Quick-Change Grinding Pad Mounting via Keyhole Slots
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surface preparation machinery requires the removal of the entire mounting plate to change grinding or polishing pads, which is time-consuming and complex due to screws being hidden on the machine side.
Innovation Solution
A quick-change system using keyhole slots on the mounting plate and studs on the pads that fit into these slots, allowing for easy installation and removal without needing to remove the mounting plate, with optional adapter pads for existing plates with holes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If screws are used to fasten pads to the mounting plate with screwheads hidden on the machine side, then the mounting is secure and stable, but the pad replacement requires removal of the entire mounting plate which increases time and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is segmented into two functional parts: a permanent mounting plate that remains attached to the machine, and removable pads that can be independently changed. The keyhole slots in the mounting plate separate the fastening function (providing stability) from the replacement function (enabling quick changes), allowing operators to change pads without removing the entire mounting assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The keyhole slot acts as an intermediary mechanism between the mounting plate and the pad. It provides a receiving structure that accepts the pad's mounting feature, enabling secure attachment while allowing easy removal. The slot geometry mediates between the need for stable mounting during operation and the need for quick pad replacement, eliminating the need to remove the entire mounting plate.
2Strength
If screws are placed through the plate into the pad with hidden screwheads, then the mounting is secure, but accessing the screwheads requires removing the mounting plate which increases operational complexity
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of hiding the fastening mechanism (screwheads) on the machine side as in conventional designs, the invention inverts the approach by making the fastening feature accessible from the pad side. The keyhole slot geometry allows the pad to be inserted and secured without exposing or manipulating hidden screwheads, simplifying the pad change operation while maintaining strong fastening.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening function is extracted from the mounting plate itself and transferred to the pad through the keyhole slot mechanism. Rather than using screws that require access to the plate side, the slot geometry on the plate works with corresponding features on the pad to provide secure attachment, allowing the fastening action to occur independently of the mounting plate removal.
3Ease of manufacture
If the entire mounting plate must be removed to change pads, then all fastening screws are accessible, but this extra step adds time and complexity to pad changing operations
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting plate is pre-configured with keyhole slots that are designed to receive and secure pads without requiring subsequent manipulation of hidden fasteners. The slot geometry is prepared in advance to enable direct insertion and securement of pads, eliminating the need for additional steps of plate removal and screw manipulation, thereby improving pad replacement efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The keyhole slot mechanism is designed to be self-sufficient for pad attachment and detachment. The slot geometry inherently provides the fastening function through its structure, working in conjunction with corresponding features on the pad to create a self-contained fastening system that does not require external intervention or removal of the mounting plate for pad changes.
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
Enables quick and efficient mounting and changing of surface preparation pads without dismounting the plate, reducing operational time and complexity while maintaining compatibility with existing equipment.
Implementation Method 1
Studs fixed on the pads fit into slots (which may offer countersinks for further engagement) on the plate and may lock into position
Implementation Method 2
In operation, centrifugal and other forces then help to further seat the pad onto the plate
Data Source
AI summary
A quick change mounting system for grinding and other surface preparation pads provides a simple and effective way for the pads to be mounted and changed on the mounting plate of a large surface preparation machine without removing the mounting plate from the machine. (This method also allows that existing mounting plates and preparation pads may be used with a minimal amount of adaptation.) The new quick-change system makes use of a unique slot design (using countersunk keyhole slots) for mounting the pads on the plate. Studs fixed on the pads fit into slots on the plate and may lock into position. In operation, centrifugal and other forces then help to further seat the pad onto the plate.