Grinding Disc Changer With Floating Alignment and Detachment

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing automated systems for changing grinding wheels are complex and time-consuming, requiring precise alignment and positioning, which can lead to damage to the grinding wheels and inefficiencies in the process.

Innovation Solution

A device with a stacking device that uses a guide element and positioning element mounted in a floating manner, allowing for eccentric alignment and compensation for misalignment, along with a detachment device featuring a separating element to facilitate easy removal of grinding wheels without moving parts.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If precise alignment and positioning systems are used for automated grinding wheel changing, then automation extent is improved, but device complexity increases and risk of grinding wheel damage increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomation of grinding wheel changingVSAvoidcomplexity of alignment and positioning system

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The grinding wheel holder automatically performs alignment with the stacking device through self-centering mechanisms during the insertion process, eliminating the need for complex external alignment systems. The holder's design enables it to self-position relative to the guide element and positioning element without requiring sophisticated control systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs simple, robust positioning and guiding elements that are easily replaceable if damaged, rather than investing in complex, expensive alignment systems. The focus is on durable, straightforward mechanical components that facilitate automation without requiring high-precision, fragile systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

2Extent of automation

If precise alignment systems are used for automated grinding wheel changing, then automation extent is improved, but the risk of grinding wheel damage increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomation of grinding wheel changingVSAvoiddamage to grinding wheel

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The positioning element and guide element are designed with floating mounting that allows for eccentric alignment compensation. This creates a cushioning effect that absorbs misalignment errors before they can transmit damaging forces to the grinding wheel, protecting it from damage during the automated changing process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Solution Approach 2:

The floating mounting of the positioning and guide elements allows for positional adjustments and tolerances in the alignment parameters. This flexibility in positioning parameters enables the system to accommodate eccentric alignments without applying excessive forces that could damage the grinding wheel.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Productivity

If complex multi-station systems are used for grinding wheel changing, then productivity is improved through automation, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvespeed of grinding wheel replacementVSAvoidcomplexity of multi-station system

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the functions of multiple stations (removal, alignment, and loading) into a single integrated device. The stacking device with its guide element and positioning element performs alignment and positioning functions while the single-station design eliminates the need for separate removal and loading stations, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining automated productivity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The stacking device serves multiple functions: it stores multiple grinding wheels, provides alignment through the guide element, and enables positioning via the positioning element. This multi-functional design replaces what would traditionally require separate specialized stations for each function, simplifying the overall system architecture.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP3411183B1Device for automatically changing grinding discs

Publication Date: 2022.04.06 SUHNER SCHWEIZ AG

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Figure 5a~5b

AI summary

A device (1) for automatically changing grinding discs (12) comprises a stacking device (10) for a plurality of grinding discs (12) and a guide element (16) for orienting the suction openings (32) in the grinding discs (12) along a common central axis (18), wherein the guide element (16) is arranged eccentrically with regard to the central axis (18). A positioning element (17) is provided for positioning a tool head of a grinding device, wherein the positioning element (17) and the guide element (16) are mounted in a floating manner. A device (1) for automatically changing grinding discs (12) comprises a detachment device (50), wherein the detachment device (50) comprises a bearing surface (51) for a grinding-disc receptacle. The bearing surface (51) has an opening (52), the diameter of which is greater than the diameter of the grinding disc (12). A separating element (53) is arranged above the opening (52). A system comprises a device (1) for automatically changing grinding discs (12) containing a stacking device (10) and a detachment device (50).