Feeler Device with Magnetic Position Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing geometric control systems for parts in manufacturing are inefficient due to manual inspection, high costs, reliability issues, and a need for improved measurement accuracy and speed, particularly in the detection and contact of feeler members with parts to be inspected.
Innovation Solution
A sensor device with a magnetic sensor and motor-driven contact rod, featuring a counter-bearing with a roller, guide ring, electronic cards for position and stress management, and a magnetic track on the rod for precise position detection, along with a linear motor and sealing mechanisms, enhances reliability, speed, and protection of the probe rod.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual inspection with gauges is used, then measurement can be performed, but inspection speed is slow and productivity is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical gauge inspection with an automated magnetic field-based measurement system. The magnetic sensor detects the position of the feeler member through non-contact means, eliminating the need for manual operation and significantly increasing inspection speed while reducing inspection time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables automated measurement where the feeler member automatically returns to its initial position after contact with the part, and the magnetic sensor continuously tracks its position. This self-actuating mechanism eliminates the need for continuous manual intervention, improving productivity and reducing time loss.
2Reliability
If manual gauge inspection is used, then geometric control can be performed, but reliability is problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement with an automated magnetic field-based detection system. The magnetic sensor non-contactly detects the position of the magnet-equipped feeler member, providing more reliable and consistent measurements while reducing human error and variability in the inspection process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnetic field as an intermediary between the sensor and the feeler member. This magnetic coupling allows for reliable position detection without direct physical contact, improving measurement reliability while the integrated housing keeps the overall system complexity manageable.
3Productivity
If the probe rod moves quickly, then productivity increases, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses magnetic field-based position detection instead of mechanical contact sensing. The magnetic sensor can accurately detect the position of the feeler member even during rapid movement, as the magnetic field responds instantaneously to position changes without the inertia and friction limitations of mechanical contact systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs continuous periodic scanning of the magnetic field to track the feeler member's position. This allows for high-speed measurement by taking multiple rapid position readings during the feeler member's movement, maintaining precision while increasing overall measurement speed and productivity.
4Measurement precision
If the feeler member contacts the part directly, then measurement is obtained, but the stem is exposed to harmful factors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a magnetic field as an intermediary to enable non-contact detection of the feeler member's position. The magnetic sensor detects the position through the housing wall without the feeler member needing to be exposed, protecting it from contaminants and harmful environmental factors while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the housing wall as a permeable barrier for magnetic fields. The magnetic sensor mounted on the housing can detect the position of the feeler member through the housing wall, which protects the feeler member from external contaminants while allowing the magnetic field to pass through for position detection.
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 provides reliable, accurate, and automated geometric control with improved measurement speed and protection of the probe rod, enabling efficient and cost-effective inspection processes.
Implementation Method 1
the rod cooperates with a magnetic sensor for the detection of its position
Implementation Method 2
the contact rod is driven in translation by direct or indirect friction with the rotating shaft of a motor
Data Source
Figure 1~2
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AI summary
The present invention concerns a feeler device for geometrically controlling parts, capable of determining the position of a feeler member when it comes into contact with a part to be controlled, comprising a motorised contact rod (1) movable in translation inside a housing (3), and a microcontroller for controlling the movement of the rod. According to one embodiment of the invention, said contact rod (1) is driven in translation by friction with a means linked to the rotary shaft of a motor, and the contact rod (1) cooperates with a magnetic sensor in order to detect the position of same.