Machine Tool Inspection Using Electronic Probe Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
CNC machine tools often fail to maintain precise dimensions due to wear and tear, leading to inaccuracies in machining processes, as existing measurement methods are inadequate for detecting deviations in tool sizes and machine tool positioning.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical device, such as the Standard Tool Diameter Gage, is used to accurately measure cutting tools and verify machine tool performance by ensuring precise setup and measurement of surfaces, including squareness, parallelism, and circularity, using a test indicator and on-machine inspection block to account for thermal changes and tool wear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If hand instruments are used to measure cutting tools, then the measurement process is simple and accessible, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to difficulty in measuring fine cutting edges and variable flute geometry
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual hand instruments with an electronic measurement system that uses a probe to automatically measure cutting tool dimensions. The probe electronically detects the tool geometry and transmits data to a display device, eliminating the limitations of manual measurement while maintaining ease of operation through automated processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an electronic probe as an intermediary between the cutting tool and the measurement system. The probe acts as a mediator that can accurately detect fine cutting edges and variable flute geometry without requiring direct manual contact, thereby improving measurement precision while keeping the system accessible and easy to operate.
2Measurement precision
If electronic measurement systems are used to measure cutting tools, then measurement precision improves, but the ability to identify tools with multiple flutes deteriorates due to system limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic rotation of the cutting tool during measurement, allowing the electronic probe to scan different flute positions sequentially. This periodic action enables the system to capture data from multiple flutes and identify the complete tool geometry, maintaining high measurement precision while improving adaptability to multi-flute tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the static measurement approach into a dynamic one by rotating the tool and moving the probe systematically. This dynamic measurement process allows the electronic system to adapt to various flute configurations and accurately identify multi-flute tools while maintaining measurement precision.
3Productivity
If machine tools are used without regular inspection, then productivity is maintained, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to wear and positioning deviations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary inspection of machine tool positioning systems before machining operations begin. By measuring and verifying positioning accuracy in advance, the system identifies wear or deviations early, allowing for corrective action before precision deteriorates, thereby maintaining both productivity and manufacturing precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes a feedback mechanism where measurement data from regular inspections is used to adjust and maintain machine tool positioning accuracy. The electronic measurement system provides continuous feedback on positioning deviations, enabling real-time corrections that preserve manufacturing precision without interrupting productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of measuring the value of a machine tool's performance based upon tangible results. The method specifies the core principles of defining a machine tool part setup consisting of a plane, orientation, and origin. By establishing the plane, orientation, and origin measuring programs and cutting toolpaths are recorded with precision. Machine tool results of positioning, squareness, parallelism, and circularity are revealed upon establishing the proper machine tool setup. Using the method displays the quality of a machine tool which defines its value in the marketplace.