Omni-Wheel Machine Tool for Portable 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 tasks, 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 for direct contact with the workpiece, enabling precise and versatile machining of any size surface by moving along defined paths without the need for extensive operator intervention, using a small removal tool and a spindle system.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional machine tools are used for non-rectilinear shaping, then the operator can perform manual machining, but the operator requires high dexterity and experience and faces safety hazards

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperator skill requirementVSAvoidsafety hazard

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The machine tool performs machining operations autonomously using computer-controlled movement along predefined paths. The system serves itself by automatically positioning and executing cutting operations without requiring operator dexterity or direct manipulation, eliminating safety hazards associated with manual operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical control with an automated computer-controlled system. The mechanical system is substituted by an automated control mechanism that directs the tool along predetermined paths, eliminating the need for operator skill and reducing safety risks.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple machine tools are used for different machining tasks, then various machining operations can be performed, but production costs increase and processing time increases due to moving objects between machines

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemachining operation varietyVSAvoidprocessing time

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The machine tool is designed with universal capability to perform multiple machining operations including cutting, drilling, and shaping through computer-controlled movement. A single machine can handle various tasks that traditionally required multiple specialized machines, eliminating the need to move workpieces between different machines and reducing processing time.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Object-affected harmful factors

If CNC machines with protective shells are used, then safety is improved and automated machining is enabled, but the size of objects to be machined is limited by the processing chamber

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovesafetyVSAvoidobject size capacity

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The machine tool system is segmented into a compact automated unit that can operate in open or partially enclosed spaces. Rather than requiring a large enclosed processing chamber, the automated tool head can safely approach and machine large workpieces from multiple angles, effectively removing the size constraint while maintaining safety through automated control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

4Manufacturing precision

If CNC machines are used for automated machining, then operator safety is improved and precision is enhanced, but purchase and maintenance costs increase due to high complexity

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemachining precisionVSAvoidmachine complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the essential automation function from complex industrial CNC machines and implements a simplified automated control system. By taking out only the necessary computer-controlled movement and path-following capabilities, the system achieves manufacturing precision while reducing device complexity and associated costs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

5Extent of automation

If CNC machines are used for automated machining, then automated operation is enabled, but energy consumption increases making production expensive

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomated machiningVSAvoidenergy consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The machine tool implements partial automation focused specifically on the critical path-following and positioning functions needed for precision machining. Rather than fully automating all auxiliary functions, the system applies automation only where necessary to achieve precision, reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining automated operation benefits.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentEP3200953B1Manufacturing process for removing material

Publication Date: 2023.06.28 SPRINGA SRL

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AI summary

A machine tool (1) is provided suitable for machining by removing material from an object (10) defining a machining surface (10a) and comprising a removal tool (2) of materia! from the object (10) and driving means (3) suitable to be placed directly in contact with the machining surface (10a) and to move said machine tool (1) and, thus, the removal tool (2), with respect to the object (10).