Tools with orientation detection
US7170076B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 22, 2002 |
| Grant date | Jan 30, 2007 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 9, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T408/21
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A tool operates with a guide system to identify the orientation of a tool on a work piece. In one implementation, the tool identifies its orientation with respect to a guide signal supplied by the guide system. In an alternate embodiment, the tool determines its absolute orientation, such as a (x, y) coordinate. The tool includes an action component adapted to alter the work piece, such as a cutting head in a router. A guide detector in the tool detects a position of a guide signal from the guide system. A location detector in the tool receives the position data and employs it to determine the tool's orientation. Based on the detected orientation, the tool decides whether any tool adjustments are necessary. Examples of tool adjustments include the following: adjusting the position of the action component, enabling or disabling the action component, and providing operating indicators to direct a tool operator's use of the tool.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.