Processing Cartridge with External Actuator for Machining Marks

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing cutting apparatuses are limited to cutting and drawing on objects and lack the capability to perform other processing tasks such as forming machining marks by grinding or cutting.

Innovation Solution

A processing apparatus and cartridge system that includes a first cartridge with a processing tool for forming machining marks, an actuator driven by external or internal power, and a control system to control the relative movement between the object and the cartridge, enabling the formation of machining marks on the object's surface.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the cutting apparatus is equipped with additional processing tools for forming machining marks, then the functionality and versatility of the apparatus is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidcomplexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling the cutting apparatus to perform not only cutting and drawing operations but also machining mark formation through grinding or cutting. The same carriage and transfer mechanism are utilized to accommodate and operate different types of cartridges (cutter cartridge, pen cartridge, and processing cartridge), allowing a single apparatus to execute multiple processing functions without requiring separate dedicated machines for each operation type

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the processing functions into separate interchangeable cartridges that can be selectively mounted on the carriage. Each cartridge (cutter cartridge, pen cartridge, processing cartridge) is an independent functional module containing its own processing tool and actuator. This segmentation allows the system to expand functionality by adding new cartridge types without increasing the complexity of the core apparatus structure, as each function is encapsulated in a self-contained module

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If the processing tool is equipped with an internal power supply and actuator, then the cartridge becomes self-contained and easier to operate, but the cartridge complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of operationVSAvoidcartridge complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The cartridge is designed with self-service characteristics by incorporating its own actuator and power supply (either internal battery or external connection) within the cartridge housing. The actuator is integrated into the cartridge structure and directly drives the processing tool, eliminating the need for external mechanical drive mechanisms. This self-contained design simplifies operation as the cartridge can be independently mounted and operated without complex external control mechanisms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS10493792B2Processing apparatus and cartridge
Publication Date: 2019.12.03 BROTHER KOGYO KK
  • US10493792B2 patent drawing
  • US10493792B2 patent drawing
  • US10493792B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A processing apparatus for performing not only cutting and drawing, but also other processing, and a cartridge used for the processing apparatus are provided. The processing apparatus includes a first cartridge including: a first processing tool to form a machining mark by grinding or cutting a surface of a sheet-like object; an actuator to operate by an external power supply and drive the first processing tool; and a first housing to accommodate the first processing tool where a tip of the first processing tool is exposed and accommodate the actuator. The processing apparatus also includes a carriage including a mounting section which the first cartridge is detachably mounted; a transfer mechanism to move the object and the carriage relatively to each other; and a control circuit to control driving of the transfer mechanism to form the machining mark on the surface of the object by the first processing tool.