Apparatus and methods for z-axis control and collision detection and recovery for waterjet cutting systems
US6379214B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 25, 1999 |
| Grant date | Apr 30, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 25, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T83/364
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
This invention relates to apparatus and methods for z-axis control and collision detection and recovery for waterjet and abrasive-jet cutting systems. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a linear rail, a slide member coupleable to a cutting head and slideably coupled to the linear rail, at least one actuator having a first end coupled to the slide member and a second end fixed with respect to the linear rail, a position sensor, and a controller. The actuator provides an adjustable support force that supports the weight of the cutting head, allowing the cutting head to be controllably positioned at a desired height above the workpiece. The actuator may include a pneumatic cylinder, or alternately, a linear motor. In another aspect, an apparatus includes a first mount member coupleable to a controllably positionable mounting surface of the waterjet cutting system, a second mount member coupleable to the cutting head and disengageably coupled to the first mount member, and a sensing circuit having a plurality of first conductive elements disposed on the first mount member and a plurality of second conductive elements disposed on the second mount member. In the event of a collisio…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.