Cutting Blade Optical Code Reading for Accurate Type Identification

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing cutting machines face issues with accurately acquiring type information of mounted cutting blades, leading to improper operation conditions and suboptimal processing results due to manual input errors and the complexity/cost of external readers.

Innovation Solution

A cutting machine with a detection unit featuring a light-emitting and light-receiving system to automatically read identification codes on cutting blades, integrated into the machine, allowing for reliable and easy acquisition of type information without additional edge detection units, thus simplifying construction and reducing costs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If manual input of cutting blade type information is performed by an operator, then the process is simple, but incorrect information may be inputted by mistake leading to improper operation conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of type information inputVSAvoidoperational simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the manual mechanical input method with an automated optical reading system. A reader device with light-emitting and light-receiving units automatically reads the identification code applied to the cutting blade, eliminating manual typing and preventing human error while maintaining ease of operation through automated blade identification.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The cutting blade itself provides its identification information through the applied identification code. When the blade is mounted on the cutting unit, the reader automatically reads the code without requiring external intervention, making the system self-identifying and eliminating the need for manual information entry.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If a reader for identification code is disposed on the outer surface of the cutting machine, then type information can be automatically recorded, but large cost is needed and the construction becomes complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomatic type information acquisitionVSAvoidmachine construction complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the reader device with the cutting unit structure. The light-emitting unit is positioned in the blade entry indentation and the light-receiving unit is integrated into the same structural element, merging the reading function with the blade mounting mechanism rather than adding a separate external reader system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The blade entry indentation structure serves dual purposes: it guides the cutting blade during mounting and houses the light-emitting and light-receiving units for automatic identification. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate reader components and reduces overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If a reader for identification code is disposed on the outer surface of the cutting machine, then type information can be automatically recorded, but large cost is needed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomatic type information acquisitionVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The reader components are integrated into the existing cutting unit structure, sharing common parts and assembly processes. The light-emitting and light-receiving units are positioned within the blade entry indentation, eliminating the need for separate reader housings and reducing manufacturing costs through component consolidation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

Ensures accurate and efficient acquisition of cutting blade type information, preventing improper operation and enhancing processing quality by automating the identification process within the machine.

Implementation Method 1

a light-emitting unit disposed in one of opposite side walls of the blade entry indentation of the base to generate light and to apply the light toward the cutting blade entering into the blade entry indentation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight emission: Light Emitting Diode

Implementation Method 2

a light-receiving unit disposed in the one side wall of the blade entry indentation to receive the light reflected by the cutting blade

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight reflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentEP4410479A1Cutting machine and reader
Publication Date: 2024.08.07 DISCO CORP
  • EP4410479A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4410479A1 patent drawingFigure 2A~2B
  • EP4410479A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A cutting machine includes a cutting unit capable of cutting a workpiece with a cutting blade applied on an outer surface thereof with an identification code that indicates type information of the cutting blade, a detection unit, and a controller. The detection unit includes a base with a blade entry indentation formed therein, a light-emitting unit that applies light toward the cutting blade entering into the blade entry indentation, and a light-receiving unit that receives the light reflected by the cutting blade. The controller includes a conversion section configured to read the identification code on the basis of the light applied to the identification code and received at the light-receiving unit, and to acquire the type information of the cutting blade.