Machine Tool Axis Centering via Measured Circular Path Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing method for positioning the center point of a second machine tool unit on a geometric axis of a first machine tool unit is time-consuming and operator-dependent, requiring manual iterative processes.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a measuring unit to determine the positions of three measuring points on the circular path relative to the geometric axis, calculating the center point's position, and using machine tool-related adjustment directions to position the center point on the geometric axis by moving the machine tool units relative to each other.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual iterative positioning method is used, then operator skill can compensate for lack of automation, but the process is time-consuming and operator-dependent
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning operations with an automated measurement and calculation system. A measuring unit automatically measures distances from the geometric axis to points on the circular path, and a control unit automatically calculates adjustment paths based on these measurements, eliminating the need for manual iterative positioning while reducing positioning time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-positioning by automatically measuring its own geometric parameters and calculating the necessary adjustments. The measuring unit and control unit work together to autonomously determine the center point position and generate adjustment paths without requiring continuous operator intervention, enabling the machine tool to self-correct its positioning.
2Ease of operation
If manual iterative positioning is performed, then flexibility in handling different scenarios is maintained, but operator effort and time expenditure increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex manual positioning operations with an automated measurement and calculation system. The measuring unit automatically collects geometric data, and the control unit computes adjustment paths, simplifying the operator's task to initiating the process while dramatically improving productivity through automated execution.
3Manufacturing precision
If precise positioning is achieved through manual methods, then accuracy can be obtained, but the process requires high operator skill and time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the positioning task into distinct functional segments: a measuring unit for automatic distance measurement, a control unit for mathematical calculation of center point position and adjustment paths, and execution mechanisms for moving the machine tool units. This segmentation automates the precision-seeking process while managing complexity through functional decomposition.
Data Source
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AI summary
To improve a method for positioning the center point of a second machine tool unit of a machine tool on a geometric axis of a first machine tool unit of the machine tool, wherein the second machine tool unit has a circular path concentric to the center point and wherein the first machine tool unit has a component rotatable about the geometric axis, such that this is easy, reliable and quick to perform for an operator, it is proposed that a measuring unit be arranged in a defined manner relative to the geometric axis and that the position of the circular path relative to the geometric axis be determined with the measuring unit.that the position of the center of the circular path in the geometric plane relative to the geometric axis is determined computationally, and that the adjustment paths in the geometric plane assigned to the adjustment directions for positioning the center on the geometric axis are determined computationally, and that the machine tool units are moved relative to each other according to these adjustment paths.