Beam Machining Locator With Self-Measured Point Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual measurement and machining of workpieces, such as beams, are prone to inaccuracy due to reliance on user skill and varying beam dimensions, and existing CNC machines are complex, costly, and not manually operable.
Innovation Solution
A manually operable device with integrated measuring means that allows for precise location and attachment of tools on workpieces, featuring a movable frame with positioning and measuring equipment, including laser distance meters and sensors, for accurate longitudinal and transverse measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual measurement and marking is used on workpieces, then the device can be simple and manually operable, but the accuracy of measured points decreases due to user skill dependency and varying beam dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs self-measurement by automatically scanning the workpiece dimensions and calculating machining points without requiring manual measurement. The measuring means automatically detect the actual beam dimensions, and the control unit computes the correct locations based on these measurements, eliminating dependency on user skill while maintaining manual operability.
Solution Approach 2:
Traditional manual mechanical measurement tools (tape measures, rulers) are replaced with automated optical or electronic measuring means. The device uses sensors and scanning mechanisms to automatically detect workpiece dimensions, replacing the need for manual measurement and calculation, thereby improving accuracy while keeping the device manually movable and operable.
2Measurement precision
If CNC machine arrangements are used for automated measurement and machining, then measurement precision and productivity improve, but the device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separate functional modules: a movable frame with measuring means for dimension detection, a separate control unit for calculations, and a positioning mechanism for the machining tool. This segmentation allows each component to be relatively simple while working together to achieve high precision, avoiding the need for a complex integrated CNC system.
Solution Approach 2:
The device combines multiple functions in a single manually operable unit: it can measure workpiece dimensions, calculate machining point locations, position the machining tool, and perform marking or drilling. This multi-functionality replaces the need for separate measurement tools, calculation devices, and positioning equipment that would be required in a traditional setup, reducing overall complexity while maintaining precision.
3Strength
If fastening devices are attached to the workpiece after measurement, then the machining device can be securely fixed, but the accuracy of the final machined hole decreases due to potential movement and additional manual positioning steps
Solution Approach 1:
The device pre-calculates and pre-positions the machining tool at the exact correct location before fastening or machining begins. The control unit computes the precise coordinates based on actual measured dimensions, and the positioning mechanism places the tool at this predetermined location, ensuring accuracy is established before any fastening occurs, eliminating subsequent positioning errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit acts as an intermediary that receives actual measurement data, calculates the correct machining point locations, and translates this information into precise positioning commands for the machining tool. This intermediary calculation step ensures that even if fastening or positioning has some variability, the tool is directed to the mathematically correct location based on actual workpiece dimensions.
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
Enables accurate and efficient measurement and machining of workpieces with reduced user error, allowing for quick calibration and use on various workpieces, including elongated shapes like beams, while being cost-effective and manually operable.
Implementation Method 1
laser distance meters for measuring the longitudinal distance to a point of reference
Implementation Method 2
a magnetic sensor for measuring movement in the second direction
Data Source
AI summary
A device for determining a location on an elongated workpiece, characterized in that the device comprises: a frame movable in a first direction, preferably in a longitudinal direction of the workpiece, positioning means to position the frame in relation to the sides of the workpiece, movable means movable in a second direction, preferably in a transverse direction with respect to the frame, a measuring point, the movement in first direction and second direction used to move measuring point in said directions, measuring equipment for determining the location of the measuring point in transverse and longitudinal respect to the workpiece.