Apparatus and methods for collision detection and recovery for waterjet cutting systems
US6540586B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 3, 2001 |
| Grant date | Apr 1, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 5, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T83/364
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
This invention relates to apparatus and methods for collision detection and recovery for waterjet and abrasive-jet cutting systems. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a first mount member coupleable to a controllably positionable mounting portion of the cutting system, and a second mount member coupleable to the cutting head and disengageably or movably coupled to the first mount member. Embodiments of the inventions may also have a sensing circuit having at least one first conductive element disposed on the first mount member and at least one second conductive element disposed on the second mount member. In the event of a collision between the cutting head and an obstruction, the second mount member disengages from or moves with respect to the first mount member to prevent breakage of the cutting head. This movement causes the first and second conductive elements to touch, signaling a collision and shutting down one or more internal systems. Following the collision, the second mount member is quickly and easily re-engaged with the first mount member without time-consuming re-calibration. In one embodiment, re-engagement of the second end first mount members is automatically …
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.