Sensors for Precision Force-Adaptive Grinding Systems

Input variables to the grinding process are distinguished from inputs to the grinding machine. Size and taper errors are shown to be caused by variations in wheel sharpness, threshold force, wheelwork conformity, initial stock and runout variations. The sharpness of the grinding wheel is defined and measured quantitatively to provide a means for the adaptive control to sense wheel dulling. Force sensors installed in the system permit the control to monitor elastic deflections in the system, and to eliminate size and taper errors caused by these deflections. Runout or out-of-round conditions can be monitored during the grinding operation.