Smartbore is a digital solution to an analogue problem that electronically measures the real-time movement of boring inserts to an accuracy of 1 micron on diameter. The device can operate over a range of diameters, with Smartbore Nano covering bore diameters of 0.5 to 16 mm, Smartbore Plus currently spanning bores from 15 to 31 mm, and Smartbore Cartridges taking care of bores from 28 mm upwards.
Using patented digital technology, Smartbore is a combination of the cutting tool (boring bar or cartridge), along with the hand-held Smartbore Adjuster, which contains a rechargeable power source and the electronics necessary to display the adjustment reading on the LCD. Using Smartbore, boring tools can be adjusted in the spindle without the need to unclamp and clamp the cutting edge, with the digital readout on the Smartbore Adjuster confirming the new size. The swivel design of the Smartbore Adjuster makes it suitable for use on horizontal or vertical spindles, as the display can be orientated accordingly.
Eliminating the potential for human error is a major advantage when working with fine tolerances, and Smartbore delivers on this front as there can be no ambiguity with the digital measurement that it provides. This factor is particularly important on small diameter bores, where the Smartbore Nano boring head plays a vital role. Unlike other digital boring heads, Rigibore says that the delicate and bulky display electronics are kept out of the machining environment, with all these elements contained within the Smartbore Adjuster rather than the boring head itself. Only one adjuster is required for multiple Smartbore installations.
The Smartbore Plus modular system has increased flexibility with the advantage of coarse and fine adjustment capabilities. As a result, tools can be set quickly and accurately across a range of bore sizes with an adjustment range of 3.5 mm on diameter. Once the coarse adjustment has been made, the Smartbore Adjuster completes the process, delivering micron adjustment.
Smartbore cartridges provide the same micron level of adjustment as the other two Smartbore systems, but add versatility as they can be integrated into special tooling solutions. Rigibore’s in-house design software enables the company to create solutions that allow multiple bores to be machined simultaneously, all of which can be quickly and easily adjusted using a single Smartbore Adjuster without removing the tool from the machine spindle.
