Gear Cutting Probe Calibration Using the Workpiece Tooth Flank
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Solution Overview
Problem
Gear cutting machines face imprecision in measuring probe calibration due to external influences like temperature fluctuations, leading to position errors that require regular correction to maintain accurate test results.
Innovation Solution
A method for calibrating a measuring probe in a gear cutting machine using a workpiece, where the probe is traversed relative to the workpiece via multiple axes of movement, with the touch point on the tooth flank remaining unchanged, and deflection deviations are determined to calculate correction values, eliminating the need for a reference measurement block and simplifying the calibration process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a measurement block is used for calibration, then the calibration process can be performed with a reference object, but the worker must incorporate and remove the measurement block, increasing operational complexity and time
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the calibration function from a separate measurement block and integrates it directly into the workpiece itself. The workpiece serves dual purposes: as the object to be manufactured and as the reference object for calibration, eliminating the need to incorporate and remove a separate measurement block.
Solution Approach 2:
The workpiece is given multiple functions: it serves both as the object to be manufactured and as the reference object (measurement block) for calibration. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for a separate measurement block and reduces operational steps.
2Measurement precision
If a measurement block is used for calibration, then reference measurements can be obtained, but the traversing paths for the measuring probe may be insufficient to reach the measurement block in large workpiece production
Solution Approach 1:
The workpiece serves as both the manufactured object and the calibration reference, ensuring that the reference object is always within the probe's traversing capability since it is the workpiece itself being manufactured.
3Productivity
If the measuring probe position is not regularly calibrated, then operational continuity is maintained, but position errors accumulate due to temperature fluctuations and machine deformations
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration is performed as a preliminary action using the workpiece itself before production continues, ensuring position accuracy is restored without interrupting overall operational continuity. The workpiece is calibrated in its own production context.
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
This method provides a more comprehensive and automated calibration, allowing for precise correction of position errors in both directions, enhancing the accuracy of measuring probe calibration and reducing operational complexity.
Implementation Method 1
the deflection of the measuring probe tip relative the measuring probe base can be determined via at least one sensor of the measuring probe
Data Source
AI summary
The present application discloses a method for calibrating a measuring probe in a gear cutting machine by using a workpiece received in a workpiece holder of the gear cutting machine, wherein the measuring probe includes a measuring probe tip which is movably arranged on a measuring probe base, wherein the deflection of the measuring probe tip relative the measuring probe base can be determined via at least one sensor of the measuring probe, and wherein the measuring probe is traversable relative to the workpiece holder via at least two axes of movement of the gear cutting machine. The method comprises rotating the workpiece via an axis of rotation of the workpiece holder and traversing the measuring probe via the at least two axes of movement of the gear cutting machine such that in the case of a perfect calibration the touch point of the measuring probe tip on the tooth flank would remain unchanged.