Multi-Element Image Capturer for Machine Tool Motion Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing techniques fail to measure the relative motion between a tool attacher and a work attacher in machine tools, which is crucial for precision and accuracy in machining processes.
Innovation Solution
A measuring apparatus comprising an image capturer with multiple image capturing elements positioned at non-collinear locations, an image capturing controller that captures specific points on XY, XZ, and YZ planes without changing the relative position of the tool or work attacher, and a calculator that calculates the planar relative motion based on image capturing results.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single image capturer is used to capture images for measuring relative motion, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision of relative motion between tool attacher and work attacher deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The image capturer is divided into multiple image capturing elements (first, second, and third image capturing elements) positioned at different locations. Each element captures images from its specific viewpoint, and the measurement system processes these segmented measurements to calculate relative motion, thereby achieving high measurement precision without requiring an overly complex single-unit design
Solution Approach 2:
The patent positions image capturing elements at three-dimensional locations that are not on the same line (forming a triangular arrangement). This spatial dimensionality allows the system to capture relative motion in multiple directions simultaneously, improving measurement precision by adding dimensional information rather than increasing device complexity linearly
2Measurement precision
If multiple image capturing elements are positioned at non-collinear locations, then the measurement precision of relative motion is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement system is segmented into multiple independent image capturing elements, each performing a specific capturing function from its designated position. This segmentation allows the system to achieve comprehensive measurement coverage through coordinated operation of simpler individual units rather than a single complex device
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the measurement functions of multiple image capturing elements into a unified measurement system. By merging the data from the first, second, and third image capturing elements, the system achieves high-precision relative motion measurement while distributing the functional complexity across multiple components
3Manufacturing precision
If images are captured from three non-collinear positions, then the accuracy of planar relative motion measurement is improved, but the number of required image capturing elements increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses three image capturing elements positioned at non-collinear locations to create a two-dimensional measurement plane. This dimensional arrangement allows accurate measurement of planar relative motion (X and Y directions) by capturing images from spatially distributed viewpoints, achieving high measurement accuracy without requiring an excessive number of capturing elements
Data Source
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AI summary
A measuring apparatus for measuring a planar relative motion between a tool attacher and a work attacher of a machine tool includes at least one image capturing element capable of performing image capturing at a first position, a second position, and a third position, which are not located on the same line. The image capturing elements at the first position, the second position, and the third position are caused to capture a first point, a second point, and a third point, respectively, arranged on at least one plane of an XY-plane, an XZ-plane, and a YZ-plane. The image capturing element at the second position and the image capturing element at the third position are caused to capture the first point, the image capturing element at the first position and the image capturing element at the third position are caused to capture the second point, and the image capturing element at the first position and the image capturing element at the second position are caused to capture the third point. Based on the image capturing result, a value indicating the planar relative motion between the tool attacher and the work attacher is calculated.