U-Shaped Touch Gauge for Height Difference Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for measuring height differences between high and low surfaces on large work pieces, such as those in automotive machining, are inefficient and unsuitable for mass production when using coordinate measuring machines.
Innovation Solution
A U-shaped touch gauge comprising a base plate, transfer plate, floating column, screws, springs, measuring sleeve, and hemispheres, which allows for the measurement of height differences by compressing and lifting mechanisms to determine surface variations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a coordinate measuring machine (CMM) is used to measure height differences on the bottom surface of large work pieces, then measurement precision can be achieved, but measurement efficiency is very low and it is not suitable for mass production
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex mechanical coordinate measuring machine system with a simplified mechanical comparison gauge system. The gauge uses a base plate with hemispherical contact points and a transfer plate mechanism to directly compare height differences, eliminating the need for complex CMM positioning and measurement procedures while maintaining sufficient measurement precision for mass production applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts only the essential measurement function from the complex CMM system. By using a dedicated gauge with fixed geometric relationships (hemispheres, transfer plate, measuring columns), it isolates the height difference measurement capability from the unnecessary positioning and coordinate calculation complexities of a CMM, thereby dramatically improving measurement speed for production environments.
2Measurement precision
If a complex measurement system is used to ensure accurate height difference measurement, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases and production cost rises
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a simple, inexpensive gauge design that can be easily manufactured and replaced if needed. The structure uses basic mechanical components (plates, columns, springs, hemispheres) rather than expensive precision instruments, making it cost-effective for mass production where the gauge may need periodic replacement or recalibration.
Solution Approach 2:
The gauge is designed with a universal base plate and transfer plate mechanism that can measure height differences across various positions on large work pieces. The hemispherical contact points and adjustable measuring columns allow the same device to accommodate different measurement scenarios without requiring multiple specialized instruments.
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
The U-shaped touch gauge enables efficient measurement of height differences with a simple structure, convenient operation, and low production costs, improving measurement efficiency for mass production and process monitoring.
Implementation Method 1
The left spring is sleeved on outer side of cylinder of the floating column, and is placed above the fixing block. The right spring is sleeved on outer side of the upper cylinder of the measuring column, and is placed below the measuring sleeve.
Data Source
AI summary
The present application relates to a U-shaped touch gauge, which comprises a base plate, a transfer plate, a floating column, a fixing block, a measuring sleeve, a measuring column and the like. In use, round head of top end of the floating column is in contact with bottom surface of a work piece. The floating column is compressed downward when it contacts high surface of the bottom surface of the work piece, left side of the transfer plate is depressed and then right side thereof is lifted, in the meantime, the right spring is compressed and the measuring column is lifted.