Abstract: The present invention relates to an automatic measurement system and the method of employing the system with a cutting tool device. The measurement system includes a tool holder for mounting a cutting tool. A measurement probe is automatically mounted and dismounted from the tool holder without removing the cutting tool. The tool holder is preferably affixed to a work support table which is adapted to support a workpiece to be machined and measured thereon.

Abstract: A real-time data collection apparatus for use in collecting data from a multi-axis measuring machine comprises laser interferometers for outputting position measurement data from the measuring machine axis. A measuring probe produces an output signal as a function of probe deflection. The measurement data from the laser interferometers and the probe data are simultaneously captured in response to a data capture signal. The simultaneously captured data is input to a data analysis computer for subsequent processing.

Abstract: A method for automatically sizing a ground surface utilizes a detector having a reference edge position provided adjacent the rotatable spindle of a jig grinder. The jig grinder spindle center is moved a distance from the detector's reference edge equal to the finished radius value of the surface to be ground, or any known distance to be used as a datum. A tool or grinding wheel mounted for relative movement to the jig grinder centerline along the U-axis is moved relative to the jig grinder centerline to clear the detector's pick-up edge. Then, with the grind side of the grinding wheel facing the detector pick-up edge, the wheel is lowered and outfed back along the U-axis while in a conventional dynamic grinding mode until the wheel's outermost cutting position is equal to or in proximity to the detector's reference edge position, which can be confirmed by laser, force or sound apparatus. When contact is made, the outfeed is instantly stopped with no over-travel.

Abstract: A force transducer and circuit are used to detect the edge of a rotating grinding wheel. The force transducer produces an output signal indicative of a force applied thereto. The output signal is filtered by a high pass filter coupled to the output of the transducer. The amplitude of the filtered transducer output signal is compared to a reference value. An output pulse is produced if the amplitude reaches a predetermined level with respect to the reference value. A timer responsive to a first output pulse establishes a fixed interval during which the number of subsequent output pulses is counted. If the number of pulses counted during the fixed interval reaches a predetermined quantity, a control signal indicative of edge contact of the grinding tool with the force transducer is produced.

Abstract: A machine tool is provided with a controller for computing, as a function of an established radius and a preset feedrate, a rotational speed for rotating the machine spindle to provide a uniform surface speed at the working edge of a tool as the tool alternates between linear movement along an X and/or Y axis and arcuate movement along the C-axis of the spindle. A method is provided for gauging straight surfaces and adjoining arcs at a constant feedrate without interruption.

Abstract: A jig grinder is provided with a controller for computing, as a function of an established radius and a preset feedrate, a rotational speed for rotating the machine spindle to provide a uniform surface speed at the cutting edge of the grinding tool as the tool alternates between linear grinding with an X and/or Y axis and arc grinding along the C-axis of the spindle. A method is provided for grinding straight surfaces and adjoining arcs at a constant feedrate without interruption.

Abstract: A rolling diaphragm seal is inserted between a pair of telescopic tubes containing a laser beam and a reflective mirror to preclude ambient air or lubricant from impinging on the mirror or for changing the density of the air within the tube to cause a change in intensity of the laser beam. The telescoping tube pairs can be used as part of a control system for the positioning of the beds of an ultra-precise machining apparatus such as found in turning and grinding machines for generating flat, spheric, and aspheric shapes, commonly known as aspheric generators. The rolling diaphragm seal consists of a rubber tube having its ends folded back upon itself and positioned between the inner and outer telescoping tubes of each pair. The ends of the seal tube are held apart in a retaining collar through which air can be inserted to pneumatically pressure the space between the folded back portions of the seal.