Laser Length Measurement for Multi-Spindle Machine Tool Error Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for measuring errors in linear feed axes of machine tools with multiple rotational axes are costly and complex due to the need for multiple laser tracking devices.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a laser length measuring device attached to the spindle and reflector mirrors on the machine tool's table, using the machine's linear and rotational axes to measure distances and calculate coordinates, allowing for error detection without a separate tracking device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple laser tracking devices with rotational supporting mechanisms are used to track a reflector, then measurement capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the laser length measuring device and the rotational axis positioning system into a single integrated measurement system. The laser device is mounted on the spindle and utilizes the machine tool's existing rotational feed axes (A-axis and C-axis) for orientation, eliminating the need for separate rotational supporting mechanisms in multiple laser tracking devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The laser length measuring device serves multiple functions: it measures linear feed axis errors while utilizing the machine tool's rotational axes for positioning and orientation. This multi-functional approach replaces the need for dedicated rotational tracking mechanisms, reducing overall system complexity.
2Measurement precision
If multiple laser tracking devices are used to track a reflector, then measurement accuracy is improved, but measurement cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The machine tool's own rotational feed axes (A-axis and C-axis) are utilized to orient the laser length measuring device toward the reflector mirrors. The system serves itself by using its existing rotational capabilities for measurement purposes, eliminating the need for additional expensive tracking devices with their own rotational mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces reflector mirrors attached to the table as intermediaries. These mirrors work in conjunction with the laser length measuring device to enable accurate measurement of linear feed axis errors, providing a cost-effective alternative to multiple expensive laser tracking devices.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a separate tracking device with rotational supporting mechanism is used, then tracking capability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking capability is merged into the machine tool's existing structure by mounting the laser length measuring device on the spindle. The rotational feed axes that are already part of the machine tool's operational system are used to orient the device, simplifying operation by eliminating separate tracking device controls.
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 approach provides a simple and cost-effective means to measure errors in linear feed axes, enabling efficient and automatic error mapping across the machine tool's processing space.
Implementation Method 1
attaching a laser length measuring device to an end of a spindle of the machine tool
Implementation Method 2
orienting the laser length measuring device to the reflector mirrors
Data Source
AI summary
A method for measuring errors in the linear feed shafts of a multi-spindle machine tool having two or more rotating feed shafts in addition to three linear feed shafts, wherein: at least first through third reflecting mirrors are attached to a table of the machine tool; a laser length-measuring machine is attached to the tip of a principal shaft of the machine tool; the linear feed shafts are driven, and the laser length-measuring machine is moved to prescribed measuring points; the two or more rotating feed shafts are driven at each of the measuring points; the coordinates at each measuring point are calculated by measuring the distances between the first through third reflecting mirrors and the laser length-measuring machine; and errors in the linear feed shafts of the machine tool are obtained by comparing the machine coordinates of the machine tool.