Articulated Arm CMM With Multi-Position Accessory Interfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable articulated arm coordinate measuring machines (AACMMs) face limitations in probe and accessory mounting arrangements, which can restrict operator usage and increase measurement difficulty.
Innovation Solution
The AACMM features a probe end with multiple accessory interfaces, allowing accessories to be coupled in different locations and enabling simultaneous use of multiple accessories, with interchangeable interfaces and latches for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single mounting arrangement is used for probes and accessories, then the device structure is simple, but the operator usage is limited and measurement difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The probe end is equipped with multiple accessory interfaces (first accessory interface and second accessory interface) that can accept different types of accessories simultaneously. This universal design allows the same probe end to perform multiple functions by attaching different accessories, thereby improving operator usage flexibility without requiring multiple specialized probe ends.
Solution Approach 2:
The accessory interfaces are segmented into distinct locations on the probe end (end position and side position), allowing independent attachment and configuration of different accessories. This segmentation enables flexible arrangement of accessories based on measurement requirements while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
2Productivity
If multiple accessory interfaces are provided on the probe end, then measurement flexibility and efficiency are enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple accessory interfaces are integrated into the probe end structure, allowing simultaneous attachment of multiple accessories (such as hard probe, laser line scanner, camera). This enables multiple measurement operations to be performed concurrently or sequentially, significantly improving measurement efficiency for complex parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The first accessory interface and second accessory interface are merged into a single probe end assembly, sharing common structural elements and mounting mechanisms. This integration allows multiple accessories to be combined in one location, improving productivity while controlling the increase in device complexity through shared components.
3Ease of operation
If accessories are mounted at fixed locations, then the mounting structure is simple, but the measurement difficulty increases for certain features
Solution Approach 1:
Different accessory interfaces are positioned at specific locations on the probe end (end position and side position) to optimize accessibility for different measurement scenarios. The first accessory interface is located at the end for forward-facing measurements, while the second accessory interface is positioned on the side for lateral or hard-to-reach features, improving ease of operation for diverse measurement tasks.
Data Source
AI summary
An articulated arm coordinate measuring machine includes an arm having multiple segments and an end assembly. The end assembly has multiple accessory interfaces that allow multiple accessories to be coupled to the end assembly. The accessory interfaces are configured to allow the accessories to be repeatably interchanged between the accessory interfaces.