Universal Machining Chuck and Tool Control for Small-Batch Workpieces

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Solution Overview

Problem

The high cost and inefficiency of manual machining for small-batch or one-off projects due to the need for proprietary machine programming and limited versatility in handling disparate workpiece materials and dimensions, leading to increased labor costs and errors.

Innovation Solution

A computer-controlled machining system with a customizable rotating chuck and robotic manipulator that allows for automatic processing of small-batch or one-off workpieces with varying specifications, minimizing human intervention through programmable jaw adjustments, tool exchange, and sensor-controlled operations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If proprietary machines are used for large-quantity orders, then manufacturing efficiency is improved, but adaptability to small-batch or one-off workpieces deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing efficiencyVSAvoidadaptability to small-batch workpieces
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing a single machining machine capable of handling both large-quantity production and small-batch or one-off workpieces. The machine integrates multiple functions including programmable jaw adjustments, robotic tool exchange, and sensor-controlled operations, allowing it to adapt to diverse workpiece specifications without requiring separate proprietary machines for different production volumes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamics through programmable and adjustable components that can be reconfigured for different workpiece types. The jaw adjustment mechanism allows dynamic modification of clamping parameters, the robotic manipulator enables dynamic tool selection and replacement, and the control system adapts machining parameters based on workpiece specifications, transforming a static machine into a dynamically adaptable system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If manual machining is used for small-batch projects, then adaptability to diverse workpiece specifications is improved, but manufacturing precision and consistency deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to diverse specificationsVSAvoidmachining precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies feedback through sensor-controlled operations that automatically measure workpiece dimensions and adjust machining parameters in real-time. This closed-loop control system ensures that even when handling diverse workpiece specifications, the machine maintains consistent precision by continuously monitoring and correcting for variations, eliminating the human error inherent in manual machining.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements self-service through automated measurement and adjustment systems that eliminate the need for manual intervention during machining operations. The sensors automatically detect workpiece characteristics, the programmable jaw adjustments self-adjust to proper clamping forces, and the robotic manipulator autonomously exchanges tools, allowing the machine to service itself while maintaining high precision across diverse workpiece types.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Productivity

If proprietary machines with specialized programming are used, then productivity for specific large-quantity orders is improved, but device complexity and cost for small-batch projects increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveproductivity for large-quantity ordersVSAvoidprogramming complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by creating a single machine platform that replaces multiple proprietary machines, each specialized for different production volumes. The unified control system and programmable components allow the same machine to handle both large-quantity production efficiently and small-batch projects with equal capability, eliminating the need for separate specialized machines and reducing overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS11351643B2Universal machining apparatus and control system
Publication Date: 2022.06.07 NAVARRO IP
  • US11351643B2 patent drawing
  • US11351643B2 patent drawing
  • US11351643B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A universal machining system capable of accommodating multiple small-batch or one-off machining jobs, involving workpieces of different diameter and composition, comprises a rotating chuck having multiple jaws that may be adjusted positionally inward or outward towards the longitudinal centerline of the workpiece or removed entirely, and a tool turret capable of holding a variety of socketed tools. System also comprises a measurement sensor, which may be separate or comprise one of the socketed tools. A control program collects machining instructions for a series of workpieces, and directs the chuck, the tool turret, the measurement sensor, and at least one robot to load/unload workpieces and tools from the chuck and turret, respectively, measure workpieces and tools for quality control, and track available storage, overriding or skipping individual machining instructions as dictated by safety parameters and the availability of raw materials and tools.