Portable AACMM Integrated Self-Contained Control System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable articulated arm coordinate measuring machines (AACMMs) rely on external computers for calculating positional data and user interface operations, introducing variability and complexity in measurement processes.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained operating environment within the AACMM, including a processor, display device, and user interface application, allows for diagnostic and calibration procedures to be performed independently without external computer assistance, reducing reliance on external systems and enhancing operational simplicity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If portable AACMM connects to external computer for calculation and user interface, then measurement functionality is achieved, but system complexity and variability increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the processor, display device, and user interface application directly into the portable AACMM system. This merging of previously external components (computer-based calculation and interface) with the internal system eliminates the need for external computer connections, thereby reducing system complexity and variability while maintaining ease of operation.
2Ease of repair
If external computer is used for user interface and calculation, then measurement operations can be performed, but troubleshooting difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the user interface application and processing capabilities from the external computer environment and places them directly within the portable AACMM system. This extraction eliminates the interface between the AACMM and external computer, removing a source of variability and troubleshooting complexity, thereby improving ease of repair and reducing system integration complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If self-contained operating environment is integrated into AACMM, then operational independence is achieved, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-contained operating environment where the processor, display device, and user interface application work together as an integrated multi-functional unit within the portable AACMM. This universal integration provides operational independence while minimizing volume impact through efficient space utilization and component integration.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for performing a diagnostic or calibration procedure on a portable articulated arm coordinate measurement machine (AACMM). The AACMM includes a manually positionable articulated arm portion having opposed first and second ends, the arm portion including a plurality of connected arm segments, each of the arm segments including at least one position transducer for producing position signals. The AACMM also includes an electronic circuit having a self-contained operating environment that includes a user interface application and a display device in communication with the user interface application. In addition, a measurement device is attached to the first end of the AACMM. The user interface application and display device are configured to facilitate performing and displaying results of a diagnostic or calibration procedure on the AACMM.