Industrial Machine Handle With Float Mode and Machining Interlock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Industrial machine tools lack an efficient and ergonomic handle system that allows operators to easily switch between power-assisted movement and machining modes, with inadequate safety features to prevent accidental actuation during machining processes.
Innovation Solution
A handle apparatus with a housing featuring a first switch for actuating a float mode and a second switch for machining, integrated with a servomechanism and distance sensor to power-assist movement and limit machining actuation when the moveable portion is within a threshold distance from the workpiece, ensuring operator safety and ease of operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a handle system with multiple switches is added to the industrial machine tool, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple control functions (float mode activation, machining actuation, and safety distance monitoring) into a single integrated handle assembly. The first switch controls float mode, the second switch controls machining, and the distance sensor works in conjunction with both switches to provide safety interlocking. This merging of functions into one handle improves operator convenience while the integrated design manages the complexity through functional consolidation rather than separate control mechanisms.
2Reliability
If safety features like distance sensors are integrated into the handle system, then operator safety is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The distance sensor continuously monitors the position of the moveable portion relative to the workpiece before machining actuation can occur. The system is configured to prevent machining operation unless the distance sensor confirms the moveable portion is within the threshold distance from the workpiece. This preliminary safety check is automatically performed by the interlocking mechanism, providing operator safety without requiring additional complex safety systems.
3Ease of operation
If the handle includes multiple switches for different modes, then the ease of operation is improved, but the object-generated harmful factors increase due to potential accidental actuation
Solution Approach 1:
The distance sensor provides continuous feedback about the position of the moveable portion relative to the workpiece. This feedback is integrated into the control logic such that the second switch (machining actuation) is ineffective unless the distance sensor confirms proper positioning. The system monitors the distance parameter and only permits machining when within threshold, preventing accidental machining while maintaining ease of operation through the same handle interface.
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
The handle system enhances operator safety by preventing accidental machining and simplifies operation by allowing seamless switching between modes, improving ergonomics and reducing the risk of injury through precise control and power-assisted movement.
Implementation Method 1
The industrial machine tool comprises a servomechanism to power assist in the movement of the moveable portion of the industrial machine tool
Implementation Method 2
The distance sensor is a linear variable differential transformer (LVDT)
Data Source
AI summary
A handle is coupled to an industrial machine tool, along with a method of operating the industrial machine tool via the handle. The handle comprises a housing, a first switch, and a second switch. The housing includes a first side, a second side, a top end, and a bottom end, the first side facing toward the industrial machine tool and the second side facing away from the industrial machine tool. The first switch actuates a float mode for the industrial machine tool, the float mode being a mode in which movement of a moveable portion of the industrial machine tool is power assisted for an operator of the industrial machine tool. The second switch actuates a machining portion, coupled to the moveable portion of the industrial machine tool, to perform a machining process on a workpiece.