Lathe Measuring Probe for Non-Rotational Diameter Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lathes face challenges in precisely measuring workpiece diameters due to limitations in probe movement and error compensation, particularly when measuring diameters on both sides of the workpiece without rotating the spindle, leading to inaccuracies and increased operational complexity.
Innovation Solution
A measuring method and equipment that allows the probe to move in both transverse directions to the axis of rotation, enabling measurement at multiple points on the circumference without spindle rotation, using either mechanical or optical sensors, with mechanisms for error compensation and cleaning to prevent contamination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If two measuring devices are mounted on opposite transverse directions to measure diameter, then the diameter measurement is possible, but measurement errors from both devices accumulate and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single measuring probe is designed to perform multiple functions by measuring both opposite sides of the workpiece circumference. The probe can be positioned to contact the workpiece from different directions, eliminating the need for separate measuring devices on each side and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention combines the functionality of two separate measuring devices into one universal probe that can measure both sides of the workpiece. By merging the measuring functions into a single device, the system reduces the number of components, simplifies the measurement system, and eliminates error accumulation from multiple devices.
2Ease of operation
If the probe protrudes from the holder in the Z-direction to fold up to the tool turret, then the measuring device can be retracted, but only workpieces clamped on one side can be measured
Solution Approach 1:
The measuring probe is designed with dynamic positioning capability, allowing it to move not only in the Z-direction for retraction but also in transverse directions (X-direction) to access different sides of the workpiece. This dynamic movement capability enables the single probe to measure workpieces clamped on either side while maintaining the ability to retract when not in use.
Solution Approach 2:
The probe is extended in the Y-direction (transverse to the measuring direction) rather than only in the Z-direction, enabling it to move in multiple dimensions. This allows the probe to approach the workpiece from different angles and measure both sides of the workpiece while still being able to retract in the Z-direction when not in use.
3Measurement precision
If the workpiece is rotated to measure different points on the circumference, then complete circumference measurement is possible, but errors occur due to headstock positioning inaccuracies
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of rotating the workpiece to measure different points on the circumference, the invention inverts the approach by moving the measuring probe in transverse directions to contact different sides of the stationary workpiece. This eliminates the need for workpiece rotation and the associated positioning errors from headstock movement, while still achieving complete circumference measurement.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1b~2
Figure 3
AI summary
In order to measure a diameter in a lathe without rotating the work piece, and thereby to avoid introducing roundness and eccentricity errors into the diameter determination, the invention proposes the use of a measuring device that can move in both lateral directions relative to the rotating axis, in other words both in the X and the Y direction, and thereby the measuring device can touch the work piece from both sides in a clamping fashion and without rotating the work piece.