Tactile System with Movable Contactless Sensor for Rapid Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing measuring apparatuses require significant time and effort to switch between tactile and contactless measurement systems, limiting their versatility and measurement efficiency, especially when performing high-accuracy measurements on gearworkpieces and three-dimensional structures.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus with an NC controller and movable measuring system axis that allows for rapid and accurate switching between tactile and contactless measurement modes, using a 'piggyback' configuration where the contactless sensor is kept in a protected position during tactile measurements and moved into a usage position for contactless measurements, enabling partial or full automation of the change process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If tactile measuring systems are replaced by contactless sensor devices, then measurement versatility is improved, but time expenditure for changing and adjusting increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines both tactile measuring systems and contactless sensor devices into a single integrated measuring apparatus. The adapter plate serves as a common mounting interface that can accommodate both types of measuring devices, allowing them to coexist in the same apparatus without requiring separate devices for different measurement tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic switching mechanism where the tactile system and contactless sensor can be rapidly exchanged using a standardized adapter plate interface. The NC controller dynamically switches between different measuring devices based on measurement requirements, and the measuring system axis can be rapidly repositioned to accommodate different device positions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If tactile systems are frequently changed to different sensor types, then measuring options are expanded, but adjustment steps and time expenditure increase
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter plate is designed as a universal mounting interface that can accommodate both tactile measuring systems and contactless sensor devices. This multi-functional adapter plate eliminates the need for different mounting mechanisms for different sensor types, standardizing the changeover process and making it easier to switch between measuring options.
Solution Approach 2:
The measuring devices are pre-configured with standardized mounting interfaces that match the adapter plate. This preliminary preparation allows for rapid exchange without requiring complex adjustment steps during the changeover process, as the devices are designed to interface directly with the standardized adapter plate.
3Productivity
If contactless sensor devices are used instead of tactile systems, then measurement speed is improved, but setup and changeover complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the measuring apparatus into modular components: the adapter plate, the measuring devices (tactile and contactless), and the NC controller. This segmentation allows the contactless sensor to be independently exchanged without affecting other parts of the system, reducing overall setup complexity despite having multiple device types.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includingan NC controller,a tactile system controlled by the NC controller and movable along a measurement axis,a workpiece receptacle for receiving a workpiece,a rotational drive for rotating the workpiece receptacle with the workpiece about an axis of rotation, anda contactlessly operating sensor device arranged on the tactile system and transferable from a first position into a second position by displacement relative to the tactile system.