Auxiliary-Axis Coordinate Measurement for Real-Time Multi-Axis Scanning
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable articulated arm coordinate measuring machines (AACMMs) face limitations in providing improved measurement and scanning techniques, particularly in handling complex parts and requiring post-processing to synchronize data from multiple axes.
Innovation Solution
The integration of an auxiliary axis measurement system with motorized or automated cartridges and encoders, allowing real-time data collection and synchronization across multiple axes, eliminating the need for post-processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate measurement systems are used to measure complex parts, then measurement coverage is improved, but data synchronization complexity and post-processing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple measurement systems into a single integrated coordinate measuring machine with multiple axes (including auxiliary axes 7 and 8). This merging eliminates the need for separate measurement systems and their associated data synchronization problems, while maintaining comprehensive measurement coverage through the integrated multi-axis platform
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated CMM performs multiple measurement functions simultaneously through its multi-axis configuration. The single device can measure complex parts from multiple angles and positions without requiring separate specialized measurement systems, achieving versatility while reducing overall system complexity
2Device complexity
If manual operation of AACMM is used, then device simplicity is maintained, but measurement time and productivity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static manual operation to dynamic automated operation. The motorized cartridges and programmable control enable the CMM to automatically move along measurement paths, adapt to different measurement scenarios, and execute complex measurement sequences without manual intervention, significantly improving productivity while maintaining reasonable operational simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The automated CMM performs measurements autonomously through programmable control. The system can independently execute measurement programs, process data, and generate results without continuous manual operation, enabling self-service measurement capabilities that dramatically increase productivity
3Volume of moving object
If auxiliary axes are added to AACMM, then scanning volume and measurement capability are improved, but system complexity and calibration requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds auxiliary axes (7th and 8th axes) to the traditional six-axis CMM configuration. This dimensional expansion enables measurement of larger and more complex parts by extending the scanning volume and accessibility, while the axes are integrated into the existing coordinate system to manage complexity
4Measurement precision
If post-processing is used to synchronize data from multiple axes, then measurement accuracy can be maintained, but inspection time is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs real-time data synchronization and coordinate transformation during the measurement process itself, rather than requiring post-processing. The control system continuously processes and coordinates data from all axes as measurements are taken, eliminating the need for time-consuming post-processing while maintaining measurement accuracy
Data Source
AI summary
According to some aspects of the invention, auxiliary axis measurement systems for determining three-dimensional coordinates of an object are provided as shown and described herein. According to some aspects of the invention, methods for operating auxiliary axis measurement systems for determining three-dimensional coordinates of an object are provided as shown and described herein.