Importance

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Abstract

An annular workpiece having an inner peripheral surface and an outer peripheral surface at least one of which is centered on a workpiece axis is ground by supporting the workpiece hydraulically on a liquid layer in a support for rotation about the axis, rotating the workpiece about the axis, and engaging a grinding tool radially against the one surface and thereby removing material from the one surface. A plurality of measuring shoes are supported at angularly equispaced locations about the axis and are urged radially toward the one surface. A jet of liquid is projected from each of the shoes against the one surface such that the liquid forms a layer supporting the shoes on the one surface and merges with the liquid supporting the workpiece. The radial positions of the shoes are monitored relative to the axis and the removal of material from the one surface by the grinding tool is controlled, either by varying grinding force or stopping grinding altogether, in accordance with the monitored radial positions.

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First Claim