Virtual Machine Tool Module for Safe Geometric Model Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for positioning geometric models in machine tools are hazardous, inaccurate, and inflexible, particularly in high-end multi-axis machining, where collision avoidance is critical for expensive and complex workpieces.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method that includes a control unit, storage unit, positioning module, virtual target geometry module, and virtual machine tool module, enabling accurate and safe positioning of geometric models by generating and using reference pose data, probing data, and virtual target geometry data to position workpieces and fixtures in a virtual machine tool environment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual measurement method is used to obtain positions of workpieces and fixtures, then the positioning can be performed, but it is very dangerous to the worker as he/she can easily hurt by the machine tool
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the machine tool and workpiece in a computer-based virtual environment. The geometric model of the workpiece is positioned and simulated in this virtual space, allowing operators to perform positioning operations on the digital replica rather than physically接近 the actual machine tool, thereby eliminating safety hazards while maintaining positioning accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement operations with automated computer-based virtual simulation. The control system automatically positions the virtual machine tool relative to the virtual workpiece using calculated transformation matrices, substituting dangerous manual mechanical operations with safe automated computational processes
2Ease of operation
If manual geometrical positioning method is used to move or rotate geometric models in virtual machine tool, then positioning can be performed, but it has poor accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the actual positions of workpieces and fixtures measured by automated probing systems are fed back to the control system. These measured positions are used to calculate accurate transformation matrices that precisely adjust the virtual geometric models, ensuring high positioning accuracy while maintaining ease of operation through automated computation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary automated measurement and calculation of transformation matrices before the actual machining operation. By pre-calculating the precise positioning parameters in the virtual environment based on measured data, the system eliminates the need for imprecise manual adjustments during operation, achieving both ease of operation and high accuracy
3Productivity
If machining tools, workpieces and fixtures are placed at scheduled positions stored in advance in machining plans, then positioning can be performed, but it has poor flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic positioning system where the virtual geometric models can be automatically repositioned based on actual measured positions of workpieces and fixtures. The transformation matrices are dynamically calculated and updated to reflect real-world variations, allowing the system to adapt to different configurations while maintaining high machining efficiency through automated computation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the positioning parameters automatically based on measured data from the actual machine tool environment. The control system adjusts the transformation matrices and virtual model positions according to actual workpiece and fixture locations, providing flexibility to handle different configurations while maintaining productivity through automated parameter updates
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for positioning a geometric model comprises a machine tool, a control unit electrically coupled to the machine tool, a storage unit electrically coupled to the control unit, a positioning module electrically coupled to the storage unit, a virtual target geometry module electrically coupled to the positioning module, and a virtual machine tool module electrically and respectively coupled to the virtual target geometry module and the positioning module. A method for positioning the geometric model includes using components of the apparatus.