Hybrid Coordinate Measuring Machine Manual Programming
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) face limitations in programming efficiency, particularly for small series production, as manual machines are time-consuming and not suited for repetitive tasks, while motorized machines lack intuitive programming interfaces.
Innovation Solution
A CMM with a hybrid programming interface that allows manual and motorized control, using clutches to decouple actuators for manual displacement and encoders to record positions, enabling intuitive programming and force amplification for precise motor-assisted movements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a motorized measuring machine is used, then measurement productivity is improved, but programming complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between manual and motorized modes based on operational needs. The clutch mechanism enables the measuring head to be manually operated when programming is required, then automatically coupled to motorized actuation during measurement execution, providing adaptability between different operational states
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit acts as an intermediary that records manual positioning data during programming mode and automatically executes it during measurement mode. This intermediary system translates intuitive manual operations into precise motorized movements, bridging the gap between simplicity and automation
2Ease of operation
If a manual measuring machine is used, then programming simplicity is improved, but measurement productivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static manual operation to dynamic motorized execution. During programming, the operator manually positions the measuring head for intuitive coordinate entry, then the system automatically executes the recorded sequence at high speed, combining the ease of manual programming with the productivity of automated measurement
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit creates a digital copy of the manual positioning sequence and reproduces it through motorized actuation. This copying process preserves the intuitive programming approach while executing it with the speed and precision of automated systems
3Ease of operation
If clutches are used to decouple actuators for manual displacement, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The drive system is segmented into independent actuators for each axis, with individual clutches allowing selective engagement. This segmentation enables manual operation of specific axes while maintaining motorized capability, providing operational flexibility without requiring complete system redesign
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 solution simplifies programming, combining the efficiency of motorized machines with the flexibility of manual machines, reducing programming time and improving precision by allowing intuitive, force-assisted motor control, thus enhancing the machine's ability to handle both unique and repetitive measurements.
Implementation Method 1
The clutch is designed so that, in active state, it transmits a friction torque to the element (170x, 170y, 170z)
Implementation Method 2
CMMs generally have encoders enabling the position of the measuring head at a given instant along each independent axis to be determined
Implementation Method 3
the elements (170x, 170y, 170z) are driven by three motors, also called actuators, (132x, 132y, 132z) controlled by the control unit (120)
Data Source
AI summary
Multidimensional coordinate measuring machine having a programming mode in which the measuring head can be displaced manually by an operator and a measuring mode in which a control unit is designed for automatically optimizing and reproducing the displacements of the measuring head recorded during the programming mode.