Multi-use Active Tool Assembly with Programmable Wireless Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing tool assemblies for machining sheet workpieces, such as punch presses, often require multiple tools and additional steps for value-added features like marking, which can increase fabrication costs and complexity.

Innovation Solution

A tool assembly with an active tool configuration, including a microprocessor, functional head, power source, and user interface, allowing for programmable and wireless operation, enabling efficient and diverse machining operations, including marking and printing, both on machining apparatus and manually.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple tools are used for machining and value-added features, then the functionality is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The tool assembly integrates multiple functions including machining operations and value-added features such as marking and printing within a single tool structure. The functional head can perform different operations based on programmable instructions, eliminating the need for multiple separate tools and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining versatility

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines the machining functionality with value-added feature capabilities (marking, printing) into a single integrated tool assembly. The functional head merges multiple operational capabilities into one device, allowing simultaneous or sequential performance of different tasks without requiring separate tools or additional equipment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Adaptability or versatility

If additional steps are added for value-added features, then the functionality is improved, but the manufacturing process complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidmanufacturing process complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The tool assembly merges machining operations and value-added features (marking, printing) into a single integrated process. The functional head can switch between different operations based on programmable instructions, allowing all functions to be performed in one setup without requiring separate manufacturing steps or additional equipment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The tool assembly is pre-programmed with instructions for performing multiple operations including machining and value-added features. The microprocessor stores and executes pre-defined sequences, allowing the tool to automatically perform different functions without requiring manual intervention or additional setup steps during manufacturing

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of operation

If programmable and wireless operation is implemented, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of operationVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with electronic control systems. The microprocessor-based control system with wireless communication capabilities automates tool operations, allowing programming and control without physical contact. This substitution of mechanical control with electronic/wireless control improves ease of operation while the integrated design keeps complexity manageable

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

4Manufacturing precision

If multiple tools are used, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the loss of time increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemanufacturing precisionVSAvoidfabrication time

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The tool assembly merges multiple operational capabilities into a single device that can perform machining and value-added features without requiring tool changes or additional equipment. This integration maintains manufacturing precision for each function while eliminating the time required for switching between multiple tools or performing separate operations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS9507332B2Multi-use active tool assembly

Publication Date: 2016.11.29 WILSON TOOL INT INC

AI summary

A tool assembly incorporating active tool, whereby the assembly can be operated with a variety of machining apparatus but just as well can be manually operated by a user. The tool assembly in some uses can be used for printing, whereby one or more of a power source and an ink source can be configured as insertable/removable cartridges that can be used with the assembly. Additionally, in such case, an ink management module can be used with the tool assembly to regulate the flow of ink from the ink source to a functional head of the assembly. The tool assembly can also include a user interface, which, along with a communication module, can enable the assembly to be actuated directly or via wireless communication.