PROCEDURE FOR MEASURING A MEASURED VARIABLE IN A PROCESS STEP OF A MANUFACTURING PROCESS AND MEASUREMENT CHAIN FOR CARRYING OUT SAID PROCEDURE

Abstract

A procedure for measuring a measured variable in a process step of a manufacturing process uses a measurement chain with an evaluation unit and a plurality of measurement units having a sensor, a converter unit and a secondary antenna. The evaluation unit has a primary antenna. A measurement unit is positioned for measuring the measured variable and automatically coupled to the evaluation unit by establishing a transmission connection between the secondary antenna and the primary antenna. The sensor automatically generates measurement signals indicative of the measured variable. The converter unit automatically converts the measurement signals into measurement data, which the secondary antenna automatically transmits to the primary antenna.

Claims

1. A method for using a measurement chain, which includes an evaluation unit and a plurality of measurement units, for measuring a measured variable occurring in a process step of a manufacturing process and resulting from an interaction of a machine tool and a workpiece during the manufacturing process, wherein the evaluation unit includes a primary antenna, wherein each of the respective measurement units includes a respective sensor, a respective converter unit and a respective secondary antenna, the method comprising the following steps: disposing the workpiece and a tool of the machine tool relative to each other so that a measurement unit is positioned in a measuring position for measuring the measured variable; establishing a transmission connection between the respective secondary antenna of the respective measurement unit and the primary antenna so as to automatically couple the respective positioned measurement unit with the evaluation unit; using a respective sensor of the respective positioned measurement unit to automatically generate measurement signals representing the measured variable; using a respective converter unit of the respective positioned measurement unit to automatically convert the measurement signals into measurement data; and automatically transmitting the measurement data by the respective secondary antenna of the respective positioned measurement unit to the primary antenna.

2. A machine tool comprising: a measurement chain which includes an evaluation unit and a plurality of measurement units for measuring a measured variable occurring in a process step of a manufacturing process and resulting from an interaction of the machine tool and a workpiece during the manufacturing process, wherein the evaluation unit includes a primary antenna; wherein each of the respective measurement units includes a respective sensor, a respective converter unit and a respective secondary antenna; wherein each of the respective measurement units is configured to be positioned in a measuring position where the respective measurement unit can be coupled to the evaluation unit for establishing a transmission connection between the respective secondary antenna and the primary antenna.

3. The machine tool according to claim 2, wherein the primary antenna generates an electromagnetic alternating field and transmits the electromagnetic alternating field; wherein a range of the electromagnetic alternating field is limited in such a way that only those respective measurement units that are completely positioned in the measuring position are able to receive the electromagnetic alternating field.

4. The machine tool according to claim 3, wherein as soon as and as long as the respective secondary antenna receives the electromagnetic alternating field, the respective measurement unit is supplied with electrical energy; and wherein the respective measurement unit is configured to be supplied with sufficient electrical energy to operate the respective measurement unit within a ready for operation time of 100 ms, preferably within a ready for operation time of 20 ms.

5. The machine tool according to claim 4, wherein the secondary antenna is configured to establish the transmission connection to the primary antenna when the respective measurement unit is ready for operation, wherein the respective secondary antenna is configured to transmit an identification number unambiguously identifying the measurement unit to the primary antenna; wherein the primary antenna is configured to receive an identification number and forward the identification number to the evaluation unit; and wherein the evaluation unit is configured to identify the respective measurement unit on the basis of the received and transmitted identification number.

6. The machine tool according to claim 2, wherein the machine tool includes a plurality of tool holders; wherein each respective tool holder is configured to accommodate a tool; wherein each measurement unit is associated with each respective tool holder; wherein a respective sensor of the respective measurement unit associated with the respective tool holder is arranged at each respective tool holder; wherein for a respective measurement unit positioned in the measuring position, the respective sensor of the respective measurement unit positioned in the measuring position is configured to measure the measured variable that acts onto the tool during a process step; and wherein the respective converter unit and the respective secondary antenna of the respective measurement unit are arranged at a spatial distance from the respective sensor.

7. The machine tool according to claim 6, further comprising a turret that is configured to be rotatable about a longitudinal axis; wherein the respective tool holders are arranged on the turret and configured to be rotated with the turret about the longitudinal axis of rotation; and wherein the turret is configured so that rotating the turret about the axis of rotation facilitates sequential positioning of the tools on the workpiece one after the other in time.

8. The machine tool according to claim 2, further comprising a plurality of respective clamping units; wherein each respective clamping unit is configured to accommodate a respective workpiece; a respective measurement unit is disposed in association with each respective clamping unit; wherein a respective sensor of the respective measurement unit is associated with the respective clamping unit and is disposed at each respective clamping unit; wherein for a measurement unit positioned in the measuring position, the respective sensor of the respective measurement unit positioned in the measuring position is configured to measure the measured variable that acts onto the respective workpiece during a process step; and wherein the respective converter unit and the respective secondary antenna of the respective measurement unit are arranged at a spatial distance from the respective sensor.

9. The machine tool according to claim 8, further comprising a carrier unit; and wherein each of the plurality of clamping units is configured to be changeably attached to the carrier unit.

10. The machine tool according to claim 2, further comprising a plurality of changeable heads; wherein each respective one of the plurality of changeable heads is configured to accommodate a respective tool of a plurality of tools; wherein a measurement unit is associated with each respective changeable head; wherein a sensor of the measurement unit associated with the changeable head is arranged at each changeable head; wherein for a measurement unit positioned in the measuring position, the sensor of the measurement unit positioned in the measuring position is configured to measure the measured variable that acts onto the tool during a process step; and wherein the converter unit and the secondary antenna of the measurement unit are arranged at a spatial distance from the sensor.

11. The machine tool according to claim 10, wherein the machine tool is an industrial robot that includes a manipulator; and wherein each of the plurality of changeable heads is configured to be changeably attached at the manipulator.

12. The machine tool according to claim 6, further comprising a primary housing and a secondary housing, wherein the converter unit and the secondary antenna are arranged in the secondary housing; wherein the primary antenna is arranged in the primary housing; and wherein the secondary housing and the primary housing are configured to be movable relative to each other.

13. The machine tool according to claim 12, for a measurement unit positioned in the measuring position, the secondary housing of the measurement unit positioned in the measuring position is positioned at a transmission distance from the primary housing, which transmission distance is configured to be conducive to transmission of signals between the primary antenna and each of the secondary antennas.

14. The machine tool according to claim 13, wherein the primary antenna is configured to generate an electromagnetic alternating field; and wherein the transmission distance between the secondary housing of the measurement unit positioned in the measuring position and the primary housing is disposed within the range of a detectable magnitude of the electromagnetic alternating field.

15. The machine tool according to claim 6, wherein each sensor is a piezoelectric sensor that includes piezoelectric material; wherein when the measured variable acts onto the piezoelectric material in the form of tensile and/or compressive loads and under the action of the measured variable then the piezoelectric material is configured to generate measurement signals in the form of electrical charge; wherein the converter unit includes a charge amplifier that is configured to amplify the electrical charge of the piezoelectric sensor to become an amplified charge; wherein the charge amplifier is configured to convert the amplified charge into an electrical voltage; wherein the converter unit is configured to digitize the electrical voltage into measurement data; wherein the piezoelectric sensor is configured to measure the measured variable with a high dynamic measurement resolution of up to 35 kHz; and wherein the secondary antenna is configured to transmit the measurement data to the primary antenna at a transmission rate of up to 424 kBit/s.

16. The machine tool according to claim 6, wherein the sensor is a piezoelectric sensor that includes piezoelectric material; wherein when the measured variable acts onto the piezoelectric material in the form of tensile and/or compressive loads and under the action of the measured variable then the piezoelectric material is configured to generate measurement signals in the form of electrical charge; wherein the converter unit includes a charge amplifier that is configured to amplify the electrical charge of the piezoelectric sensor to become an amplified charge; wherein the charge amplifier is configured to converts the amplified charge into an electrical voltage; wherein the converter unit is configured to digitize the electrical voltage into measurement data; wherein the converter unit is configured to generate unit data that indicates the unit of the measured variable for which the converter unit has converted and digitized measurement signals into measurement data; wherein the measurement unit includes a data memory unit that stores serial number data of the converter unit; wherein the converter unit is configured to read out calibration data of the sensor from the data memory unit of the measurement unit; wherein that the converter unit reads out serial number data of the converter unit from the data memory unit; and wherein the secondary antenna is configured to transmit the unit data, the calibration data and the serial number data together with the measurement data to the primary antenna.

17. The method according to claim 1, wherein the machine tool is a lathe that is adapted to machine a workpiece by a plurality of tools in a plurality of process steps in a chronological sequence, and further comprising the step of positioning a tool on the workpiece in each process step, wherein a measurement unit is associated with each tool.

18. The method according to claim 1, wherein the machine tool is a clamping system that includes a carrier unit and a plurality of clamping units, wherein each one of the plurality of clamping units is changeably mounted on the carrier unit.

19. The method according to claim 1, wherein the machine tool is an industrial robot that includes a manipulator and a plurality of changeable heads, wherein each of the plurality of changeable heads is configured to be changeably mounted on the manipulator by a coupling means that is configured to be changed on the manipulator within a setup time of 500 ms.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] In the following, the will be explained in more detail by way of example with reference to the Figures in which:

[0018] FIG. 1 shows a flow chart of procedural steps of the procedure for measuring a measured variable MG in a process step of a manufacturing process;

[0019] FIG. 2 shows in a perspective view, a portion of a first embodiment of a measurement chain 1 for carrying out the procedure according to FIG. 1 where the measurement chain 1 is part of a first machine tool 3;

[0020] FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of the first machine tool 3 according to FIG. 2 taken in the direction of the arrows designated A-A along the chain-dashed line in FIG. 2;

[0021] FIG. 4 shows in a perspective view, a portion of a second embodiment of a measurement chain 1 for carrying out the procedure according to FIG. 1 where the measurement chain 1 is a component of a second machine tool 4;

[0022] FIG. 5 shows a portion of the second machine tool 4 according to FIG. 4 in cross-section taken in the direction of the arrows designated B-B along the chain-dashed line in FIG. 4;

[0023] FIG. 6 shows in a perspective view, a portion of a third embodiment of a measurement chain 1 for carrying out the procedure according to FIG. 1 where the measurement chain 1 is a component of a third machine tool 4; and

[0024] FIG. 7 shows a portion of the third machine tool 4 according to FIG. 6 in cross-section taken in the direction of the arrows designated C-C along the chain-dashed line in FIG. 6.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

[0025] FIG. 1 shows a flowchart of procedural steps of the procedure for measuring a measured variable MG in a process step of a manufacturing process. The measured variable MG is a force, a torque, a bending moment, an acceleration, a vibration, etc.

[0026] A measurement chain 1 comprising a plurality of measurement units 10, 10, 10 and an evaluation unit 20 is used for carrying out the procedure for measuring a measured variable MG in a process step of a manufacturing process. FIGS. 2 to 7 show portions of three embodiments of a measurement chain 1 for carrying out the procedure. First, the measurement chain 1 will be described in general terms. Afterwards, further details of the measurement chain 1 will be explained in sections dedicated to each of the three embodiments.

[0027] Each of the plurality of measurement units 10, 10, 10 comprises a sensor 11, 11, 11, a converter unit 12, 12, 12, and a secondary antenna 13, 13, 13. For example, the plurality of measurement units 10, 10, 10 include a first measurement unit 10 comprising a first sensor 11, a first converter unit 12, and a first secondary antenna 13, a second measurement unit 10 comprising a second sensor 11, a second converter unit 12, and a second secondary antenna 13, and a third measurement unit 10 comprising a third sensor 11, a third converter unit 12, and a third secondary antenna 13. The number of measuring units is not limited to these three 10, 10, 10 that are discussed in the following examples to explain the invention.

[0028] Each of the plurality of measurement units 10, 10, 10 comprises a secondary housing 17, 17, 17 schematically shown in FIGS. 3, 5 and 7 for example. Thus, a plurality of secondary housings 17, 17, 17 are present. For example, the plurality of secondary housings 17, 17, 17 comprise a first secondary housing 17 comprising a first secondary interior space 19 for accommodating the first converter unit 12 and the first secondary antenna 13, a second secondary housing 17 comprising a second secondary interior space 19 for accommodating the second converter unit 12 and the second secondary antenna 13, and a third secondary housing 17 comprising a third secondary interior space 19 for accommodating the third converter unit 12 and the third secondary antenna 13. Each of the plurality of secondary housings 17, 17, 17 is desirably made of mechanically resistant material such as sheet metal, plastics, etc.

[0029] In addition, the evaluation unit 20 comprises a primary housing 27 for accommodating a primary antenna 23. As schematically shown in FIG. 3 for example, the primary housing 27 defines a primary interior space 29. The primary antenna 23 is disposed in the primary interior space 29. The primary interior space 29 protects the primary antenna 23 from detrimental external conditions such as dirt, coolant, electromagnetic interference, etc. The primary housing 27 is also made of mechanically resistant material such as sheet metal, plastics, etc.

[0030] In a first step of the procedure schematically represented in FIG. 1, the positioning I of one of the plurality of measurement units 10, 10, 10 in a measuring position 15 for measuring the measured variable MG is carried out. The measurement unit 10, 10, 10 is moved to the measuring position 15 and is left in this measuring position 15 during the process step.

[0031] A second step of the procedure schematically represented in FIG. 1 involves automatically coupling II the positioned measurement unit 10, 10, 10 with the evaluation unit 20 by establishing a transmission connection between the secondary antenna 13, 13, 13 and the primary antenna 23.

[0032] For this coupling II of the positioned measurement unit 10, 10, 10 with the evaluation unit 20, the primary antenna 23 generates an electromagnetic alternating field EW and radiates the electromagnetic alternating field EW. In FIGS. 3 and 5, the electromagnetic alternating field EW is represented by curved circle segments. Preferably, the electromagnetic alternating field EW has a frequency of 125 kHz. The range of the electromagnetic alternating field EW is limited in such a way that only the secondary antenna 13, 13, 13 of a measurement unit 10, 10, 10 that is fully positioned in the measuring position 15 is able to receive the electromagnetic alternating field EW.

[0033] As soon as and as long as the secondary antenna 13, 13, 13 receives the electromagnetic alternating field EW, electrical energy is supplied to the measurement unit 10, 10, 10. Preferably, the secondary antenna 13, 13, 13 is an induction coil having several turns and a capacitor. The electromagnetic alternating field EW induces an electrical voltage in the induction coil, which electrical voltage charges the capacitor with electrical energy. The electrical energy is used for operating the measurement unit 10, 10, 10. With the capacitor charged, the measurement unit 10, 10, 10 is supplied with sufficient electrical energy for operating the measurement unit 10, 10, 10. Preferably, the capacitor is charged within a ready for operation time BT of 100 ms, preferably within a ready for operation time BT of 20 ms.

[0034] When the measurement unit 10, 10, 10 is ready for operation, the secondary antenna 13, 13, 13 establishes a transmission connection to the primary antenna 23. Preferably, the establishing of the transmission connection to the primary antenna 23 occurs immediately after the measurement unit 10, 10, 10 has reached the ready for operation status. For establishing the transmission connection to the primary antenna 23, the secondary antenna 13, 13, 13 transmits an identification number ID to the primary antenna 23. The identification number ID is stored in a data memory of the measurement unit 10, 10, 10. Preferably, the data memory is arranged in the converter unit 12, 12, 12. The identification number ID identifies the measurement unit 10, 10, 10 in an unambiguous manner. The primary antenna 23 receives the identification number ID. In FIGS. 3 and 5, the transmission of the identification number ID is shown as curved circle segments. The primary antenna 23 forwards the identification number ID to the evaluation unit 20. The evaluation unit 20 identifies the measurement unit 10, 10, 10 on the basis of the received and transmitted identification number ID. With receiving the identification number ID and identifying the measurement unit 10, 10, 10, the coupling II of the positioned measurement unit 10, 10, 10 with the evaluation unit 20 is completed.

[0035] In a third step of the procedure schematically represented in FIG. 1, automatic generation 11 of measurement signals MS by the sensor 11, 11, 11 of the positioned measurement unit 10, 10, 10 occurs under the action of the measured variable MG.

[0036] The sensor 11, 11, 11 is adapted to detect the measured variable MG and to generate measurement signals MS for the measured variable MG detected. The sensor 11, 11, 11 detects and generates a measurement signal MS per time unit. The time unit may be one millisecond (ms), 100 microseconds (100 s), etc. The reciprocal of the time unit is the dynamic measurement resolution. Thus, the sensor 11, 11, 11 generates a sequence of measurement signals MS in time where each measurement signal MS has a magnitude and a time.

[0037] The sensor 11, 11, 11 may be a piezoelectric sensor, a piezoresistive sensor, a strain gauge, and the like. Each sensor 11, 11, 11 includes a signal cable 14, 14, 14 schematically represented in FIGS. 2-7 for example. The signal cable 14, 14, 14 is configured for transmitting the measurement signals MS to the converter unit 12, 12, 12.

[0038] Preferably, the sensor 11, 11, 11 is a piezoelectric sensor. The piezoelectric sensor comprises piezoelectric material such as quartz, piezoceramics, etc. The measured variable MG acts onto the piezoelectric material in the form of tensile and/or compressive loads. Under the action of the measured variable MG, the piezoelectric material generates measurement signals MS in the form of electrical charge. The amount of electrical charge is proportional to the numerical value of the measured variable MG. According to FIGS. 3, 5 and 7, the piezoelectric sensor is mechanically preloaded with a preload force by using preloading means 16, 16, 16 such as a screw, a sleeve, etc. Due to this mechanical preloading, the piezoelectric material is able to detect both tensile and compressive loads. The piezoelectric sensor is characterized by a high dynamic measurement resolution of up to 35 kHz.

[0039] In a fourth step of the procedure schematically represented in FIG. 1, an automatic conversion IV of the measurement signals MS by the converter unit 12, 12, 12 of the positioned measurement unit 10, 10, 10 into measurement data MD is performed.

[0040] The converter unit 12, 12, 12 is adapted to digitize the measurement signals MS to obtain measurement data MD. Preferably, the converter unit 12, 12, 12 for a piezoelectric sensor comprises a charge amplifier. The charge amplifier amplifies and converts the electrical charge of the piezoelectric sensor into an electric voltage. The converter unit 12, 12, 12 digitizes the electric voltage into measurement data MD. The magnitude and timing of the measurement signals MS is converted into a magnitude and timing of the measurement data MD and is digitized.

[0041] Preferably, the converter unit 12, 12, 12 is adapted to generate unit data ED denoting the unit of the measured variable MG for which the converter unit 12, 12, 12 has converted and digitized measurement signals MS into measurement data MD. For example, a measured variable MG being a force will have the unit Newton (N), a measured variable MG being a torque or a bending moment will have the unit Newtonmeter (Nm), and a measured variable MG being an acceleration or a vibration will have the unit acceleration due to gravity (g).

[0042] Preferably, the converter unit 12, 12, 12 is adapted to read calibration data KD of the sensor 11, 11, 11 from the data memory of the measurement unit 10, 10, 10, which sensor 11, 11, 11 has generated the measurement signals MS under the action of the measured variable MG. The calibration data KD specify the sensitivity of the sensor 11, 11, 11 as a function of the temperature at which the sensor 11, 11, 11 has generated the measurement signals MS. For a piezoelectric sensor, the calibration data KD may also specify the sensitivity of the sensor 11, 11, 11 as a function of the magnitude of the mechanical preloading force at which the sensor 11, 11, 11 has generated the measurement signals MS.

[0043] Preferably, the converter unit 12, 12, 12 is adapted to read serial number data SD of the converter unit 12, 12, 12 from the data memory of the measurement unit 10, 10, 10. The serial number data SD unambiguously identifies the converter unit 12, 12, 12 which converts and digitizes the measurement signals MS into measurement data MD.

[0044] Further, in a fifth step of the procedure schematically represented in FIG. 1, automatic transmission V of the measurement data MD by the secondary antenna 13, 13, 13 of the positioned measurement unit 10, 10, 10 to the primary antenna 23 is performed.

[0045] The secondary antenna 13, 13, 13 is adapted to transmit the measurement data MD to the primary antenna 23. Preferably, the secondary antenna 13, 13, 13 transmits the measurement data MD to the primary antenna 23 with a carrier frequency of 13.56 MHz and a high transmission rate SR of up to 1.6 MBit/s. Thus, the sensor 11, 11, 11 is able to measure the measured variable MG with high dynamic measurement resolution of up to 35 kHz and the secondary antenna 13, 13, 13 is able to transmit the measurement data MD to the primary antenna 23 at a resolution of up to 24 bit with a transmission rate SR of up to 1.6 MBit/s.

[0046] Preferably, the secondary antenna 13, 13, 13 is adapted to transmit the unit data ED, the calibration data KD and the serial number data SD together with the measurement data MD to the primary antenna 23.

[0047] Preferably, the evaluation unit 20 comprises a data memory with converter unit-specific data D12 stored therein. The converter unit-specific data D12 include for the converter units 12, 12, 12 of the measurement chain 1 a time constant of a converter unit 12, 12, 12, a noise of a converter unit 12, 12, 12, etc. The evaluation unit 20 is adapted to assign converter unit-specific data D12 of that converter unit 12, 12, 12 that has converted and digitized the measurement signals MS into measurement data MD to the serial number data SD transmitted with the measurement data MD. The evaluation unit 20 reads the assigned converter unit-specific data D12 from the data memory.

[0048] The evaluation unit 20 is adapted to evaluate the measurement data MD. For example, the evaluation unit 20 displays a graphical representation of the measurement data MD as a sequence in time where the ordinate indicates the magnitude of the measurement data MD and the abscissa indicates the time of the measurement data MD. When evaluating the measurement data MD, the evaluation unit 20 takes into account the unit data ED, the calibration data KD and the converter unit-specific data D12. Preferably, the evaluation unit 20 indicates the unit data ED in the graphical representation. Preferably, the evaluation unit 20 corrects the measurement data MD by the calibration data KD and by the converter unit-specific data D12. For example, the evaluation unit 20 multiplies the magnitude of the individual measurement data MD by the sensitivity of the sensor 11, 11, 11 as a function of the temperature and/or by the sensitivity of the sensor 11, 11, 11 as a function of the mechanical preloading force. For example, the evaluation unit 20 filters the measurement data MD by the time constant of the converter unit 12, 12, 12 and/or represents the noise of the converter unit 12, 12, 12 in the form of error bars in the graphical representation. All these measures increase the accuracy of the measurement of the measured variable MG.

First Embodiment

[0049] In the first embodiment according to FIG. 2, the measurement chain 1 is a component of a first machine tool 3 such as a lathe, a turret lathe, etc. Details of the first machine tool 3 are shown in FIG. 3. Preferably, the first machine tool 3 is a turret lathe comprising a turret 30 and a plurality of tool holders 31, 31, 31 arranged on the turret 30. The tool holders 31, 31, 31 are mounted on the turret 30 in a changeable manner. Preferably, as schematically shown in FIG. 3, the tool holders 31, 31, 31 are attached to the turret 30 by attaching means 32, 32, 32 such as screws, bolts, etc. The turret 30, tool holders 31, 31, 31 and attaching means 32, 32, 32 are made of mechanically resistant material such as steel, tool steel, etc.

[0050] Each tool holder 31, 31, 31 receives a tool 33, 33, 33. The tool 33, 33, 33 is also made of mechanically resistant material such as steel, tool steel, etc. Preferably, the tool 33, 33, 33 is clamped in the tool holder 32, 32, 32 by means of a clamping means 34, 34, 34 such as a screw, pin, etc. The tool 33, 33, 33 has a cutting blade made of a hard, solid and tough cutting material such as metal, ceramics, etc. FIG. 2 shows three tool holders 31, 31, 31 and three tools 33, 33, 33, for example. The three tool holders 31, 31, 31 and the three tools 33, 33, 33 comprise an arrangement or assembly that includes a first tool holder 31 that receives a first tool 32, a second tool holder 31 that receives a second tool 32, and a third tool holder 31 that receives a third tool 33.

[0051] The turret 30 is movably arranged on the first machine tool 3. On the first machine tool 3, the turret 30 is rotatable about a longitudinal axis Z in directions that are schematically depicted in FIG. 2 by a curved double arrow. By rotating the turret 30 about the longitudinal axis Z, the tools 33, 33, 33 can be positioned on a workpiece 2 one after the other in a time sequence. The workpiece 2 schematically shown in FIG. 2 desirably can be formed of any material such as metal, plastics, glass, etc. The workpiece 2 is processed by the tools 33, 33, 33 in several process steps in a chronological sequence. For each process step, first one of the tools 33, 33, 33 is positioned on the workpiece 2, and then the workpiece 2 is machined by the positioned tool 33, 33, 33. As shown in FIG. 2, the first tool 33 is positioned on the workpiece 2, for example. The measured variable MG to be measured acts onto the positioned tool 33, 33, 33 during machining. Preferably, a change of the tools 33, 33, 33 on the workpiece 2 occurs within a setup time of 500 ms.

[0052] A measurement unit 10, 10, 10 is assigned to each tool holder 31, 31, 31. According to FIG. 2, three tool holders 31, 31, 31 and three measurement units 10, 10, 10 are shown, for example. The three measurement units 10, 10, 10 comprise a first measurement unit 10 of a first tool holder 31, a second measurement unit 10 of a second tool holder 31 and a third measurement unit 10 of a third tool holder 31. Each measurement unit 10, 10, 10 comprises a sensor 11, 11, 11, a converter unit 12, 12, 12 and a secondary antenna 13, 13, 13.

[0053] According to FIG. 3, each tool holder 31, 31, 31 defines a recess 35, 35, 35 disposed internally of the respective tool holder 31, 31, 31. The sensor 11, 11, 11 of the measurement unit 10, 10, 10 associated with the tool holder 31, 31, 31 is arranged in the recess 35, 35, 35. Preferably, the recess 35, 35, 35 is located inside the tool holder 31, 31, 31 and the sensor 11, 11, 11 is completely accommodated within the recess 35, 35, 35. The recess 35, 35, 35 shields and protects the sensor 11, 11, 11 from detrimental external conditions such as dirt, coolant, electromagnetic radiation, etc. The tool holder 31, 31, 31 further defines a feedthrough which guides the signal cable 14, 14, 14 out of the recess 35, 35, 35 to the outside of the tool holder 31, 31, 31. The feedthrough is configured so as to be watertight.

[0054] Preferably, the secondary housing 17, 17, 17 is arranged on the turret 30. The secondary housing 17, 17, 17 is retained on the turret 30 by retaining means 18, 18, 18 such as screws, bolts, etc. The secondary housing 17, 17, 17 is arranged at a spatial distance from the sensor 11, 11, 11. Preferably, the secondary housing 17, 17, 17 is arranged at a constant spatial distance of less than/equal to 10 cm from the sensor 11, 11, 11.

[0055] When a tool holder 31, 31, 31 is changed on the turret 30, the tool holder 31, 31, 31 is changed together with the measurement unit 10, 10, 10 associated therewith. For this purpose, the tool holder 31, 31, 31 to be changed is removed from the turret 30 by loosening its attaching means 32, 32, 32, and the secondary housing 17, 17, 17 connected thereto by the signal cable 14, 14, 14 is removed by loosening its retaining means 18, 18, 18. Afterwards, the new tool holder 31, 31, 31 is attached to the turret 30 by its attachment means 32, 32, 32, and the secondary housing 17, 17, 17 connected thereto by the signal cable 14, 14, 14 is attached to the turret 30 by its retaining means 18, 18, 18. Changing the tool holder 31, 31, 31 together with the associated measurement unit 10, 10, 10 is accomplished quickly and easily.

[0056] According to FIG. 2, the first measurement unit 10 is positioned in the measuring position 15 and the first sensor 11 of the first measurement unit 10 detects the measured variable MG acting onto the first tool 33, for example.

[0057] While the sensors 11, 11, 11 and the secondary housings 17, 17, 17 are movably arranged on the first machine tool 3 since they are indeed rotatable on the turret 30 about the longitudinal axis Z, the primary housing 27 schematically shown in FIG. 3 has a stationary arrangement on the first machine tool 3. Preferably, the primary housing 27 is attached to the turret 30 by fastening means such as screws, bolts, etc. that are not shown in the Figure. Accordingly, each respective secondary housing 17, 17, 17 is movable with respect to the primary housing 27.

[0058] For a measurement unit 10, 10, 10 that is positioned in the measuring position 15 schematically shown in FIG. 2 for example, the first machine tool 3 is adapted to position the secondary housing 17, 17, 17 of the measurement unit 10, 10, 10 positioned in the measuring position 15 at a transmission distance 25 from the primary housing 27. Preferably, the transmission distance 25 between the secondary housing 17, 17, 17 of the measurement unit 10, 10, 10 positioned in the measuring position 15 and the primary housing 27 is equal to the range of the electromagnetic alternating field EW.

Second Embodiment

[0059] In the second embodiment according to FIG. 4, the measurement chain 1 is a portion of a second machine tool 4 such as a clamping system, a zero point clamping system, etc. Details of the second machine tool 4 are represented in FIG. 5. Preferably, the second machine tool 4 is a zero point clamping system comprising a carrier unit 40 and a plurality of clamping units 41, 41, 41. In each case, one of the plurality of clamping units 41, 41, 41 is changeably mounted on the carrier unit 40. The clamping units 41, 41, 41 can be changed without zero point loss in the zero point clamping system.

[0060] Preferably, the plurality of clamping units 41, 41, 41 are secured in clamping modules 46 of the carrier unit 40 by clamping means 42, 42, 42 such as pins, bolts, etc. According to FIG. 4, each of the plurality of clamping units 41, 41, 41 comprises four clamping means 42, 42, 42 that can be secured in four clamping modules 46 of the carrier unit 40, for example. After the clamping means 42, 42, 42 are inserted in the clamping modules 46, the clamping means 42, 42, 42 are held in place in the clamping modules 46 by positive locking such as by a spring force. Releasing of the attachment occurs pneumatically. Preferably, the clamping units 41, 41, 41 can be changed within a setup time of 500 ms. The carrier unit 40, the clamping units 41, 41, 41, the clamping means 42, 42, 42 and the clamping modules 46 are made of mechanically resistant material such as steel, tool steel, etc.

[0061] Each of the plurality of clamping units 41, 41, 41 accommodates a workpiece 2, 2, 2. The workpiece 2, 2, 2 is made of any material such as metal, plastics, glass, etc. Preferably, the workpiece 2, 2, 2 is clamped in the clamping unit 41, 41, 41 by a clamping means 44, 44, 44 such as a vice, a clamp, etc. According to FIG. 4, three clamping units 41, 41, 41 and three workpieces 2, 2, 2 are shown, for example. The three clamping units 41, 41, 41 and the three workpieces 2, 2, 2 comprise a first clamping unit 41 that accommodates a first workpiece 2, a second clamping unit 41 that accommodates a second workpiece 2, and a third clamping unit 41 that accommodates a third workpiece 2.

[0062] Thus, there are a plurality of workpieces 2, 2, 2. The second machine tool 4 is adapted to machine each of the plurality of workpieces 2, 2, 2 by a tool 43 schematically shown in FIG. 5 in a process step. For this purpose, the workpieces 2, 2, 2 accommodated in the clamping units 41, 41, 41 are sequentially positioned on the tool 43 of the second machine tool 4 in a chronological sequence, and then each positioned workpiece 2, 2, 2 is machined by the tool 43. According to FIG. 5, the tool 43 comprises a cutting blade made of a hard, solid and tough cutting material such as metal, ceramics, etc. During machining step, the measured variable MG to be detected acts on the positioned workpiece 2, 2, 2.

[0063] A measurement unit 10, 10, 10 is arranged at each of the plurality of clamping units 41, 41, 41. According to FIG. 4, three clamping units 41, 41, 41 and three measurement units 10, 10, 10 are shown, for example. The three measurement units 10, 10, 10 comprise a first measurement unit 10 associated with the first clamping unit 41, a second measurement unit 10 associated with the second clamping unit 41, and a third measurement unit 10 associated with the third clamping unit 41.

[0064] According to FIG. 5, the respective measurement unit 10, 10, 10 is positioned in the measuring position 15 and the respective sensor 11, 11, 11 of the respective measurement unit 10, 10, 10 detects the measured variable MG acting on the workpiece 2, 2, 2.

[0065] Preferably, the respective measurement unit 10, 10, 10 is clamped in the respective clamping means 44, 44, 44 together with the respective workpiece 2, 2, 2. As schematically shown in FIG. 5, the respective sensor 11, 11, 11 is clamped in a respective recess 45, 45, 45 in close spatial proximity to the respective workpiece 2, 2, 2. According to FIG. 5, the respective sensor 11, 11, 11 is clamped in direct mechanical contact with the respective workpiece 2, 2, 2.

[0066] Preferably, the secondary housing 17, 17, 17 is arranged on the clamping unit 41, 41, 41. Preferably, the respective secondary housing 17, 17, 17 is identical to a housing of the respective clamping unit 41, 41, 41 in certain regions. The respective secondary housing 17, 17, 17 is arranged at a spatial distance from the respective sensor 11, 11, 11. Preferably, the respective secondary housing 17, 17, 17 is arranged at a constant spatial distance of less than/equal to 10 cm from the respective sensor 11, 11, 11.

[0067] For changing a respective workpiece 2, 2, 2 held in the respective clamping unit 41, 41, 41, the respective clamping means 44, 44, 44 can be detached from the respective workpiece 2, 2, 2 to be changed and reconnected with a new workpiece 2, 2, 2. Preferably, the respective sensor 11, 11, 11 is left in the respective recess 45, 45, 45 during the change. Only the workpiece 2, 2, 2 is changed. Releasing and reestablishing the clamping of the workpiece 2, 2, 2 and the sensor 11, 11, 11 is simple and quick. Thus, the workpiece 2, 2, 2 can be changed while the sensor 11, 11, 11 and the secondary housing 17, 17, 17 with the converter unit 12, 12, 12 and the secondary antenna 13, 13, 13 remain on the clamping unit 41, 41, 41.

[0068] While the sensors 11, 11, 11 and the secondary housings 17, 17, 17 are arranged on the second machine tool 4 in a movable manner since they are indeed changeably attached to the carrier unit 40 by the clamping units 41, 41, 41, the primary housing 27 schematically shown in FIG. 5 is arranged on the second machine tool 4 in a stationary manner. Preferably, the primary housing 27 is identical with a housing of the carrier unit 40 in certain regions. The secondary housing 17, 17, 17 and the primary housing 27 are movable relative to each other.

[0069] As schematically shown in FIG. 5, a measurement unit 10, 10, 10 positioned in the measuring position 15, the second machine tool 4 is adapted to position the secondary housing 17, 17, 17 of the measurement unit 10, 10, 10 positioned in the measuring position 15 at a transmission distance 25 from the primary housing 27. Preferably, the transmission distance 25 is less than/equal to 10 mm. Preferably, the transmission distance 25 between the secondary housing 17, 17, 17 of the measurement unit 10, 10, 10 positioned in the measuring position 15 and the primary housing 27 is equal to the range of the electromagnetic alternating field EW.

Third Embodiment

[0070] In the third embodiment according to FIG. 6, the measurement chain 1 is a component of a third machine tool 5 such as an industrial robot, an industrial robot with changeable heads, etc. Details of the third machine tool 5 are shown in FIG. 7. Preferably, the third machine tool 5 is an industrial robot comprising a manipulator 50 and a plurality of changeable heads 51, 51, 51. Each of the plurality of changeable heads 51, 51, 51 is changeably mounted on the manipulator 50. Preferably, the changeable heads 51, 51, 51 are attached to the manipulator 50 by coupling means 52, 52, 52 such as connectors, media couplings, etc. As used herein, media couplings includes coupling apparatus that employs fluids such as pressurized air, whether positive or negative (i.e., vacuum) and hydraulic fluid. Preferably, the changeable heads 51, 51, 51 on the manipulator 50 can be changed within a setup time of 500 ms. The manipulator 50, the changeable heads 51, 51, 51 and the coupling means 52, 52, 52 are made of mechanically resistant material such as steel, tool steel, etc.

[0071] Each of the plurality of changeable heads 51, 51, 51 accommodates a tool 53, 53, 53. Referring to FIG. 6, three changeable heads 51, 51, 51 with three tools 53, 53, 53 are shown, for example. The three changeable heads 51, 51, 51 and the three tools 53, 53, 53 include a first changeable head 51 that accommodates a first tool 53, a second changeable head 51 that accommodates a second tool 53, and a third changeable head 51 that accommodates a third tool 53.

[0072] The first tool 53 schematically shown in FIG. 6 is embodied as a parallel gripper comprising two gripping arms 53.1, 53.2 between which a gripping force can be exerted. The gripping force is a measured variable MG.

[0073] The second tool 53 schematically shown in FIG. 6 is embodied as a magnetic gripper comprising two magnets 53.1, 53.2 between which a magnetic attraction force can be exerted. The magnetic attraction force is a measured variable MG.

[0074] The third tool 53 schematically shown in FIG. 6 is embodied as a suction gripper comprising a vacuum pump 53.1 and a suction device 53.2, which vacuum pump 53.1 is able to generate a vacuum and which suction device 53.2 is able to exert a suction force as a result of the vacuum. The suction force is a measured variable MG.

[0075] The third machine tool 5 is adapted to handle a workpiece 2 in a process step. The handling may be any type of handling and may be holding, transporting, processing, etc. In the example according to FIGS. 6 and 7, the first tool 53 grips an egg-shaped workpiece 2 by the gripping arms 53.1, 53.2. For this purpose, the first tool 53 exerts a gripping force acting between the gripping arms 53.1, 53.2 onto the workpiece 2. Due to the gripping force, the workpiece 2 is held by the first tool 53 and can be handled.

[0076] A respective measurement unit 10, 10, 10 is arranged at each of the plurality of changeable heads 51, 51, 51. According to FIG. 6, three changeable heads 51, 51, 51 and three measurement units 10, 10, 10 are shown, for example. The three measurement units 10, 10, 10 comprise a first measurement unit 10 associated with the first changeable head 51, a second measurement unit 10 associated with the second changeable head 51, and a third measurement unit 10 associated with the third changeable head 51.

[0077] Thus, according to FIGS. 6 and 7, the first measurement unit 10 is positioned in the measuring position 15 and the first sensor 11 of the first measurement unit 10 detects the gripping force acting on the first tool 53 as the measured variable MG.

[0078] According to FIG. 7, the first changeable head 51 defines a recess 35 that desirably is disposed internally of the first changeable head 51. The first sensor 11 of the first measurement unit 10 associated with the first changeable head 51 is arranged in the recess 35. Preferably, the recess 35 is located inside the first changeable head 51 and the first sensor 11 desirably is completely accommodated within the recess 35. The recess 35 protects and shields the first sensor 11 from detrimental external conditions such as dirt, coolant, electromagnetic radiation, etc. The first changeable head 51 desirably further defines a feedthrough which guides the signal cable 14 out of the recess 35 to the outside of the changeable head 51. The feedthrough is configured so as to be waterproof.

[0079] Preferably, the first secondary housing 17 schematically shown in FIG. 7 is arranged on the first changeable head 51. The first secondary housing 17 is fastened to the first changeable head 51 by fastening means such as screws, bolts, etc., not shown in the Figure. The first secondary housing 17 is arranged at a spatial distance from the first sensor 11. Preferably, the first secondary housing 17 is arranged at a constant spatial distance of less than/equal to 10 cm from the first sensor 11.

[0080] While the respective sensors 11, 11, 11 and the respective secondary housings 17, 17, 17 are movably arranged on the third machine tool 5 since they are indeed changeably secured with the tool heads 51, 51, 51 to the manipulator 50, the primary housing 27 is arranged at the third machine tool 5 in a stationary manner. Preferably, the primary housing 27 is retained in a stationary manner at the manipulator 50 by retaining means such as screws, bolts, etc., not shown in the Figure. The secondary housing 17, 17, 17 and the primary housing 27 are movable with respect to each other.

[0081] For a respective measurement unit 10, 10, 10 positioned in the measuring position 15, the third machine tool 5 is adapted to position the respective secondary housing 17, 17, 17 of the respective measurement unit 10, 10, 10 positioned in the measuring position 15 at a transmission distance 25 from the primary housing 27 schematically shown in FIG. 7. Preferably, the transmission distance 25 is less than/equal to 10 mm. Preferably, the transmission distance 25 between the respective secondary housing 17, 17, 17 of the respective measurement unit 10, 10, 10 positioned in the measuring position 15 and the primary housing 27 is equal to the range of the electromagnetic alternating field EW.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS

[0082] 1 measurement chain [0083] 2, 2 workpiece [0084] 3 first machine tool [0085] 4 second machine tool [0086] 5 third machine tool means [0087] 1, 10, 10 measurement unit [0088] 11, 11, 11 sensor [0089] 12, 12, 12 converter unit [0090] 13, 13, 13 secondary antenna [0091] 14, 14, 14 measurement signal cable [0092] 15 measuring position [0093] 16, 16, 16 preloading means [0094] 17, 17, 17 secondary housing [0095] 18, 18, 18 retaining means [0096] 19, 19, 19 primary interior space [0097] 20 evaluation unit [0098] 23 primary antenna [0099] 24 measurement data line [0100] 25 transmission distance [0101] 27 primary housing [0102] 29 primary interior space [0103] 30 turret [0104] 31, 31, 31 tool holder [0105] 32, 32, 32 attaching means [0106] 33, 33, 33 tool [0107] 34, 34, 34 clamping means [0108] 35, 35, 35 recess [0109] 40 carrier unit [0110] 41, 41, 41 clamping unit [0111] 42, 42, 42 clamping means [0112] 43 tool [0113] 44, 44, 44 clamping means [0114] 45, 45, 45 recess [0115] 46 clamping module [0116] 50 manipulator [0117] 51, 51, 51 changeable head [0118] 52, 52, 52 coupling means [0119] 53, 53, 53 tool [0120] 53.1, 53.2 gripping arms [0121] 53.1, 53.2 magnets [0122] 53.1 vacuum pump [0123] 53.2 vacuum pump [0124] I positioning [0125] II automatic coupling [0126] III automatic generating [0127] IV automatic converting [0128] V automatic transmitting [0129] BT ready for operation time [0130] D12 converter unit-specific data [0131] ED unit data [0132] EW electromagnetic alternating field [0133] ID identification number [0134] KD calibration data [0135] MG measured variable [0136] MD measurement data [0137] MS measurement signals [0138] SD serial number data [0139] SR transmission rate [0140] Z longitudinal axis