Compact Sand Mould Identification Device with Nested Indicators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sand mould identification devices are bulky, limiting their use in smaller castings and those with many surface details, and they cannot provide enough different combinations of indicator elements for modern foundry production lines, making it difficult to link quality issues with process parameters and reduce quality costs.
Innovation Solution
A compact sand mould identification device with a slim insertion portion and a mounting bracket design that allows for a large number of individually adjustable indicator elements, featuring a motor control and network adaptor placement behind the insertion portion, and a sealing mechanism to prevent sand and dust ingress, enabling a small footprint and numerous combinations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional sand mould identification device with multiple indicator elements is used, then the number of different combinations increases, but the device becomes bulky and occupies a large footprint in the pattern forming surface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested structure where the indicator elements are arranged concentrically around a central axis, with each indicator element positioned at a different radial distance. This nesting approach allows multiple indicator elements to occupy a compact circular area rather than requiring a large rectangular footprint, thereby increasing the number of combinations while minimizing the space occupied in the pattern forming surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional arrangement of indicator elements to a three-dimensional configuration by positioning indicators at different radial distances from the center and at different angular positions. This dimensional change allows for a greater number of unique combinations within a smaller footprint, as the indicators utilize both radial and angular dimensions to create distinct patterns.
2Adaptability or versatility
If more indicator elements are added to increase combinations, then the identification capability improves, but the device complexity and bulkiness increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple indicator elements into a single compact identification device housing, with all indicators sharing a common central axis and rotational mechanism. This consolidation allows for multiple indicators to function together in a unified structure, increasing identification capability while avoiding the bulkiness that would result from separate indicator devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal mounting structure and rotational mechanism that can accommodate multiple types of indicator elements (e.g., different shapes, sizes, or materials) within the same device. This multi-functional design allows the device to provide various identification capabilities using a single standardized platform, thereby increasing versatility without proportionally increasing device complexity.
3Area of stationary object
If the insertion portion is made slim to reduce footprint, then the adaptability to smaller castings improves, but the space for mounting devices and actuators is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the device into distinct functional modules: a slim insertion portion for the pattern forming surface, a separate mounting bracket for secure attachment, and actuators positioned within the housing. This segmentation allows the insertion portion to maintain a minimal footprint while the mounting bracket and actuators are positioned in spaces that do not interfere with the slim profile, thereby preserving both adaptability and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a mounting bracket as an intermediary component that mediates between the slim insertion portion and the sand moulding machine. The bracket provides mounting surfaces and attachment points that are accessible from the rear of the device, allowing for easy installation and adjustment without requiring the insertion portion itself to be bulky, thus maintaining both slim profile and operational accessibility.
Data Source
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AI summary
The sand mould identification device (1) has a housing (2) with an identification pattern face (3) adapted to be arranged in a pattern forming surface (4) of a sand moulding machine. Individually adjustable indicator elements (6, 7, 8) in the identification pattern face are adjustable by means of an actuators (9, 10, 11). The housing includes an insertion portion (12) adapted to be inserted into a corresponding recess of said sand moulding machine. The identification pattern face is located at a front end (14) of the insertion portion. The insertion portion is adapted to be inserted into the sand moulding machine in an insertion direction (D) extending from a rear end (15) to the front end (14) of the insertion portion. A mounting bracket is accessible at or behind the rear end (15) of the insertion portion for mounting or demounting the housing to or from the sand moulding machine or core shooter.