Tool Dimension Measurement Using Partial Contour Stitching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for measuring tool dimensions in CNC machine tools are limited when dealing with tools larger than the field of view of the image capture device, as only partial contours can be captured, making it impossible to measure the entire tool dimensions accurately.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that use an image capture device to capture partial contours of the tool, determine the direction of movement to expand the field of view, and output commands for relative movement between the image capture device and the tool, allowing the capture of the entire tool contour by connecting partial contours.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the field of view of the image capture device is enlarged to capture the entire tool contour, then the measurable tool size increases, but the measurement precision decreases due to reduced image data size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the measurement process into multiple segments by capturing several partial contour images at different positions along the tool. Each image maintains high resolution for its local region, and the processing device connects these segmented partial contours to reconstruct the complete tool contour, thereby achieving both large measurable size and high measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single two-dimensional field of view to a multi-dimensional measurement approach by moving the image capture device along the contour direction and capturing multiple images at different positions. This dimensional expansion allows the entire tool contour to be measured while maintaining high image quality in each captured region
2Adaptability or versatility
If zoom-in and zoom-out devices are added to adjust the field of view, then the ability to measure tools of varying sizes improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical zoom-in/zoom-out system with a movement control system that translates the image capture device along the contour direction. This substitution eliminates complex optical zoom mechanisms while achieving the same functional goal of capturing the entire tool contour through sequential positioning
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic movement of the image capture device along the contour direction, replacing static field of view adjustment with dynamic positioning. The device moves to capture partial contours at different locations, and the processing device dynamically connects these partial contours to form the complete tool contour
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a method for measuring tool dimensions and a measurement device, whereby if a machine tool (10) cannot fit the overall outline of a tool (20) inside the field of vision (V) for an image from an imaging device (33), the field of vision (V) of the imaging device (33) is moved by relatively moving the imaging device (33) and the tool (20). In addition, the imaging device (33) can follow the outline (54) of the tool (20) by moving the field of vision (V), because the movement direction (53) for the field of vision (V) is determined on the basis of the partial outline (51) specified based on image data. In this way, even when measuring dimensions for a tool (20) with a larger diameter than the field of vision (V) of the imaging device (33), a partial outline (51) of a desired range, for example, is specified. An outline of a desired range for the tool (20) is extracted if a plurality of specified partial outlines (51) are combined. Measurement of the dimensions of the tool (20) is possible by using such outlines.