Stone Block Movement System for Precision Slab Cutting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for moving large blocks of stone, such as marble, lack precision, leading to defects in slabs due to non-uniform thickness and increased machining costs and waste.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising at least two movement devices positioned parallel to each other at the base edges of the block, allowing controlled translation and rotation of the block to align the cutting surface with the cutting plane, thereby preventing unbalancing and ensuring precise machining.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a crane is used to move the block, then the block can be lifted and translated, but the precision of movement is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the block support into multiple independent movement devices (at least three, preferably four), each capable of independent movement. This segmentation allows precise control of each support point, enabling accurate positioning and orientation of the entire block during translation and rotation operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The movement devices are designed to be dynamically adjustable, allowing real-time modification of support positions and heights. This dynamic capability enables the system to adapt during movement operations, maintaining precise block orientation and position throughout the translation and rotation processes.
2Productivity
If the block orientation varies between cuts, then cutting operations can be performed, but defects occur in the slab
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates sensors and control systems that continuously monitor block position and orientation during movement. This feedback mechanism allows real-time adjustments to be made, ensuring the block maintains the correct orientation relative to the cutting plane, thereby producing uniform slab thickness without defects.
Solution Approach 2:
Before cutting operations begin, the movement devices preliminarily position and orient the block with high precision. This preliminary action ensures the block is correctly aligned with the cutting plane before the cutting process starts, preventing orientation variations that would cause slab defects.
3Productivity
If non-uniform thickness occurs, then cutting can be completed, but grinding operations are necessary
Solution Approach 1:
The movement devices utilize hydraulic or pneumatic actuation systems that provide precise, smooth, and synchronized movement control. This allows for extremely accurate positioning of the block during translation and rotation, ensuring uniform slab thickness is achieved during cutting, thereby eliminating the need for subsequent grinding operations and reducing material waste.
4Ease of operation
If the block is moved by crane, then lifting and translation are achieved, but unbalancing and accidents may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies different functions to different parts of the block through multiple movement devices positioned at various locations. Each device provides localized support and control, allowing independent adjustment of block sections. This distributed control approach maintains block balance and stability during movement, preventing unbalancing and accidents while enabling easy operation.
Data Source
AI summary
Described is a system and a method for moving a block of stone material, wherein the system comprises at least two devices comprising: a translation unit onfigured for translating a base of the block in a translation plane and a lifting unit configured for moving a base of the block in a direction substantially vertical to the translation plane; actuator means configured for allowing an independent actuation of the translation unit and of the lifting unit, the overall configuration of the movement device being such as to allow a progressive translation on the translation plane of the block of stone material with respect to a reference plane.