Rotary Stone Aging Device with Biasing Abrasive Tools
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for aging concrete surfaces to achieve a rustic look are inefficient, time-consuming, and unsuitable for large or fragile stones, and existing apparatuses fail to provide a natural, antique appearance.
Innovation Solution
A stone aging device with a rotary support and abrasive tools connected by biasing means that allow the tools to follow the surface profile of the stone, enabling efficient and economical aging of both artificial and natural stones, including large and thin ones, by roughing and polishing the surfaces and edges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If manual techniques are used to age stone surfaces, then a rustic look can be achieved, but the process is long, arduous, inefficient and uneconomical
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical techniques with an automated mechanical system featuring a rotary support with abrasive tools that automatically contact and treat stone surfaces, eliminating manual labor while maintaining the rustic appearance through controlled abrasion
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the processing parameters by using adjustable abrasive tools with varying degrees of abrasiveness and controlled contact pressure, allowing the same system to produce different rustic finishes while maintaining high productivity
2Manufacturing precision
If tumbler type apparatuses are used to roughen stone surfaces, then texturing can be achieved, but the process is time consuming and requires additional handling steps
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus is designed so that stones are pre-positioned on the rotary support in a single organized layer, and the abrasive tools are pre-configured to contact specific surfaces, eliminating the need for repeated handling and repositioning during the aging process
3Manufacturing precision
If tumbler type apparatuses are used for stone aging, then surface treatment can be achieved, but large thin stones or fragile stones are damaged rather than aged
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies localized treatment by using multiple abrasive tools that contact only specific portions of the stone surface during rotation, avoiding excessive or concentrated stress on any single area, thereby preserving fragile stones while achieving the desired aging effect
Solution Approach 2:
The rotary support creates dynamic, distributed contact between abrasive tools and stone surfaces during rotation, preventing static concentrated loads that could damage fragile stones, while still achieving effective surface treatment through continuous motion
4Extent of automation
If conveyor apparatuses are used to transport stones to surface treatment, then automation can be achieved, but they do not provide a satisfactory real, natural, antique look
Solution Approach 1:
The rotary support acts as an intermediary mechanism that combines automated stone holding with manual-quality abrasive treatment, allowing automated operation while maintaining natural antique appearance through the specific design of abrasive tool contact patterns
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
The device allows for rapid and efficient mass production of stones with a natural, antique appearance, effectively aging both artificial and natural stones without damaging fragile ones, and can be adapted for various surface profiles and finishes.
Implementation Method 1
at least one abrasive tool mounted to the rotary support for roughing and/or polishing a surface
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides an apparatus and a method for aging a stone, preferably an artificial stone. The aging device comprises a rotary support operatively connected to a rotary shaft, at least one abrasive tool mounted to the rotary support for roughing and/or polishing a surface of the artificial stone when the rotary support is brought into functional contact with said surface, and biasing means that biasingly connect the abrasive tool to the rotary support. The biasing means urge the abrasive tool away from the rotary support while allowing the same to move toward the rotary support when the rotary support is brought into functional contact with the surface of the artificial stone, thereby allowing the abrasive tool to follow a surface profile of the artificial stone while roughing and/or polishing its surface.