Sanding Unit Blocking Bar for Fast Abrasive Belt Replacement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing panel sanding machines require lengthy downtimes for abrasive belt replacement due to the need for manual disassembly and assembly, leading to inefficiencies and potential damage to the machine.

Innovation Solution

A blocking unit with a blocking bar and operating lever system that allows for quick and secure attachment and detachment of the abrasive belt, enabling rapid replacement without disrupting machine operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If manual disassembly and assembly operations are used for abrasive belt replacement, then the abrasive belt can be replaced, but machine downtime increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveabrasive belt replacement capabilityVSAvoidmachine downtime
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The sanding unit is divided into separable components: the abrasive belt is detached from the sanding drum, and the sanding unit itself can be quickly removed from the machine frame. This segmentation allows each component to be replaced independently and rapidly without requiring complete disassembly of the machine.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The sanding unit is designed with dynamic mounting features including quick-release mechanisms and adjustable positioning systems. The unit can be rapidly inserted and secured to the machine frame, transforming a static assembly process into a dynamic, quick-change operation that minimizes downtime.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If operating spanners are used to disassemble or tighten parts for abrasive belt replacement, then the abrasive belt can be extracted, but the replacement process becomes more complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveabrasive belt extraction capabilityVSAvoidreplacement process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The abrasive belt is extracted as a separate, easily removable component from the sanding drum. The belt can be pulled off without requiring the disassembly of the sanding drum or the use of spanners, significantly simplifying the replacement process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The sanding unit incorporates self-contained features such as integrated belt tensioning mechanisms and self-locking mounting systems that eliminate the need for external tools like spanners. The unit serves itself by maintaining proper belt tension and secure mounting through its own structural features.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If the sanding unit remains elastically suspended without constraint, then the unit has flexibility, but the holding of workpiece along advancement direction is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesanding unit flexibilityVSAvoidworkpiece holding stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The sanding unit employs dynamic constraint mechanisms that provide flexibility during normal operation but engage firmly when workpiece holding is required. The quick-release mounting system allows the unit to be easily positioned and adjusted, while the locked position provides stable constraint for accurate workpiece guidance along the advancement direction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP4321297B1Panel machining machine
Publication Date: 2026.04.22 SCM GRP
  • EP4321297B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4321297B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP4321297B1 patent drawingFigure 5

AI summary

The present invention relates to a sanding machine (1) for machining panels (P), comprising a supporting structure (150, 151), and a panel (P) working unit (13) having a frame (134). Said sanding machine (1) comprises a pin (141') integral with said frame (132), and a blocking bar (140), having at least one end (140a, 140b), and rotatable around the pin (141') between a resting position and a working position, in that said frame (134) of said working unit (13) has a seat (135) configured to receive said blocking bar (140) in said working position, and comprises reversible blocking means (141) of the blocking bar (140) in said seat (135), configured to be coupled with said pin (141'), in that said supporting structure (150, 151) has a housing (142, 143) intended to engage said at least one end (140a, 140b). In the resting position, said blocking bar (140) is decoupled from said housing (142, 143) and from said seat (135), and wherein in the working or blocking position, the first end (140a) of said blocking bar (140) is rigidly engaged in said housing (142, 143) of the supporting structure (150, 151). Said blocking means (141) are coupled to said pin (141') and constrain said blocking bar (140) in said seat (135), so as to rigidly couple the working unit (13) to the support structure (1).