Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to mechanical systems, specifically a slider-crank mechanism with snap motion, where the slider exhibits a rapid increase in speed during the lower end of its downstroke due to the action of a spring.
BACKGROUND ART
[0002] Background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
[0003] The slider-crank mechanism is a fundamental mechanical linkage widely used in various engineering applications to convert rotary motion into reciprocating linear motion and vice versa. This mechanism consists of three main components: a slider, a crank, and a connecting rod. The motion of the slider, which moves linearly along a defined path, is typically controlled by the rotation of the crank. This classical mechanism has found its applications in engines, pumps, compressors, and a wide range of industrial machinery.
[0004] However, traditional slider-crank mechanisms possess certain limitations in terms of their motion characteristics, specifically with respect to the velocity profile of the slider throughout its stroke. In these conventional mechanisms, the velocity of the slider is not uniform but rather exhibits sinusoidal variation, with the highest velocity occurring at the midpoint of its travel and slowing down as it approaches the two extremities. This inherent velocity profile is a result of the trigonometric relationship between the angular displacement of the crank and the linear displacement of the slider.
[0005] In many mechanical systems, there is a demand for a different velocity profile, where the slider experiences high acceleration and velocity at specific phases of its motion. Such a velocity profile is often referred to as a "snap motion" or "snap-through motion," where the slider moves rapidly between its two extreme positions, providing a sudden and forceful action. The need for snap motion arises in impact tools, stamping machines, and other applications where controlled and rapid motion is essential.
[0006] Existing solutions for achieving snap motion typically involve complex mechanical arrangements or additional actuators, making the systems bulky, costly, and less reliable. This limitation has prompted the exploration of innovative mechanisms capable of generating snap motion more efficiently and effectively.
[0007] The concept of a slider-crank mechanism capable of snap motion through the use of a spring and specific crank configurations represents a significant advancement in the field of mechanical engineering. This unique mechanism introduces the ability to provide rapid acceleration and high-speed motion of the slider, precisely timed to specific phases of the crank's rotation.
[0008] One of the primary innovations in this mechanism is the integration of a spring, which serves as an energy storage and release component. The spring is connected to the slider and manipulated to release its stored potential energy, imparting a sudden burst of acceleration to the slider. This mechanism's operation involves a double crank system, consisting of an input crank and an idler crank, which allows for precise control over when the snap motion occurs.
[0009] Furthermore, the engagement of the double crank mechanism is facilitated by a crank featuring a fixed pin. This pin is strategically positioned to interact with the input crank during a specific phase of its rotation, ensuring that the snap motion is initiated at the desired moment.
[0010] This innovative slider-crank mechanism has the potential to revolutionize various engineering applications where snap motion is required, offering improved efficiency, reliability, and control compared to existing solutions. Its compact design and precise timing make it suitable for impact tools, stamping machines, and other systems demanding rapid and controlled motion characteristics.
[0011] In summary, the development of a snap motion slider-crank mechanism represents a significant breakthrough in the field of mechanical engineering. This innovation addresses the limitations of traditional slider-crank mechanisms by introducing a novel approach to achieve rapid acceleration and high-speed motion, offering a promising solution for various industrial and mechanical applications.
[0012] All publications herein are incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. Where a definition or use of a term in an incorporated reference is inconsistent or contrary to the definition of that term provided herein, the definition of that term provided herein applies and the definition of that term in the reference does not apply.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[0013] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.
[0014] Another object of the present invention is to provide a snap motion slider-crank mechanism.
[0015] Another object of the present invention is to provides spring, which serves as an energy storage and release component.
[0016] Another object of the present invention is to interact with the input crank during a specific phase of its rotation, ensuring that the snap motion is initiated at the desired moment.
[0017] Another object of the present invention is to provide an elegant, reliable and precise approach towards the snap motion slider-crank mechanism.
[0018] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a process of improving functionalities of the snap motion slider-crank mechanism.
SUMMARY
[0019] The present invention relates to mechanical systems, specifically a slider-crank mechanism with snap motion, where the slider exhibits a rapid increase in speed during the lower end of its downstroke due to the action of a spring.
[0020] The slider-crank mechanism for snap motion, includes a slider configured for reciprocating linear motion along a defined path, a double crank assembly, including an input crank and an idler crank, both rotatably coupled to a fixed axis, a crank connected to the slider for controlling its motion, said crank being rotatably coupled to the double crank assembly pin affixed to the idler crank, said pin positioned to engage with the input crank during a specific phase of its rotation, a spring connected to the slider and operable to store and release potential energy, wherein the release of energy from the spring imparts rapid acceleration to the slider, and the double crank assembly and the interaction between the input crank, the idler crank, and the pin are configured to enable precise control over when the slider experiences snap motion.
[0021] According to an aspect, the slider-crank mechanism comprises a crankshaft, a connecting rod, a slider block, and a base.
[0022] The snap motion is achieved through a ratchet and pawl mechanism. The up-down motion is achieved through a cam and follower mechanism. The reverse 180-degree feature is achieved through a reversing mechanism. The reversing mechanism comprises a gear train and a reversing lever.
[0023] According to an aspect, the slider-crank mechanism further comprises a speed control mechanism for controlling the speed of the motor, a grinding wheel mounted on the slider block for grinding a workpiece, a tool holder for holding a tool for grinding a workpiece, a cooling system for cooling the grinding wheel during operation, a dust collection system for collecting dust generated during operation.
[0024] These and other features will become apparent from the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments thereof, which is to be read in connection with the accompanying drawings. While the invention has been described and shown with reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0025] The accompanying illustrations are incorporated into and form a part of this specification in order to aid in comprehending the current disclosure. The pictures demonstrate exemplary implementations of the current disclosure and, along with the description, assist to clarify its fundamental ideas.
[0026] Fig.1 illustrates pictorial view of the snap motion slider-crank mechanism.
[0027] It should be noted that the figures are not drawn to scale, and the elements of similar structure and functions are generally represented by like reference numerals for illustrative purposes throughout the figures. It should be noted that the figures do not illustrate every aspect of the described embodiment sand do not limit the scope of the present disclosure.
[0028] Other objects, advantages, and novel features of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of the present embodiment when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0029] While the present invention is described herein by way of example using embodiments and illustrative drawings, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention is not limited to the embodiments of drawing or drawings described and are not intended to represent the scale of the various components. Further, some components that may form a part of the invention may not be illustrated in certain figures, for ease of illustration, and such omissions do not limit the embodiments outlined in any way. It should be understood that the drawings and the detailed description thereto are not intended to limit the invention to the particular form disclosed, but on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claim.
[0030] As used throughout this description, the word "may" is used in a permissive sense (i.e. meaning having the potential to), rather than the mandatory sense, (i.e. meaning must). Further, the words "a" or "an" mean "at least one” and the word “plurality” means “one or more” unless otherwise mentioned. Furthermore, the terminology and phraseology used herein are solely used for descriptive purposes and should not be construed as limiting in scope. Language such as "including," "comprising," "having," "containing," or "involving," and variations thereof, is intended to be broad and encompass the subject matter listed thereafter, equivalents, and additional subject matter not recited, and is not intended to exclude other additives, components, integers, or steps. Likewise, the term "comprising" is considered synonymous with the terms "including" or "containing" for applicable legal purposes. Any discussion of documents acts, materials, devices, articles, and the like are included in the specification solely for the purpose of providing a context for the present invention. It is not suggested or represented that any or all these matters form part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the present invention.
[0031] In this disclosure, whenever a composition or an element or a group of elements is preceded with the transitional phrase “comprising”, it is understood that we also contemplate the same composition, element, or group of elements with transitional phrases “consisting of”, “consisting”, “selected from the group of consisting of, “including”, or “is” preceding the recitation of the composition, element or group of elements and vice versa.
[0032] The present invention is described hereinafter by various embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawing, wherein reference numerals used in the accompanying drawing correspond to the like elements throughout the description. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiment set forth herein. Rather, the embodiment is provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. In the following detailed description, numeric values and ranges are provided for various aspects of the implementations described. These values and ranges are to be treated as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims. In addition, several materials are identified as suitable for various facets of the implementations.
[0033] The present invention relates to mechanical systems, specifically a slider-crank mechanism with snap motion, where the slider exhibits a rapid increase in speed during the lower end of its downstroke due to the action of a spring.
[0034] The slider-crank mechanism (100) for snap motion (100), includes a slider (102) configured for reciprocating linear motion along a defined path, a double crank assembly (106), including an input crank and an idler crank, both rotatably coupled to a fixed axis, a crank (108) connected to the slider (102) for controlling its motion, said crank (108) being rotatably coupled to the double crank assembly (106), a pin (110) affixed to the idler crank, said pin (110) positioned to engage with the input crank during a specific phase of its rotation, a spring (104) connected to the slider (102) and operable to store and release potential energy, wherein the release of energy from the spring (104) imparts rapid acceleration to the slider (102), the double crank assembly (106) and the interaction between the input crank, the idler crank, and the pin (110) are configured to enable precise control over when the slider (102) experiences snap motion.
[0035] According to an aspect, the slider (102) exhibits a snap motion characterized by rapid acceleration and high-speed motion between its two extreme positions. The spring (104) is configured to store potential energy during a portion of the slider's motion and release the stored energy to the slider (102) during a specific phase of its travel, resulting in snap motion. The double crank assembly (106) includes the input crank and the idler crank, both of which are rotatably coupled to the fixed axis to facilitate the generation of snap motion.
[0036] According to an aspect, the pin (110) fixed to the idler crank is strategically positioned to engage with the input crank during a predetermined phase of its rotation, ensuring precise timing of snap motion initiation. The slider-crank mechanism (100) further comprising a dwell position within the slider's motion path, wherein the slider (102) remains stationary at the dwell position before experiencing snap motion.
[0037] According to an aspect, the snap motion generated by the mechanism is utilized in impact tools, stamping machines, or other applications requiring rapid and controlled motion. The double crank assembly (106) and the associated components are configured for compactness and efficiency, making the mechanism suitable for various engineering applications. The precise control over snap motion initiation offers improved efficiency, reliability, and performance compared to conventional slider-crank mechanisms.
[0038] A method for generating snap motion in a slider-crank mechanism (100), includes providing a slider (102) configured for reciprocating linear motion along a defined path, utilizing a double crank assembly (106), including an input crank and an idler crank, both rotatably coupled to a fixed axis, connecting a crank (108) to the slider (102) for controlling its motion, said crank (108) being rotatably coupled to the double crank assembly (106), affixing a pin (110) to the idler crank, said pin (110) positioned to engage with the input crank during a specific phase of its rotation, employing a spring (104) connected to the slider (102) to store and release potential energy, and releasing the stored potential energy from the spring (104) during a predetermined phase of the slider's motion, resulting in rapid acceleration and snap motion.
[0039] The slider-crank mechanism for snap motion (100), denoted by reference numeral 100, offers a novel approach to achieving rapid acceleration and high-speed motion of a slider (102) along a defined linear path. The following detailed description provides an in-depth insight into the various components and their interactions, including the slider (102), spring (104), double crank assembly (106), crank (108), and pin (110), which collectively enable the generation of snap motion.
[0040] The slider (102) serves as the primary element of the mechanism, undergoing reciprocating linear motion along a predetermined path. This motion is characterized by its unique ability to transition between two extreme positions with exceptional speed and acceleration. The slider (102) experiences controlled snap motion, moving from a stationary position to rapid motion and vice versa.
[0041] Integral to the operation of the slider-crank mechanism (100) is the spring (104), which plays a pivotal role in storing and releasing potential energy. The spring (104) is connected to the slider (102) and carefully calibrated to facilitate the desired motion. During a specific phase of the slider's motion, the spring (104) releases the stored energy, imparting rapid acceleration to the slider (102). This release of potential energy is a fundamental aspect of achieving snap motion.
[0042] The double crank assembly (106) is a key component of the mechanism, consisting of two interconnected cranks: the input crank and the idler crank. Both cranks are rotatably coupled to a fixed axis. The input crank rotates continuously, whereas the idler crank serves to facilitate the generation of snap motion.
[0043] The crank (108) is directly connected to the slider (102), influencing and controlling its motion. The crank (108) is also rotatably coupled to the double crank assembly (106), allowing it to engage with the input crank during specific phases of its rotation. This engagement is critical for precise timing and control of the snap motion.
[0044] The pin (110) is affixed to the idler crank within the double crank assembly (106). The positioning of this pin (110) is strategically determined to interact with the input crank during a predetermined phase of its rotation. When the pin (110) engages with the input crank, it initiates the generation of snap motion. The interaction between the pin (110), the input crank, and the idler crank is carefully coordinated to ensure controlled and reliable snap motion.
[0045] In operation, the slider-crank mechanism (100) begins with the slider (102) at a stationary position, referred to as a dwell point. As the input crank of the double crank assembly (106) continues its continuous rotation, the idler crank and its affixed pin (110) remain idle. When a specific phase of the input crank's rotation aligns with the pin (110), engagement occurs between the input crank and the pin (110).
[0046] This engagement triggers a series of coordinated movements within the mechanism. The crank (108) connected to the slider (102) responds to the input crank's motion, resulting in the release of potential energy stored in the spring (104). As the spring (104) rapidly releases its energy, the slider (102) experiences an immediate and forceful acceleration, transitioning from the dwell point to high-speed motion.
[0047] The motion of the slider (102) continues until it reaches the other extreme position, at which point the mechanism can be configured to reset, and the process repeats. This controlled snap motion generated by the slider-crank mechanism (100) offers a range of applications, particularly in systems requiring rapid and precise linear motion.
[0048] The innovative design and coordination of components, including the slider (102), spring (104), double crank assembly (106), crank (108), and pin (110), enable the mechanism to achieve snap motion reliably and efficiently. This mechanism provides a unique solution for applications such as impact tools, stamping machines, or any system where controlled and high-speed linear motion is essential. The slider-crank mechanism (100) ensures superior performance and precise control over snap motion initiation compared to conventional mechanisms.
[0049] The grinding wheel is mounted on the crankshaft and rotates with the circular motion of the crankshaft. The grinding wheel can be made of any suitable material such as steel, diamond, or carbide and is used for grinding and shaping various materials such as metal, stone, or wood.
[0050] The speed of the grinding wheel in a snap motion slider-crank mechanism for grinding applications can vary depending on the specific requirements of the task, the type of material being ground, and the diameter of the grinding wheel. Generally, for precision grinding tasks, a typical speed range for the grinding wheel is between 6,000 and 8,500 rotations per minute (RPM). This range allows for efficient material removal while minimizing heat generation and maintaining grinding precision.
[0051] Regarding the weight or workload capacity of the mechanism, it should be designed to accommodate the weight of the grinding wheel, the forces generated during grinding, and any additional components, such as the workpiece being ground. The weight capacity can vary significantly depending on the design and materials used in the mechanism.
[0052] Depending on the application using a snap motion slider-crank mechanism, the recommended RPM (rotations per minute) and weight capacity will depend on various factors specific to your application. Here are some considerations to help determine these parameters:
[0053] While the foregoing describes various embodiments of the invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. The scope of the invention is determined by the claims that follow. The invention is not limited to the described embodiments, versions or examples, which are included to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention when combined with information and knowledge available to the person having ordinary skill in the art.
[0054] Thus, the scope of the present disclosure is defined by the appended claims and includes both combinations and sub-combinations of the various features described hereinabove as well as variations and modifications thereof, which would occur to persons skilled in the art upon reading the foregoing description.
, Claims:I/We Claim:
1. A slider-crank mechanism for snap motion (100), comprising:
a slider (102) configured for reciprocating linear motion along a defined path;
a double crank assembly (106), including an input crank and an idler crank, both rotatably coupled to a fixed axis;
a crank (108) connected to the slider (102) for controlling its motion, said crank (108) being rotatably coupled to the double crank assembly (106);
a pin (110) affixed to the idler crank, said pin (110) positioned to engage with the input crank during a specific phase of its rotation;
a spring (104) connected to the slider (102) and operable to store and release potential energy, wherein the release of energy from the spring (104) imparts rapid acceleration to the slider (102); and
wherein the double crank assembly (106) and the interaction between the input crank, the idler crank, and the pin (110) are configured to enable precise control over when the slider (102) experiences snap motion.
2. The slider-crank mechanism (100) of claim 1, wherein the slider (102) exhibits a snap motion characterized by rapid acceleration and high-speed motion between its two extreme positions.
3. The slider-crank mechanism (100) of claim 1, wherein the spring (104) is configured to store potential energy during a portion of the slider's motion and release the stored energy to the slider (102) during a specific phase of its travel, resulting in snap motion.
4. The slider-crank mechanism (100) of claim 1, wherein the double crank assembly (106) includes the input crank and the idler crank, both of which are rotatably coupled to the fixed axis to facilitate the generation of snap motion.
5. The slider-crank mechanism (100) of claim 1, wherein the pin (110) fixed to the idler crank is strategically positioned to engage with the input crank during a predetermined phase of its rotation, ensuring precise timing of snap motion initiation.
6. The slider-crank mechanism (100) of claim 1, further comprising a dwell position within the slider's motion path, wherein the slider (102) remains stationary at the dwell position before experiencing snap motion.
7. The slider-crank mechanism (100) of claim 1, wherein the snap motion generated by the mechanism is utilized in impact tools, stamping machines, or other applications requiring rapid and controlled motion.
8. The slider-crank mechanism (100) of claim 1, wherein the double crank assembly (106) and the associated components are configured for compactness and efficiency, making the mechanism suitable for various engineering applications.
9. The slider-crank mechanism (100) of claim 1, wherein the precise control over snap motion initiation offers improved efficiency, reliability, and performance compared to conventional slider-crank mechanisms.
10. A method for generating snap motion in a slider-crank mechanism, comprising the steps of:
providing a slider (102) configured for reciprocating linear motion along a defined path;
utilizing a double crank assembly (106), including an input crank and an idler crank, both rotatably coupled to a fixed axis;
connecting a crank (108) to the slider (102) for controlling its motion, said crank (108) being rotatably coupled to the double crank assembly (106);
affixing a pin (110) to the idler crank, said pin (110) positioned to engage with the input crank during a specific phase of its rotation;
employing a spring (104) connected to the slider (102) to store and release potential energy; and
releasing the stored potential energy from the spring (104) during a predetermined phase of the slider's motion, resulting in rapid acceleration and snap motion.