Machine Tool Imaging Unit with Sealed Split Camera and Illumination
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In machine tools, coolant mist and staining from machining chambers pose challenges for imaging units, leading to camera contamination and reduced image quality during tool inspections.
Innovation Solution
An imaging unit with a detachable configuration, featuring a camera and illumination unit that can be separated and connected to prevent coolant contact, using seal structures and air purge to protect the lenses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the camera is installed in the machining chamber to image tools during machining, then tool inspection can be performed, but the camera lens will be stained with coolant mist
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging unit is segmented into a camera unit and an illumination unit that can be separated from each other. The camera unit can be detached from the machining chamber environment while the illumination unit remains positioned to illuminate the tool, allowing imaging without direct exposure to coolant mist
Solution Approach 2:
A seal structure is introduced as an intermediary between the camera lens and the machining chamber environment. This seal structure allows the camera to be positioned near the machining area for imaging while preventing coolant mist from reaching and staining the lens
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the camera and illumination unit are separated to prevent staining, then coolant staining is reduced, but imaging quality and contrast decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging unit employs dynamic positioning where the camera and illumination unit can be independently adjusted in position. This allows the system to optimize the distance and angle between the camera and tool while maintaining separation from coolant sources, preserving imaging quality without compromising staining prevention
Solution Approach 2:
The seal structure provides localized protection specifically at the camera lens area where coolant staining would most affect imaging quality, while allowing other parts of the camera body to remain in the normal machining environment
3Object-affected harmful factors
If manual covers are used to protect the camera lens, then staining is prevented, but operational efficiency decreases due to manual operation requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging unit is designed with an integrated seal structure that automatically protects the camera lens without requiring manual intervention. The unit itself provides its own protection mechanism through the built-in seal, eliminating the need for operators to manually attach or remove covers during machining operations
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3
AI summary
An imaging unit according to one aspect includes a camera for imaging a tool in an imaging area, an illumination unit disposed to face the camera, and a guide mechanism for moving at least one of the illumination unit and the camera between a connected state in which the camera and the illumination unit are connected together and a separated state in which the camera and the illumination unit are separated from each other. The imaging area is present between the camera and the illumination unit in the separated state.