Helical Bore Probe for Efficient Surface Metrology
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current bore metrology methods using contact probes are inefficient due to the need for numerous strokes to characterize the surface of a bore, leading to increased production time and potential installation issues with tapered or uneven bores.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a probe that moves partially through a bore in a lineal direction while rotating about the bore axis, allowing contact at multiple points, and phase shifting to cover the entire circumference, reducing the need for additional strokes and enhancing data collection efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a contact probe uses numerous strokes into and out of the bore to characterize the surface, then the measurement completeness is improved, but the production time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from linear reciprocating motion to helical motion by adding rotational movement to the probe. The probe simultaneously rotates about the bore axis while moving axially through the bore, creating a helical measurement path that contacts multiple circumferential points during each pass, thereby reducing the number of strokes required
Solution Approach 2:
The helical measurement path enables continuous data collection along the entire bore surface during a single axial pass. The rotational movement ensures that the contact element continuously engages with different circumferential locations, eliminating idle time between strokes and maintaining productive measurement action throughout the process
2Measurement precision
If a contact probe uses numerous strokes to evaluate the bore surface, then the surface characterization accuracy is improved, but the measurement efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By introducing rotational motion as a second degree of freedom alongside axial movement, the probe traces a helical path that systematically covers the entire bore surface. This dimensional addition allows comprehensive surface characterization to be achieved in fewer passes, directly improving measurement efficiency without sacrificing accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic helical motion where the probe simultaneously translates axially and rotates about the bore axis. This coordinated dynamic movement pattern optimizes the measurement trajectory to maximize surface coverage per unit time, enhancing both efficiency and characterization accuracy
Data Source
AI summary
A method for evaluating a surface of a bore formed in a structure, where the bore defines a bore axis. The method includes moving a probe at least partially through the bore in a first lineal direction about the bore axis while simultaneously rotating the probe about the bore axis. The probe includes a contact element contacting the surface of the bore at a plurality of first contact points as the probe moves in the first lineal direction.