Adjustable Shavings Suction Headpiece for Edge Milling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current shavings suction devices in CNC machine tools are inefficient, leading to incomplete collection of shavings, increased energy consumption, and damage to products, particularly in woodworking where the suction speed decreases with distance from the suction opening, and existing solutions are not adaptable for various tool sizes and surface shapes.
Innovation Solution
A modular suction headpiece with a variable lower portion that can adjust to fit different workpieces, featuring a tangential suction tube and soft bristles for contact with the workpiece, allowing for efficient collection of shavings by maintaining a minimum distance from the milling cutter and accommodating various shapes, including convex 3D surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If spatial suction devices are used to collect shavings in CNC working stations, then a larger region can be suctioned, but the suction efficiency decreases and energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The suction device is segmented into multiple suction openings arranged around the milling tool, with each opening positioned at optimal distance to effectively capture shavings from different directions and regions
Solution Approach 2:
The suction device incorporates adjustable components that allow dynamic adaptation of the suction openings' positions and orientations based on the workpiece geometry and milling operation requirements
2Area of stationary object
If spatial suction devices are used to collect shavings in CNC working stations, then a larger region can be suctioned, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a single large suction device, the invention employs multiple localized suction openings positioned strategically around the tool, each creating focused air currents that efficiently capture shavings in their respective zones with lower energy requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The suction device utilizes optimized air flow patterns through multiple openings, creating effective pneumatic fields that capture shavings with reduced pressure differentials and lower energy consumption compared to traditional single-opening devices
3Area of stationary object
If the distance between the milling tool and the suction opening is increased, then the suction device can cover a larger area, but the collection efficiency of shavings decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The suction device is divided into multiple suction openings positioned at different radial distances from the tool axis, allowing each opening to operate at an optimal distance for capturing shavings while collectively covering a large area
Solution Approach 2:
The suction openings are arranged in a three-dimensional configuration around the milling tool, utilizing radial, axial, and angular positioning to simultaneously achieve close proximity for efficient capture and broad coverage area
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 headpiece achieves a collection efficiency of up to 100% of shavings, reduces energy consumption by minimizing air flow, and is adaptable for different machining operations, including edges and complex surfaces, while minimizing product damage and energy costs.
Implementation Method 1
The minimising of the distance between the milling tool and the suction opening improves the degree of collection of the shavings. The advantage in this case is that the flow of air may be reduced, as the shavings which fall close to the tool are better collected and conveyed via the air flow.
Data Source
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AI summary
Described is a shavings suction headpiece for a working tool, in particular for milling, which is able to suck the shavings produced by the milling of materials, in particular wood, more efficiently. The headpiece according to the invention is able to partially modify its shape to allow the milling of edges of work pieces whilst continuing to guarantee an adequate suction of the shavings.