AACMM Quick-Connect Interface for Removable Accessories
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable articulated arm coordinate measuring machines (AACMMs) lack the ability to easily and quickly connect accessory devices for non-contact three-dimensional measurement and efficiently communicate data representing distances to objects, requiring external connections and wiring.
Innovation Solution
A portable AACMM with a probe end that includes a quick-connect mechanical and electrical interface, allowing removable and interchangeable devices such as non-contact three-dimensional measurement devices, which use structured light to measure distances based on the speed of light in air, and a processor to determine three-dimensional coordinates, eliminating the need for external connections or wiring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If external connections and wiring are used to connect accessory devices, then power and data communication can be established, but the coupling process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines mechanical coupling and electrical connection into a single integrated interface. The connector includes both mechanical engagement features for physical coupling and electrical contacts for power and data communication, eliminating the need for separate external wiring operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is designed as a universal interface that simultaneously handles multiple functions: mechanical attachment, power transmission, and data communication. This multi-functional design allows a single coupling action to establish all necessary connections for accessory device operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If removable and interchangeable devices are implemented, then measurement versatility is improved, but the interface design becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The connector interface is designed as a universal standard that can accommodate multiple types of measurement devices (contact probes, non-contact scanners, laser line probes) through a single standardized coupling mechanism, enabling device interchangeability without requiring device-specific connection procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement system is segmented into interchangeable modular components (probe head, scanner, handle) that can be independently selected and combined. The standardized connector serves as the interface between these modular segments, allowing flexible configuration while maintaining interface simplicity.
3Productivity
If non-contact three-dimensional measurement devices are integrated, then measurement speed is improved, but power and data communication without external wiring becomes challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The connector integrates power delivery and data communication pathways within the mechanical coupling structure. Electrical contacts are incorporated into the connector assembly, allowing power and data signals to be transmitted through the same physical interface used for mechanical attachment, eliminating the need for separate external wiring.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables easy coupling of accessory devices for non-contact measurement, provides power and data communication to removable accessories without external connections, and enhances measurement efficiency by determining three-dimensional coordinates accurately and quickly.
Implementation Method 1
determine a distance to an object based at least in part on the speed of light in air
Implementation Method 2
noncontact three-dimensional measurement device configured to determine a distance to an object based at least in part on the speed of light in air
Data Source
AI summary
A portable articulated arm coordinate measuring machine for measuring the coordinates of an object in space is provided. The AACMM includes a base and an arm portion having an opposed first and second ends. The arm portion including a plurality of connected arm segments that each includes at least one position transducer for producing a position signal. An electronic circuit is provided that receives the position signal from the at least one position transducer and provides data corresponding to a position of the measurement device. A noncontact three-dimensional measuring device is coupled to the first end, the device having an electromagnetic radiation transmitter and is configured to determine a distance to an object based at least in part on the speed of light in air. A processor is configured to determine the three-dimensional coordinates of a point on the object in response to receiving the position signals and the distance to the object.