Measuring Nozzle Arrangement Centering for Wave-Shaped Workpieces

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Solution Overview

Problem

Pneumatic measuring devices for shaft-shaped workpieces require time-consuming and error-prone adjustments of measuring nozzles to accommodate workpieces with different diameters, limiting their versatility and efficiency.

Innovation Solution

Incorporation of centering means and adjustable support elements that allow for easy conversion and precise alignment of measuring nozzles relative to the workpiece's reference plane, along with a height-adjustable support prism and a rotary-threaded spindle for stepless adjustment, enabling quick adaptation to various diameters without compromising measurement accuracy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If manual adjustment of measuring nozzles is used to accommodate workpieces with different diameters, then the device can measure various diameters, but the adjustment process is time-consuming and error-prone

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to measure workpieces with different diametersVSAvoidadjustment time

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The support elements are designed to automatically center themselves on the workpiece diameter through geometric constraints (V-shaped supports, cylindrical contacts), eliminating the need for manual centering adjustments. The system self-adjusts to accommodate different diameters while maintaining measurement accuracy.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment with an automated mechanical system where support elements move along guided paths (linear guides, rotary mechanisms) to automatically position measuring nozzles at correct distances from the workpiece, reducing operator intervention and adjustment time.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If manual adjustment of measuring nozzles is used to accommodate workpieces with different diameters, then the device can measure various diameters, but the adjustment process is error-prone

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to measure workpieces with different diametersVSAvoidmeasurement accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The support elements automatically maintain correct positioning through geometric constraints and self-centering mechanisms, eliminating human error in manual adjustment. The system ensures consistent measurement accuracy across different workpiece diameters without operator intervention.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent incorporates sensors and control systems that monitor the position of measuring nozzles relative to the workpiece and automatically adjust positioning to maintain optimal measurement conditions, preventing errors before they occur.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

3Stability of the object's composition

If multiple support elements are used to hold the workpiece, then the workpiece is securely supported, but the complexity of the device increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveworkpiece support stabilityVSAvoidnumber of support elements

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The support elements are designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: they mechanically support the workpiece, provide geometric centering, define measurement reference planes, and enable automatic positioning of measuring nozzles. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines support, centering, and positioning functions into integrated support elements that work together as a unified system, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining stability and measurement accuracy.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

This solution simplifies the conversion process, reduces setup time and costs, and expands the device's applicability by eliminating the need for manual adjustments, ensuring accurate measurements across different workpiece diameters.

Implementation Method 1

The pressure change is measured, which is proportional to the distance between a measuring nozzle of the device and the component under test

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPressure change detection: Pressure Gradient

Data Source

PatentEP3133370B1Measuring nozzle arrangement

Publication Date: 2020.12.23 JENOPTIK IND METROLOGY GERMANY

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AI summary

A measuring nozzle arrangement 2 of a pneumatic measuring device for measuring wave-shaped workpieces 14 comprises a base body 4 and two mutually facing measuring nozzles 10, 12. The measuring nozzle arrangement 2 further comprises two support elements 6, 8 which can be connected to or are connected to the base body 4, wherein the support elements 6, 8 are adjustable relative to a reference plane 16. According to the invention, centering means are provided for centering the support elements 6, 8 relative to the reference plane 16.