Machine Tool Inspection Using Tool Rotation Before Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for checking the state of tools in machine tools are inefficient due to adhering substances like swarf and coolant, which can spoil the imaging area and hinder accurate tool inspection.
Innovation Solution
A machine tool system that includes a camera for imaging a tool after rotating it to remove adhering substances, using either cleaning rotation or air injection to prepare the tool for inspection, allowing for precise tool shape recognition and state evaluation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a tool is inserted into the imaging area immediately after use, then the tool state can be checked, but adhering substances like swarf and coolant will contaminate the imaging area and spoil image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by rotating the tool at high speed before imaging to remove adhering substances. The control unit rotates the tool at a high rotation speed for a predetermined time period before capturing the image, thereby preliminarily cleaning the tool surface and preventing contamination of the imaging area with swarf and coolant.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic action by using intermittent high-speed rotation of the tool followed by imaging cycles. The control unit periodically rotates the tool at high speed for predetermined time periods, then captures images at predetermined intervals, creating a rhythmic cycle of cleaning and inspection that ensures consistent image quality.
2Measurement precision
If the tool is rotated at high speed before imaging, then adhering substances are removed and image quality improves, but the inspection process time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the rotation speed of the tool based on the inspection phase. During the cleaning phase, the tool rotates at high speed to remove adhering substances, while during the imaging phase, the rotation speed is reduced to a predetermined low speed or stopped, thereby optimizing both cleaning effectiveness and image capture conditions while minimizing total inspection time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements skipping by using rapid high-speed rotation for a brief predetermined time period solely for the purpose of removing adhering substances, then quickly transitioning to the imaging phase. This rushed cleaning approach efficiently removes contamination without prolonged rotation, thereby minimizing the time added to the inspection cycle.
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
Enables effective and accurate checking of tool states by ensuring the tool is clean before imaging, preventing contamination of the imaging area and allowing for reliable tool condition assessment.
Implementation Method 1
the machining control portion rotates the tool at a high rotation speed for a predetermined time period, and moves the tool toward the imaging area
Data Source
AI summary
A machine tool includes a camera fixed to a predetermined imaging area and for imaging a tool inserted into the imaging area, a tool holding portion to which a tool is attachable, and a machining control portion for controlling the tool holding portion in accordance with a machining program and machining a workpiece with the tool. The machining control portion moves the tool toward the imaging area after rotating the tool to image the tool.