Elastic Sensor Clamp for CNC Warning Light Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

In automation manufacturing, manual intervention is required to stop CNC tool machines when warning light cylinders emit a warning light, which is not compliant with the automation concept, and there is a need for automated detection and response to abnormalities.

Innovation Solution

A clamping device with a first and second clamping component connected through elastic components, allowing for relative rotation and secure clamping of objects, and equipped with a light sensor to automatically detect the warning light and transmit a signal for machine operation stop.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If a light sensor is installed on the warning light cylinder, then automation of the tool machine is improved, but the secure installation and positioning of the sensor becomes more difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomation of tool machineVSAvoidinstallation of light sensor
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The clamping device automatically adjusts and maintains the light sensor's positioning through elastic components that self-regulate the sensor's location relative to the warning light cylinder, eliminating the need for manual adjustment during installation and operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The light sensor is mounted on a dynamic clamping mechanism that allows automatic adjustment of position and angle, enabling the sensor to dynamically adapt to different warning light cylinder positions while maintaining secure installation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Strength

If the first clamping component and second clamping component are rigidly connected, then the structural strength is improved, but the adaptability to clamp objects of different sizes is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural strengthVSAvoidadaptability to clamp objects
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The clamping device uses pivotally connected components that can rotate relative to each other, transforming the rigid structure into a dynamic one that automatically adapts to different object sizes while maintaining structural integrity through elastic restoration

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The clamping device is divided into separate clamping components (first and second clamping components) that can independently adjust their positions, allowing each segment to adapt to the object's geometry while maintaining overall structural strength

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Ease of operation

If manual intervention is required to stop the tool machine, then the operational control is simplified, but the productivity and automation level are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational controlVSAvoidproductivity of tool machine
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The light sensor provides automatic feedback detection of the warning light signal, which triggers automated control responses to stop or adjust the tool machine operation, eliminating manual intervention and improving productivity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The manual mechanical control system is replaced with an automated optical detection and control system, where the light sensor detects warning signals and automatically triggers machine responses, substituting human operation with automated sensing and control

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 clamping device securely holds objects like warning light cylinders and enables automated detection of abnormalities, allowing CNC tool machines to automatically respond and maintain automation principles.

Implementation Method 1

the elastic component provides an elastic force for the first clamping portion and the second clamping portion to be restored to the first state to clamp an object

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS11498187B2Clamping device
Publication Date: 2022.11.15 PEGATRON
  • US11498187B2 patent drawing
  • US11498187B2 patent drawing
  • US11498187B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A clamping device includes first and second clamping components and at least one elastic component. The first clamping component includes a first clamping portion and two first pivot portions connected to the first clamping portion. The second clamping component includes a second clamping portion and two second pivot portions connected to the second clamping portion. The second pivot portions are pivotally connected to the first pivot portions respectively, such that the first and second clamping components are capable of rotating relative to each other to present a first state and a second state. The elastic component is connected to the first clamping component and the second clamping component. When the first and second clamping components are in the second state, the elastic component provides an elastic force for the first clamping portion and the second clamping portion to be restored to the first state to clamp an object.