Coordinate Measuring Machine Support Deformation Correction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing in-line measurement systems for production lines require tool and probe replacement during workpiece measurement, leading to decreased efficiency when measuring workpieces under machining with a machine tool.

Innovation Solution

A coordinate measuring machine with a support extending from a measuring machine body to a machine tool, equipped with a probe for in-line measurement, and displacement detection units to correct for support deformation, allowing continuous measurement without tool or probe replacement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a machine tool is used for both machining and measurement with probe replacement, then measurement capability is achieved, but working efficiency decreases due to tool replacement time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement capabilityVSAvoidworking efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system is divided into two independent parts: a machine tool for machining and a separate coordinate measuring machine for measurement. The support structure enables the measuring machine to access the workpiece independently without interfering with the machine tool operations, allowing both functions to operate simultaneously and efficiently.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The support structure serves multiple functions: it holds the measuring machine body, provides a stable platform for the probe, enables access to the workpiece area, and maintains measurement accuracy. This single structural element replaces the need for tool replacement by integrating measurement capability into the production line environment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If a coordinate measuring machine is located in the middle of the production line, then workpiece measurement is possible, but measurement of workpiece under machining is not possible

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveworkpiece measurement accessibilityVSAvoidmeasurement of workpiece under machining
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The support acts as an intermediary structure that bridges the coordinate measuring machine and the machine tool workspace. It extends the measuring machine's reach into the production line area, allowing the probe to access the workpiece during machining operations without the measuring machine physically interfering with the machining process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of operation

If the support extends from the measuring machine body to the machine tool, then probe access to workpiece is enabled, but support deformation may cause measurement errors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprobe accessVSAvoidmeasurement accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The displacement detection unit continuously monitors the position and deformation of the support structure. This feedback information is used by the control unit to calculate compensation values that correct for support deformation, ensuring measurement accuracy is maintained despite the extended support structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically adjusts measurement parameters based on the detected support displacement. By changing the measurement parameters (coordinates, positions) according to the actual support deformation state, the system compensates for structural flexibility and maintains precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS20240302159A1Coordinate measuring machine and in-line measurement system
Publication Date: 2024.09.12 MITUTOYO CORP
  • US20240302159A1 patent drawing
  • US20240302159A1 patent drawing
  • US20240302159A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A production line in which a workpiece is conveyed through a conveyance path and machined with a machine tool is provided with a coordinate measuring machine capable of measuring the workpiece subjected to machining with the machine tool, whereby an in-line measurement system is provided. The coordinate measuring machine includes: a measuring machine body located beside the machine tool; a support extending from the measuring machine body to the machine tool; and a probe supported by the support and configured to measure the workpiece subjected to machining with the machine tool.