ActiveEdge™ is a cartridge-based boring system that, uniquely, uses wireless telemetry to enable precise adjustment of multiple cutting edges without touching the tool.

The engineering world increasingly requires not only greater consistency and tighter operating tolerances, but also greater levels of automation.

Combining enhanced levels of machining accuracy with hands-free operation or even - as is planned - closed-loop --machine-->gauge-->adjust-->machine-- production cycles, Rigibore®’s ActiveEdge™ technology stands to offer unprecedented advances in productivity.

Each ActiveEdge™ cartridge is adjustable to 1µm (.00004”) on diameter over a range of 0.6mm (.024”). Up to eight cartridges can be fitted to a single boring bar.

It is envisaged that, when linked to a gauging station or CMM, it will eventually be possible to have adjustments occur automatically, without the need for manual intervention or contact with the tool.

The system incorporates one or several ActiveEdge™ cartridges that include both a mechanism to adjust the cutting edge and an adjustment sensor to regulate any necessary corrections with.

Combined with a radio-link and battery holder located in the yoke, the bar can then receive commands from – and confirm any alterations made to – a control station in charge of any given boring process.

In the near future, introduction of a gauging tool into the system will allow a closed-loop or near closed-loop scenario: a control station will automatically be able to send correctional instructions to the ActiveEdge™ bar as and when advised to by a gauging system, and then also automatically resume boring operations.

By delivering improved accuracy with outstanding, hands-free operator ease-of-use within the context of an automated or near-automated system this promises a revolutionary means of enhancing productivity.

Because ActiveEdge™ is battery-powered it can be fitted to any type of boring bar shank. As with Smartbore ™, this flexibility removes the necessity for machine spindle modification and means that ActiveEdge™ bars can be carried in a standard magazine and tool management system.

Key technical data:

• Minimum Bore: 32mm on diameter
• Adjustment resolution on diameter: 1µm /.00004”
• Relative accuracy > 95% over adjustment range
• Adjustment range: 0.6mm/.024” on diameter
• Up to 8 ActiveEdge cartridges per tool for multiple bore machining
• Designed to suit any application/fit any machine spindle.
• Cartridges exhibit excellent repeatability and rigidity (adjustment mechanism incorporates a constantly applied preload)

Download a brochure on ActiveEdge™ here