Indexable Rotary Probe Accessory for CMM Orientation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) lack sufficient degrees of freedom to orient probes effectively for measuring complex workpiece features, particularly with one-directional probes that require additional rotational axes for multi-dimensional measurements, and current motorized rotary fittings are costly, heavy, and energy-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A non-motorized, indexable probe support system that allows semi- or fully-automated rotation of probes without disconnection from the support, using a passive, external accessory to provide a third rotational axis, reducing thermal expansion and weight-related deflections, and enabling precise angular positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If motorized rotary fittings are used to rotate probes, then the probe can be oriented for measuring complex features, but the device becomes costly, heavy, and energy-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the motorized actuator from the rotary fitting, retaining only the passive mechanical rotation mechanism. The probe support is rotated by external means (manual operation or external actuator) while the probe support itself remains a simple passive structure, eliminating the complexity of integrating motors and control systems into the rotary fitting
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (the passive rotary adapter with indexing features) that couples the probe support to the CMM. This intermediary allows rotational movement and precise positioning without requiring the probe support itself to be motorized, separating the rotation function from the measurement function
2Extent of automation
If motorized actuators are used for probe rotation, then automated rotation is achieved, but thermal expansion and weight-related deflections increase
Solution Approach 1:
The motorized actuator is extracted from the probe support assembly and placed externally. This removes the source of thermal expansion and excessive weight from the measurement-critical components, allowing automated rotation without compromising measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The system is segmented into a passive probe support (for precision) and an external actuation mechanism (for automation). This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently: the probe support minimizes thermal and gravitational effects, while the external actuator provides automation capability
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional disconnection methods are used to reorient probes, then rotation is possible, but time-consuming disconnection and reconnection is required
Solution Approach 1:
The probe support is pre-configured with indexing features and engagement mechanisms that allow it to be rotated to predetermined angular positions and locked in place. This preliminary preparation of positioning features enables quick reorientation without disconnection, as the probe support can be rotated and indexed while remaining attached to the CMM
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention concerns an accessory (100) for rotating a probe support (250) comprising a first member (260) being mounted on a position determining apparatus and a second member (270) rotatably coupled with the first member (260) and configured to support a probe. The accessory (100) includes: a body (110,111) and a first receiving portion (125) configured to receive and engage with a portion of said second member (270) and/or a probe (300) supported by said second member (270). The accessory (100) further comprises a mechanical transmission (120, 122, 140) configured to transform a relative translating motion of the first receiving portion (125) into a relative rotation of the first receiving portion (125) with respect to the body (110,111).