Remotely Adjustable Feed System for Machining Tools
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable machining tools require manual adjustment of the tool head, which can be imprecise and dangerous, especially during operation.
Innovation Solution
A remotely adjustable feed system that converts reciprocal linear motion into rotary motion, allowing for precise control of the tool head's movement through a remote controller, actuator, and rotary clutch mechanism, enabling wireless or wired operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual adjustment of the tool head is used, then the operator can directly control the feed, but the adjustment is imprecise and dangerous
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical adjustment system with an automated electromechanical system. A motor drives a lead screw through a rotary clutch mechanism, converting rotational motion into precise linear feed movement of the tool head. This substitution eliminates direct manual contact with moving parts while maintaining precise control through electrical actuation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a rotary clutch mechanism as an intermediary between the motor and the lead screw. The clutch engages and disengages to control the transmission of rotational motion, allowing precise start and stop of feed movement. This intermediary component enables controlled automated adjustment while preventing the safety hazards associated with direct manual operation.
2Measurement precision
If automated feed control is implemented, then precision and safety are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the feed control system into distinct functional modules: a motor for power generation, a rotary clutch for motion control, a lead screw for motion conversion, and a tool head mounting mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while simplifying the overall system design and maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotary clutch mechanism automatically engages and disengages based on the operational state, providing self-regulating feed control. The system uses the motor's own rotational output to drive the lead screw when engaged, and automatically disengages when resistance or end-of-travel is detected, reducing the need for additional complex control systems.
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 safe and precise remote adjustment of the tool head's feed, reducing the risks associated with manual adjustment and improving operational accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
converts reciprocal linear motion into rotary motion
Implementation Method 2
a lead screw adapted to turn in response to the actuator and move the tool head with respect to the lead screw in a first axis of motion parallel to an axis of the lead screw
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments herein provide a remotely adjustable feed system for remotely controlling the movement of a tool head on a machining tool along an axis of motion by means of converting reciprocal linear motion, i.e., back and forth linear motion, into rotary motion. The rate of movement of the tool head along the axis of motion may be controlled by varying the distance of linear motion in each cycle of linear reciprocal motion and/or by varying the rate of linear reciprocal motion cycles per unit time. Alternatively, or in addition, the rate of movement of the tool head along the axis of motion may be controlled by varying the amount of rotary motion that results from a given amount of reciprocal linear motion. Additionally, in some embodiments, the movement of the tool head may be controlled by directly controlling the rotary motion that drives the tool head along the axis of motion. The rotary motion may be controlled by adjusting the speed of continuous rotation and/or adjusting the frequency of pulsed rotations.