Spindle Runout Diagnostic via Accelerometer Vibration Analysis

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current CNC machining systems lack effective automated tools for diagnosing spindle runout and verifying runout corrections, leading to reduced quality and increased downtime due to misalignment issues.

Innovation Solution

A diagnostic method and system that utilizes an accelerometer and a diagnostic controller to measure and analyze vibrational responses of the spindle arm, converting data into frequency-based responses using FFT, and comparing amplitudes to diagnostic thresholds to determine and correct spindle runout, while also performing system checks for other potential machine issues.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If traditional manual methods are used to diagnose spindle runout, then the diagnostic process is simple, but it leads to increased downtime and reduced productivity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemachine productivityVSAvoidspindle downtime
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The spindle runout diagnostic system enables the machine to self-diagnose runout conditions automatically during operation. The accelerometer mounted on the spindle continuously monitors vibrations, and the controller automatically analyzes the data to detect runout, eliminating the need for manual intervention and reducing downtime while maintaining productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Productivity

If automated diagnostic tools are implemented, then productivity improves and downtime reduces, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemachine productivityVSAvoiddiagnostic system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system replaces manual mechanical diagnostic procedures with automated electronic monitoring. An accelerometer electronically measures spindle vibrations, and a controller processes the signals to detect runout conditions, substituting complex manual mechanical inspection with simpler electronic sensing and automated analysis.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Manufacturing precision

If spindle runout is not detected early, then the system remains simple, but manufacturing precision deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepart dimensional accuracyVSAvoiddiagnostic system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The diagnostic system performs preliminary detection of spindle runout conditions before they affect part quality. By continuously monitoring spindle vibrations and detecting runout early, the system alerts operators to correct alignment issues before machining begins, preventing dimensional inaccuracies in manufactured parts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

4Measurement precision

If manual spindle alignment calibration is performed, then measurement precision can be maintained, but loss of time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespindle alignment accuracyVSAvoidcalibration time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The accelerometer-based diagnostic system enables continuous monitoring of spindle runout conditions during machine operation. Instead of periodic manual calibration, the system continuously tracks vibration patterns, maintaining measurement precision of spindle alignment without interrupting production for recalibration, thus eliminating calibration downtime.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

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

The system enables efficient and automated diagnosis of spindle runout, reducing unnecessary downtime and ensuring accurate part production by distinguishing between spindle misalignment and other machine component issues, thereby improving overall machine health and performance.

Implementation Method 1

acquiring, from an accelerometer, data indicative of a vibrational response of the spindle arm operating at the first rotational speed

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVibration: Vibration

Implementation Method 2

converting, by a diagnostic controller, the vibrational response to a frequency based response to obtain a first frequency response

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFast Fourier Transform:

Data Source

PatentUS10684607B2System and method for performing a spindle runout diagnostic
Publication Date: 2020.06.16 FORD MOTOR CO
  • US10684607B2 patent drawing
  • US10684607B2 patent drawing
  • US10684607B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure is directed toward a diagnostic method for a spindle arm of a machine. The method includes rotating the spindle arm of the machine at a first rotational speed, and acquiring, from an accelerometer, data indicative of a vibrational response of the spindle arm operating at the first rotational speed. The accelerometer is disposed along the spindle arm. The method further includes converting the vibrational response to a frequency based response to obtain a first frequency response, determining whether an amplitude of the first frequency response exceeds a diagnostic threshold, and performing a designated correction on the machine in response to the frequency response exceeding the diagnostic threshold.