Can I install a dial indicator into a CNC spindle?

[GLOCKER]

I'd like to measure a complex-curved part in specific locations (I can write a seperate pgm for that) while the part is still on the CNC table. Our CNC machine has an auto-tool changer. I'm imagining a measurement device (dial indicator?) installed in one of the tool positions so that the final step of the program will grabs the dial indicator and measure the part at 6 pre-programmed locations.

I've seen "touch probes" while searching the net, but these units seem too complex for what I want to do.

I want to make the process more efficient and accurate by eliminating hand-measuring by operators.

Does such a "tool" exist?

Thanks.

 

[hippieguy]

You may be able to machine a holder/adapter that will fit an
indicator, but you will still need an operator on hand to record the measurements.

Guy G.
Mechanical Designer/Drafter
Tucson AZ.

 

[ctopher]

You may want to ask in a more appropriate forum. This is for SolidWorks.

Chris
SolidWorks 06 5.1/PDMWorks 06
AutoCAD 06
ctopher's home (updated 10-27-06)

 

[GLOCKER]

Thanks for the response Guy. I grew up in Tucson, I hope the weather's nice.

I thought about that: having a custom collet made and simply attaching a standard dial indicator to it.

I was just hoping that there was an existing sort of tool.

Sorry I couldn't fin a more appropriate forum to post this question. I am using Solidworks though

 

[fcsuper]

Kudos.

Matt
CAD Engineer/ECN Analyst
Silicon Valley, CA

http://sw.fcsuper.com/index.php

 

[rfus]

I've got a Mahr/Fedral that can be purchased on McMaster that will fit into a 3/8" collet (I use a Technics ER40 collet with an HSK type F toolholder).