×

Method for modifying programmed positions by using a programmably controlled surface sensing element

  • US 4,370,721 A
  • Filed: 09/02/1980
  • Issued: 01/25/1983
  • Est. Priority Date: 09/02/1980
  • Status: Expired due to Term
First Claim
Patent Images

1. A method for measuring the actual position of unmachined surfaces on a workpiece and modifying command signals derived from a machining program defining a cycle of operation of a machine relative to the unmachined surfaces, said machine having machine slides moving along axes of motion for effecting relative movement between the workpiece and a tool holder having a sensing element associated therewith, said machine being connected to a control for storing the machining program and generating the command signals to control the relative motion, the method comprising the steps of:

  • (a) storing scanning program instructions in association with the machining program to define a scanning cycle for using the sensing element to measure the actual position of the unmachined surfaces;

    (b) executing the scanning cycle prior to executing the cycle of operation in response to the scanning program instructions to generate coordinate signals representing positions of detected points on the unmachined surfaces;

    (c) storing selected ones of the coordinate signals; and

    (d) executing the cycle of operation after completing the scanning cycle by generating modified command signals in response to the selected coordinate signals and the command signals derived from the machining program, said modified command signals effecting relative motion between the tool holder and the workpiece in accordance with the machining program and independent of variations in the position of the unmachined surfaces.

View all claims
  • 3 Assignments
Timeline View
Assignment View
    ×
    ×