Grinding Tool Diameter Measurement for Stable Cutting Speed

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for measuring the parameters of fine machining tools, particularly the outside diameter of grinding tools, are time-consuming and prone to errors, leading to potential tool damage and inconsistent cutting speeds during machining processes.

Innovation Solution

A fine machining machine equipped with a non-contact distance sensor, such as an optical or inductive sensor, that quickly and accurately determines the outside diameter and other parameters of grinding tools, allowing for real-time adjustments to maintain consistent cutting speeds and prevent tool damage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If contact measurement methods are used to determine grinding tool parameters, then measurement precision can be achieved, but the measurement process becomes time-consuming and complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement precisionVSAvoidmeasurement time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical contact measurement systems with optical measurement systems. A laser beam is used to non-contactly measure the outer diameter of the grinding tool, eliminating the need for physical contact between the dressing tool and grinding tool. This substitution maintains measurement precision while dramatically reducing measurement time and complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a laser beam as an intermediary medium to transfer measurement information. Instead of direct mechanical contact, the laser beam serves as the mediator that carries measurement data from the grinding tool to the detection system, enabling fast and accurate non-contact measurement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Device complexity

If manual parameter entry is used during tool changes, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability of parameter accuracy deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice complexityVSAvoidparameter accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-measurement of the grinding tool parameters. The optical measurement system automatically determines the outer diameter and other parameters without requiring manual intervention or data entry. This self-service approach eliminates human error while keeping the system relatively simple.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The measurement system provides immediate feedback about the grinding tool parameters to the control system. The measured outer diameter and other parameters are automatically fed back to update the machine control, ensuring accurate parameter storage without manual entry and enabling real-time adjustments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Productivity

If rapid approach method is used for contact measurement, then productivity is improved, but the risk of tool damage increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement speedVSAvoidtool damage risk
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

By replacing the mechanical contact system with an optical measurement system, the patent eliminates the risk of mechanical collision and tool damage. The laser beam can rapidly approach the grinding tool without physical contact, enabling high-speed measurement while completely avoiding the harmful factor of mechanical impact.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The optical measurement system provides a buffer zone between the measurement beam and the grinding tool. Since light can pass through air without mechanical contact, there is inherent cushioning that prevents direct impact, allowing rapid approach while protecting the tool from damage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

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 rapid and precise measurement of grinding tool parameters, ensuring consistent cutting speeds and improving operational safety by automatically adjusting spindle speeds and detecting potential tool damage, thereby enhancing machining efficiency and quality.

Implementation Method 1

a non-contact distance sensor, such as an optical or inductive sensor, that quickly and accurately determines the outside diameter

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight reflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

A fine machining machine equipped with a non-contact distance sensor, such as an optical or inductive sensor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical measurement: LIDAR

Implementation Method 3

a non-contact distance sensor, such as an optical or inductive sensor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentEP3624978B1Measurement of characteristic variables of a precision machining tool
Publication Date: 2023.06.07 REISHAUER AG
  • EP3624978B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3624978B1 patent drawingFigure 2~3
  • EP3624978B1 patent drawingFigure 4~7

AI summary

The invention relates to a machine for the precision machining of toothed workpieces, which machine comprises a tool spindle (30) for mounting a precision machining tool (31). The tool spindle can be driven to rotate about a tool spindle axis (B) by means of a tool spindle drive (32). A control device (70) takes at least one measurement of the distance from the precision machining tool (31) by means of a distance sensor (60) and, on the basis of said measurement(s), determines at least one characteristic variable of the precision machining tool, in particular the outer diameter thereof. The distance sensor can operate optically in particular.