Integrated Scan-and-Cut Workflow for Tolerance-Based Cutting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cutting systems require manual transportation of parts between separate scanning and cutting systems, leading to labor intensity, operator error, and high costs due to batch-to-batch variation in parts.
Innovation Solution
An integrated cutting system with a scanning device, cutting device, and holder that autonomously scans and cuts objects within a single system, using a computer system to calculate offset values to ensure accuracy within a tolerance range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If separate scanning and cutting systems are used with manual transportation, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity decreases and measurement precision is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the scanning device, cutting device, and holder into a single integrated system. The scanning device and cutting device are positioned to operate on the same object within the same system, eliminating the need for manual transportation between separate systems. This merging enables automated workflow where the object remains fixed on the holder while both scanning and cutting operations are performed, directly resolving the contradiction by improving productivity through automation while accepting controlled system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated system performs multiple functions: the scanning device captures geometry data, the computer system calculates offset values, and the cutting device executes precise cuts. The holder serves as a universal fixture that positions the object for both scanning and cutting operations. This multi-functionality allows a single system to replace multiple separate systems, improving productivity without requiring complex coordination between independent devices.
2Measurement precision
If manual measurement adjustments are made, then adaptability to batch variation is improved, but measurement precision decreases and loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the scanning device to capture the actual geometry of the object, compares it with the desired geometry, and automatically calculates offset values based on deviations. This feedback loop eliminates manual measurement adjustments by providing real-time data-driven corrections. The computer system processes scan data and generates precise offset values that compensate for batch-to-batch variations, achieving high measurement precision without time-consuming manual interventions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-measurement and self-adjustment through automated scanning and offset calculation. Instead of requiring operators to manually measure and adjust settings, the scanning device automatically captures object geometry, the computer system calculates necessary offset values, and the cutting device applies corrections autonomously. This self-service capability dramatically reduces measurement time while maintaining or improving precision compared to manual processes.
3Manufacturing precision
If automated offset calculation is implemented, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary scanning of the object before cutting to capture its actual geometry. Based on this preliminary data, the computer system calculates offset values in advance that will compensate for dimensional variations. This preliminary action enables the cutting device to execute precise cuts with proper tolerances without requiring complex real-time adjustments during the cutting process itself, balancing manufacturing precision with manageable system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a cutting system is provided. The cutting system comprises a scanning device configured to scan a first object, compare the first object with a tolerance range, and calculate a first set of offset values. The cutting system further comprises a cutting device configured to receive the first set of offset values and cut the first object based on the first set of offset values. The scanning device also rescans the first object after the cutting device cuts the first object, determines whether the cut first object is within a tolerance range, and calculates a second set of offset values if the cut first object is not within the tolerance range. The cutting device also receives the second set of offset values and cuts the cut first object based on the second set of offset values.