Rotary Polishing Tool With Automatic Pad Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing polishing tools for ophthalmic lenses require complex and user-intensive processes for replacing abrasive disks, which can be time-consuming and prone to misalignment during the polishing operation.
Innovation Solution
A rotary polishing tool with a drive plate that includes positioning means for radial immobilization, axial sliding, and rotational locking mechanisms, allowing for easy mounting and automatic engagement of the polishing pad, utilizing a tooth-and-slot system for secure rotation and alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a complex mounting mechanism is used to secure the abrasive disk, then the disk is held firmly, but the replacement process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting mechanism is divided into separate functional components: positioning means (groove and lugs) for radial immobilization, retaining means (flange and boss) for axial limiting, and rotational locking means (teeth and slots) for rotational securing. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, enabling quick replacement while maintaining firm holding.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning means and retaining means are designed to automatically engage and limit the pad's position and movement before the rotational locking engages. The groove and lugs pre-position the pad radially, while the flange and boss pre-limit axial movement, so that when the tooth engages the slot during rotation, everything is already aligned and secured.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual alignment of the pad is required during mounting, then precise angular positioning is achieved, but user intervention and potential misalignment increase
Solution Approach 1:
The rotational locking means is designed to automatically align and secure the pad without requiring manual angular positioning by the user. The tooth on the drive plate engages with the slot on the pad automatically during rotation, eliminating the need for user intervention in alignment while ensuring precise angular positioning.
3Ease of operation
If the pad is freely slidable on the plate, then easy mounting is achieved, but rotational stability and positioning precision are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting mechanism transitions from a static fixed connection to a dynamic system that allows controlled axial sliding during mounting, then automatically locks into position during rotation. The retaining means allows the pad to slide axially within a predetermined range for easy mounting, but the rotational locking means engages to prevent further movement and ensure positioning precision when the pad bears on the lens.
Data Source
AI summary
A polishing tool (1) for finishing an ophthalmic lens includes a drive plate (4) which is equipped with elements (2) for mounting same to the spindle of a polishing machine; a removable polishing pad (5) designed to be rotated by the drive plate (4); positioning elements to block the radial movement of the pad (5) in relation to the plate (4) as well as to enable the pad (5) to slide axially in relation the plate (4); retaining elements which limit the axial sliding movement of the pad (5) in relation to the plate (4) to a pre-determined sliding range; and elements for stopping the rotational movement, having at least one tooth which can be engaged in a slot having a corresponding shape, one of the elements being provided on the plate (4) and the other on the pad (5).