Magnetic Measurement Probe Identification for Reliable CMM Selection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) face challenges in accurately identifying and managing multiple types of measurement probes, which can affect the precision and efficiency of measurement processes.

Innovation Solution

A measurement probe identification system using a magnetic sensor that emits a unique magnetic signal based on a magnetic signature, allowing for contactless identification of probes, and a reader to convert this signal into a recognizable identification, integrated with a probe rack and memory device to manage probe selection and storage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional identification methods are used for measurement probes, then the system structure remains simple, but the identification accuracy and reliability of multiple probe types deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprobe identification reliabilityVSAvoididentification system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical or manual identification methods with a magnetic field-based automatic identification system. The magnetic sensor detects probe identity through magnetic field interaction, enabling contactless and automated probe recognition, thereby improving reliability without requiring complex mechanical identification mechanisms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a magnetic field as an intermediary between the probe and the detection system. The magnetic sensor acts as a mediator that converts the probe's magnetic characteristics into detectable signals, enabling reliable identification through a non-contact intermediate field rather than direct mechanical or electrical contact

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If manual probe selection and identification is used, then the device complexity is low, but the operational efficiency and precision of measurement processes deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement process efficiencyVSAvoidprobe management system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-service identification where the probe automatically presents its identity through magnetic field emission when placed in the rack. The system automatically reads and processes the magnetic signal to identify the probe type, eliminating the need for manual intervention in probe selection and identification processes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary identification actions by pre-configuring each probe with a unique magnetic signature and pre-positioning them in designated rack locations. The magnetic sensor reads these pre-established identifiers before the measurement process begins, enabling automatic probe selection and reducing operational complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 efficient and accurate identification and management of different probes, enhancing the precision and efficiency of CMM operations by ensuring the correct probe is selected and stored, reducing human error and increasing operational reliability.

Implementation Method 1

a magnetic sensor associated with the measurement probe. The measurement probe has a unique identification and the magnetic sensor is configured to emit a magnetic signal in response to receipt of a magnetic field

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic field interaction: Magnetic Field

Implementation Method 2

a reader that receives the magnetic signal and converts the magnetic signal into the magnetic signature

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic signal detection: Magnetic Field

Implementation Method 3

the active portion uses magnetic induction to produce the magnetic signal received by the passive portion

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS20250251229A1Measurement probe head identification
Publication Date: 2025.08.07 HEXAGON METROLOGY INC
  • US20250251229A1 patent drawing
  • US20250251229A1 patent drawing
  • US20250251229A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A measurement probe identification system for a coordinate measurement machine may include a measurement probe configured to measure a workpiece on a coordinate measurement machine, the measurement probe being one of a tactile measurement probe, a non-contact light based probe, and a camera probe and a magnetic sensor associated with the measurement probe. The measurement probe has a unique identification and the magnetic sensor is configured to emit a magnetic signal in response to receipt of a magnetic field. The magnetic signal is associated with a unique identification of the measurement probe based on a magnetic signature and the magnetic signature is readable to determine the unique identification.