Probe Tip Coupling With Interrupted Threads for Fast Centered Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Tactile measuring devices face issues with the damage of stylus inserts, particularly in the ceramic sleeve area, leading to the need for frequent replacement and a cumbersome coupling process.
Innovation Solution
A coupling element and screw insert design featuring non-adjacent thread segments with interruptions allow for quick and stable rotary coupling, enabling easy and precise connection without play, centering, and facilitating rapid exchange of stylus inserts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional screw coupling with continuous thread is used to hold the probe insert, then the connection is stable and secure, but the coupling process is time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The continuous thread is divided into multiple discrete thread segments separated by interruptions. This segmentation allows the probe insert to be quickly engaged by aligning the interruptions with corresponding features on the coupling element, enabling rapid coupling without requiring rotation of a continuous thread, thus significantly reducing coupling time and operational complexity
2Reliability
If the probe insert is frequently replaced due to damage, then the measuring device can be maintained, but time is lost and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is designed with pre-positioned thread segments and interruptions that guide the probe insert into precise alignment during insertion. This preliminary positioning action ensures the probe insert is correctly seated before engagement, reducing the risk of misalignment-induced damage and enabling rapid replacement without compromising reliability or productivity
3Productivity
If a simple coupling mechanism is used to enable quick exchange, then the exchange speed increases, but the connection stability and precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The thread segments are strategically positioned with specific geometric characteristics at critical locations. The interruptions are designed with precise dimensions and positions to ensure proper alignment and centering of the probe insert during quick coupling. This localized precision in the thread segment geometry maintains coupling precision while enabling rapid exchange through the simplified segmented structure
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a coupling element for receiving a probe tip in a touch probe, a screw insert for receiving a probe tip in a touch probe, a coupling arrangement for a probe tip in a touch probe, and touch probe(s). To enable simple and quick mounting of a probe tip 8 in a touch probe 2, the coupling element 16 provides at one end a pin 24a forming a first connection/coupling area 18, and the screw insert 116 provides at one end a first connection/coupling area 118 with a recess 124, particularly for connection with the coupling element 16. This pin 24a of the coupling element 16 forms on an outer surface 60, and this recess 124 of the screw insert 116 forms on an inner surface 70 several threaded segments 28 and 126, respectively, which do not adjoin each other in the radial circumferential direction.