METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR MONITORING A MACHINING OPERATION IN REAL TIME

摘要

The invention relates to a high-precision method for monitoring, in real time, the state of tool-workpiece contact during machining operations and detection of tool breakage. A first embodiment of the invention relates to a method for monitoring the dynamic behavior of the cutting process of a machining operation, based on the measurement of the voltage drop between the cutting tool and the workpiece. The method is especially useful in micromachining operations although the general concept thereof is applicable to machining operations in general. A second embodiment relates to a system for monitoring machining operations in real time, said system fundamentally comprising: a sensor for determining the tool-workpiece potential drop, and processing means that receive the signal of the sensor and are suitable for carrying out the method according to the invention.