Dual-Threaded Tool Actuation for Precise Axial and Rotary Control

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing cutting systems lack precise and rapid control over cutting tools, which affects the efficiency and consistency of cutting operations on various materials.

Innovation Solution

A cutting system comprising a first and second motor, a cutting tool with helical threadings, and a controller that coordinates the speed and direction of the motors to achieve desired axial and rotational movements of the cutting tool, enabling precise and rapid control through a method involving simultaneous rotation of opposing helical threadings.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a single motor is used to control the cutting tool, then the device complexity is reduced, but the precision and speed of control deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of motorsVSAvoidcontrol precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The control system is segmented into two independent motors (first motor and second motor), each controlling one helical threading. This segmentation allows independent control of axial and rotational movements, achieving precise control while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular architecture

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The dual-motor system with opposing helical threadings provides multi-functionality: it can independently control axial movement, rotational movement, and combinations thereof. This universal control capability achieves high precision without requiring separate mechanisms for each movement type

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

2Productivity

If traditional single-motor control is used, then the device structure is simpler, but the cutting speed and efficiency deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecutting speedVSAvoidmotor control system
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The controller dynamically adjusts the speed and direction of both motors independently to achieve desired cutting patterns. This dynamic control enables rapid response and high cutting speed by optimizing motor operation in real-time based on cutting requirements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system employs periodic alternating rotation of the two motors in opposite directions, creating efficient reciprocating cutting motion. This periodic action pattern increases cutting speed and productivity while maintaining controlled system complexity through rhythmic operation cycles

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

3Manufacturing precision

If opposing helical threadings are used, then the control precision is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemovement pattern precisionVSAvoidthreading manufacturing
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses asymmetric opposing helical threadings with different helical directions (one right-handed, one left-handed). This asymmetric design enables precise control of both axial and rotational movements through the natural mechanical advantage of helical geometry, achieving high precision while the threadings can be manufactured using standard helical machining processes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

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 enables precise and efficient cutting by allowing for controlled axial and rotational movements of the cutting tool, improving the consistency and speed of cutting operations, particularly suitable for materials like paper, fabric, wood, and metal.

Implementation Method 1

a first motor operable to rotate a first threading extending in a first helical direction around an axis; a second motor operable to rotate a second threading axially spaced apart from the first threading and extending in a second helical direction opposite the first helical direction around the axis

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic conversion: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a cutting tool (drill) comprising a shaft having a first mating threading extending in the first helical direction configured to mate with the first threading, and a second mating threading extending in the second helical direction configured to mate with the second threading

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHelical threading mechanism: Screw

Data Source

PatentEP3515660B1Actuators and methods for controlling tools
Publication Date: 2022.03.09 KONGSBERG PRECISION CUTTING SYST AS
  • EP3515660B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3515660B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Actuators, systems, and methods for controlling tools are disclosed. One actuator includes a first motor, a second motor, and a controller. The first motor is operable to rotate a first threading extending in a first helical direction around an axis. The second motor is operable to rotate a second threading axially spaced apart from the first threading and extending in a second helical direction opposite the first helical direction around the axis. The controller is in communication with the first and second motors. The controller is configured to control speed and direction of the first and second motors to effect a desired pattern of axial and rotational movement of the tool. One method includes rotating the first threading in a first rotational direction, and simultaneously, rotating the second threading in a second rotational direction opposite the first direction.