Drilling Machine Electromagnet Safety Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing core hole drilling machines lack guaranteed safe switch-on states for electromagnets, leading to increased occupational safety risks due to operating errors, particularly when working overhead or on steel girders at heights, as the electromagnet can be switched off while the electric motor is still running, compromising the holding force and posing accident hazards.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a speed sensor coupled to the switching device to ensure the electromagnet can only be switched off when the electric motor's speed is at or below a specified limit, and using a dual-switch system where the electromagnet is activated first, followed by the electric motor, with a time delay or speed threshold for safe disengagement, along with a magnetic force sensor and an ergonomic control panel for improved monitoring and control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the electromagnet can be switched off independently while the electric motor is running, then the operator has flexibility in controlling the attachment mechanism, but the holding force may be lost and the drill becomes unsafe to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The control device prevents the electromagnet from being switched off until the electric motor has completed its action and stopped running. The switching-off command for the electromagnet is blocked during motor operation, ensuring the holding force is maintained as a preliminary safety measure before allowing detachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The control device monitors the operational state of the electric motor and uses this feedback information to control the availability of the electromagnet switching-off command. When the motor is running, the feedback signal blocks the electromagnet shutdown; when the motor stops, the feedback signal enables the shutdown, creating a safety-interlocked control system.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the electromagnet current is reduced in holding state to save energy, then energy consumption is lowered, but the holding force may become insufficient during drilling operations
Solution Approach 1:
The electromagnet operates with dynamic current adjustment: a reduced holding current is applied during idle attachment phases to minimize energy consumption, while the system automatically transitions to full current when drilling operations are initiated, ensuring sufficient holding force is available when needed without continuous high energy usage.
3Device complexity
If the control panel is positioned on the stand or housing away from the operator, then the structure is simplified, but the operator's overview of functions is limited when working overhead
Solution Approach 1:
The control device is positioned on the housing of the drilling unit, which extends toward the operator when the drill is in use. This spatial arrangement places the controls within the operator's field of view and reach, solving the visibility problem by utilizing the three-dimensional configuration of the drilling machine rather than fixing controls solely on the stand.
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
This configuration significantly reduces the risk of operating errors by ensuring the electromagnet is only disengaged when the electric motor is fully stopped and the drill is securely attached, enhancing occupational safety by preventing accidents and improving operator control visibility during operations.
Implementation Method 1
an electromagnet (14) for attachment to a metal part (28)
Implementation Method 2
a speed sensor (21) is provided, which is coupled to the switching device (34) in such a way that the electromagnet (14) can only be switched off when the electric motor (20) has a speed that is less than or equal to one specified limit speed
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
The boring machine has an electromagnet (14) for attachment to a metal part (28). An electric motor (20) is provided for driving a tool (36), where a control unit comprises a switch (34) for switching on and off the electric motor and the electromagnet. A speed sensor (21) is coupled to the control unit, such that the electromagnet is switched off when the electric motor has a speed less than or equal to a limiting speed. An independent claim is included for a method for controlling a boring machine.