Method and device for autonomously measuring a tool or a finished tool

Abstract

To provide a method and a device for autonomously measuring a tool or a completed tool.SOLUTION: The invention relates to a method and a device for autonomously measuring a tool or a complete tool comprising a tool holder and a tool clamped in the tool holder. The autonomous measurement comprises firstly the type of tool being determined autonomously, then, according to the type of tool, a point on the tool which distinguishes the tool being determined autonomously, the functional geometry of the tool being measured autonomously starting from this point, and then the cumulative geometry of the tool being ascertained autonomously from the measured functional geometry.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for autonomously measuring a tool or a complete tool comprising a tool holder and a tool fastened to the tool holder. [Background technology]

[0002] It is common to measure ("preset") a finished tool, such as a shrink-wrapped milling tool or a clamped cutting tool, comprising a tool holder and a tool, e.g., shrink-wrapped, clamped in the tool holder, before it is coupled to a machine tool, e.g., in the form of a CNC machining machine, by means of a device, also called a "presetting device" for short, for measuring the tool.

[0003] The (geometric) dimensions of the tool, or of the finished tool, determined using the presetting device are then provided to or used in the machine tool to optimize the machining of the workpiece in the machine tool.

[0004] Presetting ensures, in particular, that the part of the tool that processes the workpiece, such as the cutting edge of a cutting / milling tool, has position dimensions that are acceptable for the planned processing of the workpiece on the machine tool. In plain, general terms, the tool is checked and inspected to ensure that all relevant dimensions and features are dimensionally correct.

[0005] Such presetting devices are used in particular to measure the length of the finished tool, the diameter and / or blade shape of the clamped tool or cutting / milling tool, and possibly various other dimensions of or relating to the tool or finished tool.

[0006] If these data are directly related to the quality of workpiece machining of the workpiece in the machine tool, the tool measurement in the presetting device must be carried out with extremely high (repeatable) accuracy.

[0007] Such measuring instruments, ie such presetting devices, are known, for example, from the presetting devices of the "UNO" or "VIO" series of the company HEIMER.

[0008] This known measurement of the finished tool, for example by means of a known presetting device, is usually automated or automatic, for example within an automated industrial production process, in order to provide a process that is as error-free and safe as possible, as well as efficient and effective.

[0009] However, automatic means that at present, although basic subsequences / subprocesses during tool measurement, for example certain measurement processes, are (can be) carried out without operator intervention, a completely operator-independent process, i.e. an autonomous process, has not yet been put into practice. This means that, according to the prior art, for this automatic process or for this automatic tool measurement, operator action is also required, for example inputting into the measurement controller tool data and / or identification information about the tool or the finished tool, up to the complete programming of the measurement sequence.

[0010] This is also due, inter alia, to the fact that the sub-process steps for known tool measurement are very complex and may be poorly configured, requiring the aforementioned operator actions / inputs, and therefore the overall process is not "autonomous-able", which means that the prior art is unable to provide a fully autonomous process. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0011] [Patent Document 1] German Patent Application Publication No. 102017117840A1 [Patent Document 2] German Patent Application Publication No. 102022123017A1 [Patent Document 3] German Patent Application Publication No. 102016102692A1 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0012] The object of the present invention is to improve the measurement of tools or finished tools known from the prior art, in particular so that it is feasible or possible for it to be completely operator-independent or operator-free, i.e. autonomous. [Means for solving the problem]

[0013] This object is achieved by a method and a device for autonomously measuring a tool or a complete tool comprising a tool holder and a tool clamped in the tool holder, with the features of the respective independent patent claims.

[0014] Advantageous developments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims and the following description and relate both to the device according to the invention and to the method according to the invention.

[0015] Any terms used, such as upper, lower, front, rear, left, right, etc., unless expressly defined otherwise, should be understood in the conventional manner, including with respect to the drawings herein. Terms such as radial and axial, etc., unless expressly defined otherwise, should be understood with respect to the central / longitudinal axis or axis of symmetry of the component / part being described herein, including with respect to the drawings herein.

[0016] The term "substantially," when used, should be understood (as interpreted by the Supreme Court) to mean "to a real and substantial extent." Thus, possible deviations from the precision implied by this concept may arise unintentionally (i.e., not on any functional basis) due to manufacturing or assembly tolerances, etc.

[0017] "Autonomous" differs from "automated" in that it does not require any operator intervention or action apart from triggering a start signal, or that such an "autonomous process" using corresponding equipment can be carried out completely independently (without the need for an operator).

[0018] For simplicity, the following use of the term "tool" shall also include a "complete tool" which includes the tool holder and the tool fastened to the tool holder.

[0019] (In short) A method for autonomously measuring a tool involves first autonomously identifying the type of tool.

[0020] The type of tool identified may in particular be a rotary tool and / or machine tool, for example a milling tool, possibly with an indexable insert, a drilling tool, a turning tool, possibly with a cutting insert, or a grinding machine.

[0021] In particular, it is advantageous in this regard if the type of tool is identified using image processing based on AI (artificial intelligence).

[0022] Next, depending on the type of tool, points on the tool that distinguish it are autonomously identified.

[0023] Advantageously, this point is the uppermost (or highest) point of the tool, for example in the case of a drilling tool, or this point is a point on the outer edge of the tool, for example in the case of a milling tool or grinding machine.

[0024] Starting from this point, the functional geometry of the tool is measured autonomously.

[0025] Such functional geometries can be, for example, blades of machine tools, such as milling or drilling tools, or grinding machine edge areas in the case of grinding machines.

[0026] In particular, it would be advantageous if the tool is pivoted or rotated around its longitudinal or central axis during measurement, in particular while fixed to the spindle, and the functional geometry (e.g., blade) is recognized and measured autonomously during the pivoting or rotation.

[0027] This process of pivoting / rotating, recognizing, and measuring can be repeated until the tool has rotated at least one full revolution around its longitudinal or central axis, at which point all functional geometries / blades of the tool have been recognized (maximum number) and all functional geometries / blades have been measured.

[0028] For this recognition of one or more feature geometries, image processing based on AI (artificial intelligence) can also be used.

[0029] It is further advantageous that the measured functional geometry or geometries of the tool are saved and / or stored as a reference, and in particular that re-measurements of the tool including the newly measured functional geometry or geometries are compared with the reference (e.g., by image comparison).

[0030] Here too, image processing based on AI (artificial intelligence) can be used.

[0031] Such a comparison of the new feature geometry with the reference makes it possible, inter alia, to detect or identify worn and / or defective feature geometry.

[0032] The cumulative geometry for the tool is then ascertained autonomously from the measured functional geometry.

[0033] Here, it is particularly advantageous if the cumulative geometry, represented for example by the cumulative image, is determined from the superposition of the cumulative geometry from measurements of the tool, the cumulative geometry being in particular the profile of the outermost (in particular radial and axial) contour of the tool or of the finished tool.

[0034] Furthermore, it may be advantageous to use the cumulative geometry of the tool to check the concentricity and / or flatness and / or roundness of the tool, in particular together with the minimum contour of the tool.

[0035] A minimum contour of this kind may, for example, refer to a (measured) contour or functional geometry that is radially further inward (i.e. closer to the central or longitudinal axis of the tool) compared to the contour of the cumulative geometry, for example in particular a radially more inner blade or grinding machine edge region.

[0036] It is also advantageous to store the cumulative image and / or cumulative geometry and / or minimum contour of the tool as a reference, and here again, in particular, by re-measuring the tool, the newly identified cumulative image and / or cumulative geometry and / or minimum contour at that time can be compared (e.g., by image comparison) with their respective references.

[0037] Here too, image processing based on AI (artificial intelligence) can be used.

[0038] This comparison can then also make it possible, inter alia, to detect or identify wear on the tool.

[0039] Furthermore, it is particularly advantageous if the tool is scanned, in particular a 2D and / or 3D scan is performed, and a corresponding digital image representation of the tool is generated.

[0040] It is therefore possible to ascertain a digital twin of a tool, such as that described in patent document 1, the contents of which are also incorporated herein by reference in the subject matter of the present application, and / or a digital twin of a collision or of a machining process, such as that described in patent document 2, the contents of which are also incorporated herein by reference in the subject matter of the present application.

[0041] Advantageously, one or more measurements and one or more functional geometries of the tool are then compared with the digital twin (collision-related / machining-related).

[0042] This comparison can be carried out in particular with respect to or at the height of the existing tool or the height of the finished tool, or with respect to or at a different tool height or finished tool height that may be present (such as a second / third plane).

[0043] To this end, it is also advantageous that the method is not only performed at a (first) axial height / plane of the tool, i.e. the method can advantageously also be performed at other axial heights (z-axis) of the tool (e.g. second / third plane, etc.) and / or at any other (other) (axial) heights that may exist, for example if the tool diameter varies (e.g. steps in the case of a "step drill") and / or if other or additional functional geometries, such as (another) indexable / cutting inserts, are arranged on the tool.

[0044] Here, one / the measuring unit can be moved autonomously in the z-axis direction / longitudinal direction, for example along the outer edge of the tool, to (another) plane where another functional geometry is recognized and the aforementioned measuring procedure is repeated.

[0045] Furthermore, it may be advantageous for the measured surface points on the tool to be stitched together, in particular using AI (artificial intelligence) based image processing, to form the contour of the tool or of the finished tool.

[0046] According to a preferred embodiment, there is provided a method carried out using or in / on a rotary tool and / or machine tool, such as a milling tool, drilling tool or grinding machine.

[0047] Furthermore, according to particularly preferred developments, the method can have one or more of the following steps, preferably in the order listed:

[0048] Therefore, the highest point of the tool on its central (longitudinal) axis (z-axis) can be identified, meaning across the central (longitudinal) axis (z-axis) of the tool, thus identifying the uppermost or highest point of the tool on said axis.

[0049] It is therefore possible to check whether or not a tip is present on the tool, particularly using the highest point, and for example AI (artificial intelligence) or AI-based image processing can also be used for this purpose.

[0050] This can be done, for example, such that the neighboring points relative to the highest point on the tool are found / measured, and if said points are axially (in the central / longitudinal or z-axis direction) below the highest point, then the tip can be assumed (at the highest point).

[0051] In the case of the tip, the type of tool can therefore be identified as a drilling tool.

[0052] In the absence of a tip, it is therefore possible to identify the radial outer edge of the tool (cf. the point that distinguishes the tool) and to identify the blades on the tool (cf. the functional geometry), in particular using a predetermined comparison pattern (which may use AI).

[0053] The blade can then be measured.

[0054] If a blade has been found (and possibly measured), then the tool can be assumed to be a milling tool. If no such blade is found, then a grinding tool can also be assumed for the tool, and its grinding perimeter (see functional geometry) can be measured.

[0055] It is also particularly advantageous if the method is carried out or the tool is processed according to the method using a device for autonomously measuring the tool or the finished tool.

[0056] An apparatus for autonomously measuring a tool or a complete tool comprising a tool holder and a tool fastened to the tool holder provides a measuring unit and a computing and control unit.

[0057] The measurement unit and / or the computing and control unit are configured to first autonomously identify the type of tool, then autonomously identify a point on the tool that distinguishes the tool according to its type, autonomously measure the functional geometry of the tool starting from this point, and then autonomously ascertain the cumulative geometry of the tool from the measured functional geometry.

[0058] In particular, it is advantageous if the measurement unit and / or the computing and control unit are adapted to perform the method or method steps according to the invention.

[0059] In this case, the "units" such as the measurement unit and the computing and control unit may also include, in particular, processors, storage units, interfaces, and / or operating, control, and calculation programs stored, in particular, on the storage units.

[0060] Optionally, the measurement unit and / or the device may comprise a control unit for controlling each of the measurement units to perform the aforementioned method according to the invention or one of the method steps according to the invention.

[0061] According to one configuration, a measuring unit can be provided which comprises one or more optical and / or non-contact measuring devices, in particular with (digital) image sensors, such as digital cameras and / or radar and / or lidar and / or measuring devices operating in transmission or reflected light mode. Alternatively, different types of measuring devices can also be provided, such as laser curtains or other tactile or optical measuring systems.

[0062] Furthermore, in the case of multiple measuring devices, it may be advantageous if the tool or finished tool, or its functional geometry, is measured from different starting points (axes), thereby allowing in particular the functional geometry, for example the blade of a cutting insert, to be identified, particularly in the case of turning tools.

[0063] It is also advantageous if the type of measuring device is calibrated according to the requirements regarding measurement accuracy.

[0064] The processing center provides the equipment and also the machine tools.

[0065] Here, it is advantageous in particular if the device and the machine tool are mounted on a common base and / or if the device is integrated (functionally and / or with regard to components) into the machine tool.

[0066] The invention is based on the insight that autonomous measurement of tools is or can only be realized if, firstly, each process / method step can itself be automated and all process / method steps can be performed together in a unified working environment, for example in one device such as a presetting device, and secondly, each piece of information required for the respective process / method step is already available at the start of each process / method step.

[0067] Proceeding from there, the present invention generates a specific and surprisingly simple method scheme according to the invention, i.e. an inventive method scheme, having a clearly classified sequence of automatable or automated process / method steps, which method scheme meets or reliably meets the above prerequisites.

[0068] Therefore, in the case of the method plan according to the invention, i.e. the inventive method plan, operator actions can be omitted if they are not necessary here, and the method plan according to the invention, i.e. the autonomous method for measuring tools resulting from the inventive method plan, can be executed entirely autonomously.

[0069] As a result, the present invention can provide fault-free and safe, as well as highly efficient and effective processes, for example for automated industrial manufacturing processes, and therefore makes a valuable contribution to the intelligent networking of machines and industrial / industrial manufacturing sequences, i.e., Industry 4.0.

[0070] Another aspect of the invention relates to an apparatus for autonomously measuring a tool or a finished tool, in particular an apparatus providing a reader for reading data of a data carrier arranged in a measuring device carrier of the apparatus on a tool holder.

[0071] The above description of advantageous configurations of the invention includes various features, which are sometimes reproduced in multiple combinations in the individual dependent claims, but which can also be advantageously considered individually or in combination with one another, including between mechanisms / devices and methods, to form other advantageous combinations.

[0072] Although several terms in the description or claims may be used in the singular or in combination with a number, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the singular or respective number of these words. Furthermore, the words "a" and "an" should be understood as indefinite articles, not as numbers.

[0073] The above-mentioned characteristics, features, advantages of the present invention and the manner in which they are realized will become more apparent and be more clearly understood from the following description of exemplary embodiments of the present invention, which are set forth in more detail in conjunction with the figures / drawings in which like components / parts and features are designated by like reference numerals.

[0074] The exemplary embodiments are used to explain the present invention and do not limit the present invention to the combinations of features specified therein. Furthermore, features suitable for each exemplary embodiment can also be explicitly considered separately, removed from one exemplary embodiment, supplemented by introducing it into a different exemplary embodiment, and / or combined with any of the claims. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0075] [Figure 1] 1 shows a presetting device with which autonomous measurement of a tool can be performed, according to one embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] 2 shows a control menu for a presetting device according to FIG. 1, illustrating the autonomous measurement of a tool according to one embodiment of the invention; [Figure 3] 3 shows an excerpt from the control menu according to FIG. 2 for a presetting device according to FIG. 1 illustrating the autonomous measurement of a tool according to one embodiment of the invention. [Figure 4] 1 shows a cumulative image (including cumulative geometric geometry and minimum contour) of a milling tool generated during autonomous measurement of the tool according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] 1 illustrates a measurement device carrier for preset devices with built-in readers according to one embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0076] Autonomous measurement of tools (Figs. 1-4) FIG. 1 shows in detail a tool presetting device 2, or presetting device 2 for short, for measuring a tool 4 or a finished tool 6 (tool holder 8 and tool 4).

[0077] The presetting device 2 comprises an optical measuring device 10 in the form of a camera device 10 which can be used to record information from the tool 4 or the finished tool 6 so that, briefly, said tool can be measured.

[0078] In addition, the presetting device 2 has a computing and control unit 34, which includes, among other things, a processor, a storage unit (memory for short), an interface with the camera device, an interface with the machine tool 36, and calculation and operating programs stored in the storage unit, executable by the computing and control unit 34 and "operable" via display means 38 and input means 40, such as the autonomous measurement of the tool 4 noted here ("Maximum SE") and also data generation for the digital twin of the collision of the tool 4 or the finished tool 6 and for the digital twin of the machining, as described in (Patent Document 2).

[0079] The computing and control unit 34, through corresponding calculation and operating programs, is also intended to enable the execution or implementation of custom measurements of the tool 4 or finished tool 6 using the camera device 10, and custom preset data is generated by the tool 4 or finished tool 6.

[0080] Furthermore, the computing and control unit 34, also by means of corresponding calculation and operating programs and using the camera device 10, makes it possible to generate data of the tool 4 or the finished tool 6 for collision checking, i.e. for the collision-related digital twin and the machining-related digital twin.

[0081] The or all measurement or preset data (collectively referred to simply as measurement or preset data for short), including that from the automatic measurement of tool 4 ("Maximum SE"), and / or the collision-related digital twin and machining-related digital twin data, collision-related and machining-related digital twin for short, can be provided in the form of one or more datasets in a digital form for further machining, for example in the data formats VDA-FS, IFC, IGES, STEP, STL, and DXF.

[0082] In this case, separate data sets for measurement data, preset data and the digital twin, as well as a common data set for the digital twin, are also provided.

[0083] An interface 36 to a machine tool (not shown) can be used to transfer / communicate data or data sets to the machine tool (especially if simulated collision checking can or is performed with the data).

[0084] The presetting device 2 further comprises, as shown in Figure 1 (see also Figures 2 to 4), a display means 38 in the form of a monitor 38 (with touchscreen functionality) and an input means 40 in the form of a (separate) keyboard 40. Furthermore, the input means 40 is also in the form of the monitor 38 with touchscreen functionality.

[0085] The operator can use the keyboard 40 and touch screen 38 to operate the calculation and operating programs, whose functions, data and status displays are displayed (and thereby made operable) on the monitor 38, and to initiate the transmission of data or data sets to the machine tool via the interface 36.

[0086] As also shown in FIG. 1, the finished tool 6 is arranged on a spindle 42, which is rotatable about a rotation / center, or longitudinal axis 46 (z-axis), in a manner controlled by a corresponding function program, in particular automatically by an actuator (more specific details not shown).

[0087] The above-mentioned camera arrangement 10 of the presetting device 2 is in the form of a transmitted light system, in which the camera 48 and the illumination means 50 are located opposite the finished tool 6 arranged on the spindle 42. The camera arrangement 10 is mounted on a slide 52 and is displaceable along two axes ("x" and "z") manually, and in particular also automatically, in a manner controlled by a corresponding program.

[0088] Additionally, an interface for a printer 54 is available.

[0089] Function program "Automatic tool measurement" ("Maximum SE") 2 to 4 illustrate the sequence of a function program for autonomously measuring a tool or a finished tool.

[0090] FIG. 2 shows a control menu or operating and display interface 32, which is displayed, for example, on a display means 38 / monitor / touchscreen 38 of the presetting device 2, and via which the autonomous measurement of a tool or finished tool is performed or initiated.

[0091] The figure also shows, on the left side of the operating interface 32, the various possible programs of the presetting device 2 in the form of function buttons 44 arranged, and a function program for autonomously measuring the tool or finished tool, actually and indicated as "Maximum SE" (see identification by boundary marker in Figure 2).

[0092] Touching the "Maximum SE" function button 44 initiates an autonomous measurement of the tool or of the finished tool, which then proceeds completely operator-free, i.e. autonomously, i.e. any tool unknown at this point can be measured (and created as a new tool (data set) in the tool management) without further operator assistance.

[0093] The camera device 10 "searches" for the (any "unknown") tool 4 clamped / held on the spindle 42. That is, the camera device 10 moves autonomously along the central axis 46 (z-axis) of the tool until it detects / recognizes (at) the "first part / area" of the tool 4. In this case, it moves autonomously at the height of the highest point 12 of the tool 4 clamped / held on the spindle 42.

[0094] It is therefore possible to identify the highest point or uppermost point 12 of the tool 4 on the central axis (longitudinal axis) 46 (z-axis) of the tool.

[0095] The peak point 12 is then used to check whether the tool 4 has a tip 14 or not, whereby image processing means based on AI (artificial intelligence) are used for this purpose.

[0096] Alternatively, this can also be achieved by finding / measuring adjacent points on the tool 4 relative to the highest point 12. If these points are axially (in the direction of the central / longitudinal axis, i.e., z-axis) below the highest point 12, then the tip 14 can be assumed (at the highest point 12).

[0097] In the case of tip 14, the "unknown" tool 4 is then identified / classified below as a drilling tool. Subsequently, the functional geometry of the "drilling tool" (also called "drill" for short) is further measured.

[0098] However, in this case, since the "unknown" tool 4 is a (10-tooth) milling tool (see Figure 3), no tip 14 is found on tool 4 and therefore tool 4 is not classified / recognized as a drilling tool.

[0099] If the tool 4 is thus "tipless," then the outer radial edge 18 on the tool is identified, i.e., the camera device 10 is moved radially outward (x-axis) to the outer radial lip 20 of the tool 4.

[0100] The camera device 10 detects the radially outer edge 20 and the spindle 42 begins to rotate the tool 4 or the completed tool 6 fastened thereto (about its longitudinal / central axis, i.e., z-axis 46).

[0101] While the tool 4 is rotating, the camera device 10 successively identifies the contour 22 of the tool 4 at each rotational position. The identified contour 22 is evaluated, here using a predetermined comparison pattern, as to whether the blade 16 (functional geometry 16) of the tool 4 is recognizable in the contour profile (at each rotational position of the tool 4). If the contour 22 is recognized as the blade 16 / functional geometry 16, said blade / functional geometry is also measured.

[0102] The tool 4 rotates at least once around its center or longitudinal axis, i.e., the z-axis 46, making a full rotation (360°), in this way all blades 16 (functional geometries 16) (possibly present in the case of cutting or milling tools) are known at the end of the rotation process, and measurements are then also taken in such cases.

[0103] Thus, it is now established (a) whether tool 4 is a milling or cutting tool, and (b) how many bladed cutters are present here.

[0104] In this case described herein, the ten blades 16 (functional geometry 16) were recognized and measured, and the "unknown" tool was therefore then identified as a ten-blade milling tool and classified accordingly.

[0105] FIG. 2 and its detail, FIG. 3, show in this case the (in this case ten) blades 16 (functional geometry 16) of the milling tool.

[0106] As can be seen from Figures 2 and 3 (excerpts from the operating interface / touchscreen 38), in this case the "x" dimension, i.e. the radial dimension, of the ten blades 16 is represented graphically (in the form of bars, the height of the bar corresponding to the radial dimension). By "switching" to the "z" dimension, the "z" dimension (z-axis) of each of the ten blades 16 is represented accordingly. In one variant, the x- and z-dimensions can also be displayed simultaneously in superimposed form.

[0107] Each representation allows quick and easy recognition of the blades 16 or their different states, for example the outermost blade 56 (see Figure 4) (Figures 2 and 3 - Blade 1) and the innermost blade 58 (Figure 4) (Figures 2 and 3 - Blade 3) (see Figures 2 and 3, respectively, marked correspondingly by two straight lines), or the highest and lowest blades.

[0108] In this regard, FIG. 4 shows a corresponding cumulative image 24 in which the measured blade 16 is used to represent its blade contour profile superimposed together.

[0109] In the cumulative image 24, as shown in Figure 4, the measured functional geometry of the tool / blade 16 is represented superimposed (with "x" and "z"), whereby in this way in the image (which can also be verified by calculation) the maximum outer contour 26, called cumulative geometry 26 in the case of the milling tool / tool ​​4, is revealed here with "x" and "z".

[0110] Similarly, in this way, a minimum contour 28 can be inferred or (even calculated) identified, for example also from the cumulative image 24, which, in simple and clear terms (as corresponding to the cumulative functional geometry 26), forms the "minimum inner contour" 28.

[0111] In this way, the concentricity, flatness and roundness for the tool 4 can also be ascertained from the maximum outer contour 26, or the cumulative geometry 26 and the minimum inner contour 28 ("x").

[0112] Once the blades 16 (functional geometries 16) of the tool 4 are measured, they are stored (in memory or in a tool management system) as references and can therefore be used as a comparison for the newly measured blades 16 / functional geometries 16 of this tool during re-measurement of this tool 4.

[0113] Wear information of the tool 4 can be ascertained from such a comparison. From the wear information it is also possible to derive other characteristics, such as remaining life or remaining stroke length.

[0114] If an individual blade 16 is not recognized during contour recognition (see above), it can be assumed that such tool 4 (also missing tip 14 - see above) is a grinding tool 4, and its circumferential grinding edge 18 (see functional geometry 16) is therefore measured. Again, the cumulative image 24, cumulative geometry 26 and minimum contour 28 can be ascertained, stored and evaluated (e.g. concentricity, flatness, etc.).

[0115] If the tip 14 is recognized as a tool 4 and the tool is therefore classified as a drill 4, the camera device 10 moves axially to the height where the tool / drill 4 or its drilling tip has its maximum outer diameter and then moves radially outwards to the radially outer edge 20 of the tool.

[0116] From here, the same procedure is followed for the drilling tool 4 as for the milling tool 4, as previously described.

[0117] The camera device 10 detects the radially outer lip 20 and the spindle 42 begins to rotate (about its length / center, i.e., z-axis 46) the tool / drill 4 clamped therein.

[0118] During the rotation of the tool / drill 4, the camera device 10 continuously identifies the contour 22 of the tool / drill 4 at each rotation position. The identified contour 22 is evaluated as to whether the blade (functional geometry 16) of the tool 4 is recognizable in the contour profile (at each rotation position of the tool 4). If the contour 22 is recognized as the blade 16 / functional geometry 16, said blade / functional geometry is also measured.

[0119] The tool / drill 4 rotates one full revolution (360°) around its center or longitudinal axis, i.e., the z-axis 46, and thus, at the end of the rotation process, all blades 16 (functional geometries 16) have been known, and in this case also measured. The cumulative images 24, cumulative geometries 26, and minimum contours 28, as well as wear information, are correspondingly identified, stored, and evaluated.

[0120] In the case of the autonomous measurement of the tool described in this specification, the measurement on the tool is performed "only" in one plane (the first plane - see: "Level 1 / 1" identified by the boundary marker in Figures 2 and 3), namely the "outer cutting edge" 18 (near the tip 14 of the tool 4).

[0121] As mentioned above, such measurements can also be performed at other axial heights (z-axis) on the tool 4 (such as second / third planes), for example where the diameter of the tool 4 changes (e.g., at the step in the case of a "step drill") and / or where other or additional functional geometries 16, such as (another) indexable / cutting insert (functional geometry 16), are located on the tool, and / or at other (any other) heights.

[0122] Now, the camera arrangement 10 is then moved along the outer edge of the tool 4, again in another plane, until another functional geometry is recognized, whereupon the aforementioned (see above) measurement procedure is repeated. Here again, the cumulative image 24, cumulative geometry 26 and minimum contour 28, as well as the wear information, can be correspondingly viewed, stored and evaluated.

[0123] Functional program "Digital Twin" The function program "Digital Twin" is started according to the aforementioned function program "Maximum SE", in which case the generation of the digital twin (for the collision) is started autonomously or by touching the button "Digital Twin" on the display means 38 / monitor 38 (not shown).

[0124] - If the tool is not rotating Here, during the generation of a collision-related digital twin of a non-rotating tool 4, for example a milling tool 4, with a finished tool 6, said tool is scanned and a digital image representation of the finished tool is created thereby.

[0125] The scan is in this case carried out by a 2D scan of the finished tool 6 when the tool 4 is not rotating, this scan being carried out by a camera device 10 and the contours of both sides of the finished tool 6 being measured at a predetermined fixed position of the finished tool 6 (stationary spindle 42).

[0126] In this case, the camera device 10 moves autonomously to different heights of the finished tool 6 and at each of these heights makes a record of the finished tool 6, or of details of the finished tool 6, and then from this record a contour, or contour profile, of the finished tool 6 is "extracted", which then forms a (2D) digital image representation.

[0127] This is done by first moving the camera device 10 stepwise from the bottom, i.e., from the lower end of the completed tool 6, to the top, i.e., to the upper end of the completed tool 6, where the camera device 10 is directed toward the contour of one side of the completed tool 6, in which case the contour of said one side of the completed tool 6 can be seen.

[0128] The camera device 10 then moves stepwise from top to bottom, where the camera device 10 is directed towards the opposite contour of the completed tool 6, in which case the opposite contour of the completed tool 6 becomes visible.

[0129] In addition to scanning the finished tool, the first blade point, the blade opening point, the second blade point, and the blade ending point are then further measured by the camera device 10 at the tool 4 or at the finished tool 6 .

[0130] For this purpose, if it is desired that this not be done autonomously, the operator moves the camera devices 10 to a height where the operator can monitor each of them via the display on the monitor 38, where they can be focused on each of the blade start and end points, and then initiate each measurement via the keyboard 40. Otherwise, this is done autonomously.

[0131] In the digital image representation, the blade region is identified using the measured first blade point and the measured second blade point, or the closest points identified in the digital image representation (the "collision digital twin").

[0132] -When the tool is rotating Here, during the generation of a digital twin of a collision of a rotary tool 4, e.g. a milling tool 4, with a finished tool 6, said tool is likewise scanned and a (three-dimensional) digital image representation of the rotary tool 4, in this case the finished tool 6, is created.

[0133] The scan is in this case carried out by a 3D scan of the finished tool 6 as the tool 4 is rotated, this scan being carried out by a camera device 10 and the contour of one side of the finished tool being measured as the finished tool 6 is rotated in various ways (rotating spindle 42).

[0134] In this case, the camera device 10 moves autonomously to different heights of the finished tool 6 and at each of these heights makes a record of the finished tool 6, or of details of the finished tool 6, at the position of the finished tool rotated (by the spindle 42) in various ways, and then from this record the contour of the envelope of the finished tool 6 is "extracted", which forms a three-dimensional digital image representation.

[0135] This is done in such a way that the camera device 10 is moved stepwise, preferably from the bottom, i.e., from the lower end of the finished tool 6, to the top, i.e., the upper end of the finished tool 6, where the camera device 10 is directed towards the contour of one side of the finished tool 6. At each height moved, different recordings of the finished tool 6 are taken, each at a position of the finished tool rotated in a different way.

[0136] In addition to scanning the finished tool 6, the first blade point, the blade start point, the second blade point, and the blade end point are then further recognized and measured on the tool 6, or on the finished tool 6, by the camera device 10, possibly using AI (artificial intelligence).

[0137] For this purpose, if it is desired that this not be done autonomously, the operator moves the camera device 10 to two corresponding heights, each of which the operator can monitor by display on the monitor 38, where it can be focused on the blade start point and the blade end point, respectively, and then initiate each measurement by means of the keyboard 40. Otherwise, this is done autonomously.

[0138] In the digital image representation, the blade region is identified ("collision digital twin") using the measured first blade point and the measured second blade point, or using the closest points identified in the digital image representation.

[0139] Based on this data, the machine tool and / or an external programming station then performs a crash simulation.

[0140] (Measuring device) carrier 64 (Fig. 5) equipped with a reading device / reader 62 for reading the data carrier 60 on the tool holder 8 FIG. 5 shows a (substantially U-shaped) measuring device carrier 64 for a presetting device 2 as part of the slide 52 of the presetting device 2, which has a reader / reading device 62 built in therein for reading the data carrier 60 on the tool holder 8.

[0141] The finished tool 6 held or clamped in the spindle 42, more precisely in the tool holder 8, is provided with a data carrier 60, for example in this case in the form of a contactlessly readable data carrier, for example an RFID chip, by means of which the tool holder 8 can be identified fully automatically (also with respect to defined autonomous sequences) and further measurement data therefor can be acquired. The position of the data carrier 60 on the tool holder 8 is standardized in this case (HSK / SK tool holder).

[0142] This means that incorrect allocation or tool loss is avoided and maximum tool deployment and high machine availability are ensured. In this case, all data relating to the tool is or has previously been stored by means of the data carrier 60, here contactlessly, on a data carrier which is firmly connected to the tool holder 8 (as described, for example, in patent document 3). Additionally or alternatively, instead of the individual tool data, a uniquely identifying code / number etc. can also be stored on the chip.

[0143] FIG. 5 also shows that the finished tool 6, or tool holder 8, is disposed on a spindle 42, which is rotatable about a rotation / center or longitudinal axis 46 (z-axis) automatically and also by an actuator not shown in more specific detail.

[0144] The above-mentioned camera device 10 (cf. camera 48 and lighting means 50 in FIG. 1) of the presetting device 2 is arranged on a U-shaped measuring device carrier 64, which is part of the slide 52 of the presetting device 2 and which, as shown in FIG. 5, is movable along two axes ("x" and "z" 46) manually and, in particular, also automatically (cf. autonomous process - see above).

[0145] Furthermore, a reader 62 having a read / write head 66 that is movable (in the horizontal plane) is integrated into the measuring device carrier 64, as shown in Figure 5, which reader is able to read data from the data carrier 60 on the tool holder 8.

[0146] Specifically, the read / write head 66 of the reader 62 moves out of the measuring device carrier 64 directly to the data carrier (where data can be read from the data carrier 60) and back again to the measuring device carrier.

[0147] The data is read from the data carrier 60 in an autonomous manner integrated into the process or as a separate autonomous process by means of a function button 44 on the touch screen 38 (wherein touching the function button 44 starts the autonomous reading process).

[0148] The measuring device carrier 64 moves autonomously along the central axis / z-axis 46 into a basic position, the axial height of which corresponds to the axial height at which the data carrier 60 is fixed to the tool holder 8 .

[0149] The finished tool 6, or tool holder 8, is rotated autonomously by the spindle 42 around the z-axis until the data chip 60, placed in a standardized position on the tool holder 8, ends up in front of the reader 62. In this case, the "adapter dependent" angle value of the chip position is known within the system, but can optionally be located using a camera.

[0150] The read / write head 66 of the reader 62 moves directly to the data carrier 60 and reads the data therefrom, after which the read / write head 66 moves back again.

[0151] If the positioning of the reading device 62 in front of the data carrier 60 is intended to be done (completely) without prior knowledge (cf. standardized position), image processing based on AI (artificial intelligence) can be used to enable the camera unit 10 to "search" for the data carrier 60 on the tool holder 8 and thus to recognize or determine the position of said data carrier. The height positioning and spindle rotation of the measuring device carrier 64 and the subsequent reading can be performed accordingly.

[0152] Such a reader 62 of a measuring device carrier 64 of a presetting device 2 can also be used in a corresponding (and equally practical) way for any other machine tool.

[0153] Furthermore, the read / write head 66 can also simply be a specific camera mounted on the measuring device carrier 64 and identifying the tool holder 8 or a reader 62 which reads a marking, e.g. a QR code, on the tool holder 8. Such a marking can thus identify the tool holder 8 or otherwise contain tool data in coded form.

[0154] This additional aspect described in this specification with reference to FIG. 5 in the case of the presetting device 2 ("(measuring device) carrier 52 (FIG. 5) with reading device / reader 62 for reading data carrier 60 on tool holder 8") can also be further patented as a separate subject matter of a divisional application and independently of or with respect to the presetting device.

[0155] Although the present invention has been illustrated and described in more detail by means of preferred exemplary embodiments, the invention is not limited to the disclosed examples, from which other variants can be derived without departing from the scope of protection of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0156] Reference Code List 2. Devices for measuring tools or finished tools, presetting devices 4 (Rotating / Non-Rotating) Tools, Turning Tools, Grinding Tools, Drilling Tools / Drills 6 Completed tool 8 Tool holder (hydro expansion) clamp chuck 10 Measuring units, (optical) measuring devices, camera units 12 (highest / highest) points 14 Tip, drilling tip 16 Functional Geometry 18 Radial outer edge, cutting edge, grinding edge 20 outer radial edge 22 Contour 24 cumulative images 26 Cumulative geometry, maximum outer contour 28 Minimum contour, minimum inner contour 32 Operation and display interface 34 Computing and Control Unit 36 Machine Tool Interface 38 Display means, monitors, touch screens 40 Input means, keyboard 42 Spindle 44 Function Buttons 46 Center / Length / Rotation axis, Z axis 48 Camera 50 Lighting means 52 slides 54 Printer 56 outermost blade 16 58 innermost blade 16 60 Data Carriers, RFID Chips 62 (for 60) reader 64 Measuring device carrier (as part of slide 52) 66 (of 62) read / write heads

Claims

1. 1. A method for autonomously measuring a tool or a complete tool comprising a tool holder and a tool clamped in the tool holder, in particular using a device for autonomously measuring a tool or a complete tool according to one of the device claims, comprising: First, the type of the tool is autonomously identified, then a point on the tool that distinguishes the tool is autonomously identified according to the type of the tool, the functional geometry of the tool is autonomously measured starting from this point, and then a cumulative geometry for the tool is autonomously determined from the measured functional geometry.

1. A method for autonomously measuring a tool or a finished tool, comprising:

2. the identified type of tool or finished tool is a turning tool, possibly with an indexable insert, a drilling tool, a turning tool, possibly with a cutting insert, or a grinding machine, and / or the functional geometry is a machine tool blade; 2. A method for autonomously measuring a tool or a finished tool according to claim 1, characterized in that:

3. The type of the tool is identified using image processing based on AI (artificial intelligence).

3. A method for autonomously measuring a tool or a finished tool according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that:

4. In the case of a drilling tool, the point is the uppermost point of the tool, or in the case of a milling tool or grinding machine, the point is a point on the outer edge of the tool.

4. A method for autonomously measuring a tool or a finished tool according to claim 1, wherein:

5. The highest point of the tool or finished tool on the central (longitudinal) axis (z-axis) of the tool or finished tool is identified; and / or In particular, a check is made using said highest point to determine whether there is a tip on said tool or on the finished tool; and / or If there is a tip, the identified type of tool or finished tool is a drilling tool; and / or if there is no tip, the radially outer edge on the tool or on the finished tool is identified, and in particular the radially outer edge is used to identify the blade on the tool or on the finished tool, in particular using a predetermined comparison pattern; and / or The blade is measured 5. A method for autonomously measuring a tool or a finished tool according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that:

6. the tool or the finished tool is pivoted or rotated during the measurement, in particular around its central axis (longitudinal axis), in particular while fastened to a spindle, and the functional geometries (e.g. blades) are recognized and measured autonomously during the pivoting or rotation, and this process including pivoting / rotating, recognition and measurement is repeated in particular until the tool or the finished tool has made at least one complete revolution around its central axis (longitudinal axis) (i.e. at the end, all functional geometries / blades have been recognized (maximum number) and all functional geometries / blades have been measured); 6. A method for autonomously measuring a tool or a finished tool according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that:

7. The measured feature geometries or feature geometries of the tool or the finished tool are saved and / or stored as a reference, and in particular remeasurements of the tool or the finished tool, including the newly measured feature geometries or feature geometries, can be compared with the reference (image comparison), in particular using AI-based image processing, thereby making it possible to identify worn and / or defective feature geometries.

7. A method for autonomously measuring a tool or a finished tool according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that:

8. A cumulative image is determined from the superposition of the measured functional geometries of the tool or the finished tool, the cumulative image including in particular an image of the maximum outer contour of the tool or the finished tool.

8. A method for autonomously measuring a tool or a finished tool according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that:

9. The cumulative geometry of the tool or the finished tool is used, in particular together with the minimum contour of the tool or the finished tool, to check the concentricity and / or flatness and / or roundness of the tool or the finished tool.

9. A method for autonomously measuring a tool or a finished tool according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that:

10. The tool or the finished tool is scanned, in particular by 2D and / or 3D scanning, in particular by means of a device for autonomously measuring tools or finished tools as described in one of the device claims, so that a digital twin of the tool or the finished tool (as described in EP 1 269 163 A1) and / or a collision-related or machining-related digital twin (as described in EP 1 269 163 A1) is ascertained.

10. A method for autonomously measuring a tool or a finished tool according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that:

11. The measurement values ​​and the (crash-related / machining-related) digital twin are compared, in particular with respect to a pre-settable or finished tool height, or with respect to a different pre-settable or finished tool height (second / third plane).

11. A method for autonomously measuring a tool or a finished tool according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that:

12. The measured surface points on the tool or the finished tool are connected using AI-based image processing to form the contour of the tool or the finished tool.

12. A method for autonomously measuring a tool or a finished tool according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that:

13. carried out with rotary tools and / or on machine tools, in particular with cutting / milling tools and / or with cutting / milling tools clamped in tool holders, or with drilling tools and / or with drilling tools clamped in tool holders, or with grinding machines and / or with grinding machines clamped in tool holders, Method A method for autonomously measuring a tool or a finished tool according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. The tool or the finished tool is measured using a device for autonomously measuring tools or finished tools according to any one of the device claims.

14. A method for autonomously measuring a tool or a finished tool according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that:

15. 1. An apparatus for autonomously measuring a tool or a complete tool comprising a tool holder and a tool fastened to said tool holder by means of a measuring unit and a calculation and control unit, comprising: the measurement unit and the calculation and control unit First, the type of the tool can be autonomously identified, then, according to the type of the tool, a point on the tool that distinguishes the tool can be autonomously identified, the functional geometry of the tool can be autonomously measured starting from this point, and then, from the measured functional geometry, the cumulative geometry of the tool can be autonomously ascertained. and In particular, the measuring unit and the calculation and control unit are configured to perform a method for autonomously measuring a finished tool comprising a tool or tool holder according to any of the method claims.

1. A device for autonomously measuring a tool or a finished tool, characterized in that:

16. the measuring unit comprises one or more optical and / or non-contact measuring devices, in particular with (digital) image sensors, e.g. digital cameras and / or radar and / or lidar and / or measuring devices operating in transmission or reflection mode; 16. Device for autonomously measuring a tool or a finished tool according to claim 15, characterized in that:

17. In the case of multiple measuring devices, the tool or the finished tool can be measured from different viewpoints (axes), which makes it possible to identify in particular functional geometries, for example specific positions of the blade.

17. An apparatus for autonomously measuring a tool or a finished tool according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that:

18. The type of measuring device is selected according to the requirements for measurement accuracy.

18. An apparatus for autonomously measuring a tool or a finished tool according to any one of claims 15 to 17, characterized in that:

19. a reader for reading data of a data carrier arranged on a tool holder in a measuring device carrier of the device; 19. An apparatus for autonomously measuring a tool or a complete tool comprising a tool holder and a tool fastened to said tool holder, in particular an apparatus according to any one of claims 15 to 18, characterized in that

20. 20. A machining center having a device for autonomously measuring tools or finished tools according to any one of claims 15 to 19 and a machine tool, in particular where the device and the machine tool are mounted on a common base and / or the device is integrated in the machine tool.

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