Machine Tool Position Measurement With Reference Block Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing position measurement methods in machine tools require manual intervention and are difficult to automate, especially when measuring the length of touch probes and correcting for positional errors, limiting the accuracy and efficiency of machining processes.
Innovation Solution
A position measurement method and system that automates the measurement of object positions in machine tools by using a position measurement sensor mounted to a main spindle with translational axes, including steps to acquire sensing positions, calculate length correction values, and correct measurement positions using a reference tool and block, enabling all measurement processes to be performed automatically.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual measurement methods are used to measure touch probe length and correct positional errors, then measurement accuracy can be maintained, but automation is difficult and manual work is required
Solution Approach 1:
A reference block with a precisely known position is introduced as an intermediary object. The touch probe measures the reference block to obtain a reference value, which serves as a mediator to calculate correction values for the position measurement sensor. This intermediary enables automated correction while maintaining accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical measurement process is replaced by an automated measurement system using a touch probe and position measurement sensor. The system automatically measures the reference block, calculates correction values, and applies them without manual intervention, substituting mechanical manual operations with automated sensing and computation.
2Productivity
If automated measurement methods are implemented, then productivity and efficiency improve, but measurement precision may deteriorate due to lack of manual verification
Solution Approach 1:
The system measures a reference block with known position to obtain feedback information. The measured reference value is compared with the actual known position to calculate correction values. This feedback mechanism enables the automated system to self-correct and maintain high measurement precision while achieving full automation and improved productivity.
3Measurement precision
If multiple manual measurement steps are performed to correct sensor length and position, then measurement accuracy is maintained, but measurement time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement of the reference block serves dual purposes: it establishes the reference value for correction calculations and simultaneously determines the position of the reference block. By merging these measurement functions into a single automated process, the system achieves accurate position measurement without requiring separate manual measurement steps, thereby reducing measurement time while maintaining precision.
Data Source
AI summary
A position measurement method includes, acquiring a sensing position of a distal end of a reference tool, measuring and acquiring a position of a machined surface, The method further includes measuring a position of a reference block disposed on a side of the tool sensor and calculating a relative position of the reference block to the sensing position from the sensing position and the position of the reference block, mounting the position measurement sensor to the main spindle and measuring a position of the reference block, calculating a length direction correction value of the position measurement sensor from the position of the reference block measured in the mounting of the position measurement sensor and the relative position, and measuring the object by the position measurement sensor and correcting a measurement position of the object.