Shape measurement system for roller levelers

Abstract

In recent years, demand for precision flatness in coiled steel has increased. This increase in demand has placed a higher importance on the outcome of roller leveling. Roller leveling is the primary method of correcting flatness defects caused from rolling the steel. The goal of this work is two-fold. The first goal is to improve upon existing roller leveler shape systems by changing the method of measuring shape defects to a non-contact solution that is still inexpensive. The second goal is to provide the fundamental concepts required to use adaptive control techniques to improve upon the flatness of the outgoing material. Relatively inexpensive laser or ultrasonic distance sensors are used to measure relative change in distance to the material. The relative change in distance to the material is then used to measure the fiber length of material under each sensor. A proof of concept flatness measurement system is developed and was installed. Data from the test system is analyzed and found the method of measuring shape to be acceptable.