Magnetic Sensor Fence Angle Detection for Saw Machines

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional table saws rely on a simple rule-based angle scale that is prone to being covered by chips during use, leading to inaccurate readings and insufficient precision for fine cutting due to vague graduations over time.

Innovation Solution

A workpiece feeding device with a magnetic sensor system that measures the biasing angle relative to an angle scale, providing accurate cutting angle indication through a display unit, allowing for precise adjustments and improved visibility.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a simple rule-based angle scale is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to vague graduations over time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveangle scale structureVSAvoidcutting angle reading precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the traditional mechanical angle scale reading system with a magnetic sensing system. A magnetic sensor detects the position of a magnetic strip attached to the angle scale, converting mechanical angular position into electrical signals for digital display. This substitution eliminates wear and vagueness issues of mechanical scales while maintaining simple device structure.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a magnetic strip as an intermediary between the angle scale and the magnetic sensor. The magnetic strip carries magnetic information that the sensor detects, serving as a mediator that transfers angular position information from the mechanical scale to the electronic detection system, thereby improving measurement precision without complicating the overall device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Device complexity

If a traditional angle scale is used, then the device complexity is low, but the reliability deteriorates when the scale is covered by cut chips

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveangle detection systemVSAvoidangle reading availability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the visual mechanical angle scale with an electronic magnetic detection system. The magnetic sensor continuously detects the angular position through magnetic field interaction, providing reliable digital readings that are not obscured by physical obstacles like cut chips, thereby significantly improving reading availability and reliability.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The magnetic detection system provides self-service by automatically detecting and displaying the cutting angle without requiring user visual inspection or manual reading. The system continuously monitors the angle position and presents the information in a clear digital format that remains accessible regardless of chip accumulation on the scale surface.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Device complexity

If manual reading of the angle scale is required, then the device complexity is low, but the productivity deteriorates due to time-consuming angle verification

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveangle indication systemVSAvoidsawing operation efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual visual reading of the angle scale with an automated magnetic detection and digital display system. The magnetic sensor continuously tracks the angular position and presents it in a clear digital format, eliminating the time required for manual verification and allowing operators to quickly confirm cutting angles, thereby improving sawing operation efficiency.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a feedback system where the magnetic sensor continuously monitors the angle position and provides real-time digital feedback to the operator. This immediate feedback mechanism eliminates the delay associated with manual scale reading and verification, enabling faster decision-making and improved productivity in the sawing process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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

Enables accurate and precise cutting angle adjustments by detecting changes in magnetic induction, eliminating the need for manual reading and improving precision beyond the limitations of traditional angle scales.

Implementation Method 1

The magnetic sensor is movable with the fence unit to change the angular position thereof relative to the magnetic plate assembly and to measure the biasing angle of the fence unit relative to the angle scale subject to change of magnetic induction between the magnetic sensor and the magnetic strip

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS8104388B2Workpiece feeding device with angle detection means for saw machine
Publication Date: 2012.01.31 OAV EQUIP & TOOLS
  • US8104388B2 patent drawing
  • US8104388B2 patent drawing
  • US8104388B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A workpiece feeding device used in a saw machine is disclosed to include a carrier having a base frame movably mounted on the machine base of the saw machine and an angle scale fastened to the base frame, a fence unit having a rip fence pivotally mounted on the base frame of the carrier and biasable relative to the angle scale, a magnetic plate assembly mounted on the base frame of the carrier and carrying a magnetic strip, and a magnetic sensor mounted in the fence unit and movable with the fence unit to measure the biasing angle of the fence unit relative to the angle scale subject to change of magnetic induction between the magnetic sensor and the magnetic strip.