Standard Tool Diameter Gage for CNC Spindle Calibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cutting tools used in CNC machines often do not measure their precise designed size, leading to low-quality results and scrap workpieces, despite advanced CNC machines and software capable of accurate tool paths.
Innovation Solution
A custom gage is used to accurately measure cutting tool diameters within 0.0002″, ensuring precise size utilization in machine tool programming, with concentric shaft and pocket designs for accurate location and minimal skill-level operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If standard nominal size tools are used in CNC machines, then tooling simplicity and ease of selection is maintained, but manufacturing precision deteriorates because tools do not measure their designed precise size
Solution Approach 1:
A precision gage with a known accurate diameter serves as an intermediary reference standard. The gage is mounted in the tool holder and used to calibrate the electronic measuring device, establishing a reliable reference point that enables accurate tool measurements without requiring complex direct measurement systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical hand measurement instruments with an electronic measuring device that uses the precision gage as a reference. This substitution enables automated, repeatable measurements with higher precision while reducing operator skill requirements and measurement variability
2Measurement precision
If electronic measuring devices are used alone without a precision gage, then measurement speed is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates because the device cannot accurately identify tools with multiple flutes or variable geometry
Solution Approach 1:
The precision gage is pre-manufactured with a known accurate diameter and mounted in the tool holder before measuring the actual cutting tool. This preliminary establishment of a reference standard enables the electronic device to accurately measure tools with complex geometries, multiple flutes, or variable flute patterns without requiring complex programming or multiple measurement cycles
3Ease of operation
If hand instruments are used to measure cutting tools, then device complexity is minimized, but measurement precision deteriorates due to the difficulty of measuring fine cutting edges and complex tool geometries
Solution Approach 1:
The precision gage acts as a mediator between the simple electronic measuring device and the complex tool geometries. By providing a known reference diameter that can be easily located by the electronic sensor, the system achieves high measurement precision while maintaining operational simplicity and minimizing the need for specialized operator skills
Data Source
AI summary
A device and method used in a spindle or fixture to measure tool sizes. The device has two conical shapes that have precision machined surfaces. The device's face has a precise size which is the same nominal size as that of a material removing tool. The device's shaft allows for concentric and precision fastening of the device to a spindle or a fixture. The nose of the device is located on the end of the larger of the two conical shapes which is visible exposed when mounted and used. The end of the device is at the end of the smaller of the two conical shapes which is hidden after mounting. The combination of using the device and method will allow more accurate programming of machine tools which in turn will provide higher quality results on machined work pieces and reduced machining cycles.