U.S. patent application number 12/223049 was filed with the patent office on 2010-02-18 for brush-like grindstone.
Invention is credited to Mari Arima, Tatsuo Shinoda.
Application Number | 20100041324 12/223049 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38437163 |
Filed Date | 2010-02-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100041324 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Shinoda; Tatsuo ; et
al. |
February 18, 2010 |
Brush-like Grindstone
Abstract
A brush-like grindstone (1) has threadlike grinding elements (2)
each being a thread that is a collection of long inorganic fibers
and is impregnated with resin and solidified. To grind work (W),
the grindstone (1) is moved relative to the work (W) with the
forward ends of the threadlike grinding elements (2) pressed
against the work (W). In order to prevent the grinding elements (2)
from breaking, each threadlike grinding element (2) is curved from
its base end to its forward end with high hardness of the grinding
elements (2) maintained. Also, the grinding elements (2) are formed
in an elliptic or oblong cross-sectional shape whose minor axis is
aligned with the direction of the curve. Therefore, the grinding
elements (2) have extremely high rigidity in the direction
perpendicular to the direction of the curve but they easily deform
in the direction of the curve. Consequently, the grinding elements
(2) softly engages the work (W) at their forward ends and, when
excessive force acts on the elements (2), the brush-like grindstone
(1) does not break because the elements (2) deform to absorb the
force.
Inventors: |
Shinoda; Tatsuo; (Nagano,
JP) ; Arima; Mari; (Tokyo, JP) |
Correspondence
Address: |
FLYNN THIEL BOUTELL & TANIS, P.C.
2026 RAMBLING ROAD
KALAMAZOO
MI
49008-1631
US
|
Family ID: |
38437163 |
Appl. No.: |
12/223049 |
Filed: |
February 14, 2007 |
PCT Filed: |
February 14, 2007 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/JP2007/000084 |
371 Date: |
July 21, 2008 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
451/466 ;
451/496 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B24D 13/10 20130101;
B24B 29/005 20130101; B24D 13/145 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
451/466 ;
451/496 |
International
Class: |
B24D 13/10 20060101
B24D013/10; B24D 3/28 20060101 B24D003/28 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Feb 20, 2006 |
JP |
2006-042692 |
Claims
1. A brush-like grindstone wherein a plurality of linear grinding
materials are held in a holder, the linear grinding materials is
obtained by impregnating an assemblage of long inorganic fiber
filaments with a resin and hardening the resin, and an
circumferential outer side surface of the holder is a circular
circumferential surface, characterized in that: the long inorganic
fibers are selected from alumina fibers, silicon carbide fibers,
carbon fibers, silicon nitride fibers, and glass fibers, and each
of the plurality of linear grinding materials is curved in at least
one location from its proximal end to its distal end.
2. The brush-like grindstone according to claim 1, wherein each of
the plurality of linear grinding materials is curved over the
entire length thereof from the proximal end to the distal end.
3. The brush-like grindstone according to claim 1, wherein each of
the plurality of linear grinding materials extends radially from an
outer circumferential side surface of the holder, and curves
circumferentially in the same direction.
4. The brush-like grindstone according to claim 3, wherein: a
plurality of the holders are disposed in an axial direction of the
holders, and each of the plurality of linear grinding materials is
held on each of the plurality of holders.
5. The brush-like grindstone according to claim 1, wherein the
plurality of linear grinding materials extend radially from an
outer circumferential side surface of the holder, and curve toward
one side in an axial direction of the holder.
6. The brush-like grindstone according to claim 5, wherein a
plurality of holders are disposed in the axial direction of the
holders; and the plurality of linear grinding materials are held in
each of the plurality of holders.
7. The brush-like grindstone according to claim 1, wherein two
holders are disposed as a pair in an axial direction of the
holders; and the plurality of linear grinding materials extend
radially from a circumferential surface of the two holders, and
curve in a direction whereby the distal ends of the plurality of
linear grinding materials held in the two holders are close to one
another.
8. The brush-like grindstone according to claim 1, wherein each of
the plurality of linear grinding materials extends in an axial
direction from an end surface of one side of the holder in the
axial direction, and curves outwards from an inside of the end
surface of the one side.
9. The brush-like grindstone according to claim 1, wherein each of
the plurality of linear grinding materials extends in an axial
direction from an end surface of one side of the holder in the
axial direction, and curves inwards from an outside of the end
surface of the one side.
10. The brush-like grindstone according to claim 1, wherein the
plurality of linear grinding materials are held in the holder as a
plurality of bundles.
11. The brush-like grindstone according to claim 1, wherein the
plurality of linear grinding materials are held along the entirety
of the circumferential direction in a circumferential groove formed
on an outer circumferential side surface or on an end surface of
one side of the holder.
12. The brush-like grindstone according to claim 1, wherein the
plurality of linear grinding materials have an elliptical or oval
cross section in which a minor axis faces a direction of
curvature.
13. The brush-like grindstone according to claim 1, wherein a drive
shaft extends from the holder in an axial direction.
14. (canceled)
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to a brush-like grindstone
that is used for burr removal and grinding processes.
BACKGROUND ART
[0002] Precision parts that are used for automobile and aircraft
components are manufactured with high precision and accuracy by
automated equipment such as NC benches, NC cutters, machining
centers, robots and specialized processing equipment that employ
tools such as end mills, drills, dies and taps. In addition, the
frames and other parts of electronics equipment are produced from
die-cast parts formed from magnesium and aluminum. Grinding
processes are carried out on these workpieces using gritted nylon
brushes, brass brushes, wire brushes, and the like in order to
remove processing marks, tool marks, burrs and the like. However,
gritted nylon brushes, brass brushes, and wire brushes have low
grit content and low hardness, and thus have inferior grinding
capacity due to their inferior stiffness, and there have thus been
problems with inefficient grinding.
[0003] Thus, the applicant of the present invention provides a
brush-like grindstone in which a holder holds a plurality of
filamentous bodies formed by impregnating bundled fibers formed
from alumina fiber, silicon carbide fiber, carbon fiber, silicon
nitride fiber, or glass fiber with binder resin, which is then
caused to harden. This type of brush-like grindstone that employs
long inorganic fibers has high hardness and stiffness, which
provides high grinding capacity and long life (see Patent Document
1, for example). [0004] Patent Document 1: JP A 2000-94344
DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION
Technical Problem
[0005] However, even with the brush-like grindstone disclosed in
Patent Document 1, when irregularities are present on the surface,
it is not possible to grind or remove burrs in the corners of the
depressions simply by moving the brush-like grindstone along the
surface of the work. In addition, there is the problem that the
long inorganic fibers used in the brush-like grindstone break in
many locations due to their high hardness when the brush-like
grindstone is moved while impinging on the workpiece with high
force.
[0006] In view of the above problems, an object of the present
invention is to provide a brush-like grindstone whereby it is
possible to prevent breakage of the linear grinding materials while
also maintaining high hardness in the linear grinding materials
that are produced by impregnating bundles of long inorganic fibers
with a resin, which is then caused to harden.
Solution to Problem
[0007] In order to resolve the above problems, according to the
present invention, there is provided a brush-like grindstone
wherein a plurality of linear grinding materials are held in a
holder, the linear grinding materials being obtained by
impregnating an assemblage of long inorganic fiber filaments with a
resin, which is caused to harden; wherein the plurality of linear
grinding materials are curved in at least one location from the
proximal end to the distal end.
[0008] According to the present invention, each of the plurality of
linear grinding materials is preferably curved over the entire
length thereof from the proximal ends to the distal ends.
[0009] According to the brush-like grindstone of the present
invention, a workpiece is ground by moving the grindstone relative
to the workpiece in a state in which the distal ends of the linear
grinding materials are pressed against the work. Because the linear
grinding materials are produced by impregnating long inorganic
fiber bundles with a resin, which is then caused to harden, the
long inorganic fibers that substantially function as the grinding
materials have high density, high hardness, and high rigidity.
Consequently, the brush-like grindstone of the present invention
has high grinding capacity. In addition, according to the present
invention, the linear grinding materials are in a curved state,
even when the brush-like grindstone is at rest, and thus readily
deform in the direction of curvature. As a result, with the
brush-like grindstone according to the present invention, the
linear grinding materials impinge softly on the workpiece with
their distal ends relative to brush-like grindstones in which the
linear grinding materials extend perpendicularly. In addition, the
linear grinding materials do not break because they deform to
absorb excessive force when excessive force is applied.
[0010] In the present invention, a configuration may be utilized in
which each of the plurality of linear grinding materials extends
radially from an outer circumferential side surface of the holder,
and curves circumferentially in the same direction.
[0011] In the present invention, a configuration may also be
utilized in which each of the plurality of linear grinding
materials extends radially from the outer circumferential side
surface of the holder, and curves in one direction in the axial
direction of the holder.
[0012] In the present invention, a configuration may be utilized in
which a plurality of holders are disposed in the axial direction of
the holders, and each of the plurality of linear grinding materials
is held on each of the plurality of holders.
[0013] In the present invention, a configuration may be utilized in
which two holders are disposed as a pair in the axial direction of
the holders, each of the plurality of linear grinding materials
extends radially from the circumferential surface of the two
holders and curves in a direction whereby the distal ends of the
plurality of linear grinding materials held in the two holders are
close to one another.
[0014] In the present invention, a configuration may be utilized in
which each of the plurality of linear grinding materials extends in
an axial direction from the end surface of one side of the holder
in the axial direction, and curves outwards from the inside of the
end surface of the one side.
[0015] In the present invention, a configuration may be adopted in
which each of the plurality of linear grinding materials extends in
the axial direction from the end surface of one side of the holder
in the axial direction, and curves inwards from the outside of the
end surface of the one side.
[0016] In the present invention, it is preferable for the plurality
of linear grinding materials to be held in the holder as a
plurality of bundles. By adopting such a configuration, the
advantage is presented that chips generated in the grinding process
are efficiently discharged and heat dissipation efficiency is
increased. In addition, a configuration is used in which the
plurality of linear grinding materials are fixed in the holder in
small groups; therefore, it is possible to prevent the linear
grinding materials from being pulled out. As a result, the
advantage is presented that the brush-like grindstone of the
present invention is very safe.
[0017] In the present invention, a configuration may be adopted in
which the plurality of linear grinding materials are held along the
entirety of the circumferential direction in a circumferential
groove formed on an outer circumferential side surface or on an end
surface of one side of the holder.
[0018] In the present invention, it is preferable to provide the
plurality of linear grinding materials with elliptical or oval
cross sections in which the minor axis faces the direction of
curvature. By utilizing this configuration, the materials deform
when excessive force is applied to the linear grinding materials,
and the excessive force is absorbed, thus preventing breakage.
[0019] In the present invention, it is preferable for a rotating
drive shaft to extend from the holder in the axial direction. By
utilizing this type of configuration, it is possible to drive the
brush-like grindstone by simple linkage of the drive shaft to a
drive device.
[0020] In the present invention, alumina fibers, silicon carbide
fibers, carbon fibers, silicon nitride fibers, glass fibers, and
the like may be used as the long inorganic fibers.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0021] FIGS. 1(A), 1(B) and 1(C) are a perspective view, plan view,
and descriptive view of the brush-like grindstone of a first
embodiment of the present invention, where the perspective view
schematically portrays a cross-section of the linear grinding
material used in the brush-like grindstone.
[0022] FIGS. 2(A) and 2(B) are a perspective view and side view of
the brush-like grindstone of a second embodiment of the present
invention.
[0023] FIGS. 3(A) and 3(B) are a perspective view and side view of
the brush-like grindstone of a third embodiment of the present
invention.
[0024] FIGS. 4(A) and 4(B) are a perspective view and side view of
the brush-like grindstone of a fourth embodiment of the present
invention.
[0025] FIGS. 5(A) and 5(B) are a perspective view and a side view
of the brush-like grindstone of a fifth embodiment of the present
invention.
[0026] FIG. 6 is a side view of the brush-like grindstone of a
sixth embodiment of the present invention.
[0027] FIG. 7 is a descriptive view showing a usage example of the
brush-like grindstone of a sixth embodiment of the present
invention.
[0028] FIG. 8 is a descriptive view showing the brush-like
grindstone of the sixth embodiment of the present invention and a
usage example thereof.
[0029] FIGS. 9(A) and 9(B) are a plan view and a side view of the
brush-like grindstone of a seventh embodiment of the present
invention.
[0030] FIG. 10 is a descriptive diagram showing a usage example of
the brush-like grindstone of the seventh embodiment of the present
invention.
[0031] FIGS. 11(A) and 11(B) are a plan view and side view of the
brush-like grindstone of an eighth embodiment of the present
invention.
[0032] FIG. 12 is a descriptive diagram showing a usage example of
the brush-like grindstone of the eighth embodiment of the present
invention.
[0033] FIG. 13 is a descriptive diagram showing a case in which the
linear grinding materials are bent at one location from the
proximal end towards the distal end in the brush-like grindstone
according to the present invention.
[0034] FIG. 14 is a descriptive diagram showing another example in
which the linear grinding materials are bent at one location from
the proximal end towards the distal end in the brush-like
grindstone according to the present invention.
SYMBOLS
[0035] 1 Brush-like grindstone [0036] 2 Linear grinding material
[0037] 5 Holder [0038] 20 Grinding material bundle [0039] 51 Holder
shaft hole [0040] 53 Embedding hole [0041] 55 Rotational drive
shaft [0042] 57 Outer peripheral surface of the holder [0043] 59
End surface on one side of the holder [0044] W Workpiece
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
[0045] Embodiments of the present invention are described in
reference to the drawings. In the drawings referenced in the
descriptions that follow, a reduced number of grinding material
bundles or linear grinding materials are represented in order to
facilitate understanding of the structure of each member.
Embodiment 1
[0046] FIGS. 1(A), 1(B) and 1(C) are a perspective view, plan view,
and descriptive view of the brush-like grindstone of Embodiment 1
of the present invention, where the descriptive view schematically
portrays a cross-section of the linear grinding materials used in
the brush-like grindstone. The brush-like grindstone 1 presented in
FIGS. 1(A) and (B) has a structure in which a metal holder 5 holds
a plurality of linear grinding materials 2 produced by impregnating
long inorganic fiber bundles with a resin, which is then caused to
harden. The holder 5 has a cylindrical shape in which a shaft hole
51 is formed in the center and passes through in the axial
direction. A rotational drive shaft 55 that is inserted into this
shaft hole 51 is linked to the holder 5 by a screw (not shown) that
is tightened from the side.
[0047] In this embodiment, the linear grinding materials 2 are
produced by impregnating bundled filaments of long alumina fibers
used as the long inorganic fibers with a thermosetting binder resin
such as silicone resin, phenol resin, epoxy resin, polyimide resin,
polymaleimide resin, unsaturated polyester resin, or urethane
resin, which is caused to harden. Nylon or another thermoplastic
resin may also be used as the binder resin. The bundled filaments
may be a bundled material of 250 to 3000 strands of long alumina
fibers with fiber diameters of 8 to 50 .mu.m, and the diameter of
the bundled filament is 0.1 to 2 mm. A material that is not twisted
can be used as the bundled filament.
[0048] A plurality of embedding holes 53 are formed at equivalent
angular intervals in the outer peripheral side surface 57 of the
holder 5 in the brush-like grindstone 1 of the present invention. A
plurality of linear grinding materials 2 are then fixed at their
proximal ends with an adhesive such as silicon resin-based or epoxy
resin-based adhesive in each of the plurality of embedding holes 53
in a state in which they are bundled as round grinding material
bundles 20 (groups of linear grinding materials 2). For this
reason, the plurality of linear grinding materials 2 extend
radially from the outer peripheral side surface 57 of the holder 5
in the form of grinding material bundles 20. The plurality of
linear grinding materials 2 are each in an isolated state when
formed as the grinding material bundles 20.
[0049] All of the linear grinding materials 2 are curved along
their entire lengths from their proximal ends to their distal ends
towards one side in the circumferential direction, for example, the
clockwise direction CW. All of the grinding material bundles 20 are
also curved in the clockwise direction CW in accordance therewith.
In addition, as shown in FIG. 1(C), the linear grinding materials 2
have an elliptical or oval cross-section with the minor axis faces
the direction of curvature.
[0050] When the brush-like grindstone 1 of this embodiment is used
in order to grind or remove burrs from the surface of a workpiece
W, as shown in FIGS. 1(A) and 1(B), rotation is carried out in the
direction opposite the direction of curvature of the linear
grinding material 2 (counterclockwise direction CCW) about the axis
L with the drive shaft 55 linked to the drive device of the
grinder, and the distal ends of the linear grinding materials 2 are
brought into contact with the surface of the workpiece W that is
situated at the outer periphery of the brush-like grindstone 1. As
a result, the long inorganic fibers that are exposed at the tips of
the linear grinding materials 2 in the brush-like grindstone 1 cut
away and grind off the irregularities and burrs of the workpiece W,
acting substantially as grinding materials. When this grinding
operation is carried out, in addition to rotational movement, there
are also cases in which movement occurs along the surface of the
workpiece W in the form of reciprocating movement, oscillation,
vibration, or combinations of these movements. In addition,
combinations of movements may also be carried out in which the
brush-like grindstone 1 is moved towards and away from the
workpiece W.
[0051] In producing this type of brush-like grindstone 1, when the
curved linear grinding materials 2 are formed, first, 1000
individual long alumina fibers with diameters of, for example, 10
to 15 .mu.m are first bundled together in a flat, untwisted state,
and a bobbin of the bundled filament (strand) that has been
continuously wound is placed in a creel. Next, the bundled filament
is taken from the bobbin and dipped in binder resin such as epoxy
resin, thereby being impregnated with binder resin, whereupon the
excess binder resin is removed with a squeeze roll. As this occurs,
the material is wound upon itself around the circumference of a
cylindrical or cylinder-shaped winding roll. In accordance with
tension applied to the bundled filament, the location of each of
the long alumina fibers that constitutes a bundled filament is
shifted, and the bundled filament is deformed to produce a state in
which it has an elliptical or oval cross-section. When the binder
resin is subsequently caused to harden, a linear grinding material
2 is formed which is curved along the circumference of the winding
roll. The cross-section the linear grinding materials 2 is
elliptical or oval, with the minor axis facing the direction of
curvature of the linear grinding material 2. Next, the linear
grinding material 2 that has been wound on the circumference of the
winding roll is cut in the axial direction of the winding roll,
thereby separating the linear grinding materials 2 from the winding
roll. The linear grinding materials 2 are then cut and aligned at
the desired length. Next, the prescribed number of linear grinding
materials 2 are bundled with the directions of curvature matching,
and the ends are inserted into the embedding holes 53 of the holder
5 and secured in the holder 5 using an adhesive such as an epoxy
resin-based or silicone resin-based adhesive.
[0052] According to this production method, curved linear grinding
materials 2 can be efficiently formed, and by changing the external
diameter dimension of the winding roll, the linear grinding
materials 2 can be formed while being curved at a prescribed radius
of curvature. In addition, because the external form of the wound
roll can be made ovular or elliptical, curved linear grinding
materials 2 can be formed with linear regions or radii of curvature
that vary depending on the location.
[0053] As described above, with the brush-like grindstone 1 of this
embodiment, the grindstone is moved relative to the workpiece W in
a state in which the tips of the linear grinding material 2 are in
contact with the workpiece W, whereby the workpiece W is ground.
Because the linear grinding materials 2 are produced, in this case,
by impregnating long inorganic fiber bundles with resin, which is
then caused to harden, the long inorganic fibers that substantially
function as the grinding materials have high density, high
hardness, and high rigidity. Consequently, the brush-like
grindstone 1 of this embodiment has high grinding capacity.
[0054] In addition, with the brush-like grindstone 1 of this
embodiment, all of the plurality of linear grinding materials 2 are
in a state in which they curve from their proximal ends to their
distal ends, while also having elliptical or oval cross-sections in
which the minor axis faces the direction of curvature. For this
reason, the linear grinding materials 2 can readily deform in the
direction of curvature, while having extremely high rigidity in the
direction that is perpendicular to the direction of curvature.
Consequently, with the brush-like grindstone 1 of this embodiment,
the linear grinding materials 2 softly impinge on the workpiece W
at their distal ends in comparison to brush-like grindstones in
which the linear grinding materials 2 extend straight and
perpendicularly. In addition, the linear grinding materials 2 do
not break because they deform to absorb the excessive force when
excessive force has been supplied.
[0055] In addition, because the linear grinding materials 2 are
fixed in the holder 5 in a state in which they are in small groups
as grinding material bundles 20, the advantage is presented that
chips during the grinding process are efficiently discharged, and
heat dissipation effects are enhanced. For this reason, the
brush-like grindstone 1 of this embodiment has superior grinding
properties. Consequently, the material can be used with high
precision and good efficiency in carrying out deburring and
grinding processes on precision processed parts. In addition, the
linear grinding material 2 allows the cost of the brush-like
grindstone 1 to be decreased because a small number can be used
with high grinding performance. Moreover, because a configuration
is utilized in which a large number of linear grinding materials 2
are fixed to the holder 5 in small groups, the linear grinding
materials 2 can be kept from being pulled out. For this reason, the
advantage is presented that the brush-like grindstone 1 of this
embodiment has high safety.
Modification of Embodiment 1
[0056] Embodiment 1 described above has a configuration in which
the plurality of linear grinding materials 2 are held in a holder 5
as a plurality of grinding material bundles 20, but a configuration
may also be utilized in which a circumferential groove is formed in
a outer peripheral side surface 57 of the holder 5, and the
plurality of linear grinding materials 2 are held across the entire
circumferential length of this circumferential groove.
Embodiment 2
[0057] FIGS. 2(A) and (B) are a perspective view and a side view of
the brush-like grindstone of embodiment 2 of the present invention.
With this embodiment and embodiments 3 to 8 below, the basic
configuration is the same as in embodiment 1, and the descriptions
thus employ the same symbols for parts having the same function.
The brush-like grindstone 1 shown in FIGS. 2(A) and 2(B) also has a
configuration that is similar to that of embodiment 1, in which
bundles of long alumina fibers (long inorganic fibers) are
impregnated with a resin, which is caused to harden to produce
linear grinding materials 2, a plurality of which are held by a
metal holder 5. The holder 5 is a hollow cylinder in which a shaft
hole 51 that passes through it in the axial direction L is formed
at the center, with a rotational drive shaft 55 linked
therewith.
[0058] In the brush-like grindstone of this embodiment, a plurality
of embedding holes 53 are formed with equivalent angular spacing on
the outer circumferential surface 57 of the holder 5. The plurality
of linear grinding materials 2 are then fixed at their proximal
ends using adhesive such as silicon resin-based or epoxy
resin-based adhesive in the plurality of embedding holes 53 in a
state in which round bundles are produced as grinding material
bundles 20 (groups of linear grinding materials 2). Consequently,
the plurality of linear grinding materials 2 extend radially from
the circumferential surface 57 of the holder 5 as grinding material
bundles 20. The plurality of linear grinding materials 2 are
separated from each other in the form of grinding material bundles
20.
[0059] All of the linear grinding materials 2 curve to one side in
the direction of the axis line L from their bases to their tips,
and accordingly all of the grinding material bundles 20 curve to
one side in the direction of the axis line L. In addition, the
linear grinding materials 2 are provided with elliptical or oval
cross sections in which the minor axis faces the direction of
curvature, as has been described in reference to FIG. 1(C).
[0060] When the brush-like grindstone 1 of this embodiment is used
in order to grind or remove burrs from the surface of a workpiece
W, rotation is performed, for example, in the counterclockwise
direction CCW as shown in FIGS. 2(A) and 2(B) with the drive shaft
55 linked to the drive device of the grinder, and the tips of the
linear grinding materials 2 are brought into contact with the
surface of the workpiece W that is disposed at the outer periphery
of the brush-like grindstone 1. As a result, the long inorganic
fibers that are exposed at the tips of the linear grinding
materials 2 of the brush-like grindstone 1 grind the material by
cutting away the irregularities and burrs in the workpiece W.
[0061] With the brush-like grindstone 1 having this configuration,
the linear grinding materials 2 are produced in the same manner as
in Embodiment 1 by impregnating long inorganic fiber bundles with
resin, which is then caused to harden, thus producing high hardness
and high grinding capacity. In addition, all of the plurality of
linear grinding materials 2 curve from their bases to their tips,
and have elliptical or oval cross sections in which the minor axis
faces in the direction of curvature. For this reason, the linear
grinding materials 2 readily deform in the direction of curvature.
As a result, the linear grinding materials 2 softly impinge upon
the workpiece W at their distal ends and deform to absorb excessive
force when excessive force is supplied in making them impinge upon
the irregularities or the like of the surface of the workpiece W,
so that breakage does not occur. In addition, because the linear
grinding materials 2 are fixed in the holder 5 in a state in which
they are in small groups as grinding material bundles 20, the
advantage is presented that chips generated in the grinding process
are efficiently discharged, and heat dissipation effects are
enhanced.
Modification of Embodiment 2
[0062] Embodiment 2 described above has a configuration in which
the plurality of linear grinding materials 2 are held in a holder 5
as a plurality of grinding material bundles 20, but a configuration
may also be employed in which a circumferential groove is formed in
the outer peripheral side surface 57 of the holder 5, and a
plurality of linear grinding materials 2 are held across the entire
circumferential length of this circumferential groove.
Embodiment 3
[0063] FIGS. 3(A) and 3(B) are perspective and side views of the
brush-like grindstone of Embodiment 3 of the present invention. The
brush-like grindstone 1 in FIGS. 3(A) and 3(B), as with Embodiments
1 and 2, has a configuration in which fiber bundles of long
aluminum fibers (long inorganic fibers) are impregnated with a
resin, which is then caused to harden to produce linear grinding
materials 2, a plurality of which are held in a metal holder 5. The
holder 5 is a cylinder with a shaft hole 51 that passes through in
the direction of the axis line L at its center. A rotational drive
shaft 55 is linked therewith.
[0064] With the brush-like grindstone 1 of this embodiment, a
plurality of embedding holes 53 are formed with equivalent angular
spacing on the outer peripheral side surface 57 of the holder 5.
The plurality of linear grinding materials 2 are fixed in the
plurality of embedding holes 53 using an adhesive such as a
silicone resin-based or epoxy resin-based adhesive at their
proximal ends in a state in which the grinding materials are
bundled as round grinding material bundles 20 (assemblages of
linear grinding materials 2). Consequently, the plurality of linear
grinding materials 2 extend radially from the outer peripheral side
surface 57 of the holder 5 as grinding material bundles 20. Each of
the plurality of linear grinding materials 2 is in an isolated
state as grinding material bundles 20.
[0065] All of the linear grinding materials 2 curve to one side in
the direction of the axis line L from their bases to their tips,
and accordingly all of the grinding material bundles 20 curve to
one side in the direction of the axis line L. In addition, the
linear grinding materials 2 are provided with elliptical or oval
cross sections in which the minor axis faces the direction of
curvature, as has been described in reference to FIG. 1(C).
[0066] With the brush-like grindstone 1 of this embodiment, the
linear grinding material 2 is longer than in the brush-like
grindstone 1 of Embodiment 2, and the distal ends of the linear
grinding materials 2 extend approximately parallel to the axis line
L. Consequently, when the brush-like grindstone 1 of this
embodiment is used in order to grind or remove burrs from the
surface of a workpiece W, rotation is made to occur, for example,
in the counterclockwise direction CCW about the axis line L as
shown in FIGS. 3(A) and 3(B) with the drive shaft 55 linked to the
drive device of the grinder. The workpiece W is thus ground by the
distal ends of the linear grinding materials 2 with the surface
(surface to be ground) facing the axis line L.
[0067] With the brush-like grindstone 1 having this configuration,
as with Embodiment 1, the linear grinding materials 2 are produced
by impregnating long inorganic fiber bundles with a resin, which is
then caused to harden, and thus have high hardness and high
grinding capacity. In addition, all of the plurality of linear
grinding materials 2 are in a state in which they are curved from
their proximal ends to their distal ends, and have an elliptical or
oval cross section in which the minor axis faces the direction of
curvature. For this reason, the linear grinding materials 2 readily
deform in the direction of curvature. Consequently, the linear
grinding materials 2 softly impinge upon the workpiece W at their
distal ends and deform to absorb excessive force when excessive
force is supplied in making them impinge upon the irregularities or
the like in the surface of the workpiece W, so that breakage does
not occur. In addition, because the linear grinding materials 2 are
secures in the holder 5 in a state in which they are in small
groups as grinding material bundles 20, the advantage is presented
that chips generated in the grinding process are efficiently
discharged, and heat dissipation effects are enhanced.
Modification of Embodiment 3
[0068] Embodiment 3 described above has a configuration in which
the plurality of linear grinding materials 2 are held in a holder 5
as a plurality of grinding material bundles 20, but a configuration
may also be employed in which a circumferential groove is formed in
the outer peripheral side surface 57 of the holder 5, and a
plurality of linear grinding materials 2 are held across the entire
circumferential length of this circumferential groove.
Embodiment 4
[0069] FIGS. 4(A) and 4(B) are a perspective view and plan view of
a brush-like grindstone of Embodiment 4 of the present invention.
The brush-like grindstone 1 shown in FIGS. 4(A) and 4(B), as in
Embodiment 1, has a configuration in which bundles of long alumina
fibers (long inorganic fibers) are impregnated with a resin, which
is caused to harden to produce linear grinding materials 2, a
plurality of which are held in a metal holder 5. The holder 5 is
cylindrical with a shaft hole 51 that is formed at its center and
passes through in the direction of the axis line L. A rotational
drive shaft 55 that inserts into the shaft hole 51 is linked to the
holder 5 with a screw that is tightened from the side (not
shown).
[0070] A plurality of holders 5, e.g., three holders, are disposed
along the axis line L. In addition, a plurality of embedding holes
53 are formed at equivalent angular spacing on the outer peripheral
side surface 57 of the three holders 5. The plurality of linear
grinding materials 2 are fixed in the plurality of embedding holes
53 using an adhesive such as a silicone resin-based or epoxy
resin-based adhesive at their proximal ends in a state in which the
linear grinding materials are bundled as round grinding material
bundles 20 (assemblages of linear grinding materials 2).
Consequently, the plurality of linear grinding materials 2 extend
radially from the outer peripheral side surface 57 of the holder 5
as grinding material bundles 20. In this embodiment, the holding
positions of the linear grinding materials 2 are shifted
circumferentially between adjacent holders 5. Each of the plurality
of linear grinding materials 2 is in an isolated state as grinding
material bundles 20.
[0071] With all of the three holders 5, the linear grinding
materials 2 curve to one side in the circumferential direction,
e.g., in the clockwise CW direction, from their proximal ends to
their distal ends, and accordingly all of the grinding material
bundles 20 curve in the clockwise direction CW. In addition, the
linear grinding materials 2, as described in reference to FIG.
1(C), have an elliptical or oval cross section in which the minor
axis faces the direction of curvature.
[0072] When the brush-like grindstone 1 of this embodiment is used
in order to grind or remove burrs from the surface of a workpiece
W, in the same manner as in Embodiment 1, the brush-like grindstone
1 is rotated in the counter-clockwise direction CCW as shown in
FIGS. 4(A) and 4(B) with the drive shaft 55 linked to the drive
device of the grinder, and the surface of the workpiece W is
disposed at the outer periphery of the brush-like grindstone 1 and
is ground by the distal ends of the linear grinding materials
2.
[0073] Although a configuration is used in this embodiment in which
three holders 5 are stacked in three levels, a plurality of sets of
embedding holes 53 formed at equivalent angular spacing in the
circumferential direction may be formed with shifted positions
along the axis line L in a single holder 5. In addition, the number
of holders 5 may be 2 or 4 or greater.
Modification of Embodiment 4
[0074] Embodiment 4 described above has a configuration in which
the plurality of linear grinding materials 2 are held in a
plurality of holders 5 as a plurality of grinding material bundles
20, but a configuration may also be employed in which a
circumferential groove is formed in the outer peripheral side
surface 57 of each of the plurality of holders 5, and a plurality
of linear grinding materials 2 are held across the entire
circumferential length of this circumferential groove.
Embodiment 5
[0075] FIGS. 5(A) and 5(B) are a perspective view and side view of
a brush-like grindstone of Embodiment of the present invention. The
brush-like grindstone 1 shown in FIGS. 5(A and 5(B), as in
Embodiment 1, has a configuration in which assemblages of long
alumina fibers (long inorganic fibers) are impregnated with a
resin, which is caused to harden to produce linear grinding
materials 2, a plurality of which are held in a metal holder 5. The
holder 5 is cylindrical with a shaft hole 51 that is formed at its
center and passes through in the direction of the axis line L. A
rotational drive shaft 55 that inserts into the shaft hole 51 is
linked to the holder 5 with a screw that is tightened from the side
(not shown).
[0076] Three holders 5 are disposed along the axis line L. A
plurality of embedding holes 53 are formed at equivalent angular
spacing on the outer peripheral side surface 57 of each of the
three holders 5. The plurality of linear grinding materials 2 are
cured in the plurality of embedding holes 53 using an adhesive such
as a silicone resin-based or epoxy resin-based adhesive at their
proximal ends in a state in which the grinding materials are
bundled as round grinding material bundles 20 (assemblages of
linear grinding materials 2). Consequently, the plurality of linear
grinding materials 2 extend radially from the outer peripheral side
surface 57 of the holder 5 as grinding material bundles 20. In this
embodiment, of the three holders 5, the holding positions of the
linear grinding materials 2 are shifted circumferentially between
adjacent holders 5. Each of the plurality of linear grinding
materials 2 are in an isolated state as grinding material bundles
20.
[0077] With all of the three holders 5, the linear grinding
materials 2 curve to one side in the direction of the axis line L
from their proximal ends to their distal ends, and accordingly all
of the grinding material bundles 20 curve to one side in the
direction of the axis line L. In addition, the linear grinding
materials 2, as described in reference to FIG. 1(C), have
elliptical or oval cross sections in which the minor axis faces the
direction of curvature.
[0078] When the brush-like grindstone 1 of this embodiment is used
in order to grind or remove burrs from the surface of a workpiece
W, in the same manner as in the second embodiment, the brush-like
grindstone 1 is rotated in the counterclockwise direction CCW as
shown in FIGS. 5(A) and 5(B) with the drive shaft 55 linked to the
drive device of the grinder, and the surface of the workpiece W is
disposed at the outer periphery of the brush-like grindstone 1 and
is ground by the distal ends of the linear grinding materials
2.
[0079] Although a configuration is used in this embodiment in which
three holders 5 are stacked in three levels, a plurality of sets of
embedding holes 53 formed at equivalent angular spacing in the
circumferential direction may be formed with shifted positions
along the axis line L in a single holder 5. In addition, the number
of holders 5 may be 2 or 4 or greater.
Modification of Embodiment 5
[0080] Embodiment 5 described above has a configuration in which
the plurality of linear grinding materials 2 are held in a
plurality of holders 5 as a plurality of grinding material bundles
20, but a configuration may also be employed in which a
circumferential groove is formed in the outer peripheral side
surface 57 of each of the plurality of holders 5, and a plurality
of linear grinding materials 2 are held across the entire
circumferential length of this circumferential groove.
Embodiment 6
[0081] FIG. 6 is a side view of a brush-like grindstone of
Embodiment 6 of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a descriptive
diagram showing a usage example of the brush-like grindstone of
this embodiment. The brush-like grindstone 1 shown in FIG. 6, as
with Embodiment 1, has a configuration in which bundles of long
alumina fibers (long inorganic fibers) are impregnated with a
resin, which is caused to harden to produce linear grinding
materials 2, a plurality of which are held in a metal holder 5. The
holder 5 is cylindrical with a shaft hole 51 that is formed at its
center and passes through in the direction of the axis line L. A
rotational drive shaft 55 that inserts into the shaft hole 51 is
linked to the holder 5 with a screw (not shown) that is tightened
from the side.
[0082] Two holders 5 are disposed along the axis line L. In
addition, a plurality of embedding holes 53 are formed at
equivalent angular spacing on the circumferential side surfaces 57
of the two holders 5. The plurality of linear grinding materials 2
are fixed in the plurality of embedding holes 53 using an adhesive
such as a silicone resin-based or epoxy resin-based adhesive at
their proximal ends in a state in which the plurality of linear
grinding materials 2 are bundled as round grinding material bundles
20 (assemblages of linear grinding materials 2). Consequently, the
plurality of linear grinding materials 2 extend radially from the
outer peripheral side surface 57 of the holder 5 as grinding
material bundles 20. In this embodiment, the holding positions of
the linear grinding materials 2 are shifted circumferentially
between adjacent holders 5. Each of the plurality of linear
grinding materials 2 is in an isolated state as grinding material
bundles 20.
[0083] With one of the pair of two holders 5, the linear grinding
materials 2 curve to one side in the direction of the axis line L
from their proximal ends to their distal ends, and accordingly all
of the grinding material bundles 20 curve in the direction of the
axis line L. With the other of the pair of two holders 5, on the
other hand, the linear grinding materials curve towards the other
side in the direction of the axis line L from their proximal ends
to the their distal ends, and accordingly all of the grinding
material bundles 20 curve towards the other side in the direction
of the axis line L. Consequently, the plurality of linear grinding
materials 2 held in the two holders 5 curve in directions whereby
each of their distal ends approaches the other. In addition, as
shown in FIG. 1(C), the linear grinding materials 2 have an
elliptical or oval cross section in which the minor axis faces the
direction of curvature.
[0084] When the brush-like grindstone 1 of this embodiment is used
in order to grind or remove burrs from the surface of a workpiece
W, the brush-like grindstone 1 is rotated about the axis line L as
shown in FIG. (6) with the drive shaft 55 linked to the drive
device of the grinder, and the surface of the workpiece W is
disposed at the outer periphery of the brush-like grindstone 1 and
is ground by the distal ends of the linear grinding materials
2.
[0085] In addition, as shown in FIG. 7, when a male thread W12 is
formed on a shaft body W11 and the brush-like grindstone 1 of this
embodiment is used in order to finish the male threads W12, the
thread peaks and valleys can be efficiently finished.
[0086] The two holders 5 are fixed to the rotational drive shaft 55
with screws in this embodiment; therefore, when the linear grinding
materials 2 are abraded and shortened, the two holders 5 can be
moved closer in order to adjust the positional relationship of the
distal ends of the linear grinding materials 2.
[0087] Although a configuration is used in this embodiment in which
two holders 5 are disposed at two levels and the positional
relationship can be adjusted, two sets of embedding holes 53 formed
at equivalent angular spacing in the circumferential direction may
be formed with shifted positions along the axis line L in a single
holder 5. The plurality of linear grinding materials 2 may also be
held in the respective sets of embedding holes 53 in an orientation
whereby the distal ends curve in a direction whereby they are close
to one another.
Modification 11of Embodiment 6
[0088] Although a configuration is used in Embodiment 6 in which a
plurality of linear grinding materials 2 are held in a plurality of
holders 5 as a plurality of grinding material bundles 20, a
configuration may be utilized in which a circumferential groove is
formed in the outer peripheral side surface 57 in each of the
plurality of holders 5, and a plurality of linear grinding
materials 2 are held over the entire circumferential length of this
circumferential groove.
Modification 2 of Embodiment 6
[0089] Embodiment 6 described above has a configuration in which
the distal ends of the plurality of linear grinding materials 2
held in the two holders 5 face each other. As shown in FIG. 8,
however, a configuration may be utilized in which the two holders 5
are closer than in the state shown in FIG. 6, and the plurality of
linear grinding materials 2 held in the two holders 5 intersect
each other. In this case, the inner side surfaces of the
protrusions W2 that oppose each other at a prescribed spacing in a
workpiece W21 can be finished simultaneously
Embodiment 7
[0090] FIGS. 9(A) and 9(B) are a plan view and side view of a
brush-like grindstone of Embodiment of the present invention. FIG.
10 is a descriptive diagram showing a usage example of the
brush-like grindstone of this embodiment. The brush-like grindstone
1 shown in FIGS. 9(A) and 9(B), as in Embodiment 1, has a
configuration in which bundles of long alumina fibers (long
inorganic fibers) are impregnated with a resin, which is caused to
harden to produce linear grinding materials 2, a plurality of which
are held in a metal holder 5. The holder 5 is cylindrical with a
shaft hole 51 that is formed at its center and passes through in
the direction of the axis line L. A rotational drive shaft 55 that
inserts into the shaft hole 51 is linked to the holder 5 with a
screw that is tightened from the side (not shown).
[0091] In the brush-like grindstone 1 of this embodiment, a
plurality of embedding holes 53 are formed at equivalent angular
spacing on the end surface 59 of one side of the holder 5 in the
direction of the axis line L. The plurality of linear grinding
materials 2 are fixed in the plurality of embedding holes 53 using
an adhesive such as a silicone resin-based or epoxy resin-based
adhesive at their proximal ends in a state in which the grinding
materials are bundled as round grinding material bundles 20
(assemblages of linear grinding materials 2). In this state, the
linear grinding materials 2 extend in the direction of the axis
line L. Each of the plurality of linear grinding materials 2 are in
an isolated state as grinding material bundles 20.
[0092] All of the linear grinding materials 2 curve outwards from
the end surface 59 of one side of the holder 5 from their proximal
ends to their distal ends, and accordingly all of the grinding
material bundles 20 curve outwards. In addition, the linear
grinding materials 2, as described in reference to FIG. 1(C), have
an elliptical or oval cross section in which the minor axis faces
the direction of curvature.
[0093] Consequently, when the brush-like grindstone 1 of this
embodiment is used in order to grind or remove burrs from the
surface of a workpiece W, rotation is made to occur in the
counter-clockwise direction CCW, for example, as shown in FIGS.
9(A) and 9(B), with the drive shaft 55 linked to the drive device
of the grinder. The workpiece W is ground by the distal ends of the
linear grinding materials 2 with its surface (surface to be ground)
facing in the direction of the axis line L.
[0094] With the brush-like grindstone 1 configured in this manner,
because the linear grinding materials 2 are formed by impregnating
long inorganic fiber bundled filaments with a resin that is then
caused to harden, high hardness and high grinding capacity are
produced in the same manner as in the first embodiment. In
addition, all of the plurality of linear grinding materials 2 curve
from their bases to their tips, and have elliptical or oval cross
sections in which the minor axis faces in the direction of
curvature. For this reason, the linear grinding materials 2 readily
deform in the direction of curvature. As a result, the linear
grinding materials 2 softly impinge upon the workpiece W at their
distal ends and deform to absorb excessive force when excessive
force is supplied in making them impinge upon the irregularities or
the like of the surface of the workpiece W, so that breakage does
not occur. In addition, because the linear grinding materials 2 are
fixed in the holder 5 in a state in which they are in small groups
as grinding material bundles 20, the advantage is presented that
chips generated in the grinding process are efficiently discharged,
and heat dissipation effects are enhanced.
[0095] In addition, the brush-like grindstone 1 of this embodiment
is suitable for finishing female threading W32 formed on a
workpiece W31 as shown in FIG. 10(A), for finishing the inner
circumferential surface of a hole W34 formed in a workpiece as
shown in FIG. 10(B), or for deburring intersecting parts of
intersecting holes W36 and W37 formed in a workpiece 5, as shown in
FIG. 10(C).
Modification of Embodiment 7
[0096] Embodiment described above has a configuration in which the
plurality of linear grinding materials 2 are held in a holder 5 as
a plurality of grinding material bundles 20, but a configuration
may also be employed in which a circumferential groove is formed in
the end surface 59 on one side of the holder 5, and a plurality of
linear grinding materials 2 are held across the entire
circumferential length of this circumferential groove.
Embodiment 8
[0097] FIGS. 11(A) and 11(B) are a plan view and side view of a
brush-like grindstone of Embodiment 8 of the present invention.
FIG. 12 is a descriptive diagram showing a usage example of the
brush-like grindstone of this embodiment. The brush-like grindstone
1 shown in FIGS. 11(A) and 11(B), as in Embodiment 1, has a
configuration in which bundles of long alumina fibers (long
inorganic fibers) are impregnated with a resin, which is caused to
harden to produce linear grinding materials 2, a plurality of which
are held in a metal holder 5. The holder 5 is cylindrical with a
shaft hole 51 that is formed at its center and passes through in
the direction of the axis line L. A rotational drive shaft 55 that
inserts into the shaft hole 51 is linked to the holder 5 with a
screw (not shown) that is tightened from the side.
[0098] In the brush-like grindstone 1 of this embodiment, a
plurality of embedding holes 53 are formed at equivalent angular
spacing on the end surface 59 of one side of the holder 5 in the
direction of the axis line L. The plurality of linear grinding
materials 2 are fixed in the plurality of embedding holes 53 using
an adhesive such as a silicone resin-based or epoxy resin-based
adhesive at their proximal ends in a state in which the grinding
materials are bundled as round grinding material bundles 20
(assemblages of linear grinding materials 2). In this state, the
linear grinding materials 2 extend in the direction of the axis
line L. Each of the plurality of linear grinding materials 2 are in
an isolated state as grinding material bundles 20.
[0099] All of the linear grinding materials 2 curve outwards from
the end surface 59 of one side of the holder 5 from their proximal
ends to their distal ends, and accordingly all of the grinding
material bundles 20 curve outwards. In addition, the linear
grinding materials 2, as described in reference to FIG. 1(C), have
an elliptical or oval cross section in which the minor axis faces
the direction of curvature.
[0100] When the brush-like grindstone 1 of this embodiment is used
in order to grind or remove burrs from the surface of a workpiece
W, rotation is made to occur about the axis L; for example, in the
counter-clockwise direction CCW, as shown in FIGS. 11(A) and 11(B),
with the drive shaft 55 linked to the drive device of the grinder.
The workpiece W is ground by the distal ends of the linear grinding
materials 2 with its surface (surface to be ground) facing in the
direction of the axis line L.
[0101] The brush-like grindstone 1 of this embodiment is suitable
for finishing male threading W42 formed in a workpiece W41 as shown
in FIG. 12(A), and for finishing the outer circumferential surface
of a shaft-shaped workpiece W43.
[0102] With the brush-like grindstone 1 configured in this manner,
because the linear grinding materials 2 are formed by impregnating
long inorganic fiber bundled filaments with a resin that is then
caused to harden, high hardness and high grinding capacity are
produced in the same manner as in the first embodiment. In
addition, all of the plurality of linear grinding materials 2 curve
from their bases to their tips, and have elliptical or oval cross
sections in which the minor axis faces in the direction of
curvature. For this reason, the linear grinding materials 2 readily
deform in the direction of curvature. As a result, the linear
grinding materials 2 softly impinge upon the workpiece W at their
distal ends and deform to absorb excessive force when excessive
force is supplied in making them impinge upon the irregularities or
the like of the surface of the workpiece W, so that breakage does
not occur. In addition, because the linear grinding materials 2 are
fixed in the holder 5 in a state in which they are in small groups
as grinding material bundles 20, the advantage is presented that
chips generated in the grinding process are efficiently discharged,
and heat dissipation effects are enhanced.
Modification of Embodiment 8
[0103] Embodiment 8 described above has a configuration in which
the plurality of linear grinding materials 2 are held in a holder 5
as a plurality of grinding material bundles 20, but a configuration
may also be employed in which a circumferential groove is formed in
the end surface 59 on one side of the holder 5, and a plurality of
linear grinding materials 2 are held across the entire
circumferential length of this circumferential groove.
Another Embodiments
[0104] In all of the above embodiments, all of the linear grinding
materials 2 are configured so that the entire material curves from
the proximal end to the distal end. However, as shown in FIGS.
13(A) and 13(13) and in FIG. 14, a configuration may also be
utilized in which the linear grinding materials 2 curve at one
location from the proximal end to the distal end. In producing this
type of brush-like grindstone 1, first, 1000 long alumina fibers
(individual long alumina fibers) are bundled together in a flat and
untwisted state, and the continuously wound bundled filament
(strand) is dipped in a binder resin such as epoxy resin, allowing
the bundled filament to be impregnated with the binder resin. Next,
for example, the material is wound upon itself on the
circumferential surface of a square roller in which the square part
becomes R. The binder resin is then allowed to harden, and the
linear grinding materials 2 are cut off.
[0105] In all of the above embodiments, examples were described in
which a plurality of linear grinding materials 2 are held in a
metal holder 5, where the grinding materials are produced by
impregnating long alumina fiber (long inorganic fiber) bundles with
a resin, which was then caused to harden. However, the present
invention may also be utilized for producing a brush-like
grindstone 1 in which the long inorganic fibers are silicon carbide
fibers, carbon fibers, silicon nitride fibers, or glass fibers.
[0106] In all of the above embodiments, a configuration is used in
which the linear grinding materials 2 are fixed in the holder 5 in
a state in which they are in small groups as grinding material
bundles 20, or the linear grinding materials 2 are fixed in a
circumferential groove without being in small groups of grinding
material bundles 20. However, the present invention may also be
utilized in order to produce a brush-like grindstone 1 in which the
linear grinding materials 2 are held in a holder 5 as a single
bundle.
[0107] In all of the above embodiments, untwisted materials are
used for the bundled filaments used in the linear grinding
materials 2, but the linear grinding materials 2 may be configured
using twisted bundled filaments. In addition, some linear grinding
materials that do not curve but extend linearly can be included in
the curved linear grinding materials 2.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
[0108] As described above, the linear grinding material of the
brush-like grindstone of the present invention is produced by
impregnating long inorganic fiber bundles with a resin, which is
then caused to harden. As a result, the long inorganic fibers that
substantially function as grinding materials have high rigidity,
density and hardness, thus providing high grinding capacity. In
addition, the linear grinding materials are in a curved state, and
thus readily deform in the direction of curvature. Consequently,
with the brush-like grindstone of the present invention, the linear
grinding material softly impinges upon the workpiece at its distal
ends relative to brush-like grindstones in which the linear
grinding materials extend linearly. The materials thus deform and
absorb excessive force when excessive force is applied, thereby
preventing breakage.
* * * * *