Tool Measuring Interface Base for Simplified Machine Tool Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing measuring systems for machine tools require complex and space-consuming setups with multiple pneumatic and electrical lines, posing risks of collision and damage, and complicating the installation and connection processes.
Innovation Solution
A multi-purpose interface base provides a mechanical, electrical/optical, and pneumatic connection between the machine tool's controller and the measuring device, featuring a mechanical stop for repeatable gauge placement, dual signal transfer points for easy orientation, and a sealing arrangement to prevent contamination, reducing the need for multiple lines and simplifying installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple pneumatic and electrical lines are used to connect the measuring system, then the measuring system can perform various functions (sealing air, laser light passage control, cleaning, power supply, signal transmission), but the device complexity and installation effort increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple pneumatic lines (for sealing air, cleaning, protective screens) and electrical lines (for power supply and signal transmission) into a single integrated connection block. This connection block serves as a universal interface that consolidates all necessary connections between the measuring system and the machine tool, thereby reducing the number of separate lines and simplifying installation while maintaining full functional capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection block is designed as a multi-functional component that handles both pneumatic and electrical connections simultaneously. It provides a universal interface that can supply sealing air, control laser light passages, enable tool cleaning, provide power supply, and transmit measurement signals through a single integrated unit, eliminating the need for separate dedicated lines for each function.
2Ease of operation
If the measuring system is moved to a park/rest position outside the working area, then the working area is freed and collision risk is reduced, but the device complexity increases due to swivel or linear units
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the measurement function from a complex movable system and integrates it directly into the machine tool's existing structure (spindle, tool holder, or workpiece holder). By making the measuring system a fixed integral part of the machine tool rather than a separate movable unit, the need for swivel or linear movement mechanisms is eliminated, simplifying the overall system while maintaining working area availability.
3Device complexity
If the measuring system is completely dismantled when not regularly necessary, then space and complexity are reduced, but the ease of operation and setup time worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-integrating the measuring system into the machine tool's structure during manufacturing. The connection block is pre-configured with all necessary pneumatic and electrical connections, and the measuring device is permanently mounted in the optimal position. This eliminates the need for complex setup and assembly operations each time the system is used, as everything is already in place and ready for operation.
Data Source
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Figure 4a
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AI summary
A non-contact or tactile measuring system with a multi-purpose interface base for receiving and connecting a non-contact or tactile measuring device comprising a light transmitter and a light receiver, for determining the position of a tool or for determining the longest cutting edge of a rotating tool in a machine tool. The multi-purpose interface base has the following features: at least one mechanical stop corresponding to a counter-stop on the measuring device for receiving and repeatably positioning the measuring device on the multi-purpose interface base; and at least one second fluid transfer point on the multi-purpose interface base corresponding to a first fluid transfer point on the measuring device.