Machine Tool Measurement Interface With Wireless Probe Link
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing measurement devices for machine tools face challenges in retrofitting additional functionality due to the difficulty and time-consuming nature of adding hard-wired connections within the machine tool enclosure, which limits the ability to perform different or more complex measurements.
Innovation Solution
A hard-wired measurement device with a measurement sensor, a hard-wired interface module, and a wireless communications module, housed in a single unit that can be mounted within the machine tool enclosure, allowing for both electrical connection to an external interface and wireless communication with devices inside the enclosure, reducing the need for multiple components and cable installations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If hard-wired connections are added to measurement devices within machine tool enclosure, then measurement functionality can be expanded, but installation becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the measurement device and wireless communication interface into a single integrated unit that can be mounted within the machine tool enclosure. This merging eliminates the need for separate hard-wired connections for communication, as the wireless interface handles data transmission externally while the measurement sensor operates internally, thus expanding functionality without complicating installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The wireless communication interface acts as an intermediary between the measurement sensor inside the enclosure and external systems. It receives measurement data from the sensor and transmits it wirelessly to external interfaces, eliminating the need for direct hard-wired connections between the measurement device and external systems, thereby simplifying installation while maintaining expanded functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple components and cables are used for measurement devices, then functionality can be achieved, but space is consumed and risk of physical damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the measurement sensor and wireless communication interface into a single integrated device. This consolidation reduces the number of separate components and cables within the machine tool enclosure, thereby minimizing the risk of physical damage to multiple separate elements while maintaining full measurement functionality. The integrated design also simplifies mounting and reduces space requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A hard-wired measurement device is mountable within an enclosure of a computer-controlled machine tool. The device includes a measurement sensor for measuring objects, such as tools, within the machine tool enclosure and a hard-wired interface module for providing an electrical connection via one or more wires with an associated external interface located outside of the machine tool enclosure. The device further includes a wireless communications module that enables wireless communication with an associated wireless device, such as a spindle probe, located within the machine tool enclosure.