Bridge Processing Head With Integrated Gripper for Faster Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current bridge processing machines are complex, bulky, and prone to wear due to multiple independent moving members, leading to slow operations and increased risk of faults, with gripping means being susceptible to dirt accumulation and degradation.
Innovation Solution
A head for a bridge processing machine that integrates the gripping means with the tool holder assembly, allowing shared movement and rotation around a vertical axis, reducing the number of components and complexity, and featuring a labile constraint mechanism to facilitate independent positioning and reduce wear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple independent moving members are used for gripping and processing, then the machine can perform multiple functions, but the machine becomes bulky, complex, and prone to wear
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the gripping means and tool holder assembly into a single integrated head unit that shares a common moving member and coordinate system. The gripping means (suction cups) and tool holder are mounted on the same support portion and controlled by the same moving member, eliminating the need for separate moving mechanisms for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The single moving member serves multiple functions by controlling both the gripping means and the tool holder assembly. The head unit can perform both gripping operations and processing operations (cutting, drilling, etc.) using the same moving mechanism, making the system more versatile while reducing complexity.
2Ease of manufacture
If multiple independent moving members are used, then each component can be optimized for its specific function, but the machine becomes burdensome and slow in operations
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the gripping means and tool holder into a single integrated unit controlled by one moving member, the patent eliminates the need for multiple independent moving mechanisms. This reduces the overall burden on the machine structure and enables faster transition between operations since only one moving member needs to reposition.
3Device complexity
If gripping means are integrated with tool holder assembly, then the number of components is reduced, but the positioning time between operations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a labile constraint mechanism that allows the gripping means to be quickly repositioned relative to the tool holder assembly. The constraint means can be rapidly engaged or disengaged, enabling fast transition between gripping and processing operations without requiring complete repositioning of the entire head unit.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the terminal is repeatedly moved for switching operating modes, then the machine is versatile, but the duration and integrity of the terminal are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The labile constraint mechanism allows the gripping means to be dynamically repositioned without moving the entire terminal. The constraint means can be quickly engaged or disengaged to switch between gripping and processing modes, reducing the frequency and extent of terminal movements and thereby preserving terminal integrity.
5Adaptability or versatility
If gripping means are rotatable between operating and non-operative positions, then the machine is more versatile, but the movement and processing operations become slow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a labile constraint mechanism that allows rapid engagement and disengagement of the gripping means, enabling fast transition between operating and non-operative positions. This dynamic constraint system is faster than fixed rotational mechanisms, maintaining operational speed while providing positioning versatility.
Data Source
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AI summary
A head (1) is provided for a bridge processing machine comprising a support (2) comprising a frame (20) configured to be loosely connected to a bridge and a shaft (21) extending along an axis of rotation (2a) and at least rotatable with respect to the frame (20) around the rotation axis (2a), a tool holder assembly (3) configured to support at least one tool (30) so as to allow the processing of an object by means of a tool (30) and comprising first constraint means (31) configured to integrally constrain the tool holder assembly (3) and the shaft, gripping means comprising a base portion (40), at least one gripping device (41) movable with respect to the base portion (40), so as to define at least one operating position wherein it engages an object, and an inoperative position, and second constraint means (42) configured to constrain at least idly the base portion (40) and the shaft (21), wherein the gripping means (4) and the tool holder assembly (3) comprise interface means (5) configured for blocking at least the reciprocal rotation between the tool holder assembly (3) and the base portion (40) so that the tool holder assembly (3) may drag the gripping means when rotated around the rotation axis (2a).