Grinding and Polishing Recall Controls for Faster Parameter Setup
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing grinding/polishing devices lack user-friendly control and require complex setups, leading to inefficiencies and increased operational costs.
Innovation Solution
A grinder/polisher with a specimen holder, platen, and actuator, equipped with a controller and machine-readable storage device, allows for quick-recall inputs and automated parameter settings, enabling efficient and user-friendly operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional grinding/polishing devices are used with manual parameter adjustment, then basic grinding/polishing function is provided, but setup time is excessive and user control is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-configures multiple sets of grinding/polishing parameters (speed, feed rate, depth of cut, fluid flow) that can be stored and recalled instantly. This preliminary preparation of parameter sets eliminates the need for manual adjustment during operation, significantly reducing setup time while maintaining full parameter control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates and stores copies of successful parameter configurations in memory. Users can recall these stored parameter copies instantly and modify them if needed, rather than manually recreating parameters from scratch. This copying mechanism preserves optimal settings and eliminates repetitive setup work.
2Manufacturing precision
If complex parameter adjustment interfaces are used, then precise parameter control is achieved, but device complexity increases and ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The parameter control interface is segmented into multiple independent parameter sets (e.g., roughing parameters, finishing parameters, polishing parameters). Each set can be configured and stored separately, allowing users to select the appropriate pre-configured set for the specific operation. This segmentation maintains precision while simplifying the user interface by presenting only relevant parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows dynamic changing of operational parameters (speed, feed rate, depth of cut) through pre-configured parameter sets. Users can switch between different parameter sets instantly without manually adjusting each parameter, thereby maintaining manufacturing precision while reducing interface complexity and operational burden.
3Productivity
If manual setup procedures are used, then device functionality is maintained, but operational efficiency decreases and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides self-service through automatic parameter selection and machine-controlled adjustments. The controller automatically retrieves stored parameter sets and configures the machine without requiring manual intervention for each setup change. This self-service capability dramatically improves operational efficiency and reduces labor costs associated with manual setup procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical adjustment procedures with automated electronic control. The controller electronically retrieves and applies stored parameter sets, substituting the mechanical/manual setup process with an automated digital system. This substitution improves productivity while reducing operational costs by eliminating time-consuming manual adjustment steps.
Data Source
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AI summary
A grinder/polisher comprises a specimen holder, a platen, an actuator configured to move at least one of the specimen holder and the platen, an input device, a machine readable storage device, and a controller. The input device includes a plurality of quick-recall inputs and is configured to receive grinding/polishing parameter inputs representative of grinding/polishing parameters, The grinding/polishing parameters comprise at least two of a cycle time, a platen speed, a specimen speed, a platen direction, a specimen direction, and an applied load. The quickrecall inputs are selectable on a same interface as the user parameter inputs. The controller is configured to save to the machine readable storage device a plurality of user-selected grinding/polishing parameters based on inputs received by the input device, associate the parameters with one of the quick-recall inputs, configure the parameters in response to selection of the quick-recall inputs, and perform an operation according to the parameters.