Robotic Finishing Using Brushes--Material Removal Mechanics

Robot-assisted deburring and surface conditioning using abrasive-loaded nylon fiber brushes is being studied and developed for application in flexible automated finishing cells. Presented are results of work which quantifies short-fiber brush material removal mechanics needed to implement process automation. The characteristics of the metal removal process, the brush properties, material interface, and brush performance are presented. Results of analysis show that the brush can be modeled as a tool with stiffness dependent upon geometry, workpiece penetration, and rotational speed. Experimental studies confirm this behavior, but also indicate that brush fiber temperature is a critical variable in maintaining brush stiffness.