Shape Measuring Instrument Cable Impedance Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

The increasing impedance in cables connected to shape measuring instruments, particularly those with bent portions, disrupts data transfer during long-term shape measurement processes, leading to costly and unplanned equipment stoppages due to the requirement for dedicated testing tools.

Innovation Solution

A method and system for detecting impedance in cables connected to movable portions with bent portions, utilizing a shape measuring instrument configuration that includes an impedance detector and a test operation flow chart to identify impedance issues before they affect measurement accuracy, allowing for planned cable replacement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a dedicated testing tool is used to review impedance in cables, then impedance detection accuracy is improved, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimpedance detection accuracyVSAvoidtesting tool complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the impedance detection function with the existing shape measuring instrument by integrating a test data transmission unit and impedance detection unit into the controller. This merging eliminates the need for separate dedicated testing tools while maintaining detection accuracy through the use of the instrument's existing communication infrastructure and processing capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The shape measuring instrument is designed to perform both its primary shape measurement function and impedance detection function using the same hardware resources. The controller can switch between normal operation mode and impedance testing mode, making the device multi-functional and eliminating the need for specialized testing equipment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If impedance review is performed using a dedicated testing tool, then impedance issues are detected, but ease of operation deteriorates due to requiring separate equipment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimpedance issue detectionVSAvoidoperational convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The impedance detection capability is merged into the shape measuring instrument itself, allowing users to perform impedance reviews using the same device they use for shape measurement. This integration eliminates the need to switch between different tools and simplifies the operational workflow.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The shape measuring instrument performs self-diagnosis of its own cable impedance by transmitting test data through the cable and detecting impedance based on the received signal. This self-service capability allows the system to monitor its own health without requiring external testing equipment or specialized operational procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Device complexity

If impedance detection is not performed regularly, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability deteriorates due to undetected impedance increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection system complexityVSAvoiddata transfer reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The impedance detection unit enables continuous or periodic monitoring of cable impedance during the operational lifetime of the shape measuring instrument. By performing repeated impedance checks, the system maintains reliable data transfer by detecting degradation trends early, replacing cables proactively before they fail, and ensuring continuous operational reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Solution Approach 2:

The impedance detection unit provides feedback about cable condition to the controller, which can then alert the user or trigger maintenance procedures. This feedback mechanism enables the system to respond to impedance degradation and maintain reliable operation by prompting timely cable replacement before data transfer failures occur.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentEP2730883B1Shape measuring instrument, impedance detector, and impedance detection method and computer program product therefor
Publication Date: 2021.04.21 MITUTOYO CORP
  • EP2730883B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2730883B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2730883B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A coordinate measuring device includes a probe detecting a shape of a measured object and outputting a signal indicating results of the shape detection. A probe interface receives the signal indicating the results of the shape detection. A cable transmits the signal indicating the results of the shape detection between the probe and the probe interface and bends accompanying displacement of the probe. The probe interface includes an impedance detector having a calculator detecting impedance in the cable. The impedance detector transmits high-speed test data to the probe through the cable and detects impedance in the cable according to whether a reception confirmation signal output by the probe is received.