Welding Torch Deployment Mechanism for Spindle-Close Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing welding torch deployment mechanisms in CNC milling machines lack efficient 2-stage motion that allows the torch to move close to the machine spindle for optimal working position and retract for protection, often resulting in reduced usable working envelope and exposure to contamination.
Innovation Solution
A deployment mechanism with a cam plate, cam plate linkage, tool mounting assembly, linear actuator, and linear actuator linkage, enabling a 2-stage motion that positions the welding torch near the spindle and retracts it for protection, integrated with feedback control for precise alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the welding torch is positioned close to the machine spindle for optimal working position, then the usable working envelope is enhanced, but the torch is exposed to contamination risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic deployment mechanism that allows the welding torch to move between two positions: a working position close to the machine spindle for optimal welding access, and a retracted protective position within an enclosure that shields the torch from contamination. This dynamic positioning system resolves the contradiction by adapting the torch position based on operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The deployment mechanism is segmented into multiple components including a carriage assembly, cam plate linkage, linear actuator, and linear actuator linkage. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each component while achieving the overall function of positioning the torch close to the spindle during welding operations, thereby enhancing the usable working envelope without permanently exposing the torch to contamination.
2Reliability
If a deployment mechanism is added to position and protect the welding torch, then the torch protection and positioning accuracy are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into a single integrated deployment mechanism that simultaneously achieves torch positioning, torch protection, and motion control. The carriage assembly combines the positioning carriage with the mounting structure for the welding torch, while the cam plate linkage integrates the motion transformation function. This merging reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the overall system while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The deployment mechanism is designed with multi-functionality to perform several tasks: positioning the torch close to the spindle, retracting the torch for protection, and controlling the motion between these positions. The cam plate and cam track system provides both positioning and protection functions, eliminating the need for separate mechanisms and reducing overall device complexity.
3Measurement precision
If feedback control is implemented for precise torch alignment, then the positional accuracy is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system that monitors the position of the carriage assembly and provides feedback to the control mechanism. This feedback enables precise alignment of the welding torch with the machine spindle by detecting positional deviations and making corrective adjustments. The feedback control ensures accurate and repeatable torch positioning while maintaining system simplicity through efficient sensor and actuator integration.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention is a deployment mechanism for a tool with a torch/head having: a mount, which is a plate for securing the parts the deployment mechanism directly or indirectly; cam plates with two cam tracks secured to the mount; a carriage assembly comprising: cam plate linkages movably and rotatably connected to the cam plates, and a tool mounting assembly for mounting the tool thereon, the tool mounting assembly being rotatably connected to the cam plate linkage; a linear actuator secured to the mount; and a linear actuator linkage for coupling the linear actuator with the carriage assembly; whereby the carriage assembly can move by the action of the linear actuator along the two cam plate tracks and as a result move the tool into position above a workpiece.