Slab Polishing Temperature Feedback for Defect-Free Surface Treatment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing slab processing plants struggle to accurately control the temperature and application of treatment products, leading to inconsistent polishing results and defects due to variations in environmental and plant conditions.

Innovation Solution

A method and plant that monitor and adjust the temperature and application parameters of treatment products during polishing, using sensors and control systems to maintain a reference range and correct defects in real-time.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If the treatment product is applied and polished during slab processing, then the surface shine and protection are improved, but the temperature control becomes difficult leading to inconsistent solidification and processing defects

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing quality consistencyVSAvoidtemperature control accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSTemperature

Solution Approach 1:

The system continuously monitors the actual temperature during polishing and provides feedback to the control unit, which automatically adjusts operating parameters to maintain temperature within the reference range, resolving the temperature control inconsistency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically changes operating parameters (such as polishing speed, pressure, or treatment product application rate) based on real-time temperature measurements to maintain optimal processing conditions despite temperature variations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If the reference temperature range is strictly followed, then the treatment product solidifies properly, but processing defects still occur due to environmental and plant condition variations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetreatment product solidification reliabilityVSAvoidadaptation to environmental variations
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The control unit uses real-time temperature feedback to dynamically adjust the reference range or operating parameters, allowing the system to adapt to environmental variations while maintaining reliable solidification

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system transitions from a static reference temperature range to a dynamic control approach where the reference range or operating parameters are continuously adjusted based on actual processing conditions, enabling adaptation to environmental changes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Manufacturing precision

If manual monitoring and adjustment of processing parameters is performed, then some control is achieved, but the processing consistency and quality remain insufficient due to human limitations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing consistencyVSAvoidautomation level
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSExtent of automation

Solution Approach 1:

The automated feedback control system continuously monitors temperature and automatically adjusts parameters, eliminating human limitations and achieving consistent processing quality through machine-to-machine control

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs self-monitoring and self-adjustment of processing parameters through automated sensors and control algorithms, eliminating the need for manual intervention while maintaining high processing consistency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

Ensures consistent and high-quality polishing results by preventing defects and optimizing the processing conditions, enhancing the efficiency and quality of ceramic slabs.

Implementation Method 1

solidifying by thermal effect adheres permanently to the surface of the slabs

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 2

solidifying by thermal effect adheres permanently to the surface of the slabs

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermal effect: Heating

Implementation Method 3

detecting a temperature value of the surface of the slab during the polishing thereof

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTemperature detection: Thermography

Data Source

PatentEP4703086A1Plant and method for processing slabs
Publication Date: 2026.03.04 BMR SPA
  • EP4703086A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4703086A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4703086A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A method for processing slabs (T) comprising: - advancing a slab (T) along an advancement direction (A); - delivering an amount of a product for treating the surface (S) of the slab (T), preferably in a fluid state; - polishing the surface (S) of the slab (T) by means of a tool (20) during the advancement of the slab; - detecting a temperature value of the surface (S) of the slab (T) during the polishing processing thereof and after/during the delivery of the treatment product; - controlling at least one operating parameter of the tool and/or the treatment product so that the detected temperature value remains within a reference range, comprised between a minimum and a maximum value, wherein the reference range is pre-set based on the type and/or composition of the treatment product delivered; - detecting at least one map or image or matrix of at least one parameter indicative of the morphology and/or processing quality of the surface of the slab following the processing performed by the tool; and - changing the reference range if a processing defect attributable to the processing and/or the treatment product is identified in the map or image or matrix detected.