CMM Tool Rack Tilting Mechanism for Reduced Uncoupling Force
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for automatically interchangeable tools in coordinate measuring machines face challenges in precision, reproducibility, and cost due to complex and costly actuation systems for locking and unlocking tools, as well as high mechanical efforts that can lead to inaccuracies and damage during tool switching.
Innovation Solution
A tool rack system with a folding mechanism and magnetic connection using a tilting mechanism to reduce mechanical efforts during tool switching, utilizing a ring groove and guides for precise alignment and separation, and passive elements for connection and disconnection without additional actuators, ensuring accurate and reproducible tool positioning and reduced magnetic attraction force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If actuators and control devices are added to each position of the tool rack for actuating the cam and locking or unlocking the tool, then the tool switching automation is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The tool rack is designed to automatically lock and unlock tools through its own structural mechanism (cam system) without requiring external actuators at each position. The measuring head itself performs the actuation by engaging with the cam, making the system self-servicing and eliminating the need for additional control devices at each tool rack position.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism serves multiple functions: it both locks and unlocks the tool, and can be actuated by the measuring head itself. This multi-functional design consolidates what would otherwise require separate actuators and control systems, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining automation.
2Ease of operation
If an axial separating force exceeding a predetermined threshold is applied to open the mechanical connection between the arm and the tool, then the tool can be released from the tool rack, but excessive mechanical efforts cause loss of adjustment and measuring inaccuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism transitions from a static rigid connection to a dynamic one where the tool can be easily released by tilting the measuring head. The elastic element provides a flexible connection that maintains precision during normal operation but allows controlled release when needed, adapting to different operational states.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic element is pre-loaded during normal operation to maintain precise mechanical connection. Before release, the system prepares by allowing the tool to tilt slightly, which preliminarily engages the release mechanism and reduces the force needed for actual separation, preventing sudden shocks that would cause inaccuracy.
3Strength
If a magnetic connection is used to hold the tool on the measuring head, then the connection strength is improved, but additional elements increase the cost, complexity and dimensions of the measuring head
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic connection element is extracted from the measuring head and placed in the tool rack instead. This removes the complexity and additional elements from the measuring head while maintaining the magnetic holding function in the tool rack, where it can still provide strong connection without affecting the measuring head's precision components.
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
The solution enhances precision and reproducibility of tool switching by distributing mechanical efforts and reducing magnetic attraction force, minimizing shocks and maintaining accurate tool positioning, thus improving measurement accuracy and reducing complexity and cost.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic connection between the head and the touch probe, having a permanent magnet and an electromagnet
Implementation Method 2
an elastic element connecting the tool rack and the measuring head
Data Source
AI summary
Tool rack for tools of a coordinate measuring machine, wherein the guiding and retaining surfaces of the tool rack are arranged on two planes offset vertically so as to cause the tool to tilt when it is unhooked. The inventive arrangement allows the mechanical efforts during uncoupling to be reduced appreciably. This reduction is due to the tool tilting and to the residual magnetic force being divided between three retaining point, with a positive effect on the coupling precision and on the tool positioning in the tool rack.