Arched Frame CMM Probe Orientation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Coordinate measuring machines require preprogramming and frequent posture changes of probes, reducing operating efficiency, especially when measuring workpieces with different profiles, as they need to align and re-examine measurement processes for each profile.
Innovation Solution
A coordinate measuring machine with an arched frame and a non-contact laser probe that moves along the frame, allowing detection of different surfaces without changing the probe's posture, and a method that detects surfaces from all directions with preprogrammed data pitches and measurement pitches, enabling selection of desired data post-detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a non-contact laser probe is used for automatic measurement, then measurement automation is improved, but the need for preprogramming and posture changes increases complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs an arched frame structure that moves the probe along a curved path. This curvature allows the probe to automatically adjust its posture to face different surfaces (side surface, upper surface, opposite side surface) without requiring manual intervention or complex preprogramming for each surface orientation.
Solution Approach 2:
The arched frame mechanism provides a universal solution that can measure multiple surfaces and orientations with a single probe configuration. The same probe setup can detect side surfaces, upper surfaces, and opposite side surfaces by simply moving along the arch, eliminating the need for multiple specialized probe configurations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the probe posture is changed to measure different surfaces, then measurement coverage is improved, but alignment and qualification time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The arched frame provides a pre-configured curved path that automatically positions the probe at the correct orientation for each surface. As the probe moves along the arch, it naturally transitions from facing the side surface to the upper surface to the opposite side surface, eliminating the need for time-consuming alignment operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement path along the arch is pre-configured to include all necessary measurement positions and orientations. The system performs preliminary positioning by moving the probe along the predetermined arched path, so that when measurement begins, the probe is already correctly oriented for each surface without requiring real-time alignment adjustments.
3Measurement precision
If measurement process is reexamined and macro is created for each workpiece profile, then measurement precision is improved, but operating efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The arched frame mechanism creates a universal measurement approach that works for various workpiece profiles without requiring separate measurement processes. The same arched path and probe configuration can measure different surfaces and orientations across different workpieces, eliminating the need to create custom macros for each profile while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The curved measurement path provides a standardized approach that adapts to different workpiece geometries. By following the arch shape, the probe automatically adjusts to measure various surfaces (side, upper, opposite side) regardless of the specific workpiece profile, maintaining precision without requiring profile-specific programming.
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
Eliminates the need for preprogramming and probe posture changes, allowing unskilled operators to perform measurements efficiently by detecting all surfaces collectively and selecting desired data, thus improving overall operating efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a non-contact laser probe capable of non-contact measurement of a workpiece with a laser beam
Data Source
AI summary
A coordinate measuring machine includes a mount for a workpiece, an arched frame straddling the mount, a slider movable along the frame, and a probe supported by the slider and pointed at the mount. A rotor enables the mount and the frame to relatively rotate. An XY-motion mechanism enables the mount to move in a direction along a surface of the mount.