Quick-Connect Interface for Portable Coordinate Measuring Arms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable articulated arm coordinate measuring machines (AACMMs) lack efficient methods for coupling accessory devices that determine distance based on light propagation time and require external connections for power and data communication, limiting their versatility and ease of use.
Innovation Solution
A portable AACMM with a base and manually positionable arm segments, equipped with a non-contact three-dimensional measuring device that uses electromagnetic radiation to determine distance based on combined propagation time and speed of light, and a processor to calculate coordinates, along with a quick-connect interface for removable accessories that provide power and data communication without external wiring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If accessory devices are coupled to the AACMM, then measurement versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The probe member is designed with a universal quick-connect interface that can accommodate multiple types of accessory devices (contact probes, non-contact lasers, scanners). This single interface structure enables the AACMM to perform various measurement functions without requiring separate coupling mechanisms for each accessory type, thus improving versatility while controlling complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement system is divided into modular components: the main AACMM body and detachable accessory devices. The quick-connect interface acts as a segmentation point that allows independent accessories to be coupled or decoupled from the probe member, enabling versatility while keeping the base system relatively simple.
2Reliability
If external connections are required for power and data communication, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The quick-connect interface merges power supply, data communication, and mechanical coupling functions into a single integrated connection mechanism. When the accessory device is coupled to the probe member, all necessary connections are established simultaneously through one coupling action, eliminating the need for separate external connections and simplifying operation while maintaining reliable power and data transfer.
Solution Approach 2:
The quick-connect interface is designed to automatically establish proper electrical and data connections when the accessory device is mechanically coupled to the probe member. The system self-configures the power and data pathways through the integrated interface without requiring manual external connections or complex setup procedures.
3Ease of operation
If a quick-connect interface is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The quick-connect interface incorporates electrical and optical connection mechanisms that automatically align and establish precise connections when the accessory is coupled to the probe member. This substitution of manual alignment with automated mechanical-electrical-optical coupling ensures that measurement precision is maintained despite the simplified coupling operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The quick-connect interface acts as an intermediary structure that mediates between the simplified coupling operation and the precise measurement requirements. It provides built-in alignment features and precise positioning mechanisms that ensure accurate electrical and optical connections are established automatically during the quick-connect process, thereby maintaining manufacturing precision.
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
Enables easy coupling of accessory devices for non-contact three-dimensional measurements, simplifies data communication and power supply, and enhances the AACMM's versatility by allowing both contact and non-contact measurements with the same device, improving measurement efficiency and user convenience.
Implementation Method 1
determine a distance to the object based at least in part on a combined propagation time of the at least one measuring beam and the at least one reflected beam and on the speed of light in air
Implementation Method 2
electromagnetic radiation transmitter configured to send out at least one measuring beam and a receiver configured to receive at least one reflected beam
Implementation Method 3
The noncontact three-dimensional measuring device having a mirror positioned to reflect both the at least one measuring beam and the at least one reflected beam
Data Source
AI summary
A portable articulated arm coordinate measuring machine for measuring the coordinates of an object in space is provided. The AACMM includes a base and a arm portion having an opposed first end and second end. The arm portion includes a plurality of connected arm segments, each arm segment including at least one position transducer for producing a position signal. An electronic circuit is provided that receives the position signal from the at least one position transducer. A probe member is disposed is coupled to the first end. A noncontact three-dimensional measuring device is coupled to the probe member, the device having an electromagnetic radiation transmitter and is configured to determine a distance to an object based at least in part on the propagation time of the emitted and reflected light beams.