Interchangeable Ring Grinding Tool Segmentation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional grinding devices require frequent shutdowns and tool replacements due to mechanical stress and adaptation to varying materials, leading to increased production downtime and costs.

Innovation Solution

The use of interchangeable rings that allow for the simultaneous replacement of grinding tools without interrupting the grinding operation, with the load removal function handled by a softer steel ring and the grinding tools made of wear-resistant materials, enabling longer tool life and reduced manufacturing costs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If grinding tools are frequently replaced due to wear and material adaptation, then tool functionality is maintained, but shutdown time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetool functionalityVSAvoidshutdown time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The grinding tool is divided into two separable parts: the interchangeable ring (carrier) and the grinding segments. The ring remains mounted on the support disk during operation, while only worn or inappropriate segments need replacement. This segmentation allows segments to be changed independently without removing the entire tool assembly, significantly reducing shutdown time while maintaining reliable grinding functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple grinding segments can be pre-mounted on spare interchangeable rings outside the grinding device. When tool changes are needed, pre-prepared rings with appropriate segments are quickly swapped into position. This preliminary preparation of replacement components eliminates time-consuming on-site tool assembly operations and minimizes production downtime.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Duration of action of moving object

If grinding tools are made of hard wear-resistant material, then tool life is extended, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetool lifeVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of moving objectVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The invention treats grinding segments as replaceable, relatively inexpensive components that can be worn out and replaced. The segments are made of wear-resistant material to extend their service life, but when they wear down, they are simply replaced rather than requiring replacement of the entire expensive tool assembly. The interchangeable ring serves as a reusable carrier that amortizes its cost over many segment replacements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Solution Approach 2:

By segmenting the grinding tool into reusable ring and replaceable segments, the system allows selective replacement of only the wear-prone segments. This reduces the frequency of replacing high-value components and spreads the manufacturing cost over a longer operational period, effectively extending tool life while controlling manufacturing expenses.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If individual grinding segments are fastened separately, then adaptability to different materials is achieved, but installation and removal expense increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvematerial adaptationVSAvoidinstallation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple grinding segments are merged onto a single interchangeable ring that is pre-assembled outside the grinding device. This combination allows the entire ring with multiple segments to be handled as one unit during installation and removal, significantly reducing the complexity and expense of installation operations while preserving the ability to adapt to different materials by selecting appropriate segment configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The interchangeable ring with its segments is prepared and assembled in advance outside the grinding device. This preliminary assembly eliminates the need for complex on-site installation procedures, reducing both time and expense. The pre-assembled ring can be quickly swapped into position, maintaining material adaptability while simplifying the installation process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS8113455B2Device for grinding input material
Publication Date: 2012.02.14 PALLMANN MASCHFAB GMBH & CO KG
  • US8113455B2 patent drawing
  • US8113455B2 patent drawing
  • US8113455B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A device for grinding input material is provided with a supporting disk rotating around an axis of rotation within a housing. On the supporting disk, in its circumferential area, first grinding tools are arranged concentrically, axially opposite from which second grinding tools are arranged, forming a radial grinding gap. During operation of a device in accordance with the invention, the grinding tools execute a motion relative to one another. In accordance with an embodiment, the first grinding tools be fastened over an interchangeable ring to the supporting disk, wherein the interchangeable ring is fastened removably to the supporting disk concentric to the axis of rotation and on which the first grinding tools are arranged.