Workpiece Positioning for Multi-Angle Cutting Without Re-Clamping
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cutting machines require manual user intervention and repeated re-clamping for complex separation tasks, which is cumbersome and time-consuming, especially when multiple sample portions need to be taken from a test specimen at different angular positions.
Innovation Solution
A cutting machine with a workpiece positioning device that includes clamping means and mechanical rotating means to position the workpiece relative to a rotating cutting wheel, allowing for automatic positioning and cutting at various angles without re-clamping, using a lifting mechanism to set the cutting wheel perpendicular to the workpiece and incorporating a program controller for automated control of the cutting process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If standardized clamping tools are used for simple separating cuts, then the operation is simple and quick, but the machine cannot handle complex separation tasks requiring multiple cuts at different angular positions
Solution Approach 1:
The workpiece positioning device integrates multiple functions into a single system: clamping means to secure the workpiece, first mechanical rotating means to rotate about vertical axis D, and second mechanical rotating means to rotate about horizontal axis E. This multi-functional positioning device can handle various separation tasks including simple and complex cuts at different angular positions, replacing the need for multiple specialized tools and manual re-clamping operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning device employs dynamic rotational capabilities with two independent rotation axes. The first rotating means enables rotation about vertical axis D, while the second rotating means enables rotation about horizontal axis E. These dynamic positioning capabilities allow the workpiece to be oriented in multiple positions without manual intervention, transforming a static clamping system into a dynamic, multi-position positioning system.
2Productivity
If manual re-clamping is performed for each separating cut at different positions, then the cutting machine can handle complex separation tasks, but the process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping means secures the workpiece once at the beginning, and the mechanical rotating means perform all subsequent positioning actions automatically. The program controller pre-plans the sequence of rotations and cutting positions, eliminating the need for repeated manual re-clamping operations between cuts. This preliminary clamping followed by automated positioning significantly reduces operational time.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical rotating means, driven by the program controller, automatically reposition the workpiece between cuts without requiring manual intervention. The system serves itself by autonomously rotating the workpiece to the required angular positions and performing the separating cuts, transforming a manual operation into an automated self-servicing process.
3Extent of automation
If a workpiece positioning device with multiple rotation axes is added to enable complex separation tasks, then automation and precision are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning device merges the clamping function with two rotation functions into a single integrated unit. The clamping means, first rotating means (vertical axis D), and second rotating means (horizontal axis E) are combined in one device that can perform all functions sequentially without requiring separate tools or manual re-clamping, thereby managing complexity through functional integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning device is designed as a universal system that can handle both simple and complex separation tasks. By incorporating two independent rotation axes and a program controller, the device achieves high automation capability while maintaining versatility for various cutting configurations, balancing automation benefits with manageable device complexity.
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 efficient and automated execution of complex separation tasks with reduced manual effort, saving time and minimizing the risk of errors by allowing precise positioning and multiple cuts at different angles without re-clamping the workpiece, while also being retrofittable to existing machines.
Implementation Method 1
A separating cut in the workpiece is performed by introducing the rotating cutting wheel into the workpiece... while an abrasive cutting operation is carried out on the workpiece
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a cutting machine comprising a rotating cutting wheel for performing separating cuts in a workpiece, and also relates to a workpiece positioning device for such a cutting machine. The cutting machine comprises a cutting wheel and a drive motor for driving the cutting wheel, a clamping means for clamping the workpiece, means for mechanically positioning the workpiece along one or two translational directions and additionally about one or two rotation axes, and a lifting mechanism for setting the cutting wheel on the workpiece to perform separating cuts in the positioned workpiece using the cutting wheel.