Multifunction Grinding Method for Crankshaft End Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multifunction grinding machines require multiple machines and complex setups to grind both ends of a crankshaft, leading to increased costs, space requirements, and reduced efficiency due to the need for end-to-end workpiece exchange and insufficient driving force.
Innovation Solution
A multifunction grinding method utilizing a single pair of spindle equipment with centering members shifted along the spindle axis and a driving pin rotated around the spindle axis, allowing simultaneous positioning for grinding both ends without exchanging the workpiece, with controlled slow-speed rotations and swing slide indexing to prevent interference and ensure accurate grinding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two separate grinding machines are used to grind both end portions of the workpiece, then grinding capability for both ends is achieved, but cost and floor space increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The grinding machine is designed with multi-functionality to perform both end portion grinding operations. The machine includes a workpiece holding device with first and second holding portions, and grinding devices with first and second grinding wheels that can be positioned to grind either end of the workpiece, allowing one machine to replace two separate machines
Solution Approach 2:
The machine employs dynamic positioning mechanisms including a table that can move in the workpiece axial direction, and grinding wheels that can be swung between working positions and retraction positions. This dynamic capability allows the same grinding devices to service both end portions of the workpiece efficiently
2Device complexity
If a multifunction grinding machine is used to grind both end portions, then machine count is reduced, but workpiece exchange and position change operations increase complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The machine employs dynamic positioning mechanisms including a table that can move in the workpiece axial direction, and grinding wheels that can be swung between working positions and retraction positions. This dynamic capability allows the same grinding devices to service both end portions of the workpiece efficiently
Solution Approach 2:
The workpiece holding device is segmented into first and second holding portions, allowing independent positioning of each end of the workpiece. This segmentation enables one end to be held while the other end is ground, eliminating the need for workpiece exchange operations
3Ease of operation
If driving pin is positioned at eccentric location to rotate workpiece, then workpiece rotation is achieved, but one end portion cannot be ground due to driving pin interference
Solution Approach 1:
The driving pin is positioned at an eccentric location relative to the workpiece rotational axis, creating dynamic engagement where the driving pin rotates the workpiece during grinding of one end portion. The system dynamically manages the driving pin position to enable workpiece rotation while maintaining grinding capability
Solution Approach 2:
The solution moves the driving pin function to a different spatial dimension by positioning it radially outward from the rotational axis. This eccentric positioning allows the driving pin to engage the workpiece periphery for rotation while the grinding wheel accesses the end portion, resolving the interference problem
4Adaptability or versatility
If centering members are shifted to position for grinding one end, then grinding access is improved, but driving pin engagement is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The centering members are designed to be shiftable along the spindle rotational axis, dynamically repositioning between first and second positions. This dynamic positioning allows the centering members to provide both workpiece centering for grinding and maintain driving pin engagement as needed
Solution Approach 2:
The workpiece holding device is segmented into first and second holding portions, allowing independent positioning of each end of the workpiece. This segmentation enables one end to be held while the other end is ground, eliminating the need for workpiece exchange operations
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2C
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
It is an object of the present invention to provide a grinding method of a multifunction grinding machine having no need to exchange one end portion to the other end portion of a workpiece and having a more simple construction to grind both of one and the other end portions. The grinding method of the multifunction grinding machine includes the steps of a step holding a workpiece W by a pair of centering members 21, 31 of a pair of spindle equipments, a step shifting two centering members 21, 31 to one side of a spindle rotational axis ZW, a step facing a grinding wheel TB at the other side to the other end portion WTb of the workpiece W, a step grinding the other end portion WTb of the workpiece W by the grinding wheel TB at the other side by rotating a driving pin 23 of the spindle equipment at one side, a step retracting the grinding wheel at other side and stopping the rotation of the driving pin 23 at one side and also shifting two centering members 21, 31 to the other side of the spindle rotational axis ZW, a step facing a grinding wheel TA at one side to one end portion WTa of the workpiece W, and a step grinding one end portion WTa of the workpiece W by the grinding wheel TA at one side by rotating a driving pin 33 of the spindle equipment at the other side.