Autonomous Tool Measurement Using AI Geometry Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tool measurement processes require operator intervention for tasks such as entering tool data and programming, limiting the process to semi-automated rather than fully autonomous operation.
Innovation Solution
An autonomous tool measurement method and device that uses AI-based image processing to identify and measure tool geometries, generate digital twins, and integrate with machine tools, enabling fully autonomous operation without operator intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If traditional presetting devices are used for tool measurement, then measurement functionality is provided, but operator intervention is still required for data entry and programming
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement device autonomously performs identification and measurement of the tool by reading data from the data carrier and automatically determining tool type, characteristic point, and functional geometries without operator intervention. The system serves itself by integrating all necessary functions into a single autonomous workflow.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement device incorporates multiple functions including data carrier reading, tool type identification, characteristic point detection, and various measurement capabilities into a single integrated system. This multi-functionality enables the device to handle diverse tool types and measurement tasks autonomously.
2Productivity
If manual data entry and programming are required, then flexibility in measurement configuration is maintained, but measurement efficiency and productivity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Tool data is pre-stored on data carriers attached to the tools themselves. This preliminary action of pre-configuring tool information eliminates the need for manual data entry during measurement, allowing the device to automatically retrieve and use the data for autonomous measurement operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical process of operator data entry and programming is replaced with an automated electronic system that reads data from data carriers using optical or electromagnetic reading devices. This substitution eliminates manual intervention while maintaining measurement flexibility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If tool measurement requires operator actions, then measurement accuracy can be monitored and adjusted, but the process cannot be fully integrated into automated manufacturing workflows
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where measurement results are automatically evaluated and compared against reference data. The device can detect measurement uncertainties and automatically initiate re-measurement or correction procedures, ensuring reliable results while maintaining autonomous operation suitable for integrated workflows.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method and a device for autonomously measuring a tool or a complete tool consisting of a tool holder and a tool clamped in the tool holder. In the autonomous measurement process, the type of tool is first autonomously determined, then, depending on the type of tool, a point on the tool that characterizes the tool is autonomously determined, starting from this point, functional geometries of the tool are autonomously measured, and finally, a sum geometry of the tool is autonomously determined from the measured functional geometries.