Stepped Measuring Sleeve for Precise Small Tool Length Setting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for measuring the axial length of tools, particularly rotating tools like milling or boring tools, are not straightforward or economical, and often require additional devices or precise alignment, which can be challenging for small tools due to tilting susceptibility and accessibility issues.
Innovation Solution
A measuring sleeve with a stepped recess configuration, either concentric or off-center, and a transmission slit allows for optical measurement of tool position, enabling accurate determination of axial length using an optical measuring system within a tool presetting device, which can be integrated with a shrinking device for secure tool mounting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a mechanical measuring element with guide is used to measure tool length, then measurement can be performed, but the device complexity increases and the measurement process becomes less straightforward
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the measurement function from a complex mechanical measuring device and integrates it into a simple measuring sleeve that utilizes the existing optical measuring system of the tool presetting device. The measuring sleeve contains only a recess with stepped bottom for tool insertion, eliminating the need for separate mechanical measuring elements and guides.
Solution Approach 2:
The measuring sleeve serves multiple functions: it holds the tool for measurement, provides reference surfaces for optical measurement, and integrates with the existing optical measuring system of the tool presetting device. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated mechanical measuring devices.
2Measurement precision
If tools are measured with existing mechanical measuring devices, then axial length can be determined, but small tools are susceptible to tilting and have accessibility issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates different local conditions within the measuring sleeve by providing stepped bottom surfaces at different heights and diameters. Each step is optimized for tools of specific size ranges, with larger steps for bigger tools and smaller steps for smaller tools. This local differentiation prevents tilting and improves accessibility for tools of various dimensions.
3Measurement precision
If additional measurement devices are used for tool measurement, then measurement capability is provided, but the overall system becomes less economical
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the measurement function into the existing tool presetting device by using its optical measuring system. The measuring sleeve is integrated into the tool holder, combining tool holding and measurement functions in one component, thereby eliminating the need for separate measurement devices.
4Ease of operation
If a simple measuring sleeve with recess is used, then the measurement becomes straightforward and economical, but precise positioning and optical measurement require specific structural features
Solution Approach 1:
The measuring sleeve is pre-configured with stepped bottom surfaces at specific heights and diameters before measurement. These pre-defined steps provide automatic positioning references for tools of different sizes, ensuring that tools are inserted to the correct depth without requiring complex adjustment or alignment during the measurement process.
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 solution allows for straightforward, economical measurement of tool axial length, reducing tilting susceptibility and improving accessibility for small tools, enabling precise tool positioning and secure mounting in tool holders without the need for additional measurement devices.
Implementation Method 1
a transmission slit that extends in particular radially through the measuring sleeve and/or in particular runs through a midaxis of the measuring sleeve and extends starting from the first end side of the measuring sleeve at least over the region of the recess
Data Source
AI summary
A measuring sleeve for measuring a tool, a tool presetting device, a method for measuring a tool by means of a tool presetting device and to a method for mounting a tool in a tool holder. The measuring sleeve for measuring a tool provides a base body, particularly in the form of a sleeve, with a recess which runs starting from a first end side of the measuring sleeve in the axial direction of the measuring sleeve and has cross sections, in particular circular cross sections, decreasing in steps for receiving a tool to be measured.