., emit a (predetermined color) light) when the emitter <NUM> is in a corresponding state (e.g., on). In some embodiments the touch input and indication module <NUM> may, for example, be configured to indicate modes of operation by way of different states of illumination such as on, off, steady, flashing, color sequencing, or some combination thereof. In some embodiments the touch input and indication module <NUM> may, for example, be configured to indicate a current state of the light stick <NUM> (e.g., operational, activated, aligned, alarm state, warning state, safe state). The first pluggable alignment module <NUM> may, for example, be configured to remain on the light stick <NUM> after near-alignment is achieved.

In some embodiments the touch input and indication module <NUM> may not be configured to receive touch input. In some embodiments the touch input and indication module <NUM> may not be configured to provide indication.

<FIG> depicts an exploded view of the exemplary PAM of <FIG>. The first pluggable alignment module <NUM> is depicted in the exploded view. A base module <NUM> is provided. As depicted, the base module <NUM> is integrally formed with the coupling module <NUM>. The base module <NUM> includes a housing <NUM>. The housing <NUM> is provided with a cavity <NUM>. A wall of the cavity <NUM> includes alignment features <NUM>. The alignment features <NUM> may, for example, be unitarily formed with the cavity <NUM> and/or the housing <NUM>. For example, the alignment features <NUM> may be integrally formed (e.g., of a continuous material, for example, by injection molding) with the cavity <NUM> and/or the housing <NUM>.

A circuit module <NUM> is configured to be disposed in the cavity <NUM>. The circuit module <NUM> includes a circuit board <NUM> (e.g., printed circuit board (PCB)). The circuit board <NUM> is provided with alignment features <NUM>. As depicted, the alignment features <NUM> are cutouts in the circuit board <NUM>. The alignment features <NUM> may be configured to matingly engage with the alignment features <NUM> when the circuit module <NUM> is disposed in the cavity <NUM>. Accordingly, the circuit board <NUM> may be advantageously quickly, easily, and/or repeatably disposed in a preferred orientation.

The cavity <NUM> is further provided with an emitter aperture <NUM>. The emitter aperture <NUM> may be configured to align with an emitter (e.g., a laser module) to allow an optical beam originating from within the cavity <NUM> to pass through the housing <NUM> and thereby be launched from the first pluggable alignment module <NUM>. An emitter alignment feature <NUM> is disposed, in the depicted example, directly beneath the emitter aperture <NUM>. The emitter alignment feature <NUM> may, for example, be centered on a longitudinal axis passing through the center of emitter aperture <NUM>, the longitudinal axis being parallel to a longitudinal axis of the first pluggable alignment module <NUM> (e.g., such as the longitudinal axis <NUM>).

As depicted, the emitter alignment feature <NUM> is provided with a concave upper surface. The emitter alignment feature <NUM> may be configured to matingly receive an emitter <NUM>. The emitter <NUM> is coupled to an underside of the circuit module <NUM>. For example, the emitter <NUM> may be electrically coupled (e.g., soldered) to the circuit board <NUM>. The emitter alignment feature <NUM> may be configured to receive and support the emitter <NUM> in a desired orientation.

For example, the emitter alignment feature <NUM> may support the emitter <NUM> such that an optical axis of a beam omitted from the emitter <NUM> is centered with respect to the emitter aperture <NUM>. The emitter alignment feature <NUM> may support the emitter <NUM> in an orientation substantially parallel to an optical axis of the light stick <NUM> (e.g., optical axis <NUM>). For example, the emitter <NUM> may be oriented and supported by the emitter alignment feature <NUM> such that an emitted optical beam is launched along the optical axis <NUM>. The emitter alignment feature <NUM> may support the emitter <NUM> substantially orthogonal to at least one longitudinal axis (e.g., longitudinal axis <NUM>, longitudinal axis <NUM>) of the light stick <NUM>. The emitter alignment feature <NUM> may, for example, support the emitter <NUM> such that an optical beam launched from the emitter <NUM> is in an optical plane of the light stick <NUM> (e.g., defined by the longitudinal axis <NUM> and the optical axis <NUM>). Accordingly, the emitter <NUM> may be advantageously supported and/or restrained in a desired configuration (e.g., including orientation) when the circuit module <NUM> is disposed within the cavity <NUM>. Various such embodiments may, for example, permit the housing <NUM> to be cost-effectively manufactured and/or assembled. For example, precise indexing features may be injection molding and/or machined (e.g., in post-injection molding operation(s)) without adding (significant) additional expense to the light stick <NUM>.

The circuit module <NUM> is further provided with an indicator array <NUM>. The indicator array <NUM> is depicted as a two-dimensional array disposed on the circuit board <NUM>. Each element of the indicator array <NUM> may, for example, be electrically coupled to the circuit board <NUM>. Each element of the indicator array <NUM> may, for example, be a light emitting element (e.g., LED). The indicator array <NUM> may, for example, be operated by a controller (e.g., controller <NUM>) to generate one or more (active) visual indicium, such as via the touch input and indication module <NUM>. For example, the indicator array <NUM> may be operated to indicate a current state of the emitter <NUM> (e.g., on, off, strobing).

The touch input and indication module <NUM> includes a housing <NUM> and connector elements <NUM>. The connector elements <NUM> may, for example, be mechanical connectors. The connector elements <NUM> may, for example, be electrical connectors (e.g., to at least one light emitting element in the housing <NUM>, to a touch sensing circuit(s) in the housing <NUM>). The connector elements <NUM> may be configured to be matingly received by corresponding connector elements <NUM> disposed on the circuit board <NUM> of the circuit module <NUM>. The connector elements <NUM> may, for example, mechanically couple to the connector elements <NUM>. The connector elements <NUM> may, for example, electrically couple the connector elements <NUM> to the circuit board <NUM>.

The housing <NUM> is coupled to the coupling module <NUM>. As depicted, the coupling module <NUM> is unitarily formed with the housing <NUM>. The coupling module <NUM> may, for example, be integrally formed (e.g., formed with continuous material, for example, by injection molding) with the housing <NUM>. The plug module <NUM> is coupled to the coupling module <NUM>. Electrical conduits in the coupling module <NUM> may be configured to make electrical connection between the plug module <NUM> and the circuit module <NUM>. Accordingly, the circuit module <NUM> may be in pluggable electrical communication with the light stick <NUM> when the first pluggable alignment module <NUM> is pluggably coupled to the light stick <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts an exemplary PAM base module having an exemplary pass-through connection module. An exemplary pluggable alignment module <NUM> is depicted having a base module <NUM>. The base module <NUM> is provided with a coupling module <NUM> (e.g., such as coupling module <NUM> and/or plug module <NUM>). A pass-through connection module is at least partially disposed in the coupling module <NUM>. In the depicted example, a pass-through conduit <NUM> extends from the coupling module <NUM>. The pass-through conduit <NUM> may, for example, be in electrical communication with a plug module (e.g., such as plug module <NUM>) and/or a circuit module (e.g., circuit module <NUM>) such that when the exemplary pluggable alignment module <NUM> is pluggably coupled to an optoelectronic unit (e.g., such as the light stick <NUM>, the first unit <NUM>), the pass-through conduit <NUM> is in electrical communication with one or more circuits of the optoelectronic unit (e.g., power source <NUM>, optoelectronic array <NUM>).

The pass-through conduit <NUM> is provided with an electrical coupler <NUM>. In the depicted example, the electrical coupler <NUM> is a <NUM>-pin plug. The electrical coupler <NUM> may, for example, be releasably and/or pluggably coupled to a second optoelectronic unit (e.g., connected optoelectronic unit <NUM>, such as disclosed at least with reference to <FIG>). Accordingly, the second optoelectronic unit may be in electrical communication with an optoelectronic unit to which the exemplary pluggable alignment module <NUM> is pluggably coupled (e.g., the light stick <NUM>, the first unit <NUM>). For example, a power circuit (e.g., the power circuit <NUM>) and/or an optoelectronic array (e.g., optoelectronic array <NUM>) may be in electrical communication (e.g., to transmit power, data) with the optoelectronic unit to which the exemplary pluggable alignment module <NUM> is coupled. Accordingly, various embodiments may advantageously provide pluggable cascading of optoelectronic units.

<FIG> depicts an exemplary method of alignment using at least one PAM. A method <NUM> begins by manipulating, in a step <NUM>, a first light stick and a second light stick into (visual) pre-alignment. The first and second light sticks may, for example, include an emitting optoelectronic element(s) and a receiving optoelectronic element(s), respectively. The emitting optoelectronic element(s) may, for example, be spatially distributed in an array. The receiving optoelectronic elements may, for example, be spatially distributed in an array. A receiving optoelectronic element may, by way of example and not limitation, be configured as an active receiver element (e.g., generate an electronic signal in response to detection of incoming light). A receiving optoelectronic element may, for example, be configured as a reflective element (e.g., a passive reflective element configured to reflect a light beam from an emitting element(s) of the first light stick to a receiving element(s) of the first light stick). The light sticks may, for example, each be provided with emitting and receiving elements (for example, a pair of light sticks each provided with an emitter optoelectronic array and a receiver optoelectronic array).

An installer may, by way of example and not limitation, attach the light stick(s) to a (preinstalled) mount (e.g., on a floor, on a wall, on a piece of equipment). The installer may, for example, align the light stick(s) with a mark(s), such as indicating a desired orientation. The installer may, for example, project a laser line between the two light sticks and manipulate the light sticks into (approximate) visual alignment with them using his unaided eye.

In a step <NUM>, an alignment unit is pluggably coupled to each light stick along a respective longitudinal axis of the light stick. For example, the installer may attach the alignment unit(s) to the light stick(s) after the step <NUM>. The installer may attach the alignment unit(s) to the light stick(s) before the step <NUM>.

At least one emitter of at least a first alignment unit of the alignment units is then activated in a step <NUM>. The emitter may, for example, be activated by an input from the installer. The input from the installer may, by way of example and not limitation, be provided by operation of the button <NUM>, by operation of the touch input and indication module <NUM>, by operation of a remote-control unit to send a command signal(s) to at least one communication module (not shown) of the alignment unit(s), or some combination thereof.

In a decision point <NUM>, if an indicium is generated on the opposing alignment unit (e.g., by an emitted light from the first alignment unit reflecting on an indicator module), then the method <NUM> proceeds to a decision point <NUM>. If the indicium is not generated on the opposing alignment unit, then the installer manipulates the light stick to which is coupled the (emitting) first alignment unit in a step <NUM> until the indicium is generated.

Once the indicium is determined to be generated in the decision point <NUM>, then it is determined (e.g., by the installer) if the indicium indicates alignment of the emitting alignment unit with the opposing alignment unit in the decision point <NUM>. If not, then the light stick to which is coupled the first (emitting) alignment module is manipulated in a step <NUM> until alignment is achieved.

Once alignment is determined to be achieved in the decision point <NUM>, then final alignment is performed in a step <NUM>. The final alignment may, by way of example and not limitation, include performing a precision alignment process guided by an automatic alignment system of the first and/or second light sticks. Once final alignment is performed in the step <NUM>, then the emitter(s) is deactivated in a step <NUM>. In some embodiments the method <NUM> may, for example, be repeated and/or be performed in parallel for at least the second light stick. The method <NUM> may, for example, advantageously provide for rapid, guided alignment of two optoelectronic units without undue and/or frustrating 'guesswork' manipulation trying to achieve a (predetermined) level of alignment suitable for alignment and/or for performing a final (precision) alignment method.

<FIG> depicts an exemplary method of operation of a PAM. A method <NUM> begins by receiving an activation signal in a step <NUM>. The method <NUM> may, by way of example and not limitation, be performed by a controller such as, for example, is disclosed at least with reference to the controller <NUM> of <FIG>. Once the activation signal is received, at least one emitter (e.g., emitter <NUM>) is activated in a step <NUM>. A receiver (e.g., receiver <NUM>) is monitored (e.g., by the controller <NUM>) in a step <NUM>. For example, the receiver may be monitored for detection of an incoming electromagnetic signals (e.g., an optical beam such as a laser beam). Once it is determined in a decision point <NUM> that the receiver has detected reflected light, it is then determined in a decision point <NUM> whether the corresponding receiver signal(s) corresponds to alignment of the associated alignment units (e.g., indicating alignment of the associated optoelectronic units).

If the receiver signal does not correspond to alignment, and alignment guidance indication (e.g., at least one visual indicium) is generated in a step <NUM> (e.g., by the indicator module <NUM>. The indication may, for example, be configured to guide an installer (e.g., by signals configured to light optical emitters providing directional feedback) in manipulating an alignment unit (e.g., by manipulation of an attached optoelectronic unit) into alignment. Once the received signal is determined in the decision point <NUM> to correspond to alignment, then at least one alignment indication (e.g., visual, audible, tactile) is generated in a step <NUM>. The emitter(s) is then deactivated in a step <NUM>.

Although various embodiments have been described with reference to the figures, other embodiments are possible. For example, although exemplary systems have been described with reference to the figures, other implementations may be deployed in other industrial, scientific, medical, commercial, and/or residential applications.

In various embodiments, an indicator module (e.g., indicator module <NUM> as disclosed at least with reference to <FIG>) may include reflective material. The reflective material may, for example, include a reflective foil. The foil may, for example, be die-cut reflective tape. The reflective material may, for example, be configured as a corner cube (retro-)reflector configured to scatter an impinging optical beam (e.g., laser beam) such that the reflected light is (more) visible.

Various embodiments may, for example, be configured such that an indicator module provides a wide viewing angle. In some embodiments a wide viewing angle may, by way of example and not limitation, be at least <NUM>° on either side of an axis of an impinging optical beam. In some embodiments a wide viewing angle may, for example, be at least <NUM>°. The wide viewing angle may, for example, be at least <NUM>°. The wide viewing angle may, for example, be at least <NUM>°. The wide viewing angle may, for example, be at least <NUM>°. In some embodiments a viewing angle of an indicator module of an alignment module may be configured, for example, to be substantially between <NUM>-<NUM>° relative to an optical axis of an optoelectronic unit to which the alignment module is (releasably) coupled. In various embodiments, a wide viewing angle may advantageously enhance visibility of the emitted light beam reflecting off an opposing alignment module during an alignment process. Accordingly, an operator may advantageously stand at one optoelectronic unit and manipulate it into alignment while watching the indicator module of the opposing alignment unit, without having to have a second person, or walk over to the opposing alignment unit to see the reflection of the emitted beam.

In various embodiments, a predetermined near-alignment range may, by way of example and not limitation, correspond to a predetermined range of alignment between two photoelectric units (e.g., light sticks). The near-alignment range may, for example, include a range of 'misalignment' between respective optical axes of the two units that is greater than a minimum alignment necessary to use an automatic alignment system (e.g., integrated into one or both of the units) and less than an ability of a user to visually align the two optical axes (e.g., by 'eyeballing' them visually straight with each other). As an illustrative example, if an automatic alignment system requires, by way of example and not limitation, no more than <NUM>° of misalignment between the two optical axes, but a user cannot visually align them unaided, for example, closer than about <NUM>°, the near-alignment range may include at least from <NUM>° to <NUM>°. According to claim <NUM>, the near-alignment range comprises a range between <NUM>° to <NUM>°. Such implementations may, for example, advantageously ensure a smooth transition from unaided alignment to near-alignment to precision alignment.

In various embodiments, some bypass circuits implementations may be controlled in response to signals from analog or digital components, which may be discrete, integrated, or a combination of each. Some embodiments may include programmed, programmable devices, or some combination thereof (e.g., PLAs, PLDs, ASICs, microcontroller, microprocessor), and may include one or more data stores (e.g., cell, register, block, page) that provide single or multi-level digital data storage capability, and which may be volatile, non-volatile, or some combination thereof. Some control functions may be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or a combination of any of them.

Computer program products may contain a set of instructions that, when executed by a processor device, cause the processor to perform prescribed functions. These functions may be performed in conjunction with controlled devices in operable communication with the processor. Computer program products, which may include software, may be stored in a data store tangibly embedded on a storage medium, such as an electronic, magnetic, or rotating storage device, and may be fixed or removable (e.g., hard disk, floppy disk, thumb drive, CD, DVD).

Although an example of a system, which may be portable, has been described with reference to the above figures, other implementations may be deployed in other processing applications, such as desktop and networked environments.

Temporary auxiliary energy inputs may be received, for example, from chargeable or single use batteries, which may enable use in portable or remote applications. Some embodiments may operate with other DC voltage sources, such as <NUM>. 5V and/or 9V (nominal) batteries, for example. Alternating current (AC) inputs, which may be provided, for example from a <NUM>/<NUM> power port, or from a portable electric generator, may be received via a rectifier and appropriate scaling. Provision for AC (e.g., sine wave, square wave, triangular wave) inputs may include a line frequency transformer to provide voltage step-up, voltage step-down, and/or isolation.

Although particular features of an architecture have been described, other features may be incorporated to improve performance. For example, caching (e.g., L1, L2,. ) techniques may be used. Random access memory may be included, for example, to provide scratch pad memory and or to load executable code or parameter information stored for use during runtime operations. Other hardware and software may be provided to perform operations, such as network or other communications using one or more protocols, wireless (e.g., infrared) communications, stored operational energy and power supplies (e.g., batteries), switching and/or linear power supply circuits, software maintenance (e.g., self-test, upgrades), and the like. One or more communication interfaces may be provided in support of data storage and related operations.

Some systems may be implemented as a computer system that can be used with various implementations. For example, various implementations may include digital circuitry, analog circuitry, computer hardware, firmware, software, or combinations thereof. Apparatus can be implemented in a computer program product tangibly embodied in an information carrier, e.g., in a machine-readable storage device, for execution by a programmable processor; and methods can be performed by a programmable processor executing a program of instructions to perform functions of various embodiments by operating on input data and generating an output. Various embodiments can be implemented advantageously in one or more computer programs that are executable on a programmable system including at least one programmable processor coupled to receive data and instructions from, and to transmit data and instructions to, a data storage system, at least one input device, and/or at least one output device. A computer program is a set of instructions that can be used, directly or indirectly, in a computer to perform a certain activity or bring about a certain result.

Suitable processors for the execution of a program of instructions include, by way of example, both general and special purpose microprocessors, which may include a single processor or one of multiple processors of any kind of computer. Generally, a processor will receive instructions and data from a read-only memory or a random-access memory or both. Storage devices suitable for tangibly embodying computer program instructions and data include all forms of non-volatile memory, including, by way of example, semiconductor memory devices, such as EPROM, EEPROM, and flash memory devices; magnetic disks, such as internal hard disks and removable disks; magneto-optical disks; and CD-ROM and DVD-ROM disks.

In some implementations, each system may be programmed with the same or similar information and/or initialized with substantially identical information stored in volatile and/or non-volatile memory. For example, one data interface may be configured to perform auto configuration, auto download, and/or auto update functions when coupled to an appropriate host device, such as a desktop computer or a server.

In some implementations, one or more user-interface features may be custom configured to perform specific functions. Various embodiments may be implemented in a computer system that includes a graphical user interface and/or an Internet browser. To provide for interaction with a user, some implementations may be implemented on a computer having a display device, such as a light emitting diode (LED), CRT (cathode ray tube) or LCD (liquid crystal display) monitor for displaying information to the user, a keyboard, and a pointing device, such as a mouse or a trackball by which the user can provide input to the computer.

In various implementations, the system may communicate using suitable communication methods, equipment, and techniques. For example, the system may communicate with compatible devices (e.g., devices capable of transferring data to and/or from the system) using point-to-point communication in which a message is transported directly from the source to the receiver over a dedicated physical link (e.g., fiber optic link, point-to-point wiring, daisy-chain). The components of the system may exchange information by any form or medium of analog or digital data communication, including packet-based messages on a communication network. Examples of communication networks include, e.g., a LAN (local area network), a WAN (wide area network), MAN (metropolitan area network), wireless and/or optical networks, the computers and networks forming the Internet, or some combination thereof. Other implementations may transport messages by broadcasting to all or substantially all devices that are coupled together by a communication network, for example, by using omni-directional radio frequency (RF) signals. Still other implementations may transport messages characterized by high directivity, such as RF signals transmitted using directional (i.e., narrow beam) antennas or infrared signals that may optionally be used with focusing optics. Still other implementations are possible using appropriate interfaces and protocols such as, by way of example and not intended to be limiting, USB <NUM>, Firewire, ATA/IDE, RS-<NUM>, RS-<NUM>, RS-<NUM>, <NUM> a/b/g, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, IrDA, FDDI (fiber distributed data interface), token-ring networks, multiplexing techniques based on frequency, time, or code division, or some combination thereof. Some implementations may optionally incorporate features such as error checking and correction (ECC) for data integrity, or security measures, such as encryption (e.g., WEP) and password protection.

In various embodiments, the computer system may include Internet of Things (IoT) devices. IoT devices may include objects embedded with electronics, software, sensors, actuators, and network connectivity which enable these objects to collect and exchange data. IoT devices may be in-use with wired or wireless devices by sending data through an interface to another device. IoT devices may collect useful data and then autonomously flow the data between other devices.

Various examples of modules may be implemented using circuitry, including various electronic hardware. By way of example and not limitation, the hardware may include transistors, resistors, capacitors, switches, integrated circuits, other modules, or some combination thereof. In various examples, the modules may include analog logic, digital logic, discrete components, traces and/or memory circuits fabricated on a silicon substrate including various integrated circuits (e.g., FPGAs, ASICs), or some combination thereof. In some embodiments, the module(s) may involve execution of preprogrammed instructions, software executed by a processor, or some combination thereof. For example, various modules may involve both hardware and software.

In an exemplary aspect, an alignment system may include an alignment source module configured to releasably couple to a first unit of a pair of optoelectronic arrays such that the alignment source module is oriented to emit an optical beam in substantial alignment with a first optical axis of the first unit. The alignment system may include an alignment indicator module configured to releasably couple to a second unit of the pair of optoelectronic arrays such that the alignment indicator module provides a visible indication when the optical beam is within a predetermined near-alignment orientation range relative to a second optical axis of the second unit. Each of the alignment source module and the alignment indicator module may be configured to axially couple along a longitudinal axis of the respective unit of the pair of optoelectronic arrays, the longitudinal axis being substantially parallel with an array of optical elements of the respective unit. The alignment source module may be configured to be in pluggable electrical connection with the first unit.

The alignment source module may further include a switch operably coupled to the alignment source module and configured to selectively activate the optical beam. The switch may be operably coupled to a touch input. Operating the touch input may toggle an activation and a deactivation of the optical beam.

The alignment source module may include a second alignment indicator module.

The alignment indicator module may include a second alignment source module.

The visible indication of the alignment indicator module may be observable from a wide viewing angle relative to the second optical axis The wide viewing angle may be at least <NUM> degrees on either side of the second optical axis.

In an exemplary aspect, an alignment system may include an alignment source module configured to releasably couple to a first unit of a pair of optoelectronic arrays such that the alignment source module is oriented to emit an optical beam in substantial alignment with a first optical axis of the first unit. The alignment system may include an alignment indicator module configured to releasably couple to a second unit of the pair of optoelectronic arrays such that the alignment indicator module provides a visible indication when the optical beam is within a predetermined near-alignment orientation range relative to a second optical axis of the second unit. Each of the alignment source module and the alignment indicator module may be configured to axially couple along a longitudinal axis of the respective unit of the pair of optoelectronic arrays, the longitudinal axis being substantially parallel with an array of optical elements of the respective unit.

The alignment source module may be configured to be in pluggable electrical connection with the first unit. The alignment source module may include a switch operably coupled to the alignment source module and configured to selectively activate the optical beam. The switch may be operably coupled to a touch input. Operating the touch input may toggle an activation and a deactivation of the optical beam.

The alignment source module may include a light emitting indicator module configured to generate at least one visual indicium in response to activation of the optical beam. The light emitting indicator module may include a touch input.

The alignment indicator module may include a second alignment source module. The alignment source module may be a first alignment source module and may include a light emitting indicator module configured to generate at least one visual indicium in response to detection of an optical beam from the second alignment source module.

The alignment indicator module may include at least one reflective surface configured to generate the visible indication in response to the optical beam contacting the at least one reflective surface. The visible indication of the alignment indicator module may be observable from a wide viewing angle relative to the second optical axis.

The wide viewing angle may be at least <NUM> degrees on either side of the second optical axis.

At least one of the alignment indicator module and the alignment source module may include a pass-through connector module.

Claim 1:
An alignment system comprising:
an alignment source module (<NUM>) configured to releasably couple to a first unit (<NUM>) of a pair of optoelectronic arrays such that the alignment source module (<NUM>) is oriented to emit an optical beam (<NUM>) in substantial alignment with a first optical axis of the first unit (<NUM>); and,
an alignment indicator module (<NUM>) configured to releasably couple to a second unit (<NUM>) of the pair of optoelectronic arrays such that the alignment indicator module (<NUM>) provides a visible indication (<NUM>) when the optical beam is within a predetermined near-alignment orientation range relative to a second optical axis of the second unit, wherein the near-alignment orientation range comprises a range between <NUM>° to <NUM>°, and defines a range of misalignment between the first optical axis and the second optical axis more precise than an unaided alignment and less precise than a subsequent precision alignment, and,
wherein each of the alignment source module (<NUM>) and the alignment indicator module (<NUM>) is configured to axially couple along a longitudinal axis of the respective unit of the pair of optoelectronic arrays, the longitudinal axis being substantially parallel with an array of optical elements of the respective unit.