Compact Pneumatic Hammer Positioner for Operator Fatigue Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drilling and chipping tools require manual positioning and support, leading to operator fatigue and injury due to the weight and vibrations of the tools, especially in confined spaces or smaller scale operations.
Innovation Solution
A tool positioner system that enables spatial positioning and multi-directional orientation of drilling or chipping tools, supporting the tool's weight and reducing vibration transmission to the operator, while being compact, lightweight, and easily transportable.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If vehicle-mounted hydraulic or pneumatic rigs are used for supporting and positioning drilling/chipping tools, then the tool positioning and support function is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The positioner is divided into modular components including a base, vertical mast, horizontal boom, and articulated tool support arm. Each segment can independently move and lock into position, allowing the complex function of tool positioning to be achieved through simpler, separate mechanical actions rather than a monolithic complex system
Solution Approach 2:
The tool support arm incorporates a spring-loaded tool holder that automatically applies downward force on the tool during operation. This self-servicing mechanism eliminates the need for additional actuators or operators to maintain tool contact with the work surface, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining ease of operation
2Device complexity
If hand-held drilling/chipping tools are manipulated manually, then the device complexity is reduced, but operator fatigue and injury increase due to weight and vibrations
Solution Approach 1:
The positioner base and mast structure are designed to support the full weight of the drilling or chipping tool, completely relieving the operator of the burden of holding heavy equipment. The mechanical support structure acts as a counterweight system that balances and supports the tool mass during operation
Solution Approach 2:
The articulated tool support arm serves as an intermediary between the positioner base and the tool, absorbing and isolating vibrations generated during drilling or chipping operations. This intermediate mechanical linkage protects the operator from direct exposure to harmful vibrations while maintaining precise tool positioning
3Weight of moving object
If a compact and lightweight tool positioner is designed, then transportation ease is improved, but the support capability and stability may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The positioner employs dynamic locking mechanisms at each joint (mast-to-base, boom-to-mast, tool-arm-to-boom) that engage during operation to provide rigid support. During transportation, these locks are disengaged, allowing the structure to be lightweight and mobile. The system transitions from a static lightweight state to a dynamically locked stable state during use
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanisms are pre-positioned and spring-loaded to automatically engage when the positioner components are moved into their operational positions. This preliminary preparation of the locking system ensures that full support capability is immediately available when needed, without requiring additional weight or complex adjustment procedures
Data Source
AI summary
A tool positioner for a chipping or drilling tool having a tool axis. The positioner has a frame, a tool support configured for coupling the chipping or drilling tool to the positioner and mounted to the frame via a first joint having a first pivot axis and a second joint having a second pivot axis, the first pivot axis, the second pivot axis and the tool axis intersecting each other at a common point. The first joint and the second joint allow angular movements of the chipping or drilling tool at least about the respective first pivot axis and the second pivot axis. The tool support is further displaceable relative to the frame to enable a plurality of degrees of freedom in translation of the tool support. An automated locking system is operable to restrict and allow the plurality of degrees of freedom in translation of the tool support.