Renishaw Plc

Kevin Tett

John Charles Ould

Sam Hawke Whale

Matthew James Powley

Alexander Edward Kane

A method of finding a feature of an object using an analog probe mounted on a machine tool. The method includes the analog probe and/or object following a course of motion which causes the analog probe's surface sensing region to traverse across the feature to be found a plurality of times while approaching the feature over successive traverses so as to ultimately arrive in a position sensing relationship with the feature so as to collect scanned measurement data about the feature along at least part of a traverse.

Method of finding a feature using a machine tool

A method of finding a feature of an object using an analogue probe mounted on a machine tool. The method includes the analogue probe and/or object following a course of motion which causes the analogue probe's surface sensing region to traverse across the feature to be found a plurality of times whilst approaching the feature over successive traverses so as to ultimately arrive in a position sensing relationship with the feature so as to collect scanned measurement data about the feature along at least part of a traverse.

A machine tool program editor is used to insert auxiliary operations e.g. measurement, process control and program logic into a CNC work producing program. The editor has representations of the operations which can be placed in the correct position in the program. User input in the form of parameters is prompted when a representation is selected. The program is post processed and run on a machine tool whereat the operations are performed.

Generation of a CNC machine tool control program

A method is described for measuring a workpiece on a machine tool using an analogue probe having a deflectable stylus. The method comprises the step of taking a workpiece having a nominal surface profile, the workpiece being located within the working area of the machine tool. The machine tool is used to move the analogue probe along a predetermined (known) measurement path relative to the workpiece whilst deflection of the stylus is measured. The analogue probe is moved relative to the workpiece at a speed greater than five millimeters per second and the predetermined measurement path is selected to provide intermittent contact between the stylus and the workpiece.

Method for measuring a workpiece using a machine tool

A machine tool control process employs an N.C. and separate software e.g. operating either in a separate processor or within the N.C. Sub-programs generated by the software may be introduced into the N.C. during pauses in the N.C. e.g. for measurement type inspection or re-configuring the paths of cutting tools. The generation of the sub-programs may be carried out while the N.C. is operating.

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Kevin Tett