Table Cutting Machine Auxiliary Cover Locking Mechanism

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing table cutting machines lack a reliable mechanism to lock the auxiliary cover in the closed position when the cutting machine body is at an upper waiting position, leading to potential accidental opening and operational challenges such as reduced visibility of the fixing lever and interference with the floor.

Innovation Solution

The cutting machine design incorporates an auxiliary cover that is locked in the closed position by a torsion spring and a restraining mechanism, preventing accidental opening and ensuring the rotary blade is fully covered, with a V-shaped fixing lever for easy operation and visibility.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the auxiliary cover is made movable to allow opening during cutting operations, then the cutting depth and operational flexibility are improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to potential accidental opening when the cutting machine body is at the upper waiting position

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecutting depthVSAvoidcover position stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary anti-action by providing a locking mechanism that actively prevents the auxiliary cover from opening accidentally when the cutting machine body is at the upper waiting position. The locking mechanism engages automatically to counteract any forces that might cause unintended opening, thereby maintaining reliability while allowing the cover to be movable for cutting operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamics by making the auxiliary cover movable rather than fixed, allowing it to open during cutting operations to provide sufficient cutting depth. The cover can move between closed and open positions as needed, with the locking mechanism ensuring it remains stable when closed during non-cutting phases.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Device complexity

If the fixing lever is positioned for compact design, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates because the grip becomes hidden and difficult to reach

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefixing lever structureVSAvoidlever accessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dimensionality change by repositioning the fixing lever from a horizontal orientation to a vertical orientation. This dimensional change allows the grip to be positioned higher and more accessible to the operator, while the lever itself remains compact. The vertical arrangement prevents the lower grip from interfering with the floor or ground, and makes all grips visible and reachable without increasing overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Device complexity

If the grips are shortened to avoid floor abutment, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to reduced visibility and accessibility

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelever structureVSAvoidgrip visibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent resolves this contradiction by changing the spatial arrangement from horizontal to vertical orientation. The vertical positioning of grips eliminates floor interference while maintaining full grip length, and naturally improves visibility as the grips are positioned at different heights where they can be easily seen and reached by the operator.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 solution enhances operational safety and usability by preventing accidental opening of the auxiliary cover and ensuring the rotary blade is fully covered, improving the cutting machine's reliability and ease of use.

Implementation Method 1

The auxiliary cover is locked in the closed position by a torsion spring

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS10406717B2Table cutting machine
Publication Date: 2019.09.10 MAKITA CORP
  • US10406717B2 patent drawing
  • US10406717B2 patent drawing
  • US10406717B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A cutting machine can include a cutting machine body that is movably supported above a table and capable of vertical movement, the cutting machine body can be positioned at an upward waiting position and a lower end position. The cutting machine body can include an auxiliary cover positioned around a portion of a blade and including a projection. When in the upward waiting position the auxiliary cover is not able to move upward because of the position of the projection, and in the lower end position the auxiliary cover is able to move upward.