Radio Probe can hop 50 channels per second.
Press Release Summary:
Machine Tool Probe, Model RMP60 features FHSS radio transmission for 5-axis, large part, and deep part machining operations where obstacles or part features can block transmission by optical line-of-sight probes. It hops transmission between multiple discrete 1 MHz channels to overcome any interference that may be present. Probe is suited for high-speed, single touch probing routines or double touch for controllers with high-speed skip option.
Original Press Release:
New Renishaw RMP60 Radio Probe Beats Interferences, Enhances Machining Process Control with Channel Hopping
System can hop 50 channels per second to assure real-time probing data and avoid interferences in "noisy" industrial environments
January 2004 - Latest Renishaw innovation, the new RMP60 machine tool probe features frequency-hopping spread spectrum (FHSS) radio transmission, an industry first. The FHSS technology enhances the robustness and versatility of radio probing for 5-axis, large part and deep part machining operations where obstacles or part features can block transmission by optical line-of-sight probes. The RMP60 system hops transmission between multiple discrete 1 MHz channels to overcome any interference which may be present. FHSS enables multiple probe systems and other industrial equipment to coexist with confidence in "noisy" industrial environments, particularly as wireless Wi-Fi communication proliferates on plant floors. Renishaw's innovative use of FHSS technology assures reliable transmission of real-time probe signals. The system synchronizes probe and receiver to hop channels together at an update rate of 50 times per second to find an open channel. Frequency hopping to an open channel allows RMP60 probes to be used on multiple machine tools in the same plant, or where earlier fixed-channel radio probes are already operating.
Renishaw has been a leading supplier of fixed-channel radio transmission probes, such as the MP16 and MP18. The radio probes have proven to be particularly effective in aerospace, construction and agricultural equipment and other manufacturing plants that produce very large, high value, complex geometry parts. Radio probe systems allow great flexibility in the positioning and orientation of the receiver, compared to optical systems which depend on line of sight.
The RMP60 provides the benefits of rapid part set-up and changeover, in-process control of critical component dimensions, and final part verification. The compact probe (63mm diameter x 76 mm length) can probe surfaces cut by the shortest tools in the machine's carousel, unlike longer probes that can be restricted by the upper limit of the machine's Z travel.
Compatible with a wide range of machine controllers, the RMP60 can be used with high-speed, single touch probing routines or double touch for controllers with a high-speed skip option. Like all Renishaw machine tool probes, it is sealed to withstand harsh machine tool environments, and is highly resistant to false triggering induced by shock and vibration.
The system consists of the RMP60 probe and RMI receiver. A signal is transmitted using a coded pattern of different frequencies shared by the probe transmitter and receiver. Once synchronized, the RMP60 and RMI frequency hop together to overcome any interference. The RMP60 operates in a band defined for industrial products which complies with radio regulations in the USA, European Union, Japan and many other countries world-wide.
The RMI combines antenna and interface, eliminating need for mounting a separate enclosure in the control cabinet. Simplified conduit routing allows fast, easy installation, making the RMP60 highly suitable for retrofitting to existing machines.
For more information on the RMP60, contact Dave Bozich, Product Manager - Machine Tool Probes, Renishaw Inc. Tel: 847-286-9953. Fax: 847-285-9974. Email: Dave.Bozich@Renishaw.com
Inquiries should be directed to:
Susan Wilm
Marketing Assistant
Renishaw Inc.
5277 Trillium Blvd.
Hoffman Estates IL 60192
