Abstract: Systems and related methods are provided for maintaining a spatial relationship between a tool of the multi-axis machine (e.g., fluid jet nozzle of a fluid jet cutting machine) and a workpiece to be processed by the tool. An example system includes a contour follower apparatus having a sensor and a gimbal assembly operable with the sensor to sense a deviation between a machine focal point and a gimbal assembly focal point defined by the gimbal assembly as the gimbal assembly rides upon the surface of the workpiece during operation. The system may further include a gimbal mount assembly configured to sense a collision event of the gimbal assembly with another object.

Abstract: Systems and related methods are provided for maintaining a spatial relationship between a tool of the multi-axis machine (e.g., fluid jet nozzle of a fluid jet cutting machine) and a workpiece to be processed by the tool. An example system includes a contour follower apparatus having a sensor and a gimbal assembly operable with the sensor to sense a deviation between a machine focal point and a gimbal assembly focal point defined by the gimbal assembly as the gimbal assembly rides upon the surface of the workpiece during operation. The system may further include a gimbal mount assembly configured to sense a collision event of the gimbal assembly with another object.

Abstract: A cutting head of a waterjet cutting system is provided having an environment control device and a measurement device. The environment control device is positioned to act on a surface of a workpiece at least during a measurement operation to establish a measurement area on the surface of the workpiece substantially unobstructed by fluid. The measurement device is positioned to selectively obtain information from within the measurement area indicative of a position of the cutting head relative to the workpiece. A control system is further provided and operable to position the cutting head relative to the workpiece at a standoff distance based at least in part on the information indicative of the position of the cutting head relative to the workpiece obtained by the measurement device. A method of operating a waterjet cutting system is also provided.

Abstract: A cutting head of a waterjet cutting system is provided having an environment control device and a measurement device. The environment control device is positioned to act on a surface of a workpiece at least during a measurement operation to establish a measurement area on the surface of the workpiece substantially unobstructed by fluid. The measurement device is positioned to selectively obtain information from within the measurement area indicative of a position of the cutting head relative to the workpiece. A control system is further provided and operable to position the cutting head relative to the workpiece at a standoff distance based at least in part on the information indicative of the position of the cutting head relative to the workpiece obtained by the measurement device. A method of operating a waterjet cutting system is also provided.