Machine Tool Program Generation for Coordinate Metrology
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current dimensional metrology systems face challenges in efficiently performing coordinate measurements on machine tools due to limited processing power, time-consuming interactive communications, and the need for specialized software, which restricts machine tool operators' ability to modify programs locally using G and M codes.
Innovation Solution
A system that generates a machine tool program from a dimensional metrology program, coded in G and M codes, allowing execution on the machine tool controller, enabling local modification and reducing communication delays by eliminating the need for remote program execution and analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If coordinate measurement is performed by removing workpiece from machine tool and using separate CMM, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to delays and re-fixturing time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the machine tool and CMM into a single integrated system, allowing coordinate measurement to be performed on the workpiece while it remains fixtured in the machine tool. This eliminates the need for separate handling, removal, and re-fixturing operations, thereby maintaining measurement precision while significantly improving productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The machine tool is equipped with both machining capabilities and coordinate measurement capabilities through integration of the CMM system. This multi-functionality allows the same equipment to perform both manufacturing and inspection tasks, eliminating the need for separate CMM equipment and improving overall system efficiency.
2Adaptability or versatility
If interactive CMM application controls measurement process, then measurement flexibility is improved, but loss of time increases due to repeated communications between computer and CMM
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the measurement control functionality from the external computer and relocates it to the machine tool controller. This allows the measurement program to execute locally on the controller without requiring repeated interactive communications with an external computer, thereby reducing communication time while preserving program flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The machine tool controller is equipped with the capability to independently execute measurement programs and control the measurement process without external intervention. This self-service capability eliminates the need for continuous computer-CMM communication, reducing time loss while maintaining measurement flexibility.
3Device complexity
If machine tool controller has limited processing power, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity deteriorates due to inability to execute complex measurement programs locally
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the measurement system into two parts: complex measurement program development and analysis remain on the external computer, while simplified execution control is implemented on the machine tool controller. This segmentation allows the controller to execute measurement programs locally without requiring high processing power, while still achieving improved productivity through reduced communication overhead.
Data Source
AI summary
Generating a machine tool program for performing coordinate measurements. The machine tool program may be communicated to a machine tool controller such that the machine tool controller is operable to execute the machine tool program. The machine tool program may be generated from a dimensional metrology program. As part of generating the machine tool program, a path definition and a machine definition may be combined. Measurement data resulting from an execution of the machine tool program may be received by a data server and analyzed using dimensional metrology analysis. Indicators may be provided within the machine tool program to be used during dimensional metrology analysis.