Non-Contact Tool Setting via Periphery Beam Path Scanning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing non-contact tool setting apparatuses for coordinate positioning machines are inefficient in measuring the profile of a tool, as they require repetitive movement of the tool into and out of the light beam, making the process time-consuming and impractical.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that use a non-contact tool setting apparatus with a transmitter and receiver to emit and detect a light beam, mounted on a coordinate positioning apparatus, which moves the tool along a tool inspection path tracing the light beam around the tool periphery, allowing for the collection and analysis of beam intensity data to assess the tool profile.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the tool is moved repeatedly into and out of the light beam to measure multiple points on the tool edge, then the tool profile can be measured, but the measurement process becomes very time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement process is segmented into multiple measurement moves, where each move measures a different portion of the tool edge. The tool inspection path is divided into multiple segments (first measurement move, second measurement move, etc.), allowing systematic coverage of the entire tool periphery through coordinated axis movements.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement approach transitions from one-dimensional repeated linear moves to two-dimensional tool inspection paths involving multiple axes (X, Y, Z). By defining complex inspection paths that traverse the tool periphery in multiple directions, the system measures the complete tool profile in a single comprehensive operation rather than numerous separate moves.
2Measurement precision
If the light beam is moved along the tool periphery to trace the profile, then detailed tool assessment is achieved, but the complexity of the measurement path increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coordinate positioning apparatus is utilized for dual purposes: both for the traditional function of moving the tool and for the additional function of tracing complex inspection paths along the tool periphery. The same multi-axis positioning system performs both tool positioning and profile tracing, eliminating the need for separate specialized measurement equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors beam intensity data during tool inspection and uses this feedback to assess tool profile characteristics. The measured data is processed to determine tool conditions, enabling real-time evaluation and comparison against reference values to detect deviations or anomalies.
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
This approach enables quick and detailed measurement of the tool profile by scanning the light beam along the tool periphery, reducing the time and effort required compared to traditional methods, and allowing for real-time assessment of tool deviations from nominal specifications.
Implementation Method 1
a non-contact tool setting apparatus comprising a transmitter for emitting a light beam and a receiver for receiving the light beam, the receiver generating a beam intensity signal describing the intensity of received light
Data Source
AI summary
A method for assessing the profile of a tool using a non-contact tool setting apparatus that includes a transmitter for emitting a light beam and a receiver for receiving the beam. The receiver generates a beam intensity signal describing the intensity of received light. The setting apparatus is mounted to a coordinate positioning apparatus that allows the tool to be moved relative to the setting apparatus. The method includes using the coordinate positioning apparatus to move the tool relative to the setting apparatus along a tool inspection path, the tool inspection path being selected so that the light beam is traced substantially along a periphery of the tool to be inspected. Beam intensity data is collected describing the beam intensity signal that is generated by the receiver as the tool inspection path is traversed and analysis of the collected beam intensity data is used to assess the tool profile.