Machine Tool Calibration Interface for Automated In-Process Measurement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for measuring machine tools require significant manual preparation and interruption of the production process, leading to delays and potential thermal influences, limiting the efficiency of repeated measurements for increased manufacturing accuracy.

Innovation Solution

A device and procedure for a machine tool calibration system that includes a calibration device with interchangeable interfaces for automated attachment and positioning using a numerically movable recording device, allowing for fully automated measurement processes without manual intervention.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual preparation is performed for measurement, then measurement accuracy can be ensured, but production process is interrupted and time is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement accuracyVSAvoidproduction interruption time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The machine tool performs self-measurement by integrating the measurement device with its own numerically controlled movement system. The measurement device is automatically positioned and moved along the machine axes without external manual intervention, enabling the system to measure itself while maintaining production continuity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The measurement device is pre-positioned in a storage position within the machine tool structure (such as in the tool holder or spindle). Before measurement begins, the device is automatically transported to the measurement position through numerical control, eliminating manual preparation time and ensuring readiness for immediate measurement

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Measurement precision

If manual attachment of calibration device is performed, then measurement can be conducted, but preparation work increases and efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecalibration capabilityVSAvoidmeasurement efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The measurement device is designed with a universal interface that integrates it into the existing machine tool structure, specifically utilizing the tool holder or spindle system. This multi-functional design allows the measurement device to be stored, transported, and operated using the machine's existing numerical control system, eliminating separate manual attachment procedures and improving measurement efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If machine tool doors are opened for manual setup, then calibration device can be attached, but thermal influence on machine tool increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice attachment capabilityVSAvoidthermal influence on machine tool
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSTemperature

Solution Approach 1:

The measurement device automatically performs all operations including positioning, attachment, measurement execution, and return to storage position through numerical control. This eliminates the need for manual intervention and door opening, thereby preventing thermal influences on the machine tool while maintaining ease of operation through full automation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP3446830B1Device and method for measuring a machine tool
Publication Date: 2022.11.30 DMG MORI BIELEFELD GMBH
  • EP3446830B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3446830B1 patent drawingFigure 2~3
  • EP3446830B1 patent drawingFigure 4~7

AI summary

The invention provides a device and a method for measuring a machine tool with a calibration device (19) which is designed to be attached to a section of the machine tool, and a measuring probe (5) for detecting a position of the calibration device on the machine tool, wherein the calibration device (19) has an interface (13) by means of which the calibration device (19) can be inserted into and removed from a numerically movable receiving device (24) of the machine tool.