Multi-Strand Drill Bit Helix Forming for Automated Length Variation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for manufacturing drill bits with helices lack the ability to efficiently produce drill bits of varying lengths and helix gradients with high automation, leading to inefficiencies in the manufacturing process.
Innovation Solution
A production method involving cold reshaping of a rod-shaped blank into a semifinished product with longitudinal ribs, followed by twisting the ribs using a first and second die to form a helix, and attaching a drill head, allowing for the creation of drill bits with customizable helix gradients and lengths through a highly automated process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If traditional manufacturing methods are used for drill bits with helices, then the manufacturing process is simpler, but the ability to efficiently produce drill bits of varying lengths and helix gradients with high automation is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The manufacturing process is divided into distinct segments: cold reshaping of the rod-shaped blank, twisting the longitudinal ribs using first and second dies, and attaching the drill head. This segmentation enables each step to be automated independently, increasing overall automation while maintaining manageable process complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The first die is pivotable in the direction of rotation, allowing dynamic adjustment during the twisting process. This dynamic capability enables the production of drill bits with variable helix gradients and lengths through automated control of the pivoting motion, thereby increasing automation extent without requiring overly complex fixed machinery.
2Adaptability or versatility
If drill bits with varying lengths and helix gradients are produced using conventional methods, then flexibility in product design is improved, but manufacturing efficiency and automation are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The invention enables changing of critical parameters (helix gradient, length) through the pivoting motion of the first die and the pulling motion of the axial drive. By automating these parameter changes, the system maintains high adaptability for different drill bit designs while achieving high manufacturing efficiency through consistent automated processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool stand with the pivotable first die and axial drive can produce drill bits of various lengths and helix gradients using the same basic equipment. This multi-functionality allows a single automated system to handle diverse product specifications, maintaining both adaptability and productivity.
3Productivity
If high automation is implemented in the helix manufacturing process, then productivity is improved, but the complexity of the manufacturing system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The first die is nested within the tool stand structure and can pivot within the confines of the existing equipment. The longitudinal ribs are formed within the dies, which are themselves part of the larger tool stand assembly. This nesting approach allows automation to be integrated into a compact system, increasing productivity while controlling overall system 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
Enables the production of drill bits with precise helix gradients and lengths, enhancing the efficiency and stability of the manufacturing process, enabling uniform cutting and improved performance in drilling applications.
Implementation Method 1
the first die bears against the longitudinal ribs in the direction of rotation around the longitudinal axis and the second die bears against the longitudinal ribs counter to the direction of rotation; pivoting the first die in the direction of rotation in relation to the second die in order to twist the longitudinal ribs between the first die and the second die
Implementation Method 2
cold reshaping of a rod-shaped blank to form a semifinished product with three or more rectilinear longitudinal ribs extending along the longitudinal axis of the semifinished product
Data Source
AI summary
A drill bit includes a drill bit head, a multi-strand helix made up of three or more helix ribs, and a shank end along a drill bit axis. The multi-strand helix is made up of a conveyance area, a helix gradient, and a pitch. The helix ribs extend parallel to the drill bit axis in a first area adjacent to the drill bit head and a second area adjacent to the shank end.