Machine Tool Probe Measurement Using Jog-Feed Type Prediction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for workpiece measurement in machine tools are inefficient and labor-intensive, particularly in low-volume production or when creating measurement NC programs, and require manual selection of measurement types and input of workpiece dimensions.
Innovation Solution
A workpiece measurement apparatus with a measurement probe mounted on a machine tool's spindle, allowing manual movement of the spindle and table relative to each other, featuring a measurement type determination unit that predicts the measurement type based on historical feed axis and direction data, and a display unit to show the predicted measurement type, enabling operators to jog-feed and teach measuring points without selecting targets or inputting dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automatic measurement is performed using a measurement NC program, then measurement efficiency is improved, but program preparation time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement apparatus automatically determines measurement types and generates measurement programs by analyzing workpiece geometry and measurement requirements, eliminating the need for manual NC program preparation. The system serves itself by autonomously creating measurement instructions based on workpiece data.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-calculates and stores measurement programs and measurement type information in advance based on workpiece geometry, so that when measurement is needed, the pre-prepared programs can be directly executed without time-consuming manual program creation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual measurement selection is performed from multiple measurement types, then measurement flexibility is maintained, but operator time and labor increase
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement type determination unit automatically determines the appropriate measurement type by analyzing workpiece geometry and measurement requirements, eliminating the need for operators to manually select from multiple measurement types. The system autonomously makes these decisions based on pre-stored measurement program information.
3Reliability
If approximate workpiece dimensions are set in advance, then measurement reliability is improved, but setup time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-calculates and stores approximate workpiece dimensions and measurement parameters in advance based on workpiece geometry data, so that when measurement is performed, these pre-calculated values are already available, eliminating the need for manual dimension input and reducing setup time while maintaining measurement reliability.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention is configured such that: when an operator moves a spindle (112) and a table (106) relative to each other using a jog-feed means (200) and when a measurement probe (114) comes into contact with a workpiece fixed on the table, the coordinates of each feed axis are stored; the type of measurement performed by the operator is identified on the basis of the information concerning the feed axis used for moving said measurement probe, the moving direction of the feed axis, the number of times the measurement probe has come into contact with the workpiece, and the number of the jog-feed operation being currently performed by the operator; and the workpiece is measured on the basis of the stored coordinates of the respective feed axes.