Edge Surface Pressure Apparatus with Dual Rollers
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional clamping apparatuses are inadequate for applying pressure to the edge surfaces of large workpieces, as they are either too small to support such workpieces or lack the design to effectively apply edge pressure.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus comprising a frame, rollers, a rotation-control member, and biasing members that allow for the application of pressure to the edge surface of a workpiece by rotating and translating rollers, with a biasing member in tension to conformally contact the edge surface, enabling one-handed operation and uniform pressure application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional clamping apparatus are used to apply pressure to edge surfaces, then pressure application is achieved, but the apparatus cannot support large workpieces or effectively apply edge pressure due to design limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus divides the pressure application function into two independent rollers that can operate separately on opposite faces of the workpiece. Each roller is independently mounted on the frame and can be positioned to contact different locations, allowing the system to adapt to various workpiece sizes and geometries without requiring a completely different clamping design.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus is designed to perform multiple functions: it can apply pressure to edge surfaces, support large workpieces, and accommodate different workpiece configurations. The frame structure with independently movable rollers allows the same apparatus to handle various workpiece sizes and types, eliminating the need for specialized clamping devices for each application.
2Manufacturing precision
If a biasing member in tension is used to apply pressure, then uniform conformal contact is achieved, but the apparatus requires complex tensioning mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The biasing member is configured to change its tension parameter automatically based on the workpiece geometry. As the rollers contact the workpiece and apply pressure, the biasing member tensions to provide uniform conformal contact. The system leverages the workpiece itself as a reference to automatically adjust the pressure distribution, eliminating the need for complex external tensioning control mechanisms.
3Ease of operation
If rollers are made rotatable for easy positioning, then workpiece alignment is simplified, but pressure maintenance becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The rollers are designed to be dynamically controllable, transitioning between rotatable and fixed states. During positioning, the rollers rotate to align with the workpiece; during pressure application, they are fixed to maintain stable contact. This dynamic behavior allows the system to achieve both easy alignment and reliable pressure maintenance using the same mechanical components.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus maintains continuous useful action through the biasing member that constantly applies tension to keep the rollers pressed against the workpiece. This continuous force ensures that once the rollers are positioned, pressure is automatically maintained without requiring additional active control, bridging the gap between easy positioning and reliable pressure maintenance.
4Ease of operation
If the apparatus is designed for one-handed operation, then ease of use is improved, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus merges multiple functions into a single integrated structure. The frame simultaneously provides support, positioning, and pressure application capabilities. The biasing member combines tensioning and pressure control functions. This consolidation reduces the number of separate components and operations needed, enabling one-handed operation despite the sophisticated functionality.
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 apparatus effectively applies pressure to the edge surface of large workpieces with minimal effort, ensuring uniform contact and adjustable pressure levels, while being supported by the workpiece itself, allowing for easy installation and removal.
Implementation Method 1
a first biasing member, which is configured to operate in tension and conformally contact at least the portion of edge surface
Implementation Method 2
a second biasing member, which is positioned, in compression, between the frame and the rotation-control member
Implementation Method 3
creating a frictional coupling between the apparatus and the workpiece, which maintains the pressure
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for applying pressure to at least a portion of an edge surface of a workpiece comprises a frame, a first roller, a second roller, a rotation-control member, a first biasing member, and a second biasing member. The first roller and the second roller are coupled to and are rotatable relative to the frame while at least one of the first roller or the second roller is translatable relative to the frame. The rotation-control member is coupled to and is movable relative to the frame, controlling rotation of the first roller and the second roller. The first biasing member is coupled to the first roller and to the second roller and configured to operate in tension. The second biasing member is positioned, in compression, between the frame and the rotation-control member.