Tool Center Point Calibration Using Split 90° Laser Beams
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tool center point calibration methods require complex calculations and precise adjustments of light sources, making them cumbersome and difficult to implement effectively.
Innovation Solution
A simplified tool center point calibration method using two light beams angled at approximately 90°, with detectors generating signals when the tool tip crosses these beams, allowing for straightforward arithmetic operations and a reduced manufacturing and adjustment process, and enabling calibration without a reference intersection point within the calibration device's inner space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If two light sources are used with precise angular adjustment, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and adjustment difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate light sources into a single light source that emits two light beams. This merging reduces the number of components that need to be precisely adjusted while maintaining the geometric relationship between the light beams, thereby simplifying device complexity without compromising measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
A single light source is designed to perform multiple functions by emitting two distinct light beams simultaneously. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate light sources and their associated adjustment mechanisms, reducing device complexity while preserving calibration accuracy
2Measurement precision
If complex coordinate system transformations are performed, then measurement precision is improved, but calculation complexity and processing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the mathematical parameters from complex coordinate system transformations to simple arithmetic operations. By using the geometric properties of the light beam intersections and basic trigonometry, the calculation becomes straightforward while maintaining the precision needed for tool center point calibration
3Measurement precision
If light sources are precisely adjusted in angle, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of manufacture and adjustment decreases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging two light sources into one, the patent reduces the number of angular adjustments needed during manufacturing and assembly. The single light source design inherently maintains the required geometric relationship, making the device easier to manufacture and adjust while preserving measurement precision
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 simplifies the calibration process with flexible calculations that can be performed in any coordinate system, reducing processing power requirements and enhancing accuracy, while minimizing the complexity of programming the tool handling system.
Implementation Method 1
a first light detector configured to receive the first light beam and generate a first signal when the first light beam is interrupted, and a second light detector configured to receive a second light beam and generate a second signal when the second light beam is interrupted
Data Source
AI summary
A tool center point calibration device includes a laser light source and a semi-transparent mirror configured to split a light beam of the laser light source into the first light beam and the second light beam. The second light beam is at of about a 90° angle to the first light beam. A first light detector at the first light beam generates a first signal when the first light beam is interrupted, and a second light detector at the second light beam generates a second signal when the second light beam is interrupted.