Gauge Inspection Jig for Reverse Posture Dial Gauge Verification

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing gauge inspection methods cannot hold dial gauges in a reverse posture without a cap, limiting the ability to inspect gauges accurately in various postures as required by international standards.

Innovation Solution

A gauge inspection jig comprising a body portion and a coupling portion, where the body portion holds a member mounted to the gauge in a reverse posture, and the coupling portion is coupled to a measurement spindle, allowing the gauge to be inspected in any posture, including with the contact point facing upward.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a gauge inspector uses a configuration that holds the dial gauge in reverse posture by inserting a capped end into a socket, then the gauge can be inspected in reverse posture, but this configuration cannot be applied to dial gauges without caps

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveapplicability to different gauge typesVSAvoidinspection system configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The holding member is designed with a universal interface that can accommodate both capped and capless dial gauges. The member includes a through-hole that allows insertion of the gauge body regardless of cap presence, and engagement features that secure both types of gauges effectively, making the inspection system applicable to multiple gauge types without requiring different configurations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The holding member acts as an intermediary component between the gauge inspector and the dial gauge. It provides a standardized interface that adapts to different gauge types (with or without caps), enabling the inspection system to handle various gauge configurations through a single universal holding mechanism

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If international standards require measurement property verification in multiple postures including reverse posture, then measurement accuracy is improved, but inspection time and operational complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement property verification accuracyVSAvoidinspection time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The gauge inspector is designed with movable and adjustable components that allow easy transition between different inspection postures. The holding member and gauge positioning mechanisms enable quick reorientation of the gauge from upright to reverse posture and back, reducing the time required for posture changes while maintaining measurement accuracy requirements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The inspection jig and holding members are pre-configured to facilitate straightforward gauge mounting and posture adjustment. By preparing the inspection setup in advance with appropriate holding members and positioning features, the system enables rapid gauge installation and posture changes, reducing overall inspection time while ensuring all required postures can be measured

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS11499821B2Inspection jig, gauge inspector, and method for holding gauge
Publication Date: 2022.11.15 MITUTOYO CORP
  • US11499821B2 patent drawing
  • US11499821B2 patent drawing
  • US11499821B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A gauge inspection jig for performing an inspection easily and accurately in a reverse posture with a contact point facing upward when a gauge is inspected. The gauge inspection jig includes a body portion and a coupling portion. The body portion holds a member mounted to a body portion of the gauge. This holds the gauge in the reverse posture. The coupling portion is coupled to the body portion. The coupling portion is couplable to a distal end of a measurement spindle disposed on a gauge inspector to be movable in a measurement axis direction.