Inside-Diameter Measuring Unit With Self-Aligning Floating Joint
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inside-diameter measuring devices require manual operation, are expensive, and have limited measurement repeatability and range, necessitating a need for an inexpensive, easy-to-use, and automated solution.
Innovation Solution
An inside-diameter measuring unit with a floating joint mechanism that allows relative translation and rotation of the measuring part with respect to a support frame, combined with an electric drive unit for automated measurement, and a control method for autonomous alignment with the hole axis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual inside-diameter measuring devices are used, then measurement can be performed with simple structure, but manual operation is required and measurement efficiency is low
Solution Approach 1:
The measuring device automatically centers itself using the floating joint mechanism that allows the contact point to self-adjust to the hole axis position, eliminating the need for manual centering operations while maintaining measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical centering operations with an automated floating joint mechanism that uses elastic deformation and gravity to achieve automatic alignment, improving measurement efficiency without requiring operator intervention
2Extent of automation
If air micrometer is used for automated measurement, then automation is achieved, but structure becomes complex and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex pneumatic systems with a simplified mechanical floating joint mechanism that uses elastic bodies and gravity for automatic centering, achieving automation while reducing structural complexity and cost
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and eliminates the need for complex air compressor systems and pneumatic components by using a pure mechanical floating joint approach, retaining only the essential automation functionality
3Measurement precision
If air micrometer is used, then automated measurement is possible, but measurement repeatability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The floating joint mechanism enables the contact point to automatically and consistently find the center position through elastic deformation and gravitational forces, improving measurement repeatability without requiring complex control systems
Solution Approach 2:
The floating joint creates a stable equilibrium position where the contact point naturally settles at the hole axis center, ensuring repeatable measurement positions through physical balance rather than complex control mechanisms
4Adaptability or versatility
If air micrometer is used, then automated measurement is achieved, but measurement range is extremely short
Solution Approach 1:
The floating joint mechanism dynamically adapts to different hole diameters through elastic deformation of the body, allowing the contact point to maintain proper contact force across a wide measurement range without requiring structural changes
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
Enables automated, cost-effective, and precise measurement of hole diameters with improved measurement range and repeatability, reducing manual labor and equipment costs.
Implementation Method 1
the rotation-allowing mechanism part includes a flexible body configured to allow deformation in a direction in which the inside-diameter measuring part is inclined
Implementation Method 2
the floating joint part includes a bearing provided around the first insertion hole and the second insertion hole between the translation body and the support base part to allow translation of the translation body with respect to the support base part
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided an inside-diameter measuring unit capable of automating inside-diameter measurement and a control method for automatic inside-diameter measurement. An inside-diameter measuring part is supported by a support frame part via a floating joint part. The floating joint part includes a rotation-allowing mechanism part and a translation-allowing mechanism part. A measuring head part of the inside-diameter measuring part is inserted into a hole by a robot arm part. The inside-diameter measuring part adjusts its position and posture autonomously by the reaction force when a contact point pushes against the inner wall of the hole to align the axis of the inside-diameter measuring part with the axis of the hole. An electric inside-diameter measuring unit can automatically measure the inside diameter of a hole.