Machine Tool Measurement Communication via Shutter Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine tools that attach a measurement tool to a spindle for workpiece dimension measurement face communication interference due to splatter and fluid deposition on the transceiver module, leading to obstructed communication between the measurement tool and the transceiver.
Innovation Solution
A machine tool design featuring a tool magazine with a shutter between the working and storage regions, allowing the shutter to close during workpiece machining to prevent splatter and open during measurement, along with a communication module in the storage region for wireless communication with the measurement tool's transceiver, ensuring unobstructed communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the transceiver module is attached to the ceiling of the splash guard to enable wireless communication, then communication between the measurement tool and transceiver module is established, but splatter of chips and fluid deposits on the transceiver module obstructing communication
Solution Approach 1:
The transceiver module is extracted from the splash guard ceiling and relocated to the tool magazine, separating it from the harmful machining environment. This allows the communication function to be maintained while eliminating direct exposure to chips and fluid splatter that would obstruct communication.
Solution Approach 2:
The shutter acts as an intermediary element that selectively controls access to the tool magazine. It allows the transceiver module to remain in the storage region while enabling communication during measurement operations and preventing splatter intrusion during machining operations.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the shutter is closed during workpiece machining to protect from splatter, then protection from chips and fluid is improved, but communication between measurement tool and communication module is obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The shutter is made dynamic by controlling its opening and closing states based on operational mode. It remains closed during machining to protect against splatter and opens during measurement operations to enable communication, allowing the system to adapt its protective function according to real-time needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit preliminarily determines the operational state (machining or measurement) and adjusts the shutter position in advance. This ensures that the shutter is already in the correct position (open or closed) before the actual operation begins, preventing communication obstruction or splatter intrusion.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If additional protective systems are added to prevent splatter deposition on the transceiver module, then protection from harmful factors is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The shutter, originally designed for a single function of separating the working region from the storage region, is given a dual function: it continues to provide physical separation while also serving as a protective barrier against splatter for the transceiver module. This eliminates the need for additional protective systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The protective function against splatter is merged with the existing shutter mechanism. Instead of adding a separate protective system, the solution combines the separation function and protection function into a single integrated component, reducing overall system complexity.
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
Prevents splatter from interfering with communication, maintains reliable wireless communication between the measurement tool and communication module, and simplifies the configuration by avoiding the need for additional protective systems, ensuring accurate workpiece measurement.
Implementation Method 1
a communication module arranged in the storage region for wireless communication with a transceiver of the measurement tool attached to the spindle
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
A machine tool including a tool magazine (20) arranged in a storage region adjacent to a working region of a workpiece to store a working tool (31) for working the workpiece and a measurement tool (32) for measuring the workpiece; a spindle (10) to which the working tool and the measurement tool are attached in a detachable manner, the spindle being provided in a movable manner relative to the workpiece; a shutter (40) provided between the working region and the storage region in an openable and closable manner; a transceiver (51) attached to the measurement tool; and a communication module (52) arranged in the storage region to communicate with the transceiver of the measurement tool attached to the spindle.