Robotic Tool Sharpening Using 3D Profiling and Adaptive Grinding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cutting tool sharpening machines often rely on 2D profiling and physical contact for sharpening, which limits their ability to accurately sharpen tools of various shapes and sizes, and may not efficiently automate the process.
Innovation Solution
A robotic system capable of 3D profiling and automated sharpening using a robot with multiple axes of motion, a gripping mechanism, force-torque sensors, and counter-rotating grinding wheels, which scans and grinds cutting tools to achieve precise sharpening regardless of shape or size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If 2D profiling and physical contact methods are used for sharpening, then the sharpening process is simple and straightforward, but the ability to accurately sharpen tools of various shapes and sizes is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from 2D profiling to 3D profiling by implementing a robotic system with multiple axes of motion (6-DOF robot arm) that can capture and process three-dimensional geometry data of cutting tools. This dimensional enhancement allows the system to accurately represent and sharpen tools of complex varying shapes and sizes, directly resolving the limitation of traditional 2D methods
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical contact-based sharpening machines with an automated robotic system that uses sensors (optical scanners, cameras, laser scanners) for profiling and robotic arms for precise positioning and sharpening execution. This substitution enables sophisticated 3D geometry capture and automated decision-making, significantly improving adaptability to various tool shapes while maintaining high sharpening precision
2Extent of automation
If traditional sharpening machines are used, then the device structure is simple, but automation capability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multi-functional robotic system that integrates several operations into a single automated platform: 3D scanning/profiling, tool identification, hollow grinding, edge sharpening, and quality verification. The robotic arm can perform multiple sharpening operations on various tool types, and the system automatically adapts its workflow based on detected tool characteristics, achieving high automation without proportionally increasing complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates automatic tool identification and classification capabilities where the robotic system itself determines the tool type, required sharpening parameters, and process sequence without human intervention. The automated feedback loops adjust sharpening parameters in real-time based on sensor data, enabling the system to self-optimize its performance while maintaining relatively simple operational interfaces
3Manufacturing precision
If 3D profiling and automated robotic sharpening are implemented, then sharpening precision and efficiency are improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses optical scanning and 3D profiling to create digital copies or virtual models of the cutting tool geometry before actual sharpening occurs. These digital twins allow for simulation, planning, and optimization of the sharpening path, enabling high precision sharpening while reducing the complexity of physical trial-and-error adjustments. The virtual model serves as a reference guide for the robotic execution, decoupling the complexity of precision control from the physical system
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system enables precise and efficient sharpening of cutting tools by capturing their 3D profiles, allowing for accurate grinding and hollowing, and automatically adjusting the grinding process to maintain consistent sharpness, reducing downtime and improving tool performance.
Implementation Method 1
counter-rotating grinding wheels, which scans and grinds cutting tools
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure describes systems, methods, and devices related to robotic control for tool sharpening. The device may determine a first location associated with a first cutting tool of the one or more cutting tools relative to the first container. The device may grip the first cutting tool based on the first location of the first cutting tool relative to the first container. The device may move the robotic device to one more scanning sensors. The device may collect three dimensional data. The device may extract a profile of the first cutting tool. The device may determine a top edge and a bottom edge based on the profile. The device may determine a tip of the first cutting tool. The device may generate a sharpening path based on the tip and the profile of the first cutting tool.