Pivoting Scrap Collection Bin for Laser Cutter Waste Emptying
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Solution Overview
Problem
The manual removal of waste material from laser cutters is time-consuming and inefficient, as it involves handling heavy scrap and slag that builds up below the cutting machine.
Innovation Solution
A collection bin system with a first and second container, each with a base, sidewalls, an end wall, a lift member, and a pivot member, designed to transition between a containing state and an emptying state, facilitated by a lift assembly and risers, allowing for easy movement and emptying of scrap into a larger waste container.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual removal of waste material is used, then the collection bin structure can be simple, but the operation becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The collection bin employs a dynamic tilting mechanism where the container can transition between a horizontal containing state and an inclined emptying state. The pivot member enables the container to automatically tilt when placed on risers, transforming the static bin into a dynamic system that self-adjusts for emptying without manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service emptying through the combination of the tilting mechanism and lift assembly. When the collection bin is positioned on the risers, the lift assembly automatically tilts the container to pour out waste material into the scrap bin below, eliminating the need for operators to manually empty the bin.
2Quantity of substance
If a single large container is used, then waste collection capacity increases, but the weight and difficulty of manual handling increases
Solution Approach 1:
The waste collection system is segmented into a removable collection bin that can be easily detached and replaced. This allows the heavy waste-containing bin to be separated from the machine, and the bin itself can be emptied without handling the entire waste mass manually, as the automated tilting and lifting system performs the heavy work.
Solution Approach 2:
The lift assembly acts as an intermediary mechanism between the collection bin and the operator. It provides mechanical advantage to lift and tilt the heavy waste-containing bin, transferring the burden from manual human effort to an automated mechanical system.
3Ease of operation
If automated lifting and tilting mechanisms are added, then ease of operation improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lift assembly and tilting mechanism are merged into a single integrated unit. The lift assembly performs both the lifting function and the tilting function through its mechanical design, eliminating the need for separate lifting and tilting mechanisms and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The lift assembly is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously provides lifting capability and tilting capability. This universal mechanism handles both functions with a single device, reducing the number of components needed and simplifying the overall system architecture.
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 automated collection and disposal of laser cutting waste, reducing manual labor and minimizing the risk of injury from handling heavy materials.
Implementation Method 1
the first and second containers pivot about locking member locations on the pivot member... allowing for easy movement and emptying of scrap into a larger waste container
Data Source
AI summary
A collection bin for a laser cutting machine includes a first container and a second container. Each of the first and second containers include a base; opposite first and second sidewalls; an end wall; a first lift member; and a first pivot member. The first and second sidewalls extend from the base and between a first end and second end. The end wall extends from the base and between the first and second sidewalls at the second end. The first lift member is positioned between the first and second ends. The first lift member facilitates movement of the collection bin. An interior space is defined by the base, the first and second sidewalls, and the end wall. The first pivot member extends between the first and second containers and facilitates a transition between a containing state and an emptying state.