Straightness Measuring Instrument with Adjustable Loading Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional straightness measuring instruments are limited in measuring workpieces with varying diameters and lengths, as they require horizontal placement on rollers, which is not feasible for workpieces with different diameters or lengths shorter than the roller distance, and the rollers are difficult to move, restricting accurate measurement.
Innovation Solution
A straightness measuring instrument with a base, loading units, a center clamping apparatus, and a measure apparatus, featuring movable loading units with bearing units and driving wheels, adjustable distance between loading units, and a center clamping mechanism for secure grip and measurement of workpieces with varying diameters and lengths, allowing for precise rotation and measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If workpiece is placed on rollers for measurement, then straightness can be measured, but workpieces with different diameters or lengths shorter than roller distance cannot be measured
Solution Approach 1:
The loading units are designed to be movable along the base rather than fixed in position. This allows the distance between loading units to be adjusted dynamically to match the length of different workpieces, and the bearing units can be positioned at optimal locations for various diameter workpieces, enabling both short and long workpieces with different diameters to be measured accurately
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement system is divided into separate loading units that can be independently positioned and adjusted. Each loading unit with its bearing units can be moved to appropriate locations on the base, allowing flexible configuration for different workpiece dimensions and enabling measurement of workpieces that would not fit between fixed rollers
2Ease of operation
If rollers are arranged separately for measurement, then measurement can be performed, but rollers are difficult to move and adjust
Solution Approach 1:
The loading units incorporate movable structures that allow easy adjustment of position along the base. The bearing units within each loading unit can also be repositioned to accommodate different workpiece diameters. This dynamic design provides operational flexibility without requiring complex mechanisms, as the units slide along the base and can be quickly reconfigured
Solution Approach 2:
The loading units are designed to perform multiple functions: they provide support for the workpiece, enable rotation, and allow positioning at various distances from each other. The bearing units serve both as support points and as rotation facilitators. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate adjustment mechanisms, simplifying the overall structure while improving ease of operation
3Measurement precision
If workpiece has different diameters at different parts, then measurement is needed, but horizontal placement on rollers is not feasible
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing units are positioned at specific locations along the loading units to provide localized support points that accommodate varying diameters. Each bearing unit can be independently positioned to match the local diameter of the workpiece at that location, ensuring proper support and rotation capability throughout the length of the workpiece even when diameter varies
Solution Approach 2:
The loading units and bearing units can be dynamically repositioned to match the diameter profile of different workpieces. This allows the measurement system to adapt to workpieces with varying diameters by adjusting the position and configuration of the support elements, enabling accurate straightness measurement that would not be possible with fixed roller positions
Data Source
AI summary
A straightness measuring instrument includes a base, two loading units, a center clamping apparatus, and a measure apparatus. The base includes two support rods and a sliding rod. The loading units are mounted on the base and are arranged along an axial direction of the support rods at intervals. The center clamping apparatus is mounted in the base and includes a fixed seat and a movable seat. The measure apparatus is mounted movably around the sliding rod. The loading units are adjustable for easy and quick movement depending on the length of a workpiece. Also, the center clamping apparatus can assist with clamping the workpiece that has different diameters.