Workpiece Unit Protruding Edge Reinforcement

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing methods for machining circular plate-shaped workpieces, such as dental prostheses, result in weak outer edges due to processing techniques that leave thin edges, leading to potential fractures and increased manufacturing costs due to excessive material usage.

Innovation Solution

A workpiece unit with a protruding portion and a holding member on its outer side is used, enhancing the strength of the outer edge and reducing material usage by allowing a smaller diameter, thus minimizing manufacturing costs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of substance

If the workpiece body is processed to areas close to its outer edge to utilize the workpiece body without waste, then the material utilization rate is improved, but the strength of the outer edge portion deteriorates due to thinning

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvematerial utilization rateVSAvoidstrength of outer edge portion
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of substanceVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The workpiece body is segmented into two functional regions: a processed area containing the prosthesis and an unprocessed outer edge portion serving as a reinforcing frame. This segmentation allows the outer edge to maintain its original thickness and strength while the inner area is fully processed, resolving the contradiction between material utilization and edge strength.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The outer edge portion is predetermined to remain unprocessed during machining operations. This preliminary decision to leave the outer edge intact creates a natural reinforcing frame before any damage can occur, preventing fracture while maximizing the processed area of the workpiece.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Strength

If a ring is used to hold the workpiece body to the processing apparatus, then the strength of the outer edge portion is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases due to additional components

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestrength of outer edge portionVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The workpiece body performs its own reinforcing function through its unprocessed outer edge portion, eliminating the need for external rings or additional holding components. The structure is self-sufficient, using its own geometry to provide the necessary strength and rigidity during processing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The unprocessed outer edge portion serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a structural reinforcing frame, provides rigidity during machining, and serves as the interface for mounting to the processing apparatus. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate rings or holding devices.

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

3Manufacturing precision

If the attachment position of the workpiece body shifts in the lateral direction, then the positioning accuracy deteriorates, but the same problem of thin outer edge portion occurs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment position accuracyVSAvoidstrength of outer edge portion
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The unprocessed outer edge portion acts as a cushion or buffer zone that compensates for potential positioning shifts during attachment. Even if lateral displacement occurs, the reinforced outer edge maintains sufficient thickness and strength to prevent fracture, providing a safety margin against positioning errors.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Data Source

PatentEP3272305B1Workpiece unit
Publication Date: 2022.11.30 KURARAY NORITAKE DENTAL
  • EP3272305B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3272305B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP3272305B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

Provided is a workpiece unit that makes it possible to maintain the strength of a workpiece body while reducing the amount of raw material used for the workpiece body. The workpiece unit comprises a workpiece body having a protruding portion; and a holding member arranged on at least a part of an outer side of the protruding portion.