Radio System Enables Machine Tool Setup, Inspection

Suitable for part setup and inspection on medium to large machining centers and mills, Marposs’ World Radio System includes a wireless touch probe, wireless tool setter and wireless bore gage, all of which communicate via a single radio frequency receiver.

The system features a 2.4-GHz transmission frequency band with a 15-m operating range. No line-of-sight is necessary between the receiver and transmitter, and communication is not affected by dusty environments or internal lamps on the machine, the company says. The system automatically searches for the best signal among the 79 available radio channels for optimum communication between the receiver and touch probe, tool setter or bore gage. Additional sub-channels enable the use of up to 12 devices on the same machine. The system’s receiver interface is capable of remote programming and features a four-digit display that enables ease of programming and checking the system.

The wireless bore gage is designed to speed and simplify bore inspection and dimensional control on machining centers. The gage is stored in the CNC tool magazine and loaded to the spindle by the tool changer. Each bore gage incorporates air blowoff, and the gage nosepiece has recoil for protection against accidental crashes. With its 0.5-micron accuracy, the bore gage can be used either vertically or horizontally.

A contact-type, wireless tool setter using the same radio frequency transmission receiver enables users to check tool conditions (including breakage), wear and integrity of cutting tools on the machine.