Thread Detection

[zaphod1]

Hi,
Does anyone know of a sensor or system that can verify if a hole is threaded? This is for poke-yoke purposes and the system or sensor needs to be adjustable or programmable for different parts/configuarations if possible.
Thanks

 

[dspDad]

Whats a poke-yoke? Is this a metal part, ferro-magnetic or not, how big, how deep? Are the threads like pipe threads or machine-screw threads?

DspDad

 

[zaphod1]

Hi,
Poke-Yoke is, as I understand it, a Japanese innovation and it simply implies error-proofing any process or function that requires a human to be involved. E.g. "Has that hole been tapped? If so let the part pass, if not reject the part for rework." This is typically done with sensors and a PLC or other controller that may or may not record information on the individual part. The parts are almost exclusively carbon steel and are typically less than 20mm thick. The holes to be tapped are typically less than 10 mm in diameter and are thru-holes (Internal machine threads).
I hope this helps.

 

[EdDanzer]

Try this site

http://www.mmsonline.com/mtg/SuppliersDatabase_result.cfm?zone=I+

The machining industry has these devices, I just can’t remember any manufactures.

 

[dspDad]

If you can hit the hole with an eddy current probe or even a magnetic transducer, you should see large oscillations as it passes over the threads. A PLC would be able to discern the difference between a threaded and non-threaded item. This requires inserting a probe through the hole which is somewhat messy.

Someone with process control background might have some better ideas. You might consider a post in another area of the forum.

DspDad