Hot-Swappable Surface Texture Measuring Apparatus Bracket
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing surface texture measuring apparatus requires a cumbersome and time-consuming process for replacing measurement devices, which is inefficient and can be unstable, especially when frequent replacements are needed.
Innovation Solution
A surface texture measuring apparatus with a one-action attachment/detachment mechanism that allows for hot-swappable measurement devices, using a bracket with a rotatable clamper and attachment/detachment detecting sensor to simplify the attachment and detachment process, enabling single-handed operation without the need for tools or powering down the device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If the measurement device is replaced using the conventional multi-step process, then the device can be replaced, but the replacement process is time-consuming and reduces productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement device is divided into separable components: the measurement head and the bracket. The bracket remains attached to the drive mechanism while the measurement head can be quickly detached and replaced. This segmentation enables rapid replacement without affecting the entire measurement system.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket is equipped with automatic locking and unlocking mechanisms that engage and disengage without external intervention. The detent mechanism and guide rails provide self-aligning and self-latching functionality, eliminating the need for manual positioning or tool-assisted attachment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the measurement device is replaced frequently, then adaptability is improved, but the complexity of the replacement process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket is designed as a universal mounting interface that can accommodate different types of measurement heads. The standardized connection structure with guide rails and detent mechanism allows various measurement devices to be attached using the same interface, simplifying the replacement process across different device types.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of manually positioning and securing the measurement head during replacement, the design allows the measurement head to be simply inserted into the bracket, where the automatic locking mechanism does the securing work. This inverts the conventional approach by making the attachment process passive rather than active.
3Reliability
If the connector is designed for secure electrical connection, then reliability is improved, but the ease of hot-swapping deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connector is nested within the mechanical bracket structure. The connector is housed inside the bracket's connection interface, allowing it to be automatically engaged when the measurement head is inserted into the bracket. This nested design ensures that electrical and mechanical connections occur simultaneously without separate operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical attachment function and electrical connection function are merged into a single integrated interface. The bracket and connector work together as a unified attachment mechanism, so that one insertion action simultaneously establishes both mechanical support and electrical connectivity, enabling reliable hot-swapping.
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a surface texture measuring apparatus in which a measurement device is replaced easily and safely.A measurement device is replaceable by attaching and detaching the measurement device to and from a drive mechanism part. The measurement device includes a bracket, and the bracket includes a first connector for transmitting and receiving a signal to and from the measurement device and feeding to the measurement device. The drive mechanism part includes a support frame to which the bracket is detachably attached, and the support frame includes a second connector electrically connected to the first connector. The signal is transmitted and received between the first connector and the second connector, and the first connector is fed from the second connector while the first connector and the second connector are connected. Insertion and removal between the first connector and the second connector to attach and detach the measurement device to and from the drive mechanism part is hot swappable.