Machine Tool Body Positioning Through Cross-Axis Force Input
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Solution Overview
Problem
The manual positioning of a tool body in a machine tool for machining operations is challenging due to the need for visual observation and simultaneous handling of a control unit, which is difficult and often requires both hands, especially when positioning a cutting tool near inner surfaces of a workpiece.
Innovation Solution
The use of force sensors and accelerometers on the tool body to sense deflection forces and acceleration patterns, allowing the tool body to act as a maneuvering means for precise positioning through intuitive force applications and predefined patterns, eliminating the need for additional control devices near the workpiece.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the control unit is made small and portable for the operator to use while observing the tool body, then portability is improved, but handling the control unit still requires both hands and remains difficult to perform simultaneously with visual observation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the control functionality from a separate portable control unit and integrates it directly into the tool body through force sensors. This eliminates the need for a distinct control device while maintaining full positioning control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool body serves multiple functions: it is both the object being positioned and the control interface for positioning. The force sensors embedded in the tool body enable it to detect operator forces and translate them into positioning commands, combining the functions of the workpiece and control device into one universal element.
2Measurement precision
If force sensors are used to enable the tool body to act as a maneuvering means, then the positioning precision and intuitiveness are improved, but the device complexity increases due to the integration of sensors and control system
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the force sensing capability and positioning control functions into the tool body itself. The force sensors, control system, and tool body are integrated into a unified system where the tool body serves as both the manipulated object and the control interface, reducing overall system complexity despite the addition of sensing capabilities.
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
Enables intuitive and efficient positioning of the tool body by using the tool body itself as a maneuvering tool, reducing operational complexity and improving precision without the need for additional control units, thus enhancing machining preparation.
Implementation Method 1
reading outputs from at least one force sensor of a sensor arrangement configured for sensing deflection forces applied to the tool body
Implementation Method 2
The tool body is displaced in response to the read outputs from the force sensor(s). The displacing comprises displacing of the tool body in a first direction as a response to a component in a second direction of a deflection force applied on the tool body by an operator
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for positioning of a tool body of a machine tool in preparation for a machining operation comprises reading (S20) outputs from at least one force sensor of a sensor arrangement configured for sensing deflection forces applied to the tool body. The tool body is displaced (S30) in response to the read outputs from the force sensor(s). The displacing comprises displacing of the tool body in a first direction as a response to a component in a second direction of a deflection force applied on the tool body by an operator.