Multi-Profile Abrasive Tool for Sequential Glass Edge Finishing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional techniques for grinding and polishing the edges of thin glass substrates require multiple abrasive tools, leading to inefficiencies and a need for improved processes.
Innovation Solution
A grinding and polishing tool with a shank and multiple abrasive portions mounted in an axial array, each with a unique profile, allowing for sequential grinding and polishing with a single tool, utilizing different grit sizes and metal bonds like copper-tin, and featuring re-profiled profiles for versatility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple separate abrasive tools are used for sequential grinding and polishing, then different surface finishes can be achieved, but tool changes are required and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple abrasive portions with different grit sizes (coarse, medium, fine) onto a single tool body, allowing all grinding and polishing operations to be performed without removing the tool from the workpiece. This merging of multiple functions into one tool eliminates tool change time and increases productivity while maintaining the ability to achieve different surface finishes.
Solution Approach 2:
The single abrasive tool is designed with multi-functionality by incorporating abrasive portions with different grit sizes (e.g., 400 grit for coarse grinding, 800 grit for medium grinding, 1200 grit for fine polishing) on the same tool body, enabling it to perform multiple operations sequentially without requiring separate specialized tools for each operation.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple separate abrasive tools are used, then each tool can be optimized for its specific function, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple abrasive portions with different grit sizes onto a single tool body, reducing the number of separate tools from three (coarse grinder, medium grinder, polisher) to one multi-functional tool, thereby simplifying the overall device complexity while maintaining all necessary grinding and polishing capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool body is segmented into multiple abrasive portions, each with a specific grit size, arranged in a predetermined sequence. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized for its specific function (coarse grinding, medium grinding, fine polishing) while being integrated into a single tool, balancing specialization with simplified device structure.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple separate abrasive tools are used, then each tool can be optimized for its specific grit size, but loss of time occurs due to tool changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple abrasive portions with different grit sizes on a single tool body, eliminating the need to remove and replace tools between grinding and polishing operations. This allows continuous processing of glass edges through all stages (coarse grinding, medium grinding, fine polishing) without tool change time, significantly reducing total processing time.
4Productivity
If a single tool with multiple abrasive portions is used, then productivity increases, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The tool body is divided into distinct abrasive portions, each with a specific grit size, arranged in a linear sequence along the tool's length. This segmentation allows each abrasive portion to be independently optimized for its function while being mounted on a simple common holder, achieving multi-functionality without excessive structural 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, sequential grinding and polishing of thin glass edges with improved surface finishes, reducing tool changes and increasing productivity while maintaining tool reusability.
Implementation Method 1
The edges of thin glass substrates are usually ground and polished to achieve a desired surface finish
Data Source
AI summary
A grinding tool includes a shank having an axis, and at least two abrasive portions mounted directly to and in contact with the shank without a hub therebetween. Each of the abrasive portions has a substantially identical profile formed therein.