Slip Detection Sensor for Workpiece Positioning in Sawing Machines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automatic sawing machines lack an effective automated method to monitor the motion of workpieces relative to positioning devices, leading to manual measurements and potential slippage issues during cutting, which affects tolerance and production efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A sensor system integrated with a shuttle vise to detect and measure movement between the workpiece and the vise, providing alerts and optional automatic correction for slippage, ensuring accurate cutting within specified tolerances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If manual measurement is used to ensure high tolerances, then manufacturing precision is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to slowed production
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement with an automated optical sensor system. The sensor detects workpiece position and movement automatically, eliminating the need for operators to physically measure workpieces, thus maintaining high tolerances while improving productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor system enables the machine to self-monitor and self-correct workpiece positioning. The system automatically detects slippage and adjusts positioning without human intervention, maintaining precision while enabling continuous operation
2Productivity
If automated sensing is implemented to monitor workpiece movement, then productivity is improved by eliminating manual measurement, but device complexity worsens due to additional sensor systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a roller as an intermediary element between the workpiece and sensor. The roller contacts the workpiece and translates its movement into rotational motion that the sensor can detect, providing a simple mechanical interface that bridges the workpiece and sensing system
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex multi-sensor arrangements with a single optical sensor that detects roller rotation. This substitution of mechanical measurement with optical sensing simplifies the overall system while maintaining automated monitoring capability
3Measurement precision
If the sensor detects all movement, then measurement precision is improved, but harmful factors worsen due to false alerts from normal material irregularities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent establishes a predetermined tolerance threshold for workpiece movement before cutting begins. The system is programmed to accept normal variations within this threshold and only trigger alerts for movements exceeding it, preventing false detections from routine material irregularities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic adjustment of detection sensitivity based on the cutting phase. The system tolerates more movement during positioning phases but becomes more sensitive during actual cutting, adapting the detection criteria to the operational context
Data Source
AI summary
A machine including: a table having a surface adapted to have a workpiece lay and move thereon, and a vise for gripping the workpiece. The machine also includes a drive system for moving the vise and workpiece a distance along the table surface, and a sensor assembly connected to the vise for measuring an amount of slip distance occurring between the vise and the workpiece. The machine also includes a control unit connected to the sensor assembly and the drive system for storing the measured slip distance and for operating the drive system and for operating to do at least one of, when a predetermined amount of slip distance is detected: sounding an alarm and stopping further movement of the workpiece, and, when a slip distance is measured, for causing the drive system to move the vise and workpiece an added distance equal to the measured slip distance.