Balanced Energy Conduits for CMM Metrology
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Solution Overview
Problem
In coordinate measuring machines (CMMs), the varying loads exerted by energy conduits on moveable members due to changes in position cause distortions and uneven power requirements, affecting metrology and motor performance.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of balanced energy conduits with a compensatory member that applies a load varying inversely to the energy conduit's load, maintaining a constant net load across a range of motion, thereby counteracting the changes in load and reducing motor heat generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single energy conduit is used between moveable members, then the structure is simple, but the load varies with position causing distortion and affecting metrology
Solution Approach 1:
The energy conduit system is segmented into multiple separate conduits (first energy conduit and second energy conduit) instead of using a single conduit. Each conduit is routed independently to create balanced load distribution, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and measurement precision by dividing the system into functional segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The second energy conduit acts as a counterbalancing element to the first energy conduit. By routing the second conduit in opposition to the first, the varying loads they exert on moveable members counterbalance each other, maintaining constant net load and eliminating position-dependent distortion that would affect metrology.
2Measurement precision
If linear motor is used for positioning, then positioning speed and precision are improved, but heat generation varies with position due to varying load
Solution Approach 1:
The balanced energy conduit configuration creates counterbalancing forces that maintain constant net load on the linear motor throughout its range of motion. This eliminates position-dependent load variations that would otherwise cause varying heat generation, allowing the motor to operate at consistent temperature and performance levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the load parameter from variable (position-dependent) to constant through the balanced conduit arrangement. By transforming the load characteristic from varying to constant, the motor operates under uniform conditions, preventing temperature fluctuations that would affect positioning precision.
3Reliability
If energy conduit is secured to moveable member, then power and signals are supplied reliably, but varying load creates distortion in apparatus structure
Solution Approach 1:
The energy supply system is segmented into multiple independent conduits rather than relying on a single conduit attached to the moveable member. This segmentation allows the conduits to be routed in opposition, creating balanced loads that prevent structural distortion while maintaining reliable power and signal supply to the moveable components.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple energy conduits are combined in a balanced configuration where their individual varying loads merge to create a constant net load. This merging of multiple conduits with opposing routing achieves both reliable energy supply and structural stability by eliminating position-dependent load variations.
Data Source
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AI summary
A positioning apparatus, comprising first and second members relatively moveable in a substantially vertical degree of freedom. At least one energy conduit is mounted to at least one of the first and second members, which imparts a load on at least one of the members it is mounted to that varies dependent on the relative position of the first and second members. A compensatory member is configured to apply a load that varies, dependent on the relative position of the first and second members, inversely to the variation in load applied by the at least one energy conduit, so as to at least partially counteract the variation in load applied by the at least one energy conduit on said at least one of the members.