Abstract: A workpiece inspection system is disclosed for determining measurements of a workpiece on a machine tool. The system utilizes a measurement device which outputs data relating to the workpiece (e.g. in place of a conventional cutter). The problem of obtaining real time data relating to the position of the machine tool is overcome by recording a machine tool position data set and a measurement device data set at selected instants which are defined by a synchronization signal. The data sets are combined later in the correct relative position because the synchronization signal was used. The synchronization signal can issue from the machine tool controller, an interface, measurement device or another part of the system.

Abstract: A workpiece inspection system is disclosed for determining measurements of a workpiece on a machine tool. The system utilises a measurement device which outputs data relating to the workpiece (e.g. in place of a conventional cutter). The problem of obtaining real time data relating to the position of the machine tool is overcome by recording a machine tool position data set and a measurement device data set at selected instants which are defined by a synchronisation signal. The data sets are combined later in the correct relative position because the synchronisation signal was used. The synchronisation signal can issue from the machine tool controller, an interface, measurement device or another part of the system.

Abstract: Transmission of power and/or signal across a machine tool spindle shank is disclosed. Contacts (340) on the shank are connectable to tracks (24/22) on the spindle (210). A circuit (e.g. FIG. 15) is used to determine the orientation of the contacts relative to the tracks when the shank is inserted in an unknown orientation into the spindle.

Abstract: An interface circuit for processing signals from a touch trigger probe is adapted to prevent the generation of false trigger signals during an inspection cycle. The probe incorporates a plurality of strain gauges, the voltage across which rises above a predetermined threshold when a stylus supported by the probe contacts a surface. When the probe is moved away from the surface and the stylus loses contact, the outputs across the gauges drop below the trigger threshold. The interface prevents false triggers When, while the stylus is in contact with a surface, a machine vibration occurs which causes an oscillation in the voltage across the gauges; the voltage dropping below the threshold level (causing the interface to reset), and then immediately passing back up through the threshold, causing the interface to emit a trigger signal.