Omni-Wheel Machine Tool for Non-Rectilinear Surface Machining
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine tools face challenges in creating non-rectilinear shapes, pose safety hazards, require multiple machines for different operations, have limited size constraints, high complexity and costs, and demand advanced operator knowledge and programming skills.
Innovation Solution
A compact machine tool with omni-wheels and a control unit that allows direct contact with the workpiece for precise movement and machining, enabling operation on any size surface with reduced complexity and cost, and allowing for manual operation with enhanced safety features.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional machine tools are used for non-rectilinear shaping, then the operator must have high dexterity and experience, but this increases the difficulty of operation and safety risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical control with an automated robotic system equipped with a control unit that receives positioning signals to automatically position the removal tool relative to the workpiece, eliminating the need for operator dexterity and experience in manual manipulation
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs automatic positioning and machining operations through the robotic mechanism and control unit, making the system self-sufficient without requiring continuous manual intervention or high-level operator skills
2Productivity
If CNC machines are used to automate machining, then productivity and precision improve, but device complexity and purchase costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the machining system into modular components: a robotic mechanism for positioning, a removal tool, and a control unit, allowing for simpler individual parts that can be independently selected and replaced without requiring a complete complex CNC system
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic mechanism is designed to perform multiple machining operations by changing the removal tool, eliminating the need for multiple specialized machines and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining versatility
3Object-affected harmful factors
If CNC machines with protective shells are used, then operator safety improves, but the size of workpieces is limited by the processing chamber
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic robotic system that can move freely around and on the workpiece rather than being constrained within a fixed processing chamber, allowing the workpiece size to be limited only by the robotic system's travel range rather than a rigid enclosure
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic mechanism serves as an intermediary between the operator and the workpiece, allowing the operator to remain at a safe distance while the robot performs the hazardous machining operations, eliminating the need for a confining protective shell
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple machine tools are used for different machining operations, then versatility improves, but purchase costs and processing times increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal robotic system that can perform multiple machining operations (cutting, drilling, shaping) by changing the removal tool, allowing all operations to be performed on a single platform without moving the workpiece between different machines
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple machining functions into a single integrated robotic system, merging the capabilities of what would traditionally require separate machines into one unified platform that can perform all operations in sequence without moving the workpiece
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a machine tool configured for machining by removing material from an object defining a machining surface and including a removal tool of material from the object and driving means configured to be placed directly in contact with the machining surface and to move said machine tool and, thus, the removal tool, with respect to the object.