Coordinate Measuring Device for Determinate Assembly Hole Drilling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for adding determinate assembly (DA) holes to parts require complex and costly tooling, leading to increased manufacturing costs and waste, especially when modifying existing parts or assemblies.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing a coordinate measuring device (CMD) with a probe tip and guide element, along with a drill bushing, to accurately locate and drill DA holes without the need for complicated tooling, allowing for quick and repeatable positioning and drilling of DA holes in new or existing parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional tooling is used to locate and drill DA holes, then positioning accuracy is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical positioning tooling with a coordinate measuring device (CMD) that uses electronic sensing and digital coordinate systems to locate and mark DA hole positions. The CMD probe measures reference features on the part and calculates precise hole locations through software, eliminating the need for mechanical jigs and fixtures while maintaining high positioning accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a software-based coordinate system and calculation algorithm as an intermediary between the physical part features and the final hole positions. The CMD software processes measurements of reference features, applies geometric transformations, and generates precise drilling coordinates, serving as a digital mediator that replaces complex mechanical positioning mechanisms.
2Manufacturing precision
If specialized tooling is used for each part, then positioning accuracy is improved, but manufacturing cost and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal coordinate measuring device that can accommodate different part geometries and reference features through software configuration rather than physical retooling. The same CMD hardware can measure and position DA holes on various parts by loading different measurement programs and coordinate systems, eliminating the need for part-specific tooling while maintaining positioning accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the approach from physical tooling parameters ( jig dimensions, fixture geometries) to digital parameters (coordinate systems, measurement programs, transformation matrices). By modifying software parameters rather than physical tooling, the system can quickly adapt to different parts without manufacturing new fixtures, significantly reducing preparation time while preserving positioning precision.
3Manufacturing precision
If conventional tooling is used, then DA hole location accuracy is improved, but adaptability to different parts decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The coordinate measuring device serves multiple functions across different parts through software flexibility. The same physical CMD can be programmed to measure various reference features (holes, edges, surfaces) on different parts and calculate appropriate DA hole positions, making the system universally applicable while maintaining location accuracy through precise digital measurement and calculation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the static, part-specific tooling into a dynamic, programmable measurement system. The CMD can adapt its measurement strategy, coordinate system, and calculation methodology based on the specific part being measured, allowing the system to dynamically reconfigure for different parts while maintaining consistent positioning accuracy through real-time computational adjustment.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and methods for locating and drilling determinate assembly (DA) holes using a coordinate measuring device (CMD) are disclosed. A system includes a CMD having a probe tip, a guide element having a reference hole for receiving the probe tip, and a drill bushing having a drill bit guide hole for accurately drilling a DA hole at a target position. Methods for locating and drilling DA holes comprise steps of: calibrating a CMD; inserting a CMD probe into a reference hole of a guide element; positioning the CMD probe and guide element at a target position on a part; maintaining the guide element at the target position; removing the CMD probe from the guide element; inserting a drill bushing into the reference hole of the guide element; and drilling a DA hole in the part, utilizing a drill bit guide hole located in the drill bushing.