Segmented Thread Coupling for Rapid Stylus Tip Exchange
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Solution Overview
Problem
Tactile measuring devices face challenges in quickly and cost-effectively replacing stylus inserts due to potential damage, particularly at the ceramic sleeve, which requires frequent exchange and is not easily or efficiently managed in existing systems.
Innovation Solution
A coupling element and screw insert with non-adjacent thread segments and interruptions allow for easy and secure rotary coupling, enabling quick assembly and disassembly without play, providing stable centering and facilitating rapid exchange of stylus tips.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional threaded coupling is used to hold the stylus insert, then the connection is secure and stable, but the replacement process is time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling element is divided into multiple thread segments (at least two) separated by thread-free zones along the axial direction. This segmentation allows the stylus insert to be quickly engaged and disengaged by rotating only a portion of the threads, significantly reducing replacement time while maintaining secure connection during measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the functional essence of threading (secure connection) while removing the continuous thread structure. By using discrete thread segments instead of continuous threads, the design achieves both secure mounting and quick release capabilities, resolving the contradiction between connection stability and replacement speed.
2Measurement precision
If the stylus insert is firmly secured to prevent movement, then measurement accuracy is maintained, but damage to the ceramic sleeve increases under impact loads
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented thread structure creates controlled engagement zones that secure the stylus insert axially while allowing minimal controlled movement. This prevents excessive stress concentration on the ceramic sleeve during impact, reducing damage risk while maintaining sufficient stability for accurate measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The thread-free zones act as buffer regions that can absorb and distribute impact forces before they reach the ceramic sleeve. This beforehand cushioning effect protects the fragile ceramic component from sudden shocks while maintaining measurement precision during normal operation.
3Productivity
If a simple coupling structure is used to enable quick replacement, then replacement speed increases, but connection stability and centering accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The multiple thread segments provide sufficient engagement area for stable connection while allowing quick disengagement. The segmented design maintains connection stability through distributed thread contact zones, preventing both over-tightening and loosening, thus achieving both quick replacement and stable mounting.
Solution Approach 2:
Different zones of the coupling element have different functional qualities: thread segments provide secure engagement and centering, while thread-free zones enable quick release and act as stress buffers. This local differentiation of properties allows the single component to achieve both quick replacement and stable connection.
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 abut each other in the radial circumferential direction.