Tool detection

Citation

(2001), "Tool detection", Sensor Review, Vol. 21 No. 3. https://doi.org/10.1108/sr.2001.08721cad.014

Tool detection

Tool detection

Keyword: Machine tools

In unmanned machining operations, tool damage can generate scrap and require costly rework. Renishaw Inc. of Hoffman Estates, Illinois, a supplier of probe systems for machine tools, developed its NC1 laser-based toolsetting system, which allows for high-speed detection of broken tools on machining centres. Toolsetting systems are used on machining centres for setting tool lengths and diameters and for updating tool offsets into the controller.

The NC1 system uses a compact, laser-based transmitter to send a beam to the receiver unit. System electronics detect when a tool breaks the beam, and output signals are sent to the machine's controller, allowing the positions of tips, teeth, or cutting edges to be established.

On the NC1, setting of both length and diameter is carried out at normal spindle speeds, allowing errors caused by radial run-out of the tool and the tool holder to be identified and corrected.

The NC1 laser-based toolsetting system can measure tools anywhere along the laser beam, up to 2m in length, minimising cycle times for broken tool detection. Tools as small as 0.008in. diameter can be measured, with system resolution of 0.00004in. Non-contact measurement ensures that coatings on the tooling are not damaged.

A tool can pass at rapid traverse rates through the beam at the nearest point to reduce the machine movements and save time.

Typical cycles include static length setting of tools, rotating length setting of tools such as face mills and rotating diameter setting of slot drills and boring bars. The machine's software allows each facet of a multifaceted tool to be checked and includes thermal compensation for changes in machine temperature.