Intelligent tool measurement from GF AgieCharmilles

Measuring a tool accurately is sometimes hindered due to machined chips, debris or coolant remaining or sticking to a tool, the measurement results obtained by traditional technology (i.e. laser beam) can be at variance with reality resulting in the machine's control system being given incorrect tool measurement data. This problem can be solved in some instances by blasting the tool with air. But it is not a fail safe method, and giving tools one or more blasts does not guarantee their cleanliness. GF AgieCharmilles' ITM System, available on a range of the company's HSM (High-Speed Milling) machines, addresses this problem by providing optical tool measurement at full spindle speed. Image sensors on GF AgieCharmilles machines measure the tool and analyse attributes such as length, diameter, radius, tip quantity and quality. This data is compared against the real image of the tool, the values of which have been input previously. Such reference data enables the ITM system to digitally subtract the debris/contamination from the milling or drilling tool and to therefore determine its actual and accurate geometry - providing an absolute Z-reference in the micron range. GF AgieCharmilles ITM System was recognised at the Prodex Exhibition (Basel) in 2010, where it came first in the Prodex-Awards for innovation.