Chromatic Range Sensor Probe Detachment Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Renishaw-type probe head systems in coordinate measuring machines face limitations in incorporating advanced technologies due to limited wired connections, making it difficult to add features or interchange probes, and existing chromatic range sensors are not easily attachable or interchangeable, posing a risk of collisions during measurement operations.

Innovation Solution

A chromatic range sensor probe system with an optical pen featuring an interchangeable optics element and a detachment signal element that transmits and reflects specific wavelengths, allowing for detection of detachment conditions without additional sensors or wiring, enabling automatic stoppage of the measurement machine to prevent damage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If Renishaw-type probe head systems are used, then the system is widely compatible and commonly available, but additional technologies and features cannot be easily incorporated due to limited wired connections

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecapability to incorporate additional technologiesVSAvoidnumber of wired connections

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical/wired connections with optical connections. The chromatic range sensor uses optical wavelengths to transmit data and control signals between the probe and coordinate measuring machine, eliminating the need for additional physical wiring in the probe head system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The optical connection system serves multiple functions simultaneously: it transmits measurement data, provides control signals, and enables detachment sensing, all through the same optical channel. This multi-functionality allows Renishaw-type probe heads to incorporate advanced features without adding separate wired connections for each function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If chromatic range sensors are integrated into probe systems, then measurement capabilities are enhanced, but the risk of collision damage increases due to difficulty in detecting detachment conditions

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedetection of detachment conditionVSAvoidcollision damage risk

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system continuously monitors the optical connection between the probe and coordinate measuring machine. When detachment is detected through changes in optical signal characteristics, the system provides immediate feedback to stop the measurement machine, preventing collision damage to the workpiece or probe.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The detachment sensing capability is built into the optical connection system before measurement operations begin. The system is pre-configured to detect detachment conditions and automatically initiate protective stopping, eliminating the need for separate collision detection mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Extent of automation

If interchangeable optics elements are used, then probe flexibility and automatic interchangeability are improved, but the complexity of ensuring proper alignment and connection increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomatic interchangeabilityVSAvoidalignment and connection complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The interchangeable optics elements are designed with self-aligning features that automatically ensure proper optical alignment when inserted into the probe holder. The element itself performs the alignment function without requiring external alignment mechanisms or complex positioning systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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 safe and efficient operation by detecting detachment conditions and preventing collisions, allowing for seamless integration with existing Renishaw-type systems without requiring additional hardware, thus enhancing the capability and safety of measurement operations.

Implementation Method 1

The interchangeable optics element includes a detachment signal element. The detachment signal element is configured to substantially transmit a first set of wavelengths corresponding to a measuring range of the chromatic range sensor system, and at least partially reflect a set of detachment signal element wavelengths.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLight transmission and reflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS9068822B2Chromatic range sensor probe detachment sensor

Publication Date: 2015.06.30 MITUTOYO CORP

AI summary

A system and method for a chromatic probe detachment sensor is provided. A detachment signal element is included in an interchangeable optics element of a probe. The detachment signal element is configured to substantially transmit a first set of wavelengths corresponding to a measuring range, and at least partially reflect a set of detachment element wavelengths. In one implementation, the detachment signal element comprises a thin film coating such as a sharp edge filter. The detection of a detachment condition can thus be achieved using the existing probe electronics without requiring the addition of other external sensors or wiring to the probe or coordinate measuring machine that utilizes the probe. The sensing of a detachment condition may be utilized to halt further movement of the probe to minimize damage in the event of a collision.