Tool Rack Position Detection for Precise Tool Station Reconfiguration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tool rack systems for automatic machines require complex and costly reconfiguration processes, involving manual measurements and skilled personnel, to accommodate changes in tool stations, which are prone to errors and increase unproductive time.
Innovation Solution
A tool rack system with a control unit and positioning platform, featuring a linear guide and position transducer that automatically detects and transmits the position of tool stations to the machine's controller, allowing for simplified installation and reconfiguration without manual measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual measurements and skilled personnel are used for reconfiguring tool racks, then positioning precision can be achieved, but the process becomes complex, costly, and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement processes with an automated optical measurement system. The coordinate measuring machine with automated probing systematically measures reference points on tool holders and rack components, eliminating the need for manual measurements while maintaining high precision. This substitution reduces complexity by automating the measurement and calculation processes through computer control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service reconfiguration by automatically determining the positions and orientations of tool holders and rack components through automated measurement. The control system autonomously calculates transformation matrices and updates the tool rack model without requiring skilled personnel intervention, allowing operators to reconfigure the rack independently.
2Measurement precision
If manual measurements are performed for tool rack reconfiguration, then positioning accuracy can be obtained, but unproductive time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces time-consuming manual measurement processes with automated optical measurement using a coordinate measuring machine. The system automatically probes reference points, calculates positions, and updates the tool rack model, reducing reconfiguration time from hours to minutes while maintaining or improving positioning accuracy through systematic measurement of multiple reference points.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary automated measurement and calculation of tool holder positions and orientations before actual reconfiguration. By pre-determining the exact positions through automated measurement and storing transformation matrices, the system prepares all necessary information in advance, enabling rapid physical reconfiguration without time-consuming manual calculations during the actual changeover.
3Measurement precision
If complex manual reconfiguration processes are used, then positioning precision can be maintained, but the need for skilled personnel increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex manual measurement and calculation processes with automated optical measurement and computer-based calculations. The coordinate measuring machine automatically probes reference points and the control system computes transformation matrices, eliminating the need for skilled personnel to perform manual measurements while maintaining high positioning precision through systematic automated measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service reconfiguration by automatically measuring, calculating, and updating the tool rack model without requiring skilled personnel. Operators can independently reconfigure the rack by placing tool holders on the rack, and the system autonomously determines their positions through automated measurement and updates the digital model, making the process accessible to personnel without specialized measurement skills.
4Productivity
If automated position detection is implemented, then reconfiguration becomes simpler and faster, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a coordinate measuring machine that serves multiple functions: it measures tool holders, measures rack components, determines positions, calculates transformation matrices, and updates the tool rack model. This multi-functional approach consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate systems into one integrated machine, reducing overall system complexity while enabling automated position detection and rapid reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges the measurement, calculation, and control functions into a single integrated coordinate measuring machine with computer control. By combining the optical measurement system, position calculation algorithms, and tool rack model management into one unified system, the patent achieves automated position detection without proportionally increasing complexity, as the functions work together synergistically rather than as separate independent systems.
Data Source
AI summary
Tool rack for an automatic machine comprising a control unit and a positioning platform connectable to a plurality of tools, the tool rack having a linear guide, one tool station or more than one tool stations connected to the linear guide for receiving and/or providing at least one of said plurality of tools in an operating volume of the positioning platform, a position transducer for detecting a position of the tool station or at least one of the tool stations relative to the linear guide and transmitting the position to the control unit.