Composite Finishing Tool With Pilot Structure
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for removing inconsistencies such as sharp fibers at edge break intersections of chamfered holes in composite structures are time-consuming, labor-intensive, and pose ergonomic and safety risks for human operators.
Innovation Solution
A composite finishing system utilizing an abrasive bit with a pilot structure that positions an abrasive surface relative to the edge break intersection, allowing for efficient removal of undesired fibers through rotation, reducing the need for manual sanding and minimizing operator exposure to carbon fiber slivers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual sanding with abrasive cleaning pads is used to remove fibers, then fiber removal is achieved, but the process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical sanding with an automated rotary abrasive tool system. The abrasive bit rotates at controlled speeds to automatically remove fibers, eliminating the need for manual pad sanding and significantly improving productivity while reducing time consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The abrasive bit is designed to self-position within the hole using its pilot structure, and the rotation automatically performs the fiber removal function without requiring continuous manual intervention. The tool serves itself by maintaining contact with the edge break intersection through its own rotational motion and positioning mechanism.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If manual sanding is used to remove fibers, then fiber removal is achieved, but ergonomic and safety issues arise for operators
Solution Approach 1:
The abrasive bit acts as an intermediary between the operator and the fiber removal task. Instead of the operator directly handling abrasive pads and being exposed to carbon fiber slivers, the automated tool performs the hazardous function, protecting the operator from ergonomic strain and safety risks while maintaining effective fiber removal.
3Manufacturing precision
If a pilot structure is added to position the abrasive surface, then positioning precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The abrasive bit is segmented into distinct functional components: a pilot structure for positioning and an abrasive surface for fiber removal. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, with the pilot structure providing precise positioning while the abrasive surface handles material removal, achieving high positioning precision without excessive overall complexity.
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 reduces the time and effort required to remove fibers, enhances operator safety by minimizing repetitive motion and carbon fiber sliver exposure, and improves the efficiency of hole finishing in composite structures.
Implementation Method 1
The abrasive bit has an abrasive material on a removal surface of the abrasive bit that removes undesired fibers from the edge break intersection of the hole
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for a composite finishing system. The composite finishing system comprises an abrasive bit with an abrasive material on a removal surface of the abrasive bit, where in the abrasive bit has a pilot structure that positions an abrasive surface relative to an edge break intersection of a hole in a composite structure when a pilot structure is placed into the hole.