Automated Height Measuring Device for Workpiece Jig Alignment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for determining the proper machining height of workpieces in jigs are time-consuming and inefficient, relying on visual inspection which is not precise.

Innovation Solution

A height measuring device that automatically measures the height of workpieces relative to a jig using a platform, controller, measuring mechanisms, and indicating lights, allowing for real-time comparison against prestored tolerance ranges and immediate feedback on inspection results.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If visual inspection is used to determine workpiece height, then no additional measuring equipment is needed, but the inspection process becomes time-consuming and inefficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinspection efficiencyVSAvoidinspection time
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the manual visual inspection method with an automated optical measuring system. The height measuring device uses a sensor to automatically detect the position of the workpiece top surface and calculate height, substituting human visual judgment with precise mechanical-optical measurement equipment, thereby dramatically improving inspection efficiency and reducing time consumption.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The measuring device enables self-inspection of the workpiece height without requiring operator intervention. The sensor automatically detects the workpiece position, the processor calculates the height based on preset reference planes, and the system provides feedback, allowing the measurement process to serve itself without continuous human involvement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Measurement precision

If visual inspection is used to determine workpiece height, then the equipment remains simple, but measurement precision deteriorates due to human error

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveheight measurement accuracyVSAvoidmeasuring system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces imprecise human visual inspection with a precise optical-sensor-based measurement system. The sensor detects the actual position of the workpiece top surface with high accuracy, and the processor calculates the height by comparing with the preset reference plane, eliminating human error and providing objective, repeatable measurements.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a sensor as an intermediary between the workpiece and the measurement system. The sensor acts as a mediator that converts the physical position of the workpiece top surface into an electrical signal, which is then processed to determine height, providing an accurate intermediate measurement step that bridges the gap between the workpiece and the evaluation system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Productivity

If automated measuring mechanisms are added to improve inspection speed, then productivity increases, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinspection throughputVSAvoidmeasuring device structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The measuring device is designed with multi-functionality to justify its complexity. It can measure multiple workpieces sequentially, provide automated height calculation, display results, and control indicating lights for pass/fail judgment. This universal capability allows a single device to perform what previously required multiple manual operations, making the added complexity worthwhile for the productivity gain.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the sensor detects workpiece height, the processor compares the measurement against preset standards, and the indicating lights provide immediate visual feedback on whether the workpiece passes or fails. This closed-loop feedback system automates the inspection decision-making process, improving productivity by eliminating manual measurement and judgment steps.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS9074863B2Height measuring device for workpieces
Publication Date: 2015.07.07 FU DING ELECTRONICSAL TECH JIASHAN
  • US9074863B2 patent drawing
  • US9074863B2 patent drawing
  • US9074863B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A height measuring includes a mounting base, a measuring mechanism, and a controller. The measuring mechanism includes a driving member, a measuring member, and a sensor. The driving member is mounted onto the mounting base. The sensor is positioned on the driving member. The measuring member is movably positioned on the driving member and passes through the sensor. The driving member is configured to drive the measuring member to move until it contacts a workpiece in a jig. The controller is electrically connected to the sensor and prestores a moving distance range. The sensor is configured to sense a moving distance of the measuring member and transmit the moving distance to the controller. The controller is configured to judge whether or not the workpiece reaches a proper height relative to the jig by comparing the moving distance data with the prestored distance range.