Dual-Edge Chamfering Tool Layout for Slag-Prone Plate Machining

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing machining systems face challenges in efficiently machining the edges of plate-like works with uneven structures, such as steel sheets cut by laser or plasma cutters, as the auxiliary members can get caught by slag, leading to hindered movement and increased machining time for both edges.

Innovation Solution

A machining system with a holding apparatus, machining unit, and moving apparatus that includes a rotating tool with end face abutting members and a vertical moving unit, allowing for simultaneous chamfering of both edges without flipping the work, using a plate thickness sensor to maintain accurate cutting depths and avoid interference with slag.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If the rotating tool is moved while abutting the auxiliary member against the work surface, then the rotating tool can be moved stably, but the auxiliary member may be caught by the uneven structure to hinder smooth movement

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestability of rotating tool movementVSAvoidsmooth movement of rotating tool
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from single-sided edge machining to dual-sided simultaneous machining by adding machining capability in another dimension (the opposite side of the workpiece). This allows both edges to be machined in one operation, eliminating the need to flip the workpiece and reducing total machining time while avoiding slag interference through optimized tool positioning

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Stability of the object's composition

If the rotating tool is moved while abutting the auxiliary member against the work surface, then the rotating tool can be moved stably, but the machining time for both edges tends to be long

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestability of rotating tool movementVSAvoidmachining time for both edges
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the machining operations for both edges into a single simultaneous operation. By equipping the rotating tool with multiple cutting edges positioned to engage both workpiece edges at once, the system achieves dual-sided machining in one pass, effectively doubling productivity compared to sequential single-sided machining

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent ensures continuous useful action by maintaining constant engagement of cutting edges with both workpiece edges throughout the machining process. The rotating tool continuously removes material from both edges simultaneously without interruption, maximizing material removal efficiency and minimizing cycle time

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

3Productivity

If the rotating tool machines edges on both sides of the work, then productivity increases, but the auxiliary member may interfere with slag and hinder tool movement

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemachining of both edgesVSAvoidtool movement smoothness
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a sensor as an intermediary between the rotating tool and the workpiece surface. The sensor detects the surface profile ahead of the tool, providing advance information about slag and uneven structures, allowing the control system to adjust tool positioning to avoid interference while maintaining continuous machining of both edges

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP3546118B1Machining system and machining method
Publication Date: 2021.09.08 HIRATA CORPORATION
  • EP3546118B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3546118B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3546118B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A machining system includes a machining unit and a moving apparatus configured to move the machining unit. The machining unit includes a rotating tool for rotating about an axis in a vertical direction, an upper surface abutting member configured to be abutted against an upper surface of a work, an end face abutting member configured to be abutted against an end face of the work between an upper edge and an lower edge of the work, and a vertical moving unit configured to change a position of the upper surface abutting member in the vertical direction with respect to the rotating tool. The rotating tool includes a machining portion main body, a first machining portion provided on a lower side of the machining portion main body, and a second machining portion provided on an upper side of the machining portion main body.