Multi-Tool Part Cleaning Machine With Dynamic Tool Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing part cleaning processes require multiple stations with different specialized tools for various cleaning operations, necessitating the movement of parts between stations, which is inefficient and cumbersome.
Innovation Solution
A part cleaning machine with a movable cradle and chuck holder system that allows for the selective attachment and positioning of multiple tools along three axes, enabling a single machine to perform multiple cleaning operations without part relocation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple specialized cleaning tools are used at different stations, then each cleaning operation can be performed with a dedicated tool, but the part must be moved between stations which reduces efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple specialized cleaning tools and stations into a single integrated cleaning machine. The machine includes a common support structure with multiple tool holders, each capable of holding different cleaning tools (nozzles, brushes, lances, etc.), allowing all cleaning operations to be performed at one location without moving the part between stations.
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning machine is designed as a universal system that can perform multiple different cleaning operations using various interchangeable tools. The tool holders and chucks are designed to accommodate different tool types (deburring tools, washing nozzles, flushing devices, etc.), making the single machine capable of replacing multiple specialized stations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple cleaning stations are set up with different tools, then various cleaning operations can be performed, but the device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate cleaning stations into a single integrated machine with a common support structure. Instead of having separate stations for deburring, washing, flushing, and drying, all these functions are combined in one machine with tools that can be selectively positioned and activated.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure and tool holding system are designed to be universal, accommodating various cleaning tools through standardized interfaces. This allows the single machine to provide the functionality of multiple specialized stations while reducing overall system complexity and space requirements.
3Manufacturing precision
If parts are moved between multiple stations for different cleaning operations, then each operation can be optimized for its specific tool, but the handling time and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the need to move parts between stations by combining all cleaning operations at a single location. The part remains stationary on the support structure while different tools are brought to the part through the movable tool holders and chucks, significantly reducing handling time.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool holders and chucks are designed to be movable and adjustable, allowing tools to be dynamically positioned and repositioned around the stationary part. This dynamic tool positioning system enables different cleaning operations to be performed on the same part without moving the part itself, maintaining cleaning quality while reducing handling time.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of operating a part cleaning machine includes removably attaching a part to a part holder. A selected first one of a plurality of tools is transferred from a tool holder to a tool chuck to perform a desired cleaning operation. The selected first one of the tools is positioned in a pre-defined tool cleaning position by moving a chuck holder along an axis on a tool positioning plane. The part is positioned in a pre-defined part cleaning position by at least one of moving a cradle along an X axis, rotating the cradle about a first cradle axis, or rotating the part holder about a second cradle axis. The desired cleaning operation is performed on the part with the selected first one of the tools, with the part in the pre-defined part cleaning position and the selected first one of the tools in the pre-defined tool cleaning position.