Measurement Probe Torsional Rigidity via Asymmetric Connection Plates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Measurement probes with insufficient rigidity suffer from unintended deformation and significant displacement of the stylus mounting position when subjected to torsional forces, leading to measurement errors due to the orthogonal application of external forces.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a movable plate with asymmetrical ends, connected by elastic connection plates to a static plate, which enhances torsional rigidity by distributing the force evenly, preventing displacement of the stylus mounting position through a configuration that includes multiple connection points and a coupler for additional structural support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the inner plate is made with insufficient rigidity to allow translation, then the stylus can move in the measurement direction, but the plate receives torsional force and rotates causing displacement of the mounting position
Solution Approach 1:
The connection structure is divided into multiple segments: the inner plate, outer plate, and connection plates are separated into distinct components. The connection plates act as intermediaries that allow controlled movement while maintaining structural integrity, preventing the inner plate from receiving direct torsional forces that would cause rotation and positioning errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection plates are designed with asymmetric features including different lengths (first connection plate longer than second), different numbers of connection holes (first connection plate has three holes, second has two), and asymmetric positioning relative to the movable plate. This asymmetric configuration creates a mechanical constraint system that allows translation in the measurement direction while preventing rotational movement of the inner plate.
2Measurement precision
If the inner plate has high rigidity to prevent rotation, then torsional forces are resisted, but the stylus cannot translate smoothly in the measurement direction
Solution Approach 1:
Different parts of the structure have different rigidity characteristics tailored to their specific functions. The inner plate is made rigid in the rotational direction (prevented by connection plate constraints) but allows translation through the flexible connection plates. The connection plates themselves are designed with specific thicknesses and material properties that provide the right balance of flexibility for movement and rigidity for positioning stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection plates serve as intermediary elements between the inner plate and outer plate. These intermediaries transmit the translation movement while filtering out torsional forces through their asymmetric constraint geometry. The connection plates with multiple holes and asymmetric lengths create a mechanical guidance system that mediates between the need for movement and the need for stability.
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 configuration effectively suppresses stylus displacement caused by torsional forces, thereby reducing measurement errors and maintaining accurate positioning during object measurement.
Implementation Method 1
a movable side connection plate having elasticity, the movable side connection plate connecting the counter plate at at least three places with each of a first end connector positioned toward a first end of the movable plate in the first direction and a second end connector positioned toward a second end in the first direction
Data Source
AI summary
A probe includes a movable plate to which a stylus capable of contacting a measurable object is mounted, the movable plate displaceable in an X direction; a static plate arranged to overlap with the movable plate; a counter plate facing the movable plate and the static plate; an elastic movable side connection plate, the movable side connection plate connecting the counter plate at at least three places with each of a first end connector positioned toward a first end of the movable plate in the X direction and second end connectors positioned toward a second end in the X direction; and a static side connection plate which connects the static plate and the counter plate. An entire length of the first end connector in a Y direction orthogonal to the X direction is the same size as the entire length of the second end connectors in the Y direction.