Two-Piece Work Table Layout for Deep-Cut Material Removal
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional material removal machines with single work tables for deep cuts face issues such as workpiece flexing, undue stress on the work table, and limited accessibility due to thicker, heavier work tables with shallow vising grooves.
Innovation Solution
The material removal machine features two separated work tables with an air gap, allowing the material removal tool to move between and below the tables for deep cuts, and enables coordinated movement of the work tables and the tool along different axes, resulting in a more compact and versatile design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a single work table with shallow vising grooves is used for deep cuts, then the workpiece can be secured, but the workpiece experiences flexing and bending during cutting
Solution Approach 1:
The single work table is divided into two separate work tables (first work table and second work table) positioned at different heights. This segmentation allows the workpiece to be clamped between the two tables, providing support on both sides of the cut and eliminating flexing and bending during the cutting operation.
2Strength
If the work table is made thicker to provide deeper vising grooves, then the workpiece can be secured more effectively, but the work table becomes heavier and harder to move
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of increasing the thickness of a single work table to provide deeper vising grooves, the invention introduces a vertical dimension by positioning the second work table below the first work table. This allows the material removal tool to access the workpiece from above while the workpiece is supported from below, eliminating the need for thick tables with deep grooves.
3Ease of manufacture
If the work table is made thicker, then deeper vising is possible, but the machine becomes heavier and incures more power and stress when actuating
Solution Approach 1:
The invention resolves the power requirement issue by transitioning from a single thick table to a two-table configuration separated by an air gap. This vertical arrangement allows the material removal tool to cut through the workpiece without requiring the tool or tables to travel excessive distances, reducing actuation power requirements while maintaining deep cutting capability.
4Device complexity
If a single work table design is used, then the structure is simpler, but operator access and debris removal space is limited
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the work table into two distinct tables positioned at different vertical levels with an air gap between them, the invention creates open space beneath the first work table. This segmentation maintains structural simplicity while providing ample room for operator access and debris removal, as the material removal tool can access the workpiece from above and debris can fall through the air gap.
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein are examples of material removal machines with work tables separated by an air gap. In some examples. the air gap may provide space for a material removal tool of the material removal machine to extend between and substantially below the work tables to effect a deep cut on a workpiece that extends across the air gap. In some examples. a table actuator may be configured to move the work tables in tandem, allowing for the work tables and/or work piece to be moved to the material removal tool, rather than vice versa. Efficient design of the work tables and material removal machine ensures that the air gap between the work tables remains unobstructed all the way to a floor of the material removal machine. and ensures that the space underneath the work tables is sufficient for fluid/debris drainage and operator access.