Design and characteristic research of contact probe for high-precision 3D thread-measuring machine

• Published in: International journal of advanced manufacturing technology Vol. 119; no. 3-4; pp. 2235 - 2245
• Main Authors: Yu, Jing, Lin, Xi-meng, Yang, Yan-ling, Cai, Jin-Hui
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: London Springer London 01.03.2022; Springer Nature B.V
• Subjects: CAE) and Design; Computer-Aided Engineering (CAD; Design; Diameters; Dynamic characteristics; Engineering; Error analysis; Finite element method; Industrial and Production Engineering; Mechanical Engineering; Media Management; Needles; Original Article; Percussion; Resonant frequencies; Scanning; Static characteristics; Structural optimization; Contact scanning probe; Micro-force probe model; Static and dynamic characteristics
• ISSN: 0268-3768; 1433-3015
• DOI: 10.1007/s00170-021-08345-z

A probe is an important part of high-precision thread-measuring machines. Probe design affects the ability of the machine to achieve precision. The development of three-dimensional (3D) thread-measuring machines has mandated strict requirements for matching measuring heads. A contact scanning probe offers the advantages of a relatively high measurement accuracy and stable performance. In this study, the structure of the scanning probe was designed. First, a micro-force probe model was established according to 3D thread characteristics. The “T”-shaped, ballpoint-pen-shaped needle was selected according to the characteristics of the detection hole and thread. Thereafter, the dimension parameters of the measuring ball, measuring bar, parallel spring plates, and other components were designed to enable the measuring head to meet the precision requirements. The flexural deformation of the measuring rod was analyzed to determine the appropriate length and diameter of the measuring rod. Finally, the effective static and dynamic characteristics of the head were demonstrated through finite element simulation and experimental measurements. In addition, the static characteristics of the probe were measured. The return error was 0.29 µm, and the repeatability error was 0.24 µm. The dynamic characteristics were tested using the percussion method, and the natural frequency was 180 Hz. These results help ensure the precision of the probe and improve the measuring precision of the machine.