Spring End Grinding Machine Sealed Oscillating Drive
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing grinding machines for springs face premature failure of bearings and drive mechanisms due to exposure to a hostile grinding environment, and are cumbersome and time-consuming to switch between different spring sizes and eccentricities.
Innovation Solution
A grinding machine with a fixed spring mounting in a closed environment and a grinding surface that oscillates laterally or diagonally across the spring end, using a stable support structure and a common prime mover for both grinding and oscillation drives, with a seal to contain debris and a carousel for simultaneous grinding of both ends.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a reciprocating mounting mechanism is used to create relative movement between the spring and grinding surface, then the grinding process can be performed, but the bearings and drive mechanisms are exposed to a hostile grinding environment causing premature failure
Solution Approach 1:
The harmful grinding environment (debris, dust, coolant) is extracted and isolated from the mounting mechanism by introducing a sealed enclosure. The mounting mechanism operates in a clean, protected environment while the grinding occurs in an isolated zone, preventing contamination of bearings and drive mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
A sealed enclosure acts as an intermediary barrier between the grinding zone and the mounting mechanism. This enclosure allows the transmission of mechanical motion while preventing the passage of harmful particles, thus protecting the mounting mechanism from the hostile grinding environment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a complex reciprocating mounting mechanism is used to accommodate different spring sizes and eccentricities, then versatility is achieved, but the mechanism becomes cumbersome and time-consuming to switch between configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting mechanism incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable components that can be dynamically modified to accommodate different spring sizes and eccentricities. Quick-adjust features allow operators to change configurations rapidly without complex reassembly, reducing setup time while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting mechanism is divided into modular, independently adjustable segments that can be quickly reconfigured for different spring types. This segmentation allows for rapid adjustment of positioning and clamping elements without affecting the entire mechanism, enabling fast switching between spring sizes and eccentricities.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a large diameter grinding wheel with significant mass is used, then the grinding surface can be maintained, but the grinding wheel is cumbersome and rotates at high speed requiring complex mounting
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a single large-diameter grinding wheel, the invention employs multiple smaller grinding surfaces or wheels that replicate the grinding function. These smaller surfaces can be mounted on simpler, lighter mechanisms while maintaining effective grinding contact, reducing the complexity and mass requirements of the mounting system.
Solution Approach 2:
The grinding function is distributed across multiple smaller surfaces arranged in a different spatial configuration rather than relying on one large wheel. This dimensional redistribution allows for simpler mounting mechanisms while achieving the same grinding stability through coordinated action of multiple smaller elements.
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
This design reduces wear on components, maintains consistent contact for efficient grinding, and allows for quick switching between spring sizes and configurations, enhancing the longevity and efficiency of the grinding process.
Implementation Method 1
a grinding surface secured to a support structure and arranged upon parts of the support structure to relatively oscillate to and fro along a guided oscillation path or cycle across one end of the spring mounting with the grinding surface such that there is continuous contact in use with at least one end of one spring
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~5(b)
Figure 6(a)~6(f)
AI summary
A grinding machine for grinding an end of a spring, the machine comprising a fixed spring mounting, which is fixable in a known position in the machine, for a spring or springs and a grinding surface secured to a support structure and arranged with the support structure to relatively oscillate to and fro along an oscillation path or cycle across one end of the mounting.