Productivity enhancement for band saw
AssigneeKando Innovation Limited
InventorsKeith BLENKINSOPP, Donald Michael OXLEY, Winston Duang WICKHAM, Jonathan Tee WRIGLEY
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
Machine vision apparatus tracks a distinctive object in relation to a hazardous location on a work surface of a modified band saw in two, three, or four (3-D+T) dimensions, and calculates whether to send an “immediate shut-down signal” to the band saw. Cameras and an image processor are mounted on the band saw. The signal causes an integrated blade-arresting or stopping mechanism to immediately shift the idler wheel, removing blade tension and disconnecting the blade which is then braked to a complete, safe stop before an approaching blue-gloved hand can touch the blade.
Claims15
1-16. (canceled)
A powered machine of a type wherein a human operator uses his or her hands to present material to a movable means for cutting or shaping the material;
- the means being located within a three-dimensional hazardous zone having a height, a width, and a depth and in a position in relation to a frame of the machine;
- wherein the machine is provided with integrated safety protection apparatus including (a) three-dimensional optical risk determining means responsive to an instantaneous position in three dimensions of the operator's hands, as compared to the known position of the hazardous zone, and (b) actuator means for immediately stopping motion of the cutting or shaping means in response to an output of said risk determining means indicating that the operator's hands are at risk of entering the hazardous zone, thereby rendering the machine safe.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.