Published 9/6/2012

Multiple Tool Setting and Inspection Probing for Machine Tools

Renishaw's RMI-Q multiple-probe radio transmission system uses a single radio receiver for tool-setting probe and spindle-mounted touch probe installations.

Edited by: MMS Editorial Team

Renishaw's RMI-Q multiple-probe radio transmission system uses a single radio receiver for tool-setting probe and spindle-mounted touch probe installations. The system provides a cable-free machine environment, and it can be quickly be integrated on a range of machining centers and CNC milling machines. The RMI-Q provides automated on-machine tool setting, tool breakage detection, part setup and part verification capability. As many as four separate radio transmission probes can be operated on the same CNC machine.

The system is used to activate either the spindle-mounted touch probe or table-mounted tool setting probe, giving visual indication of the activated device. It features the 2.4-GHz frequency hopping spread spectrum (FHSS) radio transmission, enabling uninterrupted operation in busy radio environments. The system is designed for applications that have obscured line-of-sight to the probe, and its15-m transmission range is said to be well-suited for large machines. The system enables easy acquisition using a simple macro to partner all required probes to the interface in a single operation. When used in conjunction with an RTS and radio spindle probe, it is possible for an automated calibration cycle to be run using the RTS stylus as the calibration artifact.

The RTS tool setting probe with radio transmission is a compact and cable-free product that offers users broken tool detection combined with fast and accurate tool measurement. Its design is said to be well-suited for machines with twin pallets or rotary tables. The RTS can measure both tool length and diameter of milling cutters, twist drills and end mills.

Powered by two standard AA batteries, it is compatible with the company’s RMP60 and RMP600 spindle probes. The RTS can be used in conjunction with as many as three other radio probes using the RMI-Q and is also compatible with the RMI product.

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