Coordinate Measuring Machine Ram Integration for Expanded Measuring Space
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coordinate measuring machines with portal designs face a challenge in limited measuring space due to probe head changing devices, necessitating the use of larger and more expensive machines with increased measurement errors.
Innovation Solution
The probe head or sensor is positioned at least partially in the ram of the coordinate measuring machine, utilizing the available space within the ram to increase the measuring volume, and incorporating a reproducible exchangeable interface or adapter for the articulating head/unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a probe head changing device is added to enable frequent exchange of probe heads for different measuring tasks, then the adaptability and versatility of the coordinate measuring machine is improved, but the measuring space is reduced and the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The interface and probe head holder are positioned inside the ram, nesting the probe head changing functionality within the existing ram structure. This eliminates the need for external probe head changing devices that would occupy additional space, thereby maintaining the measuring space while enabling frequent probe head exchanges for different measuring tasks
2Adaptability or versatility
If a probe head changing device is added to enable frequent exchange of probe heads, then the adaptability and versatility of the coordinate measuring machine is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The interface positioned inside the ram serves multiple functions: it enables probe head exchange, provides reproducible positioning, and integrates with the existing ram structure. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated probe head changing mechanisms, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The probe head holder and interface are merged into a single integrated component positioned inside the ram. This consolidation reduces the number of separate parts and simplifies the overall structure, thereby reducing device complexity while enabling efficient probe head exchange
3Ease of operation
If the probe head is positioned outside the ram, then the ease of operation for probe head exchange is improved, but the measuring space is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The probe head holder is nested inside the ram, positioning the probe head exchange mechanism within the existing ram structure rather than outside. This eliminates the space occupation of external positioning mechanisms while maintaining ease of operation through automated exchange processes controlled by the coordinate measuring machine
4Area of stationary object
If a larger coordinate measuring machine is used to maintain sufficient measuring space, then the measuring space is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases and measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By nesting the interface and probe head holder inside the ram, the patent maximizes the use of existing internal space, thereby maintaining sufficient measuring space without requiring a larger machine structure. This avoids the increased manufacturing costs and measurement errors associated with larger machines
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a coordinate measuring machine with a ram anda probe head ora sensor oran articulating head/unit orwith an articulating head/unit with a probe head or sensor positioned on the articulating head/unitand/orwith an interfacein which the probe head or the sensor or an adapter for the articulating head/unit and/or the interface is/are positioned at least partially in the ram.