Case Study 4

Client:

Leading Manufacturer of High Precision Measuring Equipment. This case study is an example of work carried out whilst working for Taylor Hobson Precision.

Brief:

To design a special fixture plate to allow all individual main bearings and crankshaft journals to be located on the instrument spindle axis. This would enable fast and accurate measurement of large throw crankshafts on the highly acclaimed Taylor Hobson Talyrond 400. In addition, redesign the gauge arm assembly to permit crankshaft measurement by increasing the instruments radial capacity for applications in the automotive industry.

Solution:

Advanced engineering design and extensive knowledge of workholding principles ensured the development of a simple yet effective solution in a very short timescale. An eccentric rotating indexing plate was designed, onto which the crankshaft was located.

A parallel development programme was undertaken to redesign the arm assembly as a removable add on, so that the Talyrond 400 could be used with the standard articulated arm for other applications. The entire solution was developed on CAD, helping to ensure minimum development times.

Summary:

Successful installation and commissioning of the new system was undertaken at the customer’s engine plant. The simplicity of operation and component recognition allows complex measurements to be undertaken reliably, and significantly reduces the time required to complete the whole measurement process.