Stepped Measuring Sleeve for Precise Tool Length Presetting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for measuring the axial length of tools, particularly rotary tools, are not cost-effective and efficient, requiring complex setups and multiple devices for accurate measurements.

Innovation Solution

A measuring sleeve with a step-shaped recess and a transmitted light slot, designed for use with a tool presetting device, allows for easy and precise measurement of tool length using an optical measuring system, enabling the determination of tool position and length without the need for additional measuring devices.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a mechanical measuring element with a measuring stand is used to measure tool length, then measurement can be performed, but the device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetool length measurementVSAvoidmeasuring device structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical measuring elements and measuring stands with a simple sleeve structure that uses optical measurement methods. The measuring sleeve provides a reference surface that can be measured by optical systems already present in tool presetting devices, eliminating the need for dedicated mechanical measuring apparatus.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The measuring sleeve is designed as a simple, inexpensive component that can be easily manufactured and replaced if needed. Rather than investing in complex mechanical measuring devices, the solution uses a cost-effective sleeve that serves the measurement function with minimal structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

2Adaptability or versatility

If tools are measured without a standardized reference structure, then measurement flexibility is maintained, but measurement precision and repeatability deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement flexibilityVSAvoidtool length measurement accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The measuring sleeve serves multiple functions: it provides a standardized reference surface for precise measurement, accommodates tools of different diameters through its stepped design, and integrates with existing tool presetting devices. This universal component resolves the contradiction by providing both precision through standardization and versatility through its adaptive design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The sleeve features localized stepped surfaces at different heights, each designed to accommodate tools of specific diameter ranges. This local differentiation allows the same sleeve structure to precisely measure tools with varying diameters while maintaining a unified reference measurement surface, thus preserving both precision and adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Ease of manufacture

If the recess cross-section is uniform, then manufacturing is simplified, but accessibility for smaller tools deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverecess fabricationVSAvoidtool accessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The recess is segmented into multiple stepped levels, each with a specific cross-sectional dimension. This segmentation allows smaller tools to access deeper regions of the recess while larger tools rest on upper steps. The stepped structure is manufactured as an integrated feature of the sleeve, maintaining manufacturing simplicity while dramatically improving tool accessibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

4Ease of operation

If tools are allowed to tilt during measurement, then ease of insertion is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetool insertionVSAvoidtool position accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The recess features localized stepped surfaces that provide mechanical support at specific locations along the tool. These stepped support surfaces engage the tool at precise points, preventing tilting while still allowing easy axial insertion. The localized support geometry simultaneously achieves both ease of operation and measurement precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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 provides a cost-effective and efficient method for measuring tool length, ensuring accurate positioning and clamping of tools in holders, reducing the risk of tool tipping and enhancing accessibility for smaller tools, while integrating with existing presetting and shrinking devices.

Implementation Method 1

the measuring sleeve is designed with a transmitted light slot, which in particular extends radially through the measuring sleeve and/or in particular runs through a central axis of the measuring sleeve

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTransmitted light: Light

Data Source

PatentEP4431870A1Measurement sleeve for a tool measurement
Publication Date: 2024.09.18 FRANZ HAIMER MASCHINENBAU KG
  • EP4431870A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4431870A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4431870A1 patent drawingFigure 3~3e

AI summary

The invention relates to a measuring sleeve for measuring a tool, a tool presetting device, a method for measuring a tool using a tool presetting device, and a method for mounting a tool in a tool holder. The measuring sleeve 1 for measuring a tool 2 provides a base body 6, in particular a sleeve-shaped body, with a recess 9 extending from a first end face 7 of the measuring sleeve 1 in the axial direction 8 of the measuring sleeve 1, the recess having stepwise decreasing, in particular circular, cross-sections 10 for receiving a tool 2 to be measured. The tool presetting device 3 and the methods provide the measuring sleeve 1.