Parallel Kinematic Machining Head for Wide-Angle Rigid Positioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing processing devices, such as fork heads and parallel kinematic heads, have limited flexibility and rigidity, restricting their ability to handle workpieces with varying height profiles and requiring multiple devices for different machining tasks.

Innovation Solution

A processing device with a carrier device and an adjusting device that can move in a vertical direction, featuring three actuating units arranged in a specific configuration to allow for vertical adjustment and tilting of the processing head, enhancing rigidity and flexibility by enabling movement along multiple axes and large machining angles.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If fork heads with predefined swivel axes are used, then the structure is simple, but the machining range is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructure simplicityVSAvoidmachining range
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from static predefined swivel axes to dynamic adjustable axes. The parallel kinematic head allows the swivel axis position to be dynamically adjusted during operation, enabling the machining head to adapt to different workpiece geometries and machining requirements while maintaining structural efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an additional degree of freedom by allowing adjustment in multiple spatial dimensions. The parallel kinematic mechanism enables independent adjustment of position and orientation in three-dimensional space, expanding the machining range beyond the limited single-axis rotation of traditional fork heads

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If parallel kinematic heads with adjustable actuating units are used, then the machining range is increased, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemachining rangeVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal parallel kinematic head that can perform multiple machining operations through a single integrated structure. The three actuating units work together to achieve positioning, tilting, and machining functions simultaneously, eliminating the need for multiple separate adjustment mechanisms and reducing overall device complexity

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a parallel kinematic mechanism as an intermediary between the actuating units and the machining head. This intermediary structure efficiently transmits and coordinates the movements of three linear actuating units into precise positional and orientational control of the machining head, simplifying the control architecture

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Device complexity

If the machining head is moved exclusively by actuating units, then the structure is simplified, but the rigidity is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructure simplicityVSAvoidrigidity
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies different structural qualities to different parts of the system. The actuating units and their connection mechanisms are designed with high rigidity where structural support is needed, while allowing controlled flexibility in the kinematic chains where movement is required. This localized differentiation of structural properties maintains overall rigidity while enabling the desired motion capabilities

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs composite structural design combining rigid components (machining head, tool holder, support structure) with controlled flexible elements (kinematic chains, articulated connections). This composite approach ensures that rigidity is maintained in critical machining zones while flexibility is provided in actuation and positioning zones

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Data Source

PatentEP4410475A1Machining device for machining workpieces and method
Publication Date: 2024.08.07 KLAUS DIETER KLEMENT VERW
  • EP4410475A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4410475A1 patent drawingFigure 2A
  • EP4410475A1 patent drawingFigure 2B

AI summary

The invention relates to a machining device for machining workpieces, comprising a carrier device (1) and a machining head (9) arranged on the carrier device (1) via an adjusting device, wherein the adjusting device (2) has at least three adjusting units (5, 6, 7) movable in a first horizontal direction (H1), which are connected to the machining head (9) via a hinge connection (8). According to the invention, the adjusting device (2) is arranged on the carrier device (1) so as to be movable in a vertical direction (V), wherein a first adjusting unit (5) is provided which is arranged in the vertical direction (V) above a second and a third adjusting unit (6, 7).