Tool Silhouette Imaging Layout for Compact Machine Tool Inspection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging devices for tools in machine tools face challenges with space constraints due to the large distance between the light source and the imaging unit, and the increased complexity of processing bright-field images of tool surfaces.
Innovation Solution
The proposed imaging device includes a tool support, a light source that irradiates the tool, and an imaging unit that captures a projection image of the tool onto a projection part, allowing for a more compact design and robust image processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If transmitted illumination is used to image the tool silhouette, then the outline of the tool can be clearly identified, but the distance between the light source and the imaging unit becomes large, requiring more installation space
Solution Approach 1:
A projection part (screen) is introduced as an intermediary between the tool and the imaging unit. The light source projects the tool silhouette onto this projection part, and the imaging unit captures the projected image. This mediator allows the imaging unit to be positioned closer to the tool while still obtaining a clear silhouette image, thereby reducing the required installation space.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging approach transitions from direct imaging of the tool to imaging the tool's projection on a separate plane (the projection part). By moving the image capture to a different dimensional plane, the system achieves clear outline identification without requiring large axial distance between the light source and imaging unit.
2Volume of stationary object
If bright-field image of tool surface is used instead of transmitted illumination, then the installation space is reduced, but the amount of image information increases, making robust processing difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts only the essential silhouette information from the tool by projecting its shadow onto a projection part. This extraction process eliminates unnecessary surface detail information that would complicate processing, while retaining the critical outline data needed for tool condition assessment. The result is simplified image data that is easier to process robustly.
3Volume of stationary object
If the distance between the imaging unit and the light source is reduced for compact design, then the installation space is saved, but the working distance between the camera and the tool becomes insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The projection part serves as a mediator that decouples the working distance requirement from the installation space constraint. The imaging unit captures the projected silhouette on the projection part rather than directly imaging the tool, allowing the camera to be positioned closer to the tool while maintaining sufficient effective imaging distance through the projection mechanism.
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 configuration enables a space-saving imaging device that can process images robustly, reducing the need for extensive installation space in machine tools while maintaining effective tool inspection capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a light source that irradiates the tool supported by the tool support with light
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging device includes a tool support that supports a tool, a light source that irradiates the tool supported by the tool support with light, a projection part located opposite the light source with respect to the tool supported by the tool support, and an imaging unit that images a projection image of the tool displayed on the projection part by the light emitted from the light source.