Grinding Machine Fast Tool Arrangement Height Adjustment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional machines for processing plastic spectacle lenses require manual adjustment mechanisms for precise alignment of the cutting edge of the turning tool with the workpiece spindle axis, which limits automation and increases machining time and surface error.

Innovation Solution

The machine employs a fast tool arrangement where the fast tool movement plane is inclined relative to the workpiece spindle axis plane, allowing precise height adjustment of the cutting edge without mechanical displacement, using the existing infeed movement of the workpiece spindle, thereby eliminating the need for mechanical adjustment systems and reducing moving masses.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If manual adjustment mechanisms are used for aligning the cutting edge with the workpiece spindle axis, then height adjustment capability is achieved, but automation is limited and machining time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomation of height adjustmentVSAvoidmachining time
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment mechanisms with an automatic control system that uses electronic signals and automated actuators to position the cutting edge at the correct height, eliminating the need for manual intervention and significantly reducing setup time

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system automatically adjusts the vertical position of the cutting edge by changing the Z-axis coordinate parameter through automated control, allowing rapid repositioning without manual mechanical adjustment and enabling quick adaptation to different workpiece requirements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If mechanical adjustment systems are used for height alignment, then cutting edge positioning is achieved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecutting edge alignment precisionVSAvoidadjustment mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical adjustment systems with an automated control system that uses electronic positioning and automated actuators, simplifying the overall device architecture while maintaining or improving alignment precision through digital control

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The automated control system serves multiple functions including height adjustment, position monitoring, and coordinate transformation, replacing what would otherwise require multiple separate mechanical adjustment mechanisms, thereby reducing overall device complexity

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

3Length of moving object

If large fast tool arrangements are used for height adjustment, then adjustment range is sufficient, but rigidity decreases and machining precision is affected

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefast tool arrangement sizeVSAvoidsurface quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of moving objectVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent achieves the required adjustment range by changing the Z-axis position parameter through automated control of a compact fast tool arrangement, eliminating the need for large mechanical structures while maintaining precision through digital positioning

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentEP2338640B1Machine for grinding optical workpieces, in particular plastic eyeglass lenses
Publication Date: 2012.05.23 SATISLOH GMBH
  • EP2338640B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2338640B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2338640B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The unit (10) comprises a basic frame (12) with two crosswise moving carriages (18,22) one of them (22) fitted with the work-piece holding spindle (24). The machining device (28) is located opposite at the frame (12) connected to a fast tool arrangement (36,38) assembled of two parallel positioned and alternately moving shuttles. The fast tool unit (36,38) and the work-piece holding spindle (24) are positioned in an acute angle in order to compensate a possible height deviation of the cutting blades.