Rotatable Interchangeable Work Surface Mount for Machining
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing work surfaces require specialized tooling and power tools for machining cylindrical or odd-shaped workpieces, leading to inefficient operation and costly, space-intensive solutions.
Innovation Solution
A rotating work surface assembly with interchangeable carriers and a motor-assisted lift, allowing multiple work surfaces to be radially arranged and easily attached to a power tool or workbench, enabling efficient positioning and adjustment of workpieces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple specialized work surfaces are provided for different workpieces, then the adaptability to handle various workpiece shapes is improved, but the device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal work surface system where a single base structure can accommodate multiple interchangeable carriers with different work surfaces. The standardized mounting interface allows any carrier to be attached to the base, enabling one device to perform multiple functions for different workpiece types (cylindrical, odd-shaped, flat, etc.) without requiring separate specialized equipment for each workpiece geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The work surface system is divided into modular components: a base structure and interchangeable carriers. Each carrier is a separate module that can be independently selected, attached, or removed based on the specific workpiece requirements. This segmentation allows the system to adapt to different workpiece shapes by simply changing the carrier module rather than redesigning the entire work surface system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple specialized work surfaces are provided for different workpieces, then the adaptability to handle various workpiece shapes is improved, but the space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single base structure serves as a universal platform that can accommodate multiple different work surface carriers. Instead of requiring separate dedicated work surfaces for each workpiece type, the universal base with interchangeable carriers consolidates multiple functions into one physical location, significantly reducing the total space required while maintaining full adaptability to handle various workpiece shapes.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple carriers are designed to be stored in a nested or stacked configuration when not in use, similar to nested dolls. This allows multiple work surface options to be kept in a compact arrangement attached to or near the base structure, minimizing the space footprint while ensuring all necessary carriers are readily accessible when needed.
3Adaptability or versatility
If specialized tooling and power tools are removed and reattached between machining steps, then the adaptability to different workpiece requirements is improved, but the productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier attachment system incorporates quick-release mechanisms that enable dynamic, rapid changes between different work surface carriers. The design allows operators to quickly detach one carrier and attach another without complex tool removal procedures, transforming a previously time-consuming static setup process into a dynamic, adaptable system that can respond quickly to different workpiece requirements during production.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple carriers are pre-configured with their specific work surfaces and tooling arrangements before being brought to the workbench. This preliminary preparation allows carriers to be swapped out as complete pre-configured units rather than requiring reassembly of individual components during production, significantly reducing setup time between different workpiece requirements while maintaining full adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly which provides a rotating work surface extension. The assembly may be attached or fixed to an existing work space platform. An assembly comprising interchangeable rotating work surface extensions is disclosed, along with a system comprising such an assembly and a method of positioning a workpiece utilizing such an assembly.