CMM Probe Control via Optical Guide Element Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) face difficulties in intuitive and safe manual control of measurement probes, leading to potential collisions and operational challenges for inexperienced users due to complex user interfaces and unintuitive motion control.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a guide element tracking system that uses sensors to detect and track a user's manual input, such as a finger or hand, to generate motion control signals for the measurement probe, allowing for intuitive and safe manual control of the probe's position within a defined active tracking volume.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional user interfaces (computer display, joysticks, hand wheel) are used to control measurement probe, then control functionality is provided, but user interface complexity increases and ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical control interfaces (joysticks, hand wheels, computer displays) with an optical tracking system that uses sensors to detect the operator's hand or finger position in 3D space. This substitution eliminates complex mechanical interfaces and provides more intuitive control where the measurement probe moves in direct correspondence with the operator's natural hand movements, significantly improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an optical guide element and tracking sensor system as an intermediary between the operator and the measurement probe. The guide element (such as a light-emitting diode or reflective marker) attached to or held by the operator serves as a mediator that translates natural hand movements into precise probe positioning, simplifying the control interface while maintaining accuracy.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual control of measurement probe is implemented, then operational flexibility is improved, but risk of collisions and safety hazards increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a real-time feedback system where optical sensors continuously track the position of the guide element and the measurement probe, and provide visual feedback to the operator through a display system. This feedback mechanism allows the operator to see the probe's position and movement in real-time, enabling better spatial awareness and preventing collisions with workpiece features or machine components while maintaining full operational flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs collision detection algorithms that monitor the predicted trajectory of the measurement probe based on guide element movement. When a potential collision with workpiece features or machine components is detected, the system can issue warnings or automatically adjust the probe's movement to prevent harmful contact, thereby reducing collision risk while preserving operator control flexibility.
3Ease of operation
If optical tracking system is implemented for non-contact control, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the optical tracking sensor system into the existing CMM controller architecture, allowing the same hardware platform to perform both traditional automated measurement functions and manual tracking control. The guide element can be a simple LED or reflective marker that works with various sensor types, and the system can operate in multiple modes (automated programming, manual tracking, hybrid operation), reducing overall system complexity through multi-functionality.
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
This solution enables users to manually control the measurement probe in a straightforward and safe manner, reducing the risk of collisions and improving operational efficiency by maintaining the probe in the user's field of vision and allowing non-contact control, thus enhancing user experience and accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
a guide element tracking sensor located on the coordinate measuring machine and configured to provide position sensing of a guide element in a sensing volume
Data Source
AI summary
A method for manually controlling the motion of a coordinate measuring machine (CMM) is disclosed. The method may include providing at least one guide element motion tracking sensor; defining a guide element active tracking volume relative to one of the guide element tracking sensor and a portion of the CMM; placing a guide element in the active motion tracking volume; tracking the position of the guide element; and moving a measurement probe of the CMM in response to the tracked position (e.g., to follow the position changes). The method may further include detecting a tracking motion activation trigger indicator or condition, and operating the CMM to move the measurement probe portion of the CMM according to the tracking motion after the tracking motion activation trigger indicator or condition is detected and according to the condition that the guide element is located in the active tracking volume.