ANTWERP POLISHING TECHNOLOGIES

Antwerp Polishing Technologies specialises in diamond polishing works and innovative services for precision techniques.

The company wanted to improve existing tools and redesign a tang to speed up the polishing process. A compliant mechanism was developed that maintains parallel descent with only one component. This redesign eliminates the risks associated with new polishing techniques.

Antwerp is the world's unrivalled centre for polishing large and exceptional stones. To maintain this position, continuous innovation is essential. Antwerp Polishing Technologies aims to combine the unique artisan tradition with cutting-edge technology, and authenticity with innovation. By re-evaluating and improving existing standards and tools, the Antwerp workshops can continue to achieve the excellence that defines them. The redesign of traditional instruments such as the polishing wheel and polishing tang can significantly speed up the polishing process. For example, achieving a parallel descent of the tang can reduce the risk of rapid grinding and could be key to the success of new polishing techniques.

Solution developed

Several possible solutions were considered to achieve parallel descent of the polishing tang onto the polishing wheel. Neither a linear guide method nor a 4-bar linkage method was recommended. In particular, the 4-bar linkage requires screws which can collect dirt. In contrast, a compliant mechanism requires no screws and can maintain parallel descent with only one component. For compliant mechanisms, the "travel" or the amount of movement required for the pin to move vertically while maintaining alignment must be determined for each specific application. This travel determines the distance the part can move, which is critical for effective and accurate polishing. In addition, the spring force of the compliant mechanism will directly affect the polishing pressure applied.