CMM-Derived CNC Global Offsets for Automated Machining Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current machining systems require manual search and transfer of coordinate data between coordinate measuring machines (CMM) and computer numerical control (CNC) machines, introducing errors and inefficiencies in deriving and applying CNC global offsets for correcting machined components.
Innovation Solution
A system and method where a CMM measures features, calculates CNC offsets, and directly outputs them to a CNC machining system, using a processor to apply coordinate system and feature data for precise machining, reducing manual intervention and errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual search and transfer of coordinate data between CMM and CNC machines is performed, then data can be acquired from part quality database, but errors are introduced during data acquisition, interpretation or transfer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the CMM and CNC machine systems by establishing direct communication between them. The CMM system now performs offset calculations and directly transmits offset data to the CNC machine, eliminating the need for separate manual data transfer processes and external software databases. This integration reduces errors during data acquisition and transfer while maintaining operational reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The CMM system is enhanced with computational capabilities to perform offset calculations autonomously. Instead of requiring external software and manual intervention, the CMM system itself generates offset data by processing coordinate information from the part quality database and directly outputs the results to the CNC machine, enabling self-service operation.
2Productivity
If manual search and transfer of coordinate data is performed, then data can be obtained, but time is lost during data acquisition, interpretation or transfer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent establishes continuous automated data flow between the CMM and CNC machine. The CMM system continuously monitors measurement data, performs real-time offset calculations, and immediately transmits offset updates to the CNC machine without interruption. This eliminates the downtime associated with manual data transfer operations and maintains continuous productive action throughout the machining process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of searching, copying, and transferring coordinate data with an automated electronic communication system. The CMM system electronically transmits offset data directly to the CNC machine through programmed interfaces, substituting the time-consuming manual operations with instantaneous digital data exchange.
3Adaptability or versatility
If third party maintains part quality database, then data storage is externalized, but errors are introduced during data acquisition, interpretation or transfer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces the CMM system as an intermediary between the part quality database and the CNC machine. The CMM system retrieves coordinate data from the database, validates and processes the information through its internal computational algorithms, and then transmits the processed offset data to the CNC machine. This intermediary role ensures data accuracy while maintaining the flexibility of external database management.
Data Source
AI summary
A method to derive and apply computer numerical control global offsets includes: measuring features of a machined part using a coordinate measuring machine (CMM); programming a first processor within the CMM to receive the dimensions of the features and to output computer numerical control (CNC) offsets; and forwarding the CNC offsets from the CMM to a CNC machining system to correct operation of the CNC machining system.