Motorized Measuring Head for Grinding Machine In-Process Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing measuring units for in-process machining on grinding machines require complex and time-consuming adjustments to achieve high-precision measurements, which can be influenced by vibrations and thermal drift, affecting the accuracy and efficiency of the measurement process.
Innovation Solution
A measuring unit with a pivotable measuring head connected via a lightweight composite construction, featuring a motorized drive unit and a control system that allows for precise and rapid adjustment between rest and measuring positions, using a servomotor to ensure accurate contact with the workpiece, and incorporating a touch-trigger probe for high-speed tactile scanning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a measuring head is pivotally connected with a base body and equipped with a stop for limiting motion, then the measuring head can be positioned between rest position and measuring position, but the adjustment of the measuring head requires complex and time-consuming procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the static stop-based positioning system with a dynamic motorized drive unit that can actively and precisely position the measuring head. The servomotor enables continuous adjustment of the measuring head position along the pivoting axis, allowing rapid repositioning between rest position and various measuring positions without manual intervention or complex adjustment procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention substitutes the purely mechanical stop-based positioning system with an electromechanical system comprising a motorized drive unit and control unit. This replacement eliminates the need for physical stops and manual adjustment mechanisms, enabling automated, precise, and rapid positioning of the measuring head through electronic control.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a motorized drive unit is used to adjust the stop position, then the measuring position becomes adjustable and controllable, but vibrations are generated that influence measurement precision
Solution Approach 1:
The invention employs periodic action by using the motorized drive unit to move the measuring head only during positioning phases, then maintaining a stable stationary position during actual measurement. The servomotor system enables rapid positioning followed by stable holding, separating the dynamic adjustment phase from the static measurement phase to minimize vibration impact on precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the operational parameters of the motorized drive unit by utilizing different motor modes: during positioning, the motor operates in dynamic mode for rapid movement, and during measurement, it operates in holding mode with high positional accuracy and minimal vibration. The control unit adjusts motor parameters such as speed, acceleration, and holding torque to optimize performance for each operational phase.
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 enables high-precision, differential measurements with reduced setup times and improved process control, minimizing inaccuracies due to thermal drift and vibrations, thereby enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of workpiece dimension and geometry measurements.
Implementation Method 1
featuring a motorized drive unit and a control system that allows for precise and rapid adjustment between rest and measuring positions, using a servomotor to ensure accurate contact with the workpiece
Implementation Method 2
incorporating a touch-trigger probe for high-speed tactile scanning
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The present invention relates to a measuring unit (10) for in-process measurement during a machining operation on machine tool, in particular a grinding machine comprising at least a wheel head arranged at a headstock, comprising a measuring head (14), which is movable between a rest position and a measuring position, and means for moving the measuring head between the rest position and the measuring position. The measuring unit (10) is configured such that the rest position and the measuring position of the measuring head (14) are infinitely adjustable by a user by controlling the movement of the measuring head (14) between the rest position and the measuring position.