Bristled Roller Cartridge for Safe Drill Bit and Reamer Cleaning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for cleaning rotary cutting tools are hazardous, time-consuming, and often damage the tools, as they require manual handling of sharp surfaces or use devices that can harm users and damage the cutting surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A rotary cutting tool cleaning system with a cleaning cartridge containing rollers with bristles that can be rotated to remove debris from the tool, which can be operated with or without a power supply, allowing for safe and efficient cleaning by utilizing the power of a rotary tool or drill press.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If manual cleaning methods are used to remove debris from rotary cutting tools, then cleaning can be performed without additional equipment, but the user is exposed to sharp cutting surfaces increasing injury risk and may damage the cutting surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a cleaning device with a protective housing and bristled rollers that acts as an intermediary between the user and the cutting tool. The housing contains sharp edges, and the bristles provide indirect contact for debris removal, eliminating direct user exposure to hazards while maintaining cleaning effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning device is designed to be self-contained with all necessary cleaning components (rollers, bristles, housing) integrated into a single unit that performs both protection and cleaning functions automatically when the tool is inserted and rotated.
2Productivity
If conventional cleaning devices that dig into flutes are used, then debris can be removed from the tool, but the cutting surfaces may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning device applies different cleaning mechanisms to different areas: soft bristles contact the outer surfaces and flute edges for gentle debris removal, while the rotating action provides additional cleaning power. This localized application of cleaning forces removes debris without damaging the precise cutting surfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning effectiveness is controlled by changing the rotation speed parameter of the rollers, which is driven by the tool's own rotation. This allows adaptive cleaning pressure that removes debris while preserving cutting surface integrity through controlled mechanical action.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If multiple cleaning steps and collection methods are used, then thorough cleaning can be achieved, but the process becomes time consuming and requires multiple components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple cleaning functions (debris removal from flutes, surface cleaning, and debris collection) into a single integrated device. The housing captures debris as it falls during rotation, eliminating the need for separate collection steps and multiple cleaning tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning process occurs continuously during the brief period the tool is inserted and rotated in the device, rather than requiring multiple discrete steps. The rotating bristles continuously engage the flutes and surfaces, maintaining constant cleaning action until the tool is removed.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a portable cleaning device is used to travel to job sites, then cleaning can be performed at various locations, but the device must be lightweight and easily transportable
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning device is segmented into modular components including a removable bottom portion for debris disposal and a main housing containing the rollers. This segmentation allows easy assembly, disassembly for cleaning maintenance, and compact storage or transport to different job sites.
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 effectively and safely removes debris from rotary cutting tools, extending their lifespan and maintaining cutting accuracy, while being portable and easily disassembled for cleaning at various locations.
Implementation Method 1
the bristles are designed to extend into and clear debris from the flutes of the rotary cutting tool
Implementation Method 2
one or more cleaning members that are designed to engage and remove the debris from the rotary cutting tool
Data Source
AI summary
A rotary cutting tool cleaning system, device, and method for cleaning debris and shavings from a rotary cutting tool such as a drill bit or reamer. The system includes at least one roller rotatably mounted in a cartridge, wherein the cartridge includes a rotary cutting tool opening in a top thereof for insertion of the rotary cutting tool into the cartridge. The rollers that remove the debris may be brushed rollers configured for axial rotational engagement with the rotary cutting tool. The system can be non-electric or, alternatively include a power supply that rotate the at least one roller.