Bi-axial scanning device for following the outline of a template

摘要

A bi-axial scanning device for guiding a template copier for machine tools comprises a shaft carrying a scanner with a pointer at one end and adapted to assume a zero position and follow the shape of a plane profile from the zero position. A flat disc spring supports the shaft at an intermediate point for resilient pivoting. An optical device comprises a source of a calibrated light beam and a photo-detector arranged to receive the beam. Either the calibrated light beam or the photo-detector is in a fixed position and the other is displaceable with the pivoting of the shaft in response to the pointer in contact with the template, the displacement being detected by the photo-detector and producing control signals emitted from the photo-detector. An amplifier is connected to the photo-detector to receive the control signals and an outlet transmits the amplified control signals to the machine tools.