Adjustable Edge Break Apparatus for Composite Parts
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional edge break methods for composite parts, such as Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastics, are subjective and inconsistent, leading to variations in edge break angles and depths, which can result in parts not meeting specifications and potential scrapping due to incorrect chamfering.
Innovation Solution
An edge break apparatus with a frame and an edge break member that forms a predetermined angle, featuring a threaded aperture and incremental movement mechanism, allowing precise control over cutting depth and angle to ensure uniform edge breaks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual sanding with a sanding block is used, then the edge breaking process is simple and easy to operate, but the precision and consistency of edge break depth and angle vary significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by providing an adjustable cutting depth mechanism that allows the cutting member to be positioned at different depths relative to the workpiece surface. This enables precise control over the edge break depth parameter, eliminating the variability inherent in manual sanding while maintaining operational simplicity through the adjustment mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the cutting member adjustable and movable relative to the frame. The cutting depth can be dynamically changed during operation to accommodate different workpiece sizes and edge break requirements, while the predetermined angle between cutting members provides consistent geometric parameters throughout the process.
2Device complexity
If manual sanding with subjective touch feel is used, then the equipment complexity is low, but the reliability and consistency of meeting specifications deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-setting the angle between the first and second cutting members to a predetermined value before operation. This preliminary configuration ensures that the edge break angle meets specifications from the start, eliminating the need for subjective judgment during operation and improving reliability without significantly increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical sanding system with a controlled cutting system that uses a frame with predetermined geometric relationships between cutting members. This substitution eliminates the reliance on operator skill and touch feel, providing consistent, reliable results that meet specifications while maintaining reasonable device complexity.
3Manufacturing precision
If adjustable cutting depth mechanism is implemented, then the manufacturing precision of edge break depth is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the cutting system into distinct components: a frame structure, adjustable cutting members, and an adjustment mechanism. This segmentation allows the cutting depth precision function to be isolated and optimized independently, while the overall device complexity is managed through modular design where each component has a specific, simple function.
Data Source
AI summary
An edge break apparatus including a frame having a first workpiece interface surface, a second workpiece interface surface arranged relative to the first workpiece interface surface so as to form a predetermined angle between the first workpiece surface and the second workpiece surface, and a first aperture extending through the frame so as to intersect the predetermined angle, and an edge break member extending through and interfaced with the first aperture so as to adjustably define a cutting depth of the edge break member relative to an apex of the predetermined angle.