Article From: 2/20/2008 Production Machining
The TC76 is a compact touch probe for measuring operations where a hard-wired probe is required. The machine-mounted touch probe takes full advantage of Blum's measuring system that incorporates optoelectric signal generation by light barrier, with its inherently precise non-lobing touch characteristics. Around the periphery of the device is an LED display giving the operator an optical indication of the trigger state; the probe data transmission is by way of a two-wire (two-pole) M16 × 1 interface.
The ability to use cranked styli with the touch probe optens up the prospects of applying the technology for a wider range of applications than with standard styli. In one application, the complete geometry of saw blades for wood cutting and a tool for metalcutting can be carried out simultaneously. Thsi is made possible by using two separate styli, one slightly angle to the probe center line and the second with a radia position to the center line. In addition, the system has a capability to measure wear of the grinding wheel with close-loop feedback to the grinding machine.
