Chuck Run-Out Measurement After Claw Exchange

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Solution Overview

Problem

The reliability of chuck grip accuracy checking is compromised due to potential misreading of measured values and variability in measurements when operators manually check the run-out of workpieces after claw exchange in conventional methods.

Innovation Solution

A chuck grip accuracy checking method and device that automates the process by using a movable member with measurement instruments to measure the run-out of a measurement target while the chuck is rotated, ensuring precise measurement of both cylindrical outer and distal end surfaces, thereby reducing operator error and variability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If an operator manually measures run-out of a workpiece after claw exchange, then the measurement can be performed, but the reliability is compromised due to potential misreading and variability

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemeasurement reliabilityVSAvoidmanual operation level

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSExtent of automation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the manual mechanical measurement process with an automated measurement system. A measurement instrument is mounted on a movable member that can automatically position itself to measure the run-out of the workpiece held by the chuck, eliminating operator involvement and its associated errors.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The measurement system is designed to autonomously perform the measurement task. The movable member automatically positions the measurement instrument, and the system independently completes the run-out measurement without requiring operator intervention, making the system self-sufficient for this function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If a movable member with measurement instrument is introduced to automate measurement, then measurement reliability improves, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvegrip accuracy checking reliabilityVSAvoidmeasurement system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The movable member is designed to perform multiple functions: it can hold the measurement instrument, position itself accurately, and facilitate run-out measurement. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, thereby limiting the increase in overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The movable member acts as an intermediary between the measurement instrument and the workpiece. It provides a stable, controllable platform that bridges the gap between the fixed measurement instrument and the rotating workpiece, simplifying the overall measurement architecture.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS11794301B2Chuck grip accuracy checking method, chuck claw exchanging method, and chuck grip accuracy checking device

Publication Date: 2023.10.24 HOWA MACHINERY LTD

AI summary

A chuck grip accuracy checking method includes a gripping in which the measurement target is gripped on the claws, a moving step, and a measuring step. In the moving step, a movable member provided with a measurement instrument capable of measuring a run-out of the measurement target is moved by driving a movable-member driver to a position at which the measurement instrument can measure a run-out of the measurement target. In the measuring step, a run-out of the measurement target is measured by the measurement instrument, while the chuck is being rotated by driving a rotation driver.