Universal Battery Pack for Portable CMMs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable coordinate measurement machines (CMMs) have limited battery operation time and lack a standardized mounting system for different manufacturers' products, leading to prolonged setup times and cluttered arrangements that hinder precision measurements in field environments.
Innovation Solution
A battery pack with a hollow case, integrated battery module, and couplers for secure mounting to CMM accessories, featuring a variable voltage output circuit, LED charge indicators, and an isolator for contamination prevention, allowing extended operation and compatibility with various CMMs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different battery packs from different manufacturers are used to support different CMM equipment, then compatibility with various manufacturers' products is improved, but setup time increases and arrangement becomes cluttered
Solution Approach 1:
The battery pack incorporates a universal base coupler with standardized threading that can accommodate multiple CMM manufacturers' mounting interfaces. The coupler design includes adjustable mounting mechanisms and interchangeable adapter components that enable a single battery pack model to interface with various CMM equipment from different manufacturers, eliminating the need for multiple specialized battery packs and reducing setup time.
2Loss of time
If a standardized mounting system is implemented for battery packs, then setup time decreases and arrangement becomes organized, but adaptability to different manufacturers' products may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into modular segments: a standardized base coupler interface, interchangeable adapter rings, and manufacturer-specific mounting adapters. This segmentation allows the core standardized component to provide consistent, quick setup while the interchangeable adapters maintain compatibility with various manufacturers' products. The modular design enables rapid configuration changes without redesigning the entire mounting system.
3Duration of action of moving object
If battery operation time is extended by using larger battery modules, then working duration increases, but the size and weight of the battery pack increases
Solution Approach 1:
The battery pack incorporates a dynamic power management system with adjustable voltage output (12V, 18V, 19.3V) and intelligent power distribution that optimizes energy consumption based on the specific CMM equipment being powered. The system includes power monitoring circuits and automated power-saving modes that extend operational duration without requiring proportionally larger battery capacity, thereby avoiding excessive weight increase.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple voltage outputs are provided for different CMM equipment, then compatibility with various voltage requirements is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The battery pack employs a parameter-change approach with a multi-position rotary voltage selector switch that allows the user to select from preset voltage outputs (12V, 18V, 19.3V). This simple parameter selection mechanism replaces complex electronic voltage regulation circuits, maintaining adaptability to different CMM voltage requirements while minimizing device complexity. The voltage selection is mechanically implemented through relay switching, providing reliable voltage change without sophisticated control electronics.
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 battery pack provides extended operation time and a unified mounting system, enabling longer precision measurements in field environments while accommodating different CMM voltage requirements and ensuring reliable power management.
Implementation Method 1
a battery module contained within the case; The battery module may include a plurality of battery cells
Implementation Method 2
The visual indicator may be a plurality of LED lights configured to provide a visual display of a charge state of the battery module
Data Source
AI summary
A Battery Pack for portable CMM technology. The battery gives the CMM a longer operating period and extends battery time. The battery pack is configured to work with different operating voltages required by measurement equipment made by various manufactures'. The battery pack also provides a common mounting platform adapted to be utilized with the standard 3½-8 threaded equipment and accessories.