Device for dimensionally controlling microtechnical parts in a contaminated environment

Abstract

The present invention relates to a device (1) for dimensionally controlling microtechnical parts in a contaminated environment of a workshop defined by a concentration of fog and oil vapour in the air greater than 0.10 mg / m3, which device comprises a cleaning module (2) and a measurement module (4) arranged to dimensionally control the cleaned part, the measurement module (4) comprising a measurement zone (50) arranged for positioning the cleaned part therein, and means for protecting the measurement zone arranged to be movable between an open position in which the cleaned part can be positioned in the measurement zone (50) and a closed position in which the protection means close off the measurement zone (50) in order to isolate the cleaned part from the contaminated environment.

Description

[0001] EQUIPMENT FOR DIMENSIONAL CONTROL OF MICROTECHNICAL PARTS IN A POLLUTED ENVIRONMENT

[0002] Technical field

[0003] The present invention relates to equipment for dimensional control of microtechnical parts in a polluted workshop environment defined by a concentration of mists and oil vapor in the air greater than 0.10 mg / m 3 , and more particularly between 0.20 mg / m 3 and 20 mg / m 3 .

[0004] State of the art

[0005] Such parts, in particular micromechanical parts, may be, for example, parts of revolution, such as pins, pinions or axles of the “axle” type or of the “axle” and “plate” type, which may be of small or even very small dimensions.

[0006] These parts are traditionally obtained by machining, for example by bar turning, with machining turning machines being controlled in a standard manner, i.e. the parts are machined and then, when they are finished, all or part of the parts are extracted from the machining area to be measured. Indeed, the dimensions of these parts require numerous checks during the development phase of the said machining process. They must also be regularly checked during the machining process. The results of the measurements are used to correct the machining parameters of the machine in order to obtain the dimensions of the parts within the desired tolerances.

[0007] Currently, there are a multitude of devices designed for the inspection of micromechanical parts. These devices allow the high-precision measurement of the dimensional characteristics of microtechnical parts in the open field. These devices are simple and quick to use, without adjustment or delicate positioning on the part of the operator, the parts are simply placed individually in a fixture to measure them reliably and accurately. These devices are used in so-called "metrology" areas, which are specific controlled environments in clean air, protected from the "less clean" or polluted environment of the areas where machining machines are located, for example workshops. These environments are expressly requested by the manufacturers of machines, devices or control devices, such as microscopes, so that the devices can last their specified lifespan.

[0008] On the other hand, handling micromechanical parts is delicate and requires special care, dexterity and suitable tools, such as tweezers.

[0009] This poses a number of constraints, including: picking up the part by the operator and cleaning the part with cleaning liquids (e.g. solvents) introducing the part, once cleaned, into the metrology environment positioned in the so-called "metrology" areas isolated from the workshop and measuring with one of the devices described above saving and entering the measurement result in order to continue production or make any corrections to the machining program.

[0010] The time required for the operator to travel between the workshop and the metrology area and to carry out the measurements becomes significant when: the operator is in the development phase, involving numerous trips back and forth between the workshop and the metrology area; production is under statistical control with a capability to be recorded; the measuring means must be available.

[0011] However, there are machining machines or machining centers with cleaning circuits or cleaning means integrated into the machine, as described in publication WO 2005 / 035188. However, this equipment is intended to produce parts having a much larger volume than the micromechanical parts concerned by the invention (2-200 cm 3 vs 0.5 mm 3), with longer cycle times (2-30 min vs 3-4 s) and suitable conveying means (part holder, part supports, standard grippers) and cleaning (air jets, fluid jets, brushes, etc.). The machine described in publication WO 2005 / 035188 is designed to measure a milling cutter during its in-situ grinding, without removing the milling cutter from the grinding machine, the said milling cutter always remaining in place on its clamping member. This is possible due to the long grinding cycle time. But this in-situ measurement solution during manufacturing is not possible for a short cycle time. In addition, the machine described in publication WO 2005 / 035188 includes in its cleaning chamber a nozzle ramp designed to spray a solvent onto the milling cutter.However, solvent projection, like air or fluid blowing or cleaning with brushes, cannot be used to clean the micromechanical parts concerned by the invention. Said micromechanical parts concerned by the invention, in particular due to their dimensions, are not very rigid and are therefore fragile so that brushes or air jets can destroy them.

[0012] The present invention aims to overcome these drawbacks by proposing equipment for dimensional control of microtechnical parts in a polluted workshop environment defined by a concentration of mists and oil vapor in the air greater than 0.10 mg / m 3, making it possible to carry out dimensional control of microtechnical parts, in particular after their machining, in the same environment as that of the machining machines, such as the workshop, which is a polluted or “unclean” environment, preferably and very advantageously being as close as possible, geographically, to the machining machine, without however being inside it.

[0013] Another object of the invention is to propose equipment for dimensional control of microtechnical parts in a normally polluted workshop environment which presents a great robustness to this environment. Another object of the invention is to propose equipment for dimensional control of microtechnical parts in a polluted environment which allows a very significant saving of time for the measurement of the machined, therefore finished, parts, while being in the immediate vicinity of the machining machine.

[0014] Disclosure of the invention

[0015] To this end, the invention relates to equipment for dimensional control of microtechnical parts in a polluted workshop environment defined by a concentration of mists and oil vapor in the air greater than 0.10 mg / m 3 .

[0016] According to the invention, said control equipment comprises a first module, called the cleaning module, comprising at least one cleaning liquid reservoir, at least one first part cleaning chamber arranged to receive at least one part, a system for circulating the cleaning liquid between the cleaning liquid reservoir and the first cleaning chamber, and a cleaning control unit arranged to control at least one cleaning of the part in the first cleaning chamber by means of said cleaning liquid before its dimensional control, and a second module, called the measuring module, arranged for the dimensional control of the cleaned part, said second measuring module comprising a measuring zone arranged to position the cleaned part therein,means for protecting the measuring area arranged to be movable between an open position in which the cleaned part can be positioned in the measuring area and a closed position in which said means of protection close the measuring area to isolate the cleaned part from the polluted environment, an optical measuring system for the part, and a measuring control unit arranged to control, by means of the measuring system, at least one measurement of the dimensions of the cleaned part positioned in the measuring area protected by said means of protection in the closed position, said equipment being arranged to be placed in said polluted workshop.,

[0017] Such equipment allows the dimensional control of microtechnical parts, more specifically finished machined microtechnical parts, in a polluted workshop environment, remaining in the same environment as that in which the machine machining the parts is located without however being inside said machine. It therefore allows a considerable saving of time, by avoiding the movement of the microtechnical part to the metrological control cabin traditionally located outside the machine and by eliminating the round trips between the workshop and said traditional metrological control cabin.

[0018] Furthermore, such equipment can be shared between a number of machines, which represents a lower investment than that required if each machine had to be equipped with a similar metrology system. The overall efficiency ratio (OER) of the metrology unit is therefore significantly improved.

[0019] Brief description of the drawings

[0020] Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will appear on reading the following detailed description of an embodiment of the invention, given by way of non-limiting example, and made with reference to the appended drawings in which:

[0021] - figure 1 is an isometric view of equipment for dimensional control of microtechnical parts according to the invention, the means for protecting the measurement zone of the second measurement module being in the closed position;

[0022] - Figure 2 is an isometric view of the first cleaning module, cover removed;

[0023] - Figure 3 is an exploded view of a first cleaning chamber;

[0024] - Figure 4 is a sectional view of the first cleaning chamber of Figure 3;

[0025] - Figure 5 is a side isometric view of the second measuring module, the means for protecting the measuring area of ​​the second measuring module being in the open position; - Figure 6 is an isometric view from above of the second measuring module, cover and door removed;

[0026] - Figure 7 is a side isometric view of the second measuring module, cover removed;

[0027] - figure 8 is an isometric view through transparency of a fitting and its locking device; and

[0028] - figure 9 is an isometric view of the installation of figure 7, alone.

[0029] Embodiments of the invention

[0030] With reference to Figure 1, the present invention relates to metrology equipment 1 specifically intended for the dimensional control of microtechnical parts, more particularly finished machined microtechnical parts, in a polluted workshop environment, such as a workshop environment in which the machining machines are located. Such a polluted environment is defined by a concentration of mists and oil vapor in the air greater than 0.10 mg / m 3 , and in particular between 0.20 mg / m 3 and 20 mg / m 3. The equipment 1 is therefore placed for example on a workbench 100 or a workstation in a workshop, close to, and at least in the same space as, the machining machine (not shown) used for machining the part which is to be measured by means of said equipment 1, but outside of said machining machine. This means that the equipment 1 according to the invention is not integrated into said machining machine.

[0031] Preferably, the microtechnical or micromechanical parts are parts of revolution, such as pins, pinions or axles of the “axle” type or of the “axle” and “plate” type, involving very small diameters, for example between 40 μm and 400 μm.

[0032] According to the invention, the equipment 1 comprises a first module, called the cleaning module, 2 intended for cleaning a part coming directly from the machining machine and a second module, called the measuring module, 4 intended for measuring, in a protected, unpolluted environment, the cleaned part coming from the cleaning module 2.

[0033] With particular reference to Figures 1 and 2, the cleaning module 2 comprises a base or support 3 intended to be placed on the workbench 100 or a workstation in the workshop, for example, outside the machining machines. For this purpose, said base or support 3 is substantially horizontal in order to ensure stable positioning of the cleaning module 2 on the workbench 100.

[0034] The cleaning module 2 comprises, on its bottom 3, at least one reservoir 5 of cleaning liquid, at least one first part cleaning chamber 6a, 6b, 6c arranged to receive at least one part in a bath of cleaning liquid, the part preferably being finished, a circulation system (not shown) of the cleaning liquid between the cleaning liquid reservoir 5 and the first cleaning chamber 6a, 6b, 6c, at least one injector 8 arranged to inject into said first cleaning chamber 6a, 6b, 6c cleaning liquid so as to form said bath of cleaning liquid, and a cleaning control unit 7 programmed to control at least one cleaning of the part in the first cleaning chamber 6a, 6b, 6c by dipping said part in said bath of cleaning liquid before its dimensional control.

[0035] Advantageously, the cleaning module 2 comprises several first part cleaning chambers, for example three first cleaning chambers 6a, 6b, 6c as shown here, each first part cleaning chamber 6a, 6b, 6c having different dimensions corresponding to the preferential reception of parts of corresponding dimensions. Each first part cleaning chamber 6a, 6b, 6c can be sized to receive a single part at a time or a set of parts for batch-by-batch cleaning.

[0036] Advantageously, the reservoir 5 comprises two compartments 5a, 5b so that the cleaning module 2 comprises at least a first reservoir 5a intended to receive clean cleaning liquid and at least a second reservoir 5b intended to receive soiled cleaning liquid. The cleaning liquid is for example a solvent suitable for cleaning parts soiled by the polluted environment, that is to say essentially by the oils or lubricants used during machining. The clean cleaning liquid is therefore the clean solvent. The soiled cleaning liquid essentially comprises a mixture of solvent and oil, as will be described below.

[0037] The cleaning module 2 also comprises, for each of the first part cleaning chambers 6a, 6b, 6c, said at least one injector or nozzle 8 which is arranged to inject into the associated first cleaning chamber 6a, 6b, 6c clean cleaning liquid so as to form a bath of clean cleaning liquid. The cleaning module 2 also comprises, for each of the first room cleaning chambers 6a, 6b, 6c, at least one pump 10 arranged to suck, in the first associated cleaning chamber 6a, 6b, 6c, the soiled cleaning liquid, a supply circuit (not shown) for clean cleaning liquid between the first reservoir 5a and the injector 8 of the first associated cleaning chamber 6a, 6b, 6c, and a circuit for discharging the soiled cleaning liquid between the pump 10 of the first associated cleaning chamber 6a, 6b, 6c and the second reservoir 5b, managed by the cleaning control unit 7.

[0038] The cleaning module 2 also includes a deposit area 12 for dirty parts intended to receive the dirty parts directly from the machining machine, therefore finished machined, before being cleaned.

[0039] Preferably, the cleaning module 2 comprises a second cleaning chamber 14 for cleaning a part gripping tool 16. The second cleaning chamber 14 is similar to the first part cleaning chambers 6a, 6b, 6c. It is arranged to communicate with the first reservoir 5a and second reservoir 5b, and is provided with its injector 8, its pump 10, its clean cleaning liquid supply circuit for forming a bath of clean cleaning liquid and its dirty cleaning liquid discharge circuit (not shown), managed by the cleaning control unit 7. For the cleaning chamber of the part gripping tool, it could also be provided to spray cleaning liquid onto the part gripping tool to clean it. The formation of a bath of clean cleaning liquid is however preferred.

[0040] Advantageously, the gripping tool 16 is arranged to hold the part by suction. The gripping tool 16 is preferably of the “vacuum pen” type, and has at its gripping end a contact surface with the part that is extremely polished so as not to damage or mark the part. If necessary, a vacuum suction circuit is provided in the cleaning module 2, its connection 17 with the gripping tool 16 emerging from the reservoir 5. The connection 17 and the gripping tool 16 are connected by a flexible hose, not shown. Such gripping pens are known and do not require further details here. It is obvious that any other gripping tool can be used, such as pliers or tweezers.

[0041] The cleaning module 2 also comprises a first screen 18 cooperating with the cleaning control unit 7.

[0042] The cleaning control unit 7 comprises in particular different controls 20 arranged to allow an operator to choose the first part cleaning chamber 6a, 6b, 6c to be used and / or to use the second cleaning chamber 14 of the gripping tool 16 independently or in combination, depending on the needs.

[0043] The cleaning module 2 is protected by a cover 22 on the surface of which the deposition zone 12 is provided and on the surface of which the first and second cleaning chambers 6a, 6b, 6c, and 14 also open.

[0044] It is obvious that the cleaning module 2 also includes a power supply, the cleaning liquid circulation circuits, the compressed air circuit for vacuum suction for the gripping tool, electronic circuits necessary for its operation, etc., but which are not shown so as not to impair the reading of the drawings.

[0045] With particular reference to Figures 3 and 4, each first cleaning chamber 6a, 6b, 6c comprises a cylindrical body 24 enclosing a through-receiving housing 26 for receiving the part as well as said bath of clean cleaning liquid. Each first cleaning chamber 6a, 6b, 6c also comprises an injection pipe 28 at one end of which is mounted the associated injector 8, its other end opening into said receiving housing 26 to inject clean cleaning liquid in order to form said bath of clean cleaning liquid in said receiving housing 26. The body 24 of each chamber 6a, 6b, 6c is closed by a bottom 32. Each first cleaning chamber 6a, 6b, 6c has on its bottom 32, in communication with the receiving housing 26, at least one evacuation channel 34 for the soiled cleaning liquid, said evacuation channel 34 being connected to the associated pump 10.The discharge channel 34 has a very small diameter, so that as long as the associated pump 10 does not suck, the soiled cleaning liquid cannot be discharged.

[0046] The cleaning control unit 7 is arranged to control an injection of clean cleaning liquid by the injector 8 into the associated first cleaning chamber 6a, 6b, 6c, so as to form a bath of clean cleaning liquid according to a volume of clean cleaning liquid necessary and sufficient for cleaning the part depending on the dimensions of the part to be cleaned. Advantageously, each injector 8 which is associated with a first chamber 6a, 6b, 6c is configured so that the volume of clean cleaning liquid injected into the receiving housing 26 during a single injection is necessary and sufficient to form a bath of clean cleaning liquid covering the part allowing the washing of the part positioned in the first chamber 6a, 6b, 6c which corresponds to the dimensions of said part.

[0047] According to the invention, the injection of cleaning liquid into the cleaning chamber 6a, 6b, 6c in order to form a bath of cleaning liquid avoids any projection or jet of cleaning liquid towards the part to be cleaned. Thus, the injection of cleaning liquid is done through the injection chamber 28 which opens into the side wall of the receiving housing 26 of the cleaning chamber 6a, 6b, 6c with a flow rate which makes it possible to form in a few seconds a bath of cleaning liquid which covers the part to be cleaned. Similarly, the suction of soiled liquid is done through the discharge channel 34 of the cleaning chamber 6a, 6b, 6c when the associated pump is actuated. The dosing and implementation of the cleaning liquid is done in such a way that the part is "soaked" in a static or quasi-static bath of cleaning liquid. This has the advantage of avoiding the slightest mark on the surface of the part and / or deforming it, or even destroying it.

[0048] The second cleaning chamber 14 of the gripping tool 16 has a construction similar to that of the first cleaning chambers 6a, 6b, 6c, the receiving housing being dimensioned to receive at least the gripping end of the gripping tool 16 for cleaning it. Here again, the injector 8 which is associated with the second cleaning chamber 14 of the gripping tool 16 is configured so that the volume of clean cleaning liquid injected into the receiving housing during a single injection is necessary and sufficient to form a bath of clean cleaning liquid for washing the gripping member 16 positioned in the second chamber 14.

[0049] Advantageously, the cleaning control unit 7 is arranged or programmed to manage a complete cleaning cycle, said cleaning cycle comprising the cleaning of the gripping member 16 positioned in its second cleaning chamber 14 then the cleaning of the part positioned in its first cleaning chamber 6a, 6b, 6c by means of the clean gripping member 16 and a new cleaning of the gripping member 16 replaced in its second cleaning chamber 14 after having been used to position the part in its first cleaning chamber 6a, 6b, 6c, all with clean cleaning liquid injected by the associated injector 8 into the associated injection chamber 28. The soiled cleaning liquid, comprising oil and solvent, is discharged through the associated discharge channel 34 by means of the associated pump 10 which starts the cycle of discharging the soiled cleaning liquid.

[0050] Preferably, the cleaning control unit 7 is arranged or programmed to control the injector 8 of the associated first cleaning chamber 6a, 6b, 6c to inject into said first cleaning chamber 6a, 6b, 6c clean cleaning liquid so as to form the clean cleaning liquid bath in order to clean the part by dipping in said clean cleaning liquid bath in said first cleaning chamber only when the gripping tool 16 is positioned in its second cleaning chamber 14.

[0051] Advantageously, the first screen 18 is arranged to allow an operator to launch a complete cleaning cycle managed by the cleaning control unit 7 and to indicate to the operator the progress of the cleaning cycle. In particular, the first screen 18 is arranged to display an end of cleaning message in order to inform the operator of the end of the cleaning cycle.

[0052] Due to the presence of solvent used as cleaning liquid, the cleaning module 2 is equipped with different mechanisms to prevent the concentration of the solvent beyond the permissible values.

[0053] In particular, a fan 36 is provided for circulating air inside the cleaning module 2.

[0054] The openings of the first and second tanks 5a, 5b are provided with caps 38 secured by presence sensors 40.

[0055] Sensors 42 for the level of cleaning liquid in the first and second tanks 5a, 5b are also provided.

[0056] With reference to figures 1 and 5 to 7, the measuring module 4, arranged for the dimensional control of the cleaned part, comprises a measuring zone 50 arranged to position the cleaned part therein, means for protecting the measuring zone arranged to be movable between an open position in which the cleaned part can be positioned in the measuring zone 50 and a closed position in which said protection means close the measuring zone 50 to isolate the cleaned part from the polluted environment, an optical measuring system 52 of the part, and a measurement control unit 54 arranged or programmed to control, by means of the measuring system 52, at least one measurement of the dimensions of the cleaned part positioned in the measuring zone 50 protected by said protection means in the closed position.With particular reference to FIG. 6, the optical measuring system 52 comprises a light source 56, angle transmissions 58 and 60, a telecentric optic 62 and an image sensor 64, such as a camera.

[0057] Advantageously, the second measuring module 4 comprises a base or support 66 intended to be placed on the workbench 100 or a workstation in the workshop for example, said base or support 66 being substantially horizontal and comprising three zones extending horizontally along a longitudinal axis A, arranged side by side, a first zone 66a comprising at least the light source 56 and the image sensor 64, both extending horizontally, along the longitudinal axis A, in the direction of the measuring zone 50, a second central zone corresponding to the measuring zone 50, and a third zone 66b in which the angle transmissions 58, 60 are positioned, the telecentric optics 62 extending horizontally from the first zone 66a to the third zone 66b crossing the measuring zone 50.The various elements of the optical measuring system 52 are arranged so that the optical path starts horizontally from the light source to be horizontal at least between the light source and the measuring area, and returns to the image sensor horizontally.

[0058] In another variant not shown, the telecentric optics and the image sensor are arranged in the third zone 66b, extending horizontally from the measuring zone 50, in alignment with the light source, the angle references 58, 60 being removed because they are no longer necessary.

[0059] Advantageously, the first zone 66a and the third zone 66b respectively comprise a protective cover 70, 72 visible in FIG. 1. Said protective covers 70, 72 respectively comprise a handle 70a, 72a to facilitate the transport of the second measuring module 4.

[0060] The protective cover 70 of the first zone 66a is closed, on the side of the measurement zone 50, by a vertical protective wall 74 (see Figure 6) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A of the support 66, and therefore perpendicular to the optical path of the light beam emitted by the light source 56, said protective wall 74 separating the first zone 66a from the measurement zone 50. The protective wall 74 comprises a transparent zone 76 arranged on the optical path of the light beam, said zone 76 being for example an opening closed by a transparent window for the passage of the light beam emitted by the light source 56.

[0061] The protective cover 72 of the third zone 66b is closed, on the side of the measurement zone 50, by a vertical protective wall 78, parallel to the protective wall 74, and therefore perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A of the support 66 and to the optical path of the light beam, said protective wall 78 separating the measurement zone 50 from the third zone 66b.

[0062] The angle gears 58 and 60 are fixed to the protective wall 78 on the side of the third zone 66b. Their protection can be reinforced by means of a cover 79 (see figure 7) fixed to the protective wall 78 and which specifically covers the angle gears 58, 60.

[0063] The protective wall 78 comprises transparent zones 80, 82 arranged on the optical path of the light beam, said zones 80, 82 being for example openings closed by a transparent window for the passage of the light beam which has passed through the measurement zone 50 and which leaves in the direction of the image sensor 64 after having passed through the angle transmissions 58, 60.

[0064] With reference to Figures 1 and 5 to 7, the means for protecting the measurement zone 50 comprise, in a particularly advantageous manner, a movable protective door 84 arranged to move in horizontal translation, along the longitudinal axis A, when the second measurement module 4 is positioned on the workbench, so as to close the measurement zone 50 when the protective door 84 is in the closed position as shown in Figure 1 and to retract inside the second measurement module 4 in the open position as shown in Figure 5. The protective door 84 may be arranged to retract into one of the first or third zones 66a, 66b. In the example shown, the protective door 84 advantageously retracts into the first zone 66a. Advantageously, the protective door 84 is motorized.For this purpose, the means for protecting the measurement zone 50 comprise a motor 86 and guide rails 88 mounted on the chassis of the first zone 66a along the longitudinal axis A, as well as a carriage 90 carrying the door 84 and slidably mounted on the guide rails 88. The carriage 90 is controlled by the motor 86 by a screw-nut type coupling 92 to move in translation along the longitudinal axis A with the protection door 84 so as to move the door 84 back to open the measurement zone 50 and so as to move the door 84 forward to close said measurement zone 50. A door opening and closing control member (not shown) is also provided, controlled by the measurement control unit 54.

[0065] In an embodiment not shown, the means for protecting the measurement zone 50 may comprise, instead of the protective door 84, a movable protective cover arranged to tilt around an axis, or a hinge fixed to the support, parallel to the longitudinal axis A, so as to close on the measurement zone 50 by tilting forwards to protect it and to open by tilting backwards to be able to access the measurement zone 50.

[0066] The means for protecting the measuring area 50 also comprise a cover 93 for protecting the base of the measuring area 50.

[0067] The protective door 84 as well as the covers 70, 72, 93 and the protective walls 74, 78 make it possible to isolate in particular the measurement zone of the part and the optical measurement system of the part in order to protect them from the polluted environment in which the measurement module 4 is located.

[0068] Advantageously, the measuring module 4 comprises ventilation (not shown) or other equivalent means, arranged to create an overpressure of clean air when the means for protecting the measuring zone 50 are in the closed position. This makes it possible to reduce the presence of oil vapor likely to penetrate into the measuring zone 50 when the means for protecting the measuring zone are in the open position. The measuring zone 50 comprises at least one rest 94 arranged to receive the cleaned part to carry out its measurement.

[0069] In order to protect it from the polluted environment, the installation 94 includes a removable cylindrical protective cap 96 (see figure 5).

[0070] With particular reference to Figures 6 to 9, the stand 94 comprises a foot 98 carrying a plate 100 on which is mounted a support 102 carrying two transparent walls 104, for example made of glass. The two walls 104 form a V whose bottom line 104a is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A, and therefore to the light beam emitted by the light source 56 and passing through the stand 94 before reaching the angle transmissions 58, 60.

[0071] The cover 93 includes an opening for the passage of the foot 98, the plate 100 resting on the cover 93.

[0072] The walls 104 of the rest 94 have dimensions adapted relative to the dimensions of the part to be measured so as to have an opening of the V arranged to prevent the part from reaching the bottom of the V while being on the optical path of the light beam, and more particularly of the focal zone of the optical measuring system 52.

[0073] Advantageously, several positions are available depending on the dimensions of the parts to be measured.

[0074] Advantageously, the fixture 94 is arranged to be able to be removably mounted on the measuring zone 50 in order to be able to be adapted to the type of parts to be measured. For this purpose, the measuring zone 50 comprises a locking device 106 for the fixture 94, making it possible to securely hold the fixture 94 in the measuring zone 50 for the duration of the measurement, and to remove said fixture 94 when changing the type of part.

[0075] With particular reference to FIG. 8, the locking device 106 of the fitting 94 comprises a locking finger 108 movable between a locked position in which it cooperates with the fitting 94 to hold it on the measurement zone 50 and an unlocked position in which the fitting 94 can be released from the measurement zone 50, said locking finger 108 being arranged to be actuated by a locking lever 110 to move from its locked position to its unlocked position.

[0076] More particularly, the locking device 106 comprises a box 112 mounted on the support 66 and on which the locking finger 108 is slidably mounted between its locked position and its unlocked position.

[0077] At one end, the locking finger 108 has a tip 114 configured to cooperate with a groove 98a provided at the base of the foot 98 of the fitting 94 in order to lock the fitting 94 on the box 112. At its other end, the locking finger 108 has a return spring 116 in contact with the inner wall of the cover 93 making it possible to return and maintain the locking finger 108 in the locked position.

[0078] The locking lever 110 is mounted to tilt by means of an axis 118 mounted on the protective wall 78 (see FIG. 6). The locking lever 110 comprises a beak 120 arranged to cooperate with the locking finger 108 so as to move said locking finger 108 in order to move the end piece 114 away from the foot 98 of the rest 94 when the locking lever 110 is tilted, which makes it possible to unlock said rest 94.

[0079] The measuring module 4 comprises a second screen 122, shown in FIG. 6, arranged to cooperate with the measuring control unit 54 in particular to display the measurements of the part. The screen 122 is also configured to display the image of the part and any other information useful to the operator.

[0080] Advantageously, the measurement control unit 54 is arranged to firstly make an empty measurement to evaluate the cleanliness of the optical line comprising the transparent zones 76, 80 and 82 of the protective walls 74 and 78, and the walls 104 of the installation 94, while the means for protecting the measurement zone, and more particularly the protective door 84, are in the closed position, by generating an image which has a gray level and only authorizing the measurement of the part if the gray level obtained reaches a predetermined threshold, signifying a clean optical line, or by requesting optical line cleaning if the gray level obtained is lower than the predetermined threshold, then signifying a dirty optical line.

[0081] The predetermined threshold of the gray level meaning that the optical line is clean corresponds, for example, to an image without any apparent distinctive pixel, which means the absence of a stain.

[0082] The cleaning module 4 is advantageously supplied with a cleaning kit comprising a suitable cloth for cleaning the transparent areas 76, 80 and 82 of the protective walls 74 and 78, and the walls 104 of the mounting 94, if necessary.

[0083] Advantageously, the measurement control unit 54 is arranged to evaluate the cleanliness of the optical line periodically, and at least before the first measurement. The measurement control unit 54 is arranged to display on the second screen 122 a message indicating to the operator that he must clean the transparent zones 76, 80 and 82 of the protective walls 74 and 78, and the walls 104 of the installation 94 using the kit provided.

[0084] In addition, the measurement control unit 54 is arranged to check the accuracy of the measurements at a fixed frequency, for example once every 24 hours. For this purpose, a calibrated and certified gauge is available which will be measured with the assistance of the operator.

[0085] It is obvious that the measuring module 4 also includes a power supply, the electronic circuits necessary for its operation, etc., but which are not shown so as not to impair the reading of the drawings. In particular, at least one USB port 124 is provided for connecting to a PC communicating with other machining machine control units, the measuring control unit 54 being arranged to transmit the measurements obtained to at least one machining machine. This allows in particular said machining machine to use the results of the measurements carried out by the measuring module 4 for automatic calculation of the correctors of said machining machine. Advantageously, the measuring module 4 can be connected to several microtechnical parts machining machines (for example a group of turning machines, milling machines and grinding machines).

[0086] The dimensional control equipment for microtechnical parts is used by being positioned as close as possible, geographically, to the machining machine, that is to say in the same “unclean” environment of said machining machine.

[0087] To this end, the following steps are planned:

[0088] - launching by an operator of the cleaning cycle of the gripping tool 16 positioned in its second cleaning chamber 14 and of the first part cleaning chamber 6a, 6b, 6c, chosen according to the dimensions of the part to be measured, with cleaning liquid taken from the first reservoir 5a by the associated injector 8;

[0089] - the measuring module 2 gives feedback (indication visible to the operator on the first screen 18) when the cleaning has been completed, the soiled cleaning liquid having been evacuated by the associated pump 10 into the second tank 5b;

[0090] - taking of the gripping tool 16 clean by the operator, activation of the suction;

[0091] - taking an uncleaned part positioned beforehand on the deposition zone 12 and depositing said part in the first part cleaning chamber 6a, 6b, 6c chosen to be clean;

[0092] - launching by the operator of the cleaning cycle of the part in the first part cleaning chamber 6a, 6b, 6c chosen and of the cleaning cycle of the gripping tool 16 repositioned in its second cleaning chamber 14; the choice by the operator of the dimensions of the first part cleaning chamber 6a, 6b, 6c involves the volume of the cleaning liquid injected into said part cleaning chamber 6a, 6b, 6c by the associated injector 8 to form the bath of cleaning liquid in which the dirty part is dipped; - the measuring module 2 gives feedback (indication visible to the operator on the first screen 18) when the cleaning has been completed;

[0093] - taking of the clean part by the own gripping tool 16 or another gripping tool and placing in the holder 94 of dimensions appropriate to those of the part to be measured and previously mounted on the measuring module 4 by means of the locking device 106;

[0094] - closing of the protective door 84 of the measuring module 4;

[0095] - carrying out the measurement by the optical measuring system 52 of the measuring module 4;

[0096] - display of the measurement on the second screen 122 of the measurement module 4.

[0097] The cleaning module 2 ensures repeatable cleanliness of the part without soiling the optical measuring system 52 of the measuring module 4.

[0098] The cleaning of the gripping tool 16 is carried out independently of the operator's vigilance. The gripping tool 16 and its second cleaning chamber 14 are kept permanently clean. There is no need for continuous cleaning, as the on-board intelligence of the cleaning control unit 7 prevents this from becoming dirty.

[0099] On the other hand, the optical measurement is carried out with a permanent control of cleanliness of the optical line with an automated procedure in order to achieve:

[0100] - an optical line that is always clean by constantly monitoring the cleanliness of the optical line by generating an image that presents a gray level to be compared with the predetermined threshold;

[0101] - cleaning independent of the operator's vigilance and the assurance that the measurement of the part can be done independently of the operator's vigilance, the measurement module 4 refusing to carry out the measurement if the optical line is not clean.

[0102] The measurement in the measurement module 4 is very fast (for example 1 s for 10 critical dimensions). The dimensional control equipment for microtechnical parts according to the invention has great robustness to the workshop environment, self-diagnostic intelligence to guarantee the measurement, and allows ultra-fast measurement in a normally polluted workshop in the immediate vicinity of the machining machine without however being inside it. It allows a very significant time saving for the measurement of these finished machined microtechnical parts since it is no longer necessary to go to the metrology area of ​​the machining workshop. In addition, the dimensional control equipment for microtechnical parts according to the invention can advantageously be shared between several machines.

Claims

Claims Equipment (1) for dimensional control of microtechnical parts in a polluted workshop environment defined by a concentration of oil mists and vapors in the air greater than 0.10 mg / m³ 3characterized in that it comprises a first module, called the cleaning module (2), comprising at least one cleaning fluid reservoir (5), at least one first cleaning chamber (6a, 6b, 6c) for the part arranged to receive at least one part, a cleaning fluid circulation system between the cleaning fluid reservoir (5) and the first cleaning chamber (6a, 6b, 6c), and a cleaning control unit (7) arranged to control at least one cleaning of the part in the first cleaning chamber (6a, 6b, 6c) by means of said cleaning fluid before its dimensional control, and a second module, called the measuring module (4), arranged for the dimensional control of the cleaned part, said measuring module (4) comprising a measuring area (50) arranged to position the cleaned part therein,protective means for the measuring area arranged to be movable between an open position in which the cleaned part can be positioned in the measuring area (50) and a closed position in which said protective means close off the measuring area (50) to isolate the cleaned part from the contaminated environment, an optical measuring system (52) for the part, and a measuring control unit (54) arranged to control, by means of the measuring system (52), at least one measurement of the dimensions of the cleaned part positioned in the measuring area (50) protected by said protective means in the closed position, said equipment (1) being arranged to be placed in said contaminated workshop. Equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that the cleaning module (2) and the measuring module (4) respectively comprise a base (3, 66) arranged to allow the cleaning module (2) and the measuring module (4) to be positioned on a workbench (100) in said workshop.Equipment according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cleaning module (2) comprises at least a first reservoir (5a) for receiving clean cleaning fluid, at least a second reservoir (5b) for receiving soiled cleaning fluid, at least one injector (8) arranged to inject clean cleaning fluid into the first cleaning chamber (6a, 6b, 6c), at least one pump (10) arranged to draw soiled cleaning fluid from the first cleaning chamber (6a, 6b, 6c), a clean cleaning fluid supply circuit between the first reservoir (5a) and the injector (8) of the first cleaning chamber (6a, 6b, 6c) and a soiled cleaning fluid evacuation circuit between the pump (10) of the first cleaning chamber (6a, 6b, 6c) and the second reservoir (5b), controlled by the cleaning control unit (7).Equipment according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the first cleaning chamber (6a, 6b, 6c) is arranged to receive at least one part in a bath of cleaning liquid, in that said injector (8) is arranged to inject into said first cleaning chamber (6a, 6b, 6c) cleaning liquid so as to form said bath of cleaning liquid, and in that the cleaning control unit (7) is arranged to control at least one cleaning of the part in the first cleaning chamber (6a, 6b, 6c) by immersing said part in said bath of cleaning liquid before its dimensional control.Equipment according to claim 4, characterized in that the first cleaning chamber (6a, 6b, 6c) comprises a housing (26) for the part arranged to receive said clean cleaning liquid bath, and in that said first cleaning chamber (6a, 6b, 6c) has, on its bottom (32), at least one discharge channel (34) for the soiled cleaning liquid. Equipment according to claim 5, characterized in that the first cleaning chamber (6a, 6b, 6c) comprises an injection line (28) at one end of which said injector (8) is mounted, its other end opening into the housing (26) for injecting the liquid. Clean cleaning to form said clean cleaning fluid bath in said receiving housing (26). Equipment according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cleaning module (2) comprises several first cleaning chambers (6a, 6b, 6c) of the part, each first cleaning chamber (6a, 6b, 6c) of the part having different dimensions corresponding to the preferential reception of parts of corresponding dimensions. Equipment according to any one of claims 3 to 7, characterized in that the cleaning control unit (7) is arranged to control an injection of clean cleaning fluid by the injector (8) into the first cleaning chamber (6a, 6b, 6c) so as to form a clean cleaning fluid bath with a volume of clean cleaning fluid necessary and sufficient for cleaning the part depending on the dimensions of the part to be cleaned.Equipment according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cleaning module (2) comprises a first screen (18) cooperating with the cleaning control unit (7) and arranged to allow an operator to select the first part cleaning chamber (6a, 6b, 6c) to be used. Equipment according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cleaning module (2) comprises a second cleaning chamber (14) for a part-gripping tool (16), arranged to communicate with the first and second reservoirs (5a, 5b), and provided with its injector (8), pump (10), clean cleaning fluid supply circuit, and soiled cleaning fluid discharge circuit, all controlled by the cleaning control unit (7). Equipment according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the gripping tool (16) is arranged to hold the part by suction.Equipment according to any one of claims 10 to 11, characterized in that the cleaning control unit (7) is arranged to manage a complete cleaning cycle, said cleaning cycle including the cleaning of. the gripper (16) in its second cleaning chamber (14) then the cleaning of the part positioned in its first cleaning chamber (6a, 6b, 6c) by means of the clean gripper (16) and a further cleaning of the gripper (16) after it has been used to position the part in its first cleaning chamber (6a, 6b, 6c). Equipment according to any one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that the cleaning control unit (7) is arranged to control the injector (8) of the first cleaning chamber (6a, 6b, 6c) to inject clean cleaning fluid into said first cleaning chamber (6a, 6b, 6c) so as to form a clean cleaning fluid bath in order to clean the part by immersion in said clean cleaning fluid bath in said first cleaning chamber (6a, 6b, 6c) only when the gripping tool (16) is in its second cleaning chamber (14). Equipment according to any one of claims 12 to 13,characterized in that the first screen (18) is arranged to allow an operator to initiate a complete cleaning cycle managed by the cleaning control unit (7) and to indicate to the operator the progress of the cleaning cycle. Equipment according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the optical measuring system (52) comprises a light source (56), a telecentric optic (62) and an image sensor (64) arranged such that the optical path starts horizontally from the light source (56) and returns horizontally to the image sensor (64), and in that the measuring module (4) comprises a substantially horizontal background (66) comprising three horizontally extending zones, a first zone (66a) comprising at least the light source (56) extending horizontally towards the measuring zone (50), a second central zone corresponding to the measuring zone (50),and a third zone (66b) in which either angle references (58, 60) are positioned, the telecentric optics (62) extending horizontally from the first zone (66a) to the third zone (66b) and the image sensor (64) being positioned in the first zone (66a) extending horizontally in the direction of the zone of, measurement (50), i.e. the telecentric optics (62) and the image sensor (64) extending horizontally from the measurement area (50), are positioned in alignment with the light source (56).

16. Equipment according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the means for protecting the measuring area (50) comprise a movable protective door (84) arranged to close the measuring area (50) in the closed position and to retract inside the second measuring module (4) in the open position.

17. Equipment according to claim 16, characterized in that the protective door (84) is motorized and in that the means of protecting the measuring area (50) comprise a motor (86), guide rails (88), a trolley (90) carrying the protective door (84) mounted to slide on the guide rails (88) and controlled by the motor (86) by a screw-nut type coupling (92), and a door opening and closing control device.

18. Equipment according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the measuring module (4) includes a ventilation system arranged to create a clean air overpressure when the means for protecting the measuring area are in the closed position.

19. Equipment according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the measuring area (50) comprises at least one fixture (94) arranged to receive the cleaned part.

20. Equipment according to claim 19, characterized in that the mounting (94) includes a removable protective cap (96).

21. Equipment according to any one of claims 19 and 20, characterized in that the fixture (94) comprises transparent walls (104) forming a V whose bottom line (104a) is perpendicular to the light beam emitted by the light source (56), of dimensions adapted in relation to the dimensions of the part to be measured so as to have an opening of the V arranged to prevent the part from reaching the bottom of the V while being on the optical path of the light beam.

22. Equipment according to any one of claims 19 to 21, characterized in that the fixture (94) is arranged to be able to be mounted removably on the measuring area (50) and in that the measuring area (50) includes a locking device (106) for the fixture (94).

23. Equipment according to claim 22, characterized in that the locking device (106) of the fixture (94) comprises a locking finger (108) movable between a locked position in which it cooperates with the fixture (94) to hold it on the measuring area (50) and an unlocked position in which the fixture (94) can be released from the measuring area (50), said locking finger (108) being arranged to be actuated by a locking lever (110) to move from its locked position to its unlocked position.

24. Equipment according to any one of claims 15 to 23, characterized in that the first and third zones (66a, 66b) respectively comprise a protective cover (70, 72), the protective cover (70) of the first zone (66a) being closed, on the side of the measuring zone (50), by a vertical protective wall (74) perpendicular to the light beam emitted by the light source (56) and separating the first zone (66a) from the measuring zone (50), the protective cover (72) of the third zone (66b) being closed, on the side of the measuring zone (50), by a vertical protective wall (78) perpendicular to said light beam and separating the measuring zone (50) from the third zone (66b), said protective walls (74, 78) respectively comprising transparent zones (76, 80, 82) arranged on the optical path of the light beam.

25. Equipment according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the measuring module (4) includes a second screen (122) arranged to cooperate with the measuring control unit (54), in particular to display the measurements of the part.

26. Equipment according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the measuring control unit (54) is arranged to perform an unloaded measurement to evaluate the cleanliness of the optical line, the means of protection of the measurement area being in closed position, by generating an image presenting a level of grey and only allowing the measurement of the part if the level of grey obtained reaches a predetermined threshold, signifying a clean optical line, or by requesting an optical line cleaning if the level of grey obtained is below the predetermined threshold, signifying a dirty optical line.

27. Equipment according to claim 26, characterized in that the measurement control unit (54) is arranged to evaluate the cleanliness of the optical line periodically, and at least before the first measurement.

28. Equipment according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the measuring control unit (54) is arranged to transmit the measurements obtained to at least one machining machine.

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