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Point Nine Co., Ltd. / “DigiPro ATTACH”: A New-Generation Digital Zoom and CAM System for Profile Grinding and Form Grinding Machines
➀Purpose
Profile grinding requires operators to align the workpiece while viewing a projection screen, making it a highly skilled process that tends to rely heavily on individual expertise, which in turn slows down the transfer of technical knowledge. Furthermore, as some workpieces have emerged that cannot be accommodated by the magnification capabilities of the projection screen, we aim to digitize the profile grinding process.
②Key Points for Implementation
・The CCD camera can display the workpiece at a maximum magnification of 350x.
・It can be installed on existing profile grinding machines without any modifications,
and the existing projector can be used as-is.
・Machining simulations can be performed using CAD data and registered grinding wheel profiles,
enabling high-precision machining even with worn grinding wheels.
・Post-machining workpieces can be aligned with CAD data for on-machine measurement.
③Examples
By registering the grinding wheel profile and generating a contouring path based on CAD lines and the wheel’s shape,
the system was installed on a profile grinding machine for cylindrical parts. Through image processing, it clearly projected the edges of the workpiece—which are difficult to visualize with a projector—resulting in a dramatic improvement in machining accuracy.
④Results
・The edges of the workpiece were clearly visible.
・Since the position of the grinding wheel could be confirmed during the initial grinding required to register the wheel profile,
the starting position of the grinding wheel could be determined with precision.
・Even operators with limited experience were able to easily achieve machining accuracy in the low microns range when machining large-diameter cylinders.
Recommended for those facing these concerns or challenges
We want to simplify machining on profile grinding machines. We want to address the shortage of operators for profile grinding machines.
Here are the benefits you can expect from implementing this!
Digital technology can standardize the intuitive machining processes that rely on experience.
・Stable machining accuracy
・Even inexperienced operators can quickly become key members of the production team
・Workpieces that are difficult to see with a projector can be viewed more clearly, improving machining accuracy
・On-machine measurement leads to improved quality and shorter processing times
