Device and Method for Electromechanically-Assisted Roller Burnishing

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This patent describes a device and method for electromechanically-assisted roller burnishing, where a roller burnishing element (guided on the surface of a workpiece) and a separate electrical contact element are used to ensure a constant-length electrical current path through the workpiece during the process. This controlled application of electrical current combined with mechanical pressure enables precise adjustment of surface properties and microstructural changes, while maintaining high surface quality and minimizing tool wear.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Surface finishing and hardening of metal shafts and cylindrical components in automotive and machinery industries
• Producing smooth and durable sealing or bearing surfaces in hydraulic components
• Improving fatigue life of aerospace and transportation parts by optimizing surface integrity
• Retrofitting existing lathes or machining centers for advanced surface treatment processes
• Manufacturing high-gloss and precision fit parts (e.g., connectors, fittings, guides)
• Treatment of both round and non-round (e.g., oval or planar) metallic parts for wear-resistance or aesthetics

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Achieves superior surface quality and controlled microstructural modification in a single process
• Maintains a constant electrical path, ensuring consistent treatment results across the workpiece
• Reduces tool and electrical contact wear compared to previous methods
• Enables the process to be added or retrofit to existing machinery, reducing capital investment
• Allows fine-tuning of key process parameters (current, voltage, pressure), leading to optimized surface properties and repeatability
• Applicable to a wide range of workpiece geometries and sizes, increasing versatility

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a device and method for electromechanically roller burnishing a surface of a workpiece, in which precisely one current-guiding roller burnishing element for roller burnishing and one separate electrical contact element are used and, as the roller burnishing element is moved on the workpiece surface, said electrical contact element is guided thereafter such that a current path of a constant length is directed through the workpiece as roller burnishing takes place. The invention allows, in a cost-effective manner, a high surface quality to be achieved as well as a precisely-adjustable microstructural alteration to the upper layers of the workpiece.