Machine Base Vibration Isolation via Segmented Structure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vibration from external sources and machine components poses a challenge in achieving precise measurements and inspections in industrial processes, particularly for vibration-sensitive machines like metrology machines, which are often confined to laboratory environments to minimize vibration effects.
Innovation Solution
A machine base with a two-piece structure featuring a lower and upper base portion with no direct contact, incorporating at least two vibration and shock isolation sub-systems, including air cylinders and polymer composite leveling pads, to isolate and dampen vibrations across a range of frequencies and directions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a metrology machine is placed in a factory setting close to other machines, then productivity is improved by enabling faster inspection, but measurement precision deteriorates due to vibration from nearby machines and processes
Solution Approach 1:
The machine base is divided into two separate portions - a lower base portion and an upper base portion - that do not directly contact each other. This segmentation creates physical separation that allows vibration isolation mechanisms to be introduced between the portions, thereby protecting the upper portion (which supports vibration-sensitive components) from vibrations transmitted through the lower portion (which contacts the factory floor).
Solution Approach 2:
Vibration isolation elements are introduced as intermediary components between the lower and upper base portions. These intermediaries (such as vibration isolation pads, springs, or dampers) selectively transmit or block vibrational energy, allowing the machine to function in a factory setting while protecting sensitive measurement components from harmful vibrations.
2Measurement precision
If a vibration isolation system is added to the machine base, then measurement precision is improved by reducing vibration effects, but device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the base into two portions, the patent creates discrete locations where vibration isolation elements can be strategically placed. This segmentation allows the isolation system to be integrated into the existing base structure rather than adding complex external isolation systems, thereby improving measurement precision while controlling the increase in device complexity.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the lower and upper base portions are separated with no contact between them, then vibration isolation is improved, but structural strength deteriorates due to reduced structural continuity
Solution Approach 1:
Vibration isolation elements serve as intermediary connectors between the lower and upper base portions. These intermediaries are designed to provide mechanical support and maintain structural integrity while simultaneously attenuating vibrational energy transmission. The isolation elements are selected or designed to have sufficient stiffness to support the machine's weight and operational loads while being compliant enough to isolate vibrations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes vibration isolation elements whose mechanical properties (stiffness, damping characteristics) are specifically selected or designed to change the way forces are transmitted. These elements are engineered to be stiff in the static load direction (supporting structural strength) while being compliant in the vibration frequency range (reducing vibration transmission), thereby resolving the contradiction between strength and vibration isolation.
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
The solution effectively reduces floor vibrations, enhances machine stability, and allows vibration-sensitive machines to be placed in factory settings while maintaining accurate inspection and measurement results by isolating vibrations and controlling the center of gravity for improved stability.
Implementation Method 1
at least two vibration and/or shock isolation sub-systems located between the lower base portion and the upper base portion
Data Source
AI summary
A machine base (4) comprising a lower base portion (8) and an upper base portion (10) with the upper base portion including a downwardly projecting portion (14) extending to, into or through the lower base portion with no contact between the upper and lower base portions. The machine base further includes at least two vibration and/or shock isolation sub-systems (22, 24).