Chip Deflector Linkage for Actuator-Free Panel Machining
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine tools with deflecting elements for chip removal lack a predetermined and known position for the deflecting elements, leading to inefficiencies and increased complexity due to the use of actuators for position control.
Innovation Solution
A machine tool with an operating head equipped with a deflecting element that utilizes elastic means and an articulated parallelogram system to maintain a predetermined position, eliminating the need for external actuators and ensuring the deflecting element's position is known at all times.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If deflecting elements are made free to rotate between end positions determined by end-of-stroke members, then the structure is simple and requires no actuators, but the position of the deflecting elements cannot be known at all times and there is no predetermined rest position
Solution Approach 1:
The deflecting element is equipped with an articulated parallelogram mechanism that enables it to self-position and self-stabilize at predetermined locations along its travel path without requiring external actuators. The mechanism uses the motion of the operating head itself to drive the deflecting element to the correct position, making the system self-servicing.
Solution Approach 2:
The articulated parallelogram mechanism includes damping elements that provide controlled resistance to the motion of the deflecting element, ensuring it smoothly transitions to and maintains predetermined positions. This prior cushioning prevents overshooting and ensures stable positioning without requiring active control.
2Loss of information
If electric or pneumatic actuators are used to control the position of deflecting elements, then the position is known and controllable, but additional energy expenditure is required and the complexity of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The deflecting element uses the motion of the operating head itself as the driving force, converting the kinetic energy of the head's movement into positional control of the deflecting element. This eliminates the need for separate energy sources like electric or pneumatic actuators.
Solution Approach 2:
The articulated parallelogram mechanism is designed to dynamically respond to the motion of the operating head, automatically adjusting the deflecting element's position in real-time based on the head's velocity and direction, without requiring active control systems.
3Loss of information
If electric or pneumatic actuators are used to control the position of deflecting elements, then the position is known and controllable, but the complexity of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The deflecting element is designed to automatically position itself using the motion of the operating head, eliminating the need for complex control systems, sensors, and actuators. The system uses passive mechanical elements that self-regulate based on the head's movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning function is segmented into passive mechanical elements (articulated parallelogram, damping elements, stops) that work together to achieve position control without requiring a centralized control system, reducing overall component complexity.
4Device complexity
If deflecting elements are made free to rotate without predetermined rest positions, then no actuators are needed, but the system cannot ensure the deflecting element is in the correct position during non-operating conditions
Solution Approach 1:
Damping elements are integrated into the articulated parallelogram mechanism to provide controlled resistance during the deflecting element's motion, ensuring it smoothly transitions to and maintains predetermined positions. This prevents random positioning and ensures reliability during non-operating conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The articulated parallelogram mechanism provides passive feedback through its geometric constraints, automatically returning the deflecting element to predetermined positions based on the operating head's position, ensuring reliable positioning without active control.
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 solution provides a machine tool with a simple, energy-efficient system for diverting chip material, ensuring the deflecting element's position is consistently known, reducing complexity, and minimizing energy consumption.
Implementation Method 1
operative means comprise elastic means which are configured to keep said at least one deflecting element, in said resting position, stationary with respect to said tool
Implementation Method 2
the deflecting elements of the above type can freely move between their respective end-of-stroke positions, subject only to the force of gravity and the force of inertia due to the movements of the operating head itself
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a Machine tool comprising an operative head (1) and operative means (4) which are connectable with said operative head (1) and configured to perform at least one chip-removal machining operation on a panel (P) or other workpiece, wherein said operative means (4) are relatively movable with respect to said panel (P) or other workpiece and comprise: a rotative tool (5) to perform at least one chip-removal machining operation on said panel (P) or other workpiece; and at least one deflecting element (10) for deflecting the chip material generated by said tool (5) during at least one chip-removal machining operation executed on said panel (P) or other workpiece, said at least one deflecting element (10) being connected with said tool (5) and configured to take a resting position, when said tool (5) is placed, in use, at a distance larger than a predetermined distance with respect to said panel (P) or other workpiece, and an operative position, where said at least one deflecting element (10) receives and deflects said chip material when said tool (5) operates on said panel (P) or other workpiece. Said operative means (4) comprise elastic means (19) which are configured to keep said at least one deflecting element (10), in said resting position, stationary with respect to said tool (5) when said tool (5) is placed at a distance larger than a predetermined distance with respect to said panel (P) or other workpiece, and to keep said at least one deflecting element (10), in said operative position, in forced contact with said panel (P) or other workpiece when said tool (5) operates on said panel (P) or other workpiece.