Pipe End Machining Device with Autofeed Cam Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe machining devices require reconfiguration or manual operator intervention to cut compound bevel angles, leading to inefficiencies and potential errors in the bevel formation process.
Innovation Solution
A device with an elongate non-rotatable shaft, a rotating sleeve, and an arm that moves radially, featuring a motor-driven autofeed mechanism with a cam system to adjust the cutting tool's axial movement, allowing for automatic change of bevel angles without reconfiguring the machine.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a manually operable feed screw is used to adjust the axial feed rate, then the bevel angle can be controlled, but the operation requires constant attention from the operator and increases the risk of errors
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a programmable microprocessor to automatically control the axial feed rate of the cutting tool, eliminating the need for manual operator intervention. The microprocessor receives input from a user interface, calculates the appropriate feed rate based on the desired bevel angle, and automatically adjusts the feed screw mechanism, allowing the system to serve itself without constant human attention
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the purely mechanical manual feed screw operation with an automated electromechanical system. A microprocessor-based control system substitutes for manual mechanical adjustment, using electronic signals to control the axial feed rate, thereby eliminating the need for constant manual monitoring and adjustment
2Adaptability or versatility
If the feed rate is manually adjusted for different bevel angles, then different angles can be achieved, but the process takes forty-five minutes or longer and requires frequent reconfiguration
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the axial feed rate based on the desired bevel angle through programmable control. Instead of static manual adjustment, the microprocessor dynamically calculates and applies the appropriate feed rate ratio between axial movement and rotational movement, allowing rapid adaptation to different bevel angles without manual reconfiguration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the control parameter from manual mechanical adjustment to electronic programmable control. The microprocessor stores and retrieves different feed rate parameters corresponding to various bevel angles, allowing rapid parameter changes without physical reconfiguration of the machining system, thereby increasing productivity while maintaining versatility
3Ease of operation
If a fixed axial feed rate is used, then the machine operation is simplified, but only a single bevel angle can be cut without reconfiguration
Solution Approach 1:
The microprocessor-based control system provides multi-functionality by enabling the same machining mechanism to produce multiple different bevel angles through programmable feed rate adjustment. The system universally handles various bevel angle requirements without requiring physical reconfiguration, maintaining ease of operation while adding versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary calculation of the appropriate axial feed rate based on the desired bevel angle before the machining operation begins. The microprocessor pre-determines the correct feed rate ratio and programs it into the control system, so when machining starts, the correct parameters are already in place, eliminating the need for manual reconfiguration during operation
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 and accurate machining of compound bevels without operator intervention, reducing the time required for bevel formation and minimizing errors by automatically adjusting the cutting tool's angle through a controlled autofeed mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
The rotating sleeve has an annular cam surface thereon that moves a cam follower mounted on the housing. Movement of the cam follower is converted into rotational movement that rotates a gearing connected to the feed screw for advancing the sleeve along the shaft
Implementation Method 2
A portion of the shaft has a threading and a feed screw rotates on the threading for axially advancing the sleeve
Implementation Method 3
A motor rotates the sleeve and the arm
Data Source
AI summary
A device for preparing the end of a pipe includes a non-rotatable mandrel one end of which is attachable to the pipe. A motor rotates a sleeve around the mandrel and the sleeve retains an arm perpendicular to the mandrel for cutting the pipe. A cam surface on the rotating sleeve moves a cam follower. Movement of the cam follower is converted to rotational movement for turning a feed nut threaded on the mandrel. The rate at which the sleeve is advanced by the feed nut is controlled by limiting the movement of the cam follower.