Laser Diode Base Plate for Milling Depth Indication

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing machine tools face difficulties in setting milling depth accurately without additional tools, which complicates the milling process and increases costs.

Innovation Solution

A machine tool design incorporating a base plate with a through opening for a laser diode that marks the milling depth, allowing for precise adjustment using a compression spring to press the laser diode out of the base plate, enabling the milling tool to interrupt the light beam and display the set depth visually.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional milling depth setting methods are used, then additional tools and aids are required, but this increases device complexity and costs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemilling depth setting precisionVSAvoidcomplexity of depth setting system
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the depth indication function with the base plate structure by integrating a laser diode directly into the base plate. The laser diode projects a light spot that indicates the milling depth, merging the depth measurement function into the existing base plate rather than requiring separate external aids or tools.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The machine tool performs its own depth indication function through the integrated laser diode system. The laser diode automatically projects the depth indicator without requiring external measurement tools or additional aids, allowing the system to serve itself for depth measurement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Measurement precision

If additional depth setting aids are added to achieve precise milling depth, then measurement precision improves, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemilling depth measurement precisionVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the depth indication function with the base plate structure by integrating a laser diode directly into the base plate. This integration eliminates the need for separate external measurement aids, reducing the overall system cost while maintaining precise depth indication capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses a laser diode, which is a relatively inexpensive and compact component, to provide precise depth indication. The laser diode can be easily replaced if needed, providing a cost-effective solution compared to more complex or expensive measurement systems.

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

3Ease of operation

If a laser diode is integrated into the base plate for depth indication, then ease of operation improves, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of milling depth settingVSAvoidcomplexity of base plate structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The laser diode integrated into the base plate automatically provides depth indication without requiring operator intervention or external tools. The system self-regulates the depth indication function, making operation simpler even though the base plate structure is more complex.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical depth measurement methods with an optical laser diode system. This substitution simplifies operation by providing visual feedback through a light spot, eliminating the need for mechanical gauges or manual measurement procedures.

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

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 solution simplifies and cost-effectively allows for exact adjustability of milling depth without additional tools, enhancing the precision and usability of the machine tool.

Implementation Method 1

at least one laser diode is attached to the base plate (28) in such a way that a laser beam marks the level of the base plate (28) in the through-opening (30) of the base plate (28)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLaser: Laser

Implementation Method 2

a compression spring is arranged on the laser diode (32), which pushes the laser diode (32) out of the base plate (28) to set a milling depth

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring force: Spring

Data Source

PatentEP3369539B1Machine tool with a laser diode attached to a base plate
Publication Date: 2020.01.08 ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
  • EP3369539B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3369539B1 patent drawingFigure 2

AI summary

The invention relates to a machine tool (10), in particular a router, with a base plate (28) and a laser diode (32) attached to the base plate (28), wherein the base plate (28) has a through-hole (30), and with an insert tool (26), in particular a milling tool. It is proposed that the laser diode (32) be arranged on the base plate (28) such that a laser beam marks the level of the base plate (28) in the through-hole (30) of the base plate.