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Automated Axle Shaft Side Gear Refurbishment Device

Abstract: An automated axle shaft side gear refurbishment device, comprising a platform 101 configured with an elongated member 102, a touch interactive display panel 103 accessed for providing input details regarding repairing of splines of an axle shaft side gear, a motorized circular chuck 104 attached to facilitate rotational movement of chuck 104, multiple clamping jaws 106 clamp an axle shaft side gear, an imaging unit 107 detect dimensions of gear splines, multiple welding torches 108 is accessed by two robotic arms 120 for mending deformations on axle shaft side gear, a carbide cutting tool 109, create splines in internal section of a bronze alloy gear, a stainless-steel cutting tool 111, create splines in internal section of a stainless steel gear, multiple spindles 113 with multiple extendable grooved structures 115 measure structure of splines in gear, a speaker 116 generating an alert if spline dimensions do not meet required specifications.

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Patent Information

Application #
Filing Date
01 December 2024
Publication Number
1/2025
Publication Type
INA
Invention Field
MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
Status
Email
Parent Application

Applicants

Marwadi University
Rajkot – Morbi Road, Rajkot 360003 Gujarat, India.

Inventors

1. Pinank Patel
Department of Mechanical Engineering, Marwadi University, Rajkot – Morbi Road, Rajkot 360003 Gujarat, India.
2. Dr. R. L. Jhala
Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Marwadi University, Rajkot – Morbi Road, Rajkot 360003 Gujarat, India.
3. Kartik D Pipalia
Department of Mechanical Engineering, Marwadi University, Rajkot – Morbi Road, Rajkot 360003 Gujarat, India.

Specification

Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an automated axle shaft side gear refurbishment device designed to repair and restore worn-out or damaged gear splines, commonly found in axle shafts within minimal manual efforts, thereby reduces human errors during the operation.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Axle shafts and side gears play a crucial role in the transfer of torque within automotive drivetrains. Over time, due to wear and tear from constant friction and stress, these components require maintenance or refurbishment. Traditionally, the process of refurbishing these parts involved manual techniques such as grinding or machining, often relying on basic hand tools and manual labour. This process was time-consuming, labour-intensive, and lacked precision. Moreover, the process often resulted in inconsistent results, increasing the risk of errors in the refurbishment and reducing the lifespan of the components. These traditional methods also posed challenges in maintaining proper alignment and achieving optimal performance after refurbishment.

[0003] Traditionally, people use to perform refurbishment of axle shaft side gear by simple hand grinding, filing, and polishing, which is primarily labour-intensive processes. So, people also use some machines as lathes, grinders, and milling machines to increase the precision and efficiency of refurbishment operations. As these machines more accurately restore the teeth and surface of the axle shaft side gears, which was crucial for maintaining vehicle performance. But these machines are too expensive as well as a skilled labour is required for operating such machines.

[0004] CN105619216A discloses about an invention that includes a device for repairing a vehicle rear axle balance shaft. The device comprises an angle grinding wheel and a guide shaft. The tail portion of the angle grinding wheel is sleeved with two steel hoops, namely, the first steel hoop and the second steel hoop. The two steel hoops are connected with a guide sleeve through connecting pieces, and the guide shaft is sleeved with the guide sleeve. One end of the guide shaft is fixedly connected with a flange plate. The included angle between the projection of the guide shaft on the middle vertical plane of the guide shaft and the projection of the angle grinding wheel on the middle vertical plane of the guide shaft is an acute angle. The connecting piece between the first steel hoop and the guide sleeve can be vertically adjusted. According to the device, the grinding quality of the balance shaft can be guaranteed, the roundness and cylindricity of the shaft both meet the use requirement, and the grinding efficiency can be greatly improved.

[0005] CN211163747U discloses about an invention that includes a maintenance device for a rear axle half shaft and a half shaft bearing of an automobile, which comprises a maintenance vehicle, a half shaft maintenance disassembling and assembling mechanism and a half shaft bearing maintenance disassembling and assembling mechanism, wherein the half shaft maintenance disassembling and assembling mechanism and the half shaft bearing maintenance disassembling and assembling mechanism are arranged on the maintenance vehicle; the half shaft maintenance and disassembly mechanism comprises a sliding shaft placed on the maintenance vehicle, a half shaft connecting flange arranged at one end of the sliding shaft and used for connecting a hub of a rear axle of the automobile, and a sliding hammer body which is sleeved on the sliding shaft in a sliding manner and corresponds to the half shaft connecting flange; the half shaft bearing maintenance disassembly and assembly mechanism comprises a hydraulic oil cylinder structure connected to the maintenance vehicle, a half shaft connecting pipe connected with the hydraulic oil cylinder structure, and a bearing connecting structure arranged at the end part of the half shaft connecting pipe. The utility model discloses aim at solving semi-axis maintenance dismouting difficulty among the conventional art, problem that cost of maintenance is high.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices have been developed that are capable of refurbishing axle shaft side gears. However, these devices are not capable of repairing deformations or wear in the gear splines of axle shaft side gears in accordance with OEM standards. Additionally, these existing devices also lack in creating precise and dimensionally accurate splines, which results in improper fit of the axle shaft side gear.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that requires to accurately repair deformations or wear in gear splines of axle shaft side gears, in view of ensuring that the repaired splines meet OEM standards for dimensional accuracy, surface quality, and functionality. In addition, the developed device also needs to ensure the creation of precise and dimensionally accurate splines, in view of facilitating the proper fit of the axle shaft side gear for enhanced long-term reliability and performance.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that accurately repairs deformations or wear in gear splines of axle shaft side gears, in view of ensuring that the repaired splines meet OEM standards for dimensional accuracy, surface quality, and functionality.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is able to improve the operational efficiency of the repair process by employing real-time data analysis, adaptive repair methods, and automated decision-making to optimize the quality and speed of the refurbishment.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that that ensures the creation of precise and dimensionally accurate splines, in view of facilitating the proper fit of the axle shaft side gear for enhanced long-term reliability and performance.

[0012] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The present invention relates to an automated axle shaft side gear refurbishment device that facilitate the repair and restoration of worn or damaged gear splines, commonly found in axle shafts, with minimal manual effort, thereby reducing the consumption of time during the process.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an automated axle shaft side gear refurbishment device comprises of a platform configured with an elongated member developed and positioned on a ground surface, a touch interactive display panel is mounted on the platform, accessed by a user for providing input details regarding repairing of splines of an axle shaft side gear, a motorized circular chuck mounted on free-end of the rod, attached via a L-shaped horizontal link to facilitate rotational movement of the chuck, multiple clamping jaws are attached to the chuck, configured to clamp an axle shaft side gear engaged by the u ser with the chuck, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit installed on the platform in sync with an ultrasonic sensor integrated with the platform to detect dimensions of gear splines, including depth, width, and spacing, the microcontroller compares the measurements with OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) specifications to guide repair process, a tactile sensor is integrated with the clamping jaws to detect hardness of the axle shaft side gear, plurality of welding torches of varying kinds are arranged on the platform that is accessed by a pair of robotic arms installed on the platform for mending deformations on the axle shaft side gear, in case the determined defect corresponds to formation of cracks on the axle shaft side gear, TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) and MIG (Metal Inert Gas) welding torches are positioned on upper portion of the platform, used to repair damaged sections of gear splines by applying metal layer by layer, the TIG welding for bronze-type gears and MIG welding for stainless steel-type gears, and an angle sensor integrated into the setup, configured to measure the angular position of each spline during the refurbishment process and to generate audible alert if spline angle deviates from OEM standard.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the proposed device further comprises of a carbide cutting tool mounted on the platform via an L-type telescopic rod, to create splines in internal section of a bronze alloy gear after welding, a stainless-steel cutting tool mounted on the platform via a L-type telescopic bar, to create splines in internal section of a stainless steel gear after welding, an electronic nozzle attached with a water chamber, and installed on the platform, for dispensing water on the of the axle shaft side gear, to prevent any chances of damage to the axle shaft side gear due to over-heating, plurality of spindles mounted on a L-type telescopic pole with multiple extendable grooved structures fabricated over the spindles, the grooved structures integrated with multiple touch sensors, to measure structure of splines in gear while removing any burrs from newly created splines, a speaker mounted on the platform to generate an alert if the spline dimensions do not meet required specifications, an optical thickness sensor is integrated into the platform, which measures thickness of axle shaft side gear, and a suction unit is connected to side portion of the platform, configured to clean splines section before and after working, ensuring that cleaning process does not interfere with operational functionality.

[0016] While the invention has been described and shown with particular 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 THE DRAWINGS

[0017] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of an automated axle shaft side gear refurbishment device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0019] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0020] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0021] The present invention relates to an automated axle shaft side gear refurbishment device that effectively restores deformations or wear in the gear splines of axle shaft side gears, in view of ensuring that the repaired splines align with OEM standards for dimensional precision, surface quality, and functionality. Additionally, the device is designed to create highly accurate and dimensionally consistent splines, promoting a proper fit of the axle shaft side gear to enhance its long-term durability and performance.

[0022] Referring to Figure 1, a perspective view of an automated axle shaft side gear refurbishment device is illustrated, respectively, comprising a platform 101 configured with an elongated member 102 developed and positioned on a ground surface, a touch interactive display panel 103 is mounted on the platform 101, a motorized circular chuck 104 mounted on free-end of the member 102, attached via a L-shaped horizontal link 105, multiple clamping jaws 106 are attached to the chuck 104, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 107 installed on the platform 101, plurality of welding torches 108 of varying kinds is arranged on the platform 101.

[0023] Figure 1 further illustrates a carbide cutting tool 109 mounted on the platform 101 via an L-type telescopic rod 110, a stainless-steel cutting tool 111 mounted on the platform 101 via a L-type telescopic bar 112, plurality of spindles 113 mounted on a L-type telescopic pole 114 with multiple extendable grooved structures 115 fabricated over the spindles 113, a speaker 116 mounted on the platform 101, a suction unit 117 is connected to side portion of the platform 101, an electronic nozzle 118 attached with a water chamber 119., a pair of robotic arms 120 installed on the platform 101.

[0024] A platform 101 used herein comprises of a handy and portable rectangular structure arranged with various components associated with the device, wherein the platform 101 is made up of material that includes but not limited to plastic or metal that ensures that the device is of generous size and is light in weight. The platform 101 is configured with an elongated member 102.

[0025] The platform 101 is installed with a touch interactive display panel 103 which facilitates a user in providing touch input command regarding repairing of splines of an axle shaft side gear. The touch interactive display panel 103 as mentioned herein is typically an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) screen that presents output in a visible form. The screen is equipped with touch-sensitive technology, allowing the user to interact directly with the display using their fingers. A touch controller IC (Integrated Circuit) is responsible for processing the analog signals generated when the user inputs details regarding repairing of splines of an axle shaft side gear. A touch controller is typically connected to the microcontroller through various interfaces which may include but are not limited to SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface) or I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit).

[0026] A motorized circular chuck 104, is mounted at the free end of the member 102 and is attached via an L-shaped horizontal link 105 to facilitate its rotational movement. The chuck 104 is a circular, mechanical component designed to securely hold or grip axle shaft side gear. The motorized feature allows the chuck 104 to rotate under the control of a motor, enabling precise manipulation of the axle shaft side gear held by the chuck 104.

[0027] The L-shaped horizontal link 105 herein is pneumatically actuated, wherein the pneumatic arrangement of the link 105 comprises of a cylinder incorporated with an air piston and the air compressor, wherein the compressor controls discharging of compressed air into the cylinder via air valves which further leads to the extension/retraction of the piston. The piston is attached to the telescopic link 105, wherein the extension/retraction of the piston corresponds to the extension/retraction of the link 105. The actuated compressor allows extension of the link 105 to serves as a connecting mechanism that allows for the transfer of rotational motion from the motor to the chuck 104, ensuring smooth and controlled rotation.

[0028] The chuck 104 is arranged with multiple clamping jaws 106 (preferably 2 to 6 in numbers) that clamp an axle shaft side gear engaged by the user with the chuck 104. The clamping jaws 106 used herein has an open side and a curved side, forming a partial circle or a half-moon shape. At the open side of the clamping jaws 106, there is a screw mechanism which includes a threaded screw and an electric motor. As the motor rotates it causes the screw to move in or out, which in turn adjusts the width of the clamping jaws 106 opening and eventually applies the required force to grip the axle shaft side gear engaged by the user with the chuck 104.

[0029] The platform 101 is installed with an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 107 which is synced with an ultrasonic sensor that is integrated with the platform 101. The microcontroller synchronously actuates the imaging unit 107 to detect dimensions of gear splines. The imaging unit 107 disclosed herein comprises of an image capturing arrangement including a set of lenses that captures multiple images of the side gear and the captured images are stored within memory of the imaging unit 107 in form of an optical data.

[0030] The imaging unit 107 also comprises of the processor which processes the captured images. This pre-processing involves tasks such as noise reduction, image stabilization, or color correction. The processed data is fed into AI protocols for analysis which utilizes machine learning techniques, such as deep learning neural networks, to extract meaningful information from the visual data which are processed by the microcontroller to detect dimensions of gear splines.

[0031] The ultrasonic sensor works by emitting ultrasonic waves and then measuring the time taken by these waves to bounce back after hitting the surface of the gear splines. The ultrasonic sensor includes two main parts viz. transmitter, and a receiver. The transmitter sends a short ultrasonic pulse towards the surface of gear splines which propagates through the air at the speed of sound and reflects back as an echo to the transmitter as the pulse hits the gear splines The transmitter then detects the reflected eco from the surface of gear splines and calculations is performed by the sensor based on the time interval between the sending signal and receiving echo to determine the dimensions of gear splines, including depth, width, and spacing.

[0032] The ultrasonic sensor sends these measurements to the microcontroller, which compares them with the specifications provided by the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM). Based on this comparison, the microcontroller guides the repair process, ensuring that the side gear refurbishment adheres to OEM standards.

[0033] The clamping jaws 106 are installed with a tactile sensor which detect hardness of the axle shaft side gear. The tactile sensor detects the hardness of the axle shaft side gear by measuring the force of contact between the sensor and the surface of axle shaft side gear. The sensor is typically a small, flat component that is placed against surface of the axle shaft side gear and then pressed down. As the force of contact increases, the sensor measures the amount of pressure being applied and sends a signal to the microcontroller. The microcontroller then interprets the signal and determines the hardness of the axle shaft side gear.

[0034] Based on which the microcontroller selects appropriate cutting tool and welding process. For the welding operation plurality of welding torches 108 (preferably 2 to 6 in numbers), each of varying types and configurations, is arranged on the platform 101. The welding torches 108 are accessed by a pair of robotic arms 120 that are installed on the platform 101.

[0035] The robotic arms 120 used herein mainly comprises of motor controllers, arm, end effector and sensors. The arm is the essential part of the robotic arms 120 and it comprises of three parts the shoulder, elbow and wrist. All these components are connected through joints, with the shoulder resting at the base of the arm, typically connected to the microcontroller. The elbow is in the middle and allows the upper section of the arm to move forward or backward independently of the lower section. Finally, the wrist is at the very end of the upper arm and attaches to the end effector. The end effector connected to the arm acts as a hand and acquire a grip of the welding torches 108 for positioning the torches 108 in an appropriate position in order to perform specified operation efficiently.

[0036] On the upper portion of the platform 101 TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) and MIG (Metal Inert Gas) welding torches 108 are positioned, specifically designed to repair damaged sections of the gear splines by applying metal layer by layer. The TIG welding torch is used for bronze-type gears, providing high precision and control over the weld, which is necessary for the delicate nature of bronze material. On the other hand, the MIG welding torch is employed for stainless steel-type gears, offering a faster and more efficient welding process suitable for the more robust properties of stainless steel.

[0037] The microcontroller, integrated within the device, automatically determines the type of gear being worked on and accesses the appropriate welding torches 108, TIG for bronze gears and MIG for stainless steel gears, thereby ensuring optimal results for the repair process. TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) welding torches 108 work by using a non-consumable tungsten electrode to create an arc between the electrode and the axle shaft side gear. This arc melts the base material, allowing it to fuse together. The welding process is shielded by an inert gas, typically argon or helium, which protects the molten weld pool from oxidation and contamination. The microcontroller controls the filler material manually, feeding it into the weld pool if needed.

[0038] MIG (Metal Inert Gas) welding torches 108 work by feeding a continuous wire electrode through a nozzle 118, which is heated by an electric arc created between the wire and the workpiece. The wire melts, forming a weld pool. A shielding gas, usually argon or a mix of gases, flows through the torch nozzle 118 to protect the molten weld pool from contamination by atmospheric gases like oxygen and nitrogen. The microcontroller controls the wire feed speed and the torch's movement, ensuring a stable arc and uniform weld. MIG welding is widely used for its speed and ease of operation, especially on thin to medium materials.

[0039] The platform 101 is installed with an angle sensor which measure the angular position of each spline during the refurbishment process. The angle sensor mentioned herein works on the principle of detecting changes in magnetic fields or optical signals. By analyzing these changes, the angle sensor accurately monitors angular position of each spline. This information is then further transmitted to the microcontroller in the form of digital signal to analyze and monitoring angular position of each spline during the refurbishment process and generate audible alert if spline angle deviates from OEM standard.

[0040] A carbide cutting tool 109 is mounted on the platform 101 using an L-type telescopic rod 110, where the rod 110 and cutting tool are dynamically controlled by the microcontroller. The primary function of the carbide cutting tool 109 is to create splines in the internal section of a bronze alloy gear after the welding process. The carbide cutting tool 109 precise operation is regulated by the microcontroller, which receives real-time feedback from the tactile sensor, imaging unit 107, and ultrasonic sensor integrated into the platform 101.

[0041] The carbide cutting tool 109 rotates via a motor coupled within the carbide cutting tool 109 and engages the carbide cutting tool 109 with the surface of the gear. As the motor rotates the carbide carbide cutting tool 109, on rotation the carbide cutting tool 109 cuts away material to form the required splines. The carbide cutting tool 109 cuts with precision, guided by feedback from the tactile sensor, imaging unit 107, and ultrasonic sensor. These sensors provide real-time data, ensuring that the tool adjusts its position and pressure for accurate spline formation, aligning with the gear specifications.

[0042] A stainless-steel cutting tool 111 is securely mounted on the platform 101 via an L-type telescopic bar 112, allowing for dynamic adjustment and precision positioning during operation. This stainless-steel cutting tool 111 is specifically designed for the creation of splines in the internal section of a stainless-steel gear following the welding process. The stainless-steel cutting tool 111 operation is regulated by a microcontroller, which processes real-time data received from the tactile sensor, imaging unit 107, and ultrasonic sensor integrated with the platform 101.

[0043] The stainless-steel cutting tool 111 is coupled with a motor that controlling its rotation. The motor is engaged to rotate the cutting blade of the stainless-steel cutting tool 111, which is positioned at the cutting end. Upon receiving signals from the microcontroller, the motor rotates the blade in contact with the internal section of the stainless-steel gear. The ultrasonic sensor monitors the depth, while the tactile sensor ensures the correct pressure. The imaging unit 107 tracks the stainless-steel cutting tool 111 movement, adjusting the cutting speed and position to create the necessary splines in the gear based on real-time feedback.

[0044] During the spline cutting operation, the microcontroller activates an electronic nozzle 118 connected to a water chamber 119, which is mounted on the platform 101. The nozzle 118 dispenses a controlled flow of water onto the axle shaft side gear. This water serves as a coolant, preventing overheating of the gear during the cutting process. The microcontroller regulates the flow of water based on real-time temperature data, ensuring that the axle shaft side gear remains at an optimal temperature, thereby preventing any thermal damage or distortion that occur due to excessive heat generated during the cutting of the splines.

[0045] When activated, the microcontroller sends a signal to open the valve, allowing water to flow from the chamber 119 through the nozzle 118. The nozzle 118 directs a fine stream of water onto the axle shaft side gear during the spline cutting process. The water is applied precisely where heat buildup is most significant, cooling the gear to prevent overheating. The flow rate is dynamically adjusted based on temperature feedback to ensure effective cooling and maintain the proper temperature of the gear throughout the cutting operation.

[0046] As the cutting operation is completed the microcontroller directs plurality of spindles 113 (preferably 2 to 6 in numbers) that are mounted on an L-type telescopic pole 114, with each spindle 113 being equipped with multiple extendable grooved structures 115. These spindles 113 are designed to adjust in length and positioning, facilitated by the telescopic functionality of the pole 114. The extendable grooved structures 115 are fabricated over the spindles 113, allowing for adjustable placement to accommodate varying sizes and configurations of axle shaft side gears. The groove’s structure is embedded with a drawer arrangement.

[0047] The drawer arrangement consists of multiple plates that are overlapped to each other with a sliding unit, wherein upon actuation of the drawer arrangement by the microcontroller, the motor in the sliding unit starts rotating a wheel coupled via a shaft in clockwise/anticlockwise direction providing a movement to the slider in the drawer arrangement to extend/retract the groove structure for ensuring secure engagement with the gear, providing stability during the refurbishment process.

[0048] The grooved structures 115 integrated with multiple touch sensors (preferably 2 to 6 in numbers) to measure structure of splines in gear. The touch sensor comprises a sensing element known as elastomer for sensing the interaction of the grooved structures 115 with the splines in gear. When the sensor is subjected to the interaction, the sensor gets activated and behave like a switch. When the interaction is released, the touch sensor acts as closed switch to experience the force exerted by the grooved structures 115 on the splines in gear. This force leads to deflection in the elastomer which is measured and converted into an electrical signal. After that the touch sensor transmits the electric signal to the microcontroller linked with the sensor. The microcontroller now analyzes the signal to measure structure of splines in gear.

[0049] During the burr removal process from newly created splines, the microcontroller continuously monitors the dimensions of the splines. If the spline dimensions deviate from the required specifications, the microcontroller triggers an alert through a speaker 116 mounted on the platform 101. This alert notifies the user of the discrepancy, ensuring that corrective action is taken promptly.

[0050] The speaker 116 disclosed herein works by receiving signals from the microcontroller, converting them into sound waves through a diaphragm’s vibration, and producing audible sounds with the help of amplification and control circuitry in order to notify the user of the discrepancy, ensuring that corrective action is taken promptly.

[0051] The platform 101 is installed with an optical thickness sensor which measures thickness of axle shaft side gear. The sensor emits light, and based on the reflection or absorption of light, it determines the thickness of the gear. The data from the sensor is processed by the microcontroller, which compares the measured thickness to a predefined threshold limit. If the thickness of the axle shaft side gear is found to be below the acceptable limit, the microcontroller automatically initiates a rejection mechanism, ensuring that the defective gear is discarded. This device prevents substandard gears from being processed further, maintaining the quality and integrity of the finished products.

[0052] A suction unit 117 is connected to the side portion of the platform 101, designed to clean the spline section before and after the working process. The suction unit 117 operates by creating a vacuum, which draws away debris, metal shavings, or any other residues that may accumulate during the machining process. This cleaning occurs without interrupting the operational functionality of the platform 101. The suction unit 117 is strategically positioned to target the spline section specifically, ensuring that the area remains clean and free of contaminants, which affect the quality of the process and the final product.

[0053] Moreover, a battery is associated with the device for powering up electrical and electronically operated components associated with the device and supplying a voltage to the components. The battery used herein is preferably a Lithium-ion battery which is a rechargeable unit that demands power supply after getting drained. The battery stores the electric current derived from an external source in the form of chemical energy, which when required by the electronic component of the device, derives the required power from the battery for proper functioning of the device.

[0054] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) An automated axle shaft side gear refurbishment device, comprising:

i) a platform 101 configured with an elongated member 102 developed and positioned on a ground surface, wherein a touch interactive display panel 103 is mounted on said platform 101, accessed by a user for providing input details regarding repairing of splines of an axle shaft side gear;
ii) a motorized circular chuck 104 mounted on free-end of said member 102, attached via a L-shaped horizontal link 105 to facilitate rotational movement of said chuck 104, wherein multiple clamping jaws 106 are attached to said chuck 104, configured to clamp an axle shaft side gear engaged by said user with said chuck 104;
iii) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 107 installed on said platform 101 and paired with a processor for capturing and processing multiple images of said side gear, respectively, in sync with an ultrasonic sensor integrated with said platform 101 to detect dimensions of gear splines, including depth, width, and spacing, wherein said microcontroller compares said measurements with OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) specifications to guide repair process,
iv) a tactile sensor is integrated with said clamping jaws 106 to detect hardness of said axle shaft side gear, based on which said microcontroller selects appropriate cutting tool and welding process, wherein plurality of welding torches 108 of varying kinds is arranged on said platform 101 that is accessed by a pair of robotic arms 120 installed on said platform 101 for mending deformations on said axle shaft side gear, in case said determined defect corresponds to formation of cracks on said axle shaft side gear;
v) a carbide cutting tool 109 mounted on said platform 101 via an L-type telescopic rod 110, wherein said carbide cutting tool 109 and rod 110 is dynamically regulated by said microcontroller to create splines in internal section of a bronze alloy gear after welding, with said carbide cutting tool 109 guided by real-time feedback from said tactile sensor, imaging unit 107 and ultrasonic sensor;
vi) a stainless-steel cutting tool 111 mounted on said platform 101 via a L-type telescopic bar 112, said stainless steel cutting tool used to create splines in internal section of a stainless-steel gear after welding, with said stainless steel cutting tool guided by real-time feedback from tactile sensor, imaging unit 107 and ultrasonic sensor; and
vii) plurality of spindles 113 mounted on a L-type telescopic pole 114 with multiple extendable grooved structures 115 fabricated over said spindles 113, said grooved structures 115 integrated with multiple touch sensors, and said spindles 113 are dynamically regulated by said microcontroller to measure structure of splines in gear while removing any burrs from newly created splines, with said microcontroller generating an alert via a speaker 116 mounted on said platform 101 if said spline dimensions do not meet required specifications.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein angle sensor integrated into the platform 101, configured to measure the angular position of each spline during the refurbishment process and to generate audible alert if spline angle deviates from OEM standard.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) and MIG (Metal Inert Gas) welding torches 108 are positioned on upper portion of said platform 101, used to repair damaged sections of gear splines by applying metal layer by layer, said microcontroller applies TIG welding for bronze-type gears and MIG welding for stainless steel-type gears.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a suction unit 117 is connected to side portion of said platform 101, configured to clean splines section before and after working, ensuring that cleaning process does not interfere with operational functionality.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein an optical thickness sensor is integrated into said platform 101, which measures thickness of axle shaft side gear, and said microcontroller automatically rejects said axle shaft side gear if said thickness falls below a predefined threshold limit.

6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein during spline cutting operation, said microcontroller actuates an electronic nozzle 118 attached with a water chamber 119, and installed on said platform 101, for dispensing water on said of said axle shaft side gear, to prevent any chances of damage to said axle shaft side gear due to over-heating.

Documents

Application Documents

# Name Date
1 202421094420-STATEMENT OF UNDERTAKING (FORM 3) [01-12-2024(online)].pdf 2024-12-01
2 202421094420-REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION (FORM-18) [01-12-2024(online)].pdf 2024-12-01
3 202421094420-REQUEST FOR EARLY PUBLICATION(FORM-9) [01-12-2024(online)].pdf 2024-12-01
4 202421094420-POWER OF AUTHORITY [01-12-2024(online)].pdf 2024-12-01
5 202421094420-FORM-9 [01-12-2024(online)].pdf 2024-12-01
6 202421094420-FORM FOR SMALL ENTITY(FORM-28) [01-12-2024(online)].pdf 2024-12-01
7 202421094420-FORM 18 [01-12-2024(online)].pdf 2024-12-01
8 202421094420-FORM 1 [01-12-2024(online)].pdf 2024-12-01
9 202421094420-FIGURE OF ABSTRACT [01-12-2024(online)].pdf 2024-12-01
10 202421094420-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI(FORM-28) [01-12-2024(online)].pdf 2024-12-01
11 202421094420-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI [01-12-2024(online)].pdf 2024-12-01
12 202421094420-EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION(S) [01-12-2024(online)].pdf 2024-12-01
13 202421094420-DRAWINGS [01-12-2024(online)].pdf 2024-12-01
14 202421094420-DECLARATION OF INVENTORSHIP (FORM 5) [01-12-2024(online)].pdf 2024-12-01
15 202421094420-COMPLETE SPECIFICATION [01-12-2024(online)].pdf 2024-12-01
16 Abstract.jpg 2024-12-27
17 202421094420-FORM-26 [03-06-2025(online)].pdf 2025-06-03