Hollow Rotatable Tool for Cylinder Radius Polishing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing polishing and grinding systems face challenges in efficiently forming or polishing concave or convex radius surfaces on cylindrical work-pieces, particularly in achieving precise control over the radius and finish due to limitations in tool orientation and relative motion.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a rotatable tool with a circumferential surface positioned at an oblique angle relative to the work-piece, combined with a carrier that rotates in the opposite direction, allows for the precise formation or polishing of radius surfaces by adjusting the axis of rotation and tool orientation to achieve desired radii on cylindrical work-pieces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a conventional polishing tool with axis parallel to work-piece axis is used, then the polishing process is simple, but the ability to form concave or convex radius surfaces is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The tool axis is intentionally oriented at an oblique angle (not parallel) to the work-piece axis, creating an asymmetric configuration that enables the formation of concave or convex radius surfaces on the axial end of the work-piece, thereby improving manufacturing precision for specific surface geometries
Solution Approach 2:
The tool axis is positioned both at an oblique angle and laterally offset from the work-piece axis, introducing additional spatial dimensions to the tool-workpiece relationship. This multi-dimensional positioning enables precise control over radius surface formation that cannot be achieved with simple axial alignment
2Productivity
If a single polishing tool is used, then the device is simple, but the productivity is low
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into two separate platforms: a first platform holding multiple work-pieces and a second platform holding multiple polishing tools. This segmentation allows independent rotation and positioning of each platform, enabling simultaneous processing of multiple work-pieces while maintaining device simplicity through modular architecture
Solution Approach 2:
Each polishing tool on the second platform is configured to correspond to a specific work-piece receiving area on the first platform. The platforms can rotate to bring different tool-workpiece pairs into engagement, allowing a single device to process multiple work-pieces with different requirements, thereby achieving multi-functionality
3Adaptability or versatility
If the tool axis is laterally offset from the work-piece axis, then beveled surfaces can be formed, but the positioning precision becomes more difficult to control
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows dynamic adjustment of the lateral offset distance between the tool axis and work-piece axis. By making the offset adjustable rather than fixed, the system can adapt to different surface requirements (such as varying bevel angles or radius dimensions) while maintaining positioning precision through controlled adjustment mechanisms
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
This approach enables the accurate creation of concave or convex radius surfaces on cylindrical work-pieces, improving the precision and efficiency of the polishing process by allowing for controlled adjustment of the radius and finish, accommodating various shapes and sizes through pre-selected angles and tool radii.
Implementation Method 1
positioning an abrasive surface of a substantially hollow rotatable tool adjacent the work-piece
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and a method for forming or polishing a concave or convex radius surface on a work-piece is described herein. The apparatus includes a carrier that is configured to support a work-piece. A substantially hollow rotatable tool, which includes a circumferential surface for either forming or polishing the radius surface, is positioned adjacent the carrier. An axis of rotation of the tool is oriented at an oblique angle with respect to a longitudinal axis of the work-piece and a longitudinal axis of the carrier. Alternatively, the longitudinal axis of the work-piece may be laterally offset from the longitudinal axis of the carrier. The apparatus further includes provisions for rotating the hollow rotatable tool for forming or polishing a radius surface on the surface of the work-piece.