Automatic Cutter Change in Key Duplication Machines

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current key processing machines, both mechanical and electronic, face inefficiencies in production and require human intervention, leading to wasted resources and inability to meet the demands of modern industrialization for duplicating keys of different types or bitting codes.

Innovation Solution

A key processing machine equipped with an automatic cutter change device, a key bitting code learning device, and a clamp component, which includes a rotary disc, motor units, and a frame structure to automatically learn and replicate key shapes, reducing the need for manual cutter changes and human labor.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If mechanical or electronic key processing machines are used to duplicate keys of different types or bitting codes, then key duplication function is achieved, but production efficiency is low and human labor is required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveproduction efficiencyVSAvoidautomation level
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSExtent of automation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal key processing machine that can automatically process multiple types of keys and bitting codes through a single integrated system. The machine incorporates adjustable positioning mechanisms, interchangeable cutting tools, and programmable control that enable it to adapt to different key types (vehicle keys, door keys, ignition keys) and bitting codes without requiring manual reconfiguration or human intervention, thus achieving multi-functionality and high automation simultaneously

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The key processing machine incorporates automatic positioning systems, self-adjustable clamps, and programmable control that enable the machine to automatically adapt to different key types and perform processing without human intervention. The system can automatically identify key parameters, adjust positioning, select appropriate cutting tools, and execute the processing sequence, making the machine self-sufficient in handling various key duplication tasks

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Productivity

If benchmark positioning or artificial change of cutter is required for different key types, then key duplication accuracy is maintained, but production efficiency decreases and human resources are wasted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveproduction efficiencyVSAvoidoperation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual benchmark positioning and artificial cutter changing with automated mechanical systems. The machine incorporates programmable positioning mechanisms that can automatically adjust to different key types, and an automatic tool changer that selects and positions the appropriate cutting tool based on the programmed parameters, eliminating the need for manual intervention while maintaining precision

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The key processing machine employs dynamically adjustable positioning systems and interchangeable cutting tools that can be quickly changed and positioned according to the specific key type being processed. The system allows for rapid reconfiguration through programmable controls that adjust mechanical components on-the-fly, enabling high-speed processing of different key types without manual intervention or complex setup procedures

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If human labor is involved in key processing operations, then flexibility in handling different key types is achieved, but resource waste increases and productivity decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different key typesVSAvoidproduction efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent utilizes programmable control systems that store parameters for different key types and bitting codes. When a new key type needs to be processed, the operator simply inputs or selects the corresponding program, and the machine automatically adjusts all processing parameters (positioning, cutting speed, tool selection) based on the stored data, enabling rapid adaptation to different key types without manual intervention

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS11344957B2Key processing machine
Publication Date: 2022.05.31 ZHEJIANG UNIONX ELECTRIC MACHINERY TECHNOLOGY CO LTD
  • US11344957B2 patent drawing
  • US11344957B2 patent drawing
  • US11344957B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A key processing machine is described comprising an automatic cutter change device, a key shape learning device, a clamp component and a base. The automatic cutter change device comprises a frame structure, a cutter head, a rotary disc and a first motor unit. The rotary disc is fitted with a plurality of chambers used to accommodate the said cutter head. The cutter head is installed in the said chambers. The rotary disc and the first motor unit are installed on the said frame structure, and the said first motor unit drives the said rotary disc to rotate and further drive the cutter head on the said rotary disc to rotate. The automatic cutter change device or the key shape learning device matches the clamp component to put the original key and the key blank for processing in the clamp component, saving human resources and increasing working efficiency.