Dual-Element Machine Tool Measurement for Full-Axis Calibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for measuring machine tools are inefficient, requiring multiple setups and introducing uncertainties, and often miss inaccuracies in non-traversed areas due to limited circularity testing, with significant positioning errors affecting the accuracy of machine geometry calibration.
Innovation Solution
A device with two spaced measuring elements and a spacer element, fastened via rigid or magnetic connections, allows for simultaneous measurement of multiple axes with minimal tension, using a point measuring system to determine axis errors and maintain a constant distance, even under varying ambient conditions, facilitating accurate calibration of machine geometry and kinematics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If measurement setup is moved to measure certain axes, then measurement coverage is improved, but measurement duration increases and additional uncertainties are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple measurement functions into a single fixed measurement setup. The measuring device remains stationary on the machine table while the workpiece is moved to different positions, allowing all axes to be measured without relocating the measurement equipment. This merging of measurement capabilities into one setup eliminates the time loss associated with moving the measurement device between axes.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of moving the measurement setup to different positions to measure various axes, the patent inverts the approach by keeping the measurement setup fixed and moving the workpiece through different positions. The measuring device stays stationary while the workpiece is repositioned, fundamentally reversing the conventional measurement approach to eliminate relocation time and associated uncertainties.
2Measurement precision
If support element is positioned close to center of rotation for circularity testing, then measurement precision is improved, but positioning errors significantly affect measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the support element from the measurement system entirely, replacing it with a fixed measurement setup on the machine table. By removing the need for a support element positioned at the center of rotation, the patent eliminates the positioning errors that would otherwise significantly affect measurement reliability, while maintaining measurement precision through the fixed measuring device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces the machine table as an intermediary platform for mounting the measuring device. Instead of positioning a support element at the center of rotation, the measuring device is mounted on the machine table which serves as a stable, fixed reference platform. This intermediary approach eliminates positioning errors while maintaining measurement precision.
3Productivity
If limited partial circles are used for circularity testing, then measurement time is reduced, but machine inaccuracies in non-traversed areas are missed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic measurement by moving the workpiece through multiple positions and orientations while the measuring device remains fixed. Instead of rotating the workpiece in limited partial circles, the workpiece is repositioned dynamically to allow the measuring probe to access different areas, enabling comprehensive accuracy evaluation of the entire machine tool system while maintaining measurement efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds dimensional variety to the measurement approach by utilizing multiple positions and orientations of the workpiece on the machine table. Instead of relying on circular motion in a single plane, the measurement extends across multiple dimensions through workpiece repositioning, allowing comprehensive coverage of all machine axes and areas without increasing measurement time.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for use on a numerically controlled machine tool for application in a method for measuring the numerically controlled machine tool, including: a first measuring element for measuring via a measuring apparatus, a second measuring element for measuring via the measuring apparatus, a spacer element on which the first measuring element and the second measuring element are arranged spaced from each other, and at least one fastening portion for fastening the device to a machine part of the machine tool.