A cutting tool having a cutting insert and an insert holder having an interface having a pair of male and female connecting members.

Abstract

A cutting tool having a cutting insert that is releasably held within an insert pocket by a fastening member. The insert pocket has first and second side surfaces. The insert pocket has a base surface comprising at least one male or female pocket coupling member comprising at least one inclined pocket wedge contact surface. The insert has first and second side contact surfaces. The cutting insert has an insert bottom surface comprising at least one male or female insert coupling member comprising at least one inclined insert wedge contact surface. Due to the inclined orientation of at least one pocket wedge contact surface and at least one insert wedge contact surface, a clamping force applied by the fastening member presses the surfaces to slide across each other so that the cutting insert is firmly seated within the insert pocket.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The subject of the present application relates to a cutting tool, and in particular, to a cutting tool, more specifically, a type of cutting tool in which a cutting insert is removablely attached to an insert holder by a fastening member, and even more specifically, to a cutting tool having at least one pair of male and female coupling members at an interface between the cutting insert and the insert holder. Background Technology

[0002] A cutting tool for metalworking operations may include a cutting insert that is removablely attached to an insert holder. More precisely, the insert holder has an insert pocket, and the cutting insert is releasedly held within the insert pocket by a fastening member.

[0003] In some of these cutting tools, the contact between the lower surface of the cutting insert and the base surface of the insert pocket is non-planar. For example, the pocket and the insert may include at least one protrusion and at least one recess that are mutually coupled. An example of such a cutting tool is disclosed, for example, in US 7,832,964, which discloses a coupling between the ridge and the groove through a pair of flanks on both the ridge and the groove. Another example is US 9,138,813, which discloses a hole forming tool having a pair of female and male fixing means arranged at the interface between the tangential support surface of the sheet and the lower side of the cutting insert.

[0004] The objective of the subject matter of the present application is to provide a new and improved cutting tool.

[0005] Another objective of the subject matter of the present application is to provide a cutting tool having improved stability while performing forward and backward turning metal cutting operations.

[0006] Another objective of the subject matter of the present application is to provide a cutting tool having improved stability while performing push-and-pull screw turning metal cutting operations.

[0007] Another objective of the subject matter of this application is to provide a cutting tool having improved stability under extreme working conditions.

[0008] Another additional objective of the subject matter of this application is to provide a cutting tool having an accurate corner height of the cutting edge. means of solving the problem

[0009] The cutting tool disclosed herein may have improved stability while performing forward and backward turning metal cutting operations. In some embodiments, the cutting tool disclosed herein may have improved stability while performing push-and-pull screw turning metal cutting operations. In certain embodiments, the cutting tool disclosed herein may have improved stability during extreme operating conditions. In certain embodiments, the cutting tool disclosed herein may have a precise corner height of the cutting edge.

[0010] According to an aspect of the subject matter of the present application, a cutting tool having a flank infeed axis forming opposite forward and backward feed directions is provided, and the cutting tool is:

[0011] As an insert holder, the insert holder is:

[0012] A holder pocket recess surface and a holder pocket opening surface intersecting the holder pocket recess surface; and

[0013] It includes an insert pocket having a pocket center axis, wherein the insert pocket is recessed within the holder pocket recess surface and is open from the pocket opening to the holder pocket opening surface,

[0014] Includes a pocket peripheral surface that extends partially circumferentially around the pocket central axis and forms a partial boundary of the pocket base surface:

[0015] The pocket main surface includes first and second pocket side contact surfaces that converge toward each other in the rearward transport direction, and each form first and second pocket side half-planes, all of which extend from the half-plane axis;

[0016] The pocket base surface includes three pocket base contact surfaces, and the three pocket base contact surfaces are angularly spaced apart with respect to the pocket center axis, and

[0017] At least one pocket support contact surface; and

[0018] It includes at least one pocket wedge contact surface formed on at least one male or female pocket coupling member, wherein the at least one pocket wedge contact surface is inclined with respect to the pocket center axis;

[0019] In the plan view of the insert pocket, for any given contact point on at least one pocket wedge contact surface:

[0020] A first imaginary straight line containing a given contact point intersects the first pocket side half-plane perpendicularly at the first intersection point;

[0021] A second imaginary straight line containing a given contact point intersects the second pocket side half-plane perpendicularly at the second intersection point;

[0022] The first and second intersection points form a principal angle at a given point of contact;

[0023] A virtual straight contact line oriented perpendicularly to at least one pocket wedge contact surface and including a contact point intersects at least one of the first and second pocket side half-planes at the contact intersection;

[0024] An insert holder in which the contact intersection and the second intersection form a contact angle at a given contact point, and the contact angle satisfies the condition: 0° < β < α; and

[0025] As a cutting insert having an insert center axis, the cutting insert (22) is:

[0026] Opposing upper and lower surfaces of an insert and a peripheral surface of an insert extending between them;

[0027] It includes a cutting edge formed at the intersection of the upper surface of the insert and the peripheral surface of the insert;

[0028] The insert main surface comprises at least three insert side surfaces and at least three insert corner surfaces alternating therewith, and the at least three insert side surfaces each comprise a first and a second insert side contact surface;

[0029] The lower surface of the insert includes three lower insert contact surfaces angularly spaced apart from the central axis of the insert, and the three lower insert contact surfaces are:

[0030] At least one insert bearing contact surface; and

[0031] It comprises at least one insert wedge contact surface formed on at least one male or female insert joining member, wherein the male or female insert joining member is of a type opposite to at least one male or female pocket joining member, and the at least one insert wedge contact surface is inclined with respect to the insert center axis;

[0032] The cutting insert is retained removably within the insert pocket by a fastening member, and

[0033] The first and second pocket side contact surfaces are each in contact with the first and second insert side contact surfaces;

[0034] At least one pocket support contact surface is in contact with at least one insert bearing contact surface;

[0035] The cut insert includes at least one insert joining member that is joined to at least one pocket joining member, and at least one pocket wedge contact surface that contacts at least one insert wedge contact surface.

[0036] It is understood that the foregoing is a summary, and that the features described below may be applicable to the subject of this application in any combination, and, for example, any of the following features may be applicable to turning tools. Additionally, to a consistent degree, any of the embodiments or aspects described herein may be used in combination with any or all of the other embodiments or aspects described herein.

[0037] At least one of the pocket support contact surfaces may be located adjacent to the pocket opening. At least one of the insert bearing contact surfaces may be located below the cutting edge.

[0038] At least one pocket support contact surface may be flat. At least one insert bearing contact surface may be flat.

[0039] The first pocket side contact surface and the pocket opening may be located on one side of a transfer plane including a flank infeed axis and a pocket center axis, and the second pocket side contact surface may be located on the other side of the transfer plane.

[0040] The lower surface of the insert can only come into contact with the pocket base surface at each of the three lower insert contact surfaces and the three pocket base contact surfaces.

[0041] At least one pocket joining member may include at least one pocket wedge protrusion protruding from the pocket base surface, and the at least one pocket wedge protrusion has at least one pocket wedge contact surface formed thereon. At least one insert joining member may include at least one insert wedge recess recessed within the lower surface of the insert, and the at least one insert wedge recess has at least one insert wedge contact surface formed thereon. At least one pocket wedge protrusion may be located within at least the insert wedge recess.

[0042] Each of at least one pocket wedge protrusion may have exactly one pocket wedge contact surface formed thereon.

[0043] Each of at least one insert wedge recess may have exactly one insert wedge contact surface formed thereon.

[0044] At least one insert wedge contact surface may be flat.

[0045] In a cross-sectional view taken in a pocket vertical plane oriented parallel to the pocket center axis and intersecting at least one pocket wedge contact surface, at least one pocket wedge contact surface may be convexly curved.

[0046] The insert pocket includes at least one pocket support protrusion protruding from the pocket base surface, and the at least one pocket support protrusion may have at least one pocket support contact surface formed thereon.

[0047] Each of at least one pocket support protrusion may have exactly two insert wedge bearing surfaces formed thereon.

[0048] The lower surface of the insert may include a flat lower base surface of the insert. Each of at least one insert bearing contact surface may be formed on the lower base surface of the insert.

[0049] The pocket base surface may include exactly three pocket base contact surfaces. The insert bottom surface may include exactly three insert bottom contact surfaces.

[0050] The pocket base surface can have a basic triangular shape formed by exactly three pocket base corner portions. The exactly three pocket base contact surfaces can be located on different pocket corner base portions.

[0051] Exactly three pocket base contact surfaces may include exactly one pocket wedge contact surface and exactly two pocket support contact surfaces. Exactly three insert bottom contact surfaces may include exactly one insert wedge contact surface and exactly two insert bearing contact surfaces.

[0052] The first and second pocket side surfaces can be connected by the pocket middle side surface. Exactly one pocket wedge contact surface can be located closer to the pocket middle side surface than exactly two pocket support contact surfaces.

[0053] The contact angle can satisfy the condition: 0° < β < α / 2.

[0054] The cutting insert may include exactly three cutting edges formed at the intersection of the upper surface of the insert and the peripheral surface of the insert. The exactly three cutting edges may be located at different corner portions of the insert.

[0055] The fastening member may be configured to apply a clamping force onto the cutting insert in the direction of the clamping force. At least one pocket wedge contact surface and at least one insert wedge contact surface may be configured to slide across each other such that when the clamping force is applied onto the cutting insert, the first and second insert side contact surfaces are pressed toward and contact the first and second pocket side contact surfaces, respectively.

[0056] The cutting insert may include a through hole that extends along the insert's central axis and opens to the upper and lower surfaces of the insert. The insert pocket may include a screw hole that extends along the pocket's central axis and opens to the pocket's base surface. The fastening member may be a clamping screw. The clamping screw may be positioned within the through hole and screw-coupled with the screw hole.

[0057] The screw hole can be centered relative to the through hole.

[0058] The insert holder may include a core that is removably attached thereto. A pocket base surface may be formed on the core. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0059] For a better understanding of the present application and to show how the present application can be actually carried out, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cutting tool according to the present invention. Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the cutting tool shown in Figure 1. Figure 3 is a perspective view of the bottom surface of the cutting insert shown in Figure 1. Figure 4 is a perspective view of the upper part of the cutting insert shown in Figure 3. Figure 5 is a bottom view of the cutting insert shown in Figure 3. Figure 6 is a plan view of the cutting insert shown in Figure 3. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VII-VII shown in Figure 6. FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the insert pocket shown in FIG. 2. Figure 9 is a plan view of the insert pocket shown in Figure 8. Fig. 9a is a detailed view of Fig. 9. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XX shown in FIG. 9. FIG. 11 is a plan view of the forward end of the cutting tool shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XII-XII shown in FIG. 11. For the sake of simplicity and clarity of the example, it will be understood that the elements depicted in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. For instance, the dimensions of some elements may be exaggerated relative to others for clarity, or some physical components may be included within a single functional block or element. Where deemed appropriate, reference numbers may be repeated between the drawings to denote corresponding or similar elements. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0060] The present disclosure will now be described more fully below with reference to exemplary embodiments, with reference to drawings in which similar reference numerals indicate identical or corresponding elements in each of the drawings. These exemplary embodiments are described to ensure that the present disclosure is thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art. Features from one embodiment or aspect may be combined with features from any other embodiment or aspect in any suitable combination. For example, any individual or collective feature of a method aspect or embodiment may be applied to an apparatus, product, or component aspect or embodiment, and vice versa. The present disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments described herein; rather, these embodiments are provided to satisfy the legal requirements for which the present disclosure is applicable. As used in the specification and appended claims, the singular form includes the plural referent unless the context otherwise clearly indicates. Additionally, quantitative measurements, values, geometric relationships, etc. may be referenced in this specification, but unless otherwise stated, any one or more of these, if not all of them, may be absolute values ​​or approximate values ​​to account for acceptable variations that may occur, such as those resulting from manufacturing or engineering tolerances. First, refer to FIG. 1, which illustrates a cutting tool (20). In this non-limiting example illustrated in the drawing, the cutting tool (20) is of the type used for screw machining, more precisely screw turning, according to an embodiment of the subject matter of this application. However, it should be noted that the invention also applies to other types of metal cutting, such as milling and turning. The cutting tool (20) has a replaceable cutting insert (22) and an insert holder (24). The cutting tool (20) is adjustable between an assembled position and an unassembled position.In the assembly position of the cutting tool (20), the cutting insert (22) is removably held within the insert pocket (26) of the insert holder (24). As illustrated in FIG. 11, the cutting tool (20) has a flank infeed axis (T) that forms opposite forward and backward feed directions (P1, P2). The forward feed direction (P1) is the direction in which the cutting tool (20) moves relative to the workpiece rotating about the axis of rotation when performing a linear flank infeed forward turning operation. Likewise, the backward direction (P2) is the direction in which the cutting tool (20) moves relative to the workpiece rotating when performing a linear flank infeed backward turning operation. Generally speaking, the flank infeed axis (T) is parallel to the axis of rotation.

[0061] Referring to FIGS. 3 through 6, a first aspect of the subject matter of the present application relates to a cutting insert (22). The cutting insert (22) is made of a hard material. For example, the cutting insert (22) may be made of a cemented carbide. Note that the cutting insert (22) has a simple geometric structure that allows for pressing. In some embodiments, the cutting insert (22) may be pressed without an additional grinding manufacturing process.

[0062] The cutting insert (22) includes opposing upper and lower surfaces (28, 30) of the insert and an insert peripheral surface (32) extending between them. The cutting insert (22) has an insert center axis (C). The insert peripheral surface (32) extends circumferentially around the insert center axis (C) and is oriented away from the insert center axis (C). The insert lower surface (30) may include a flat insert lower base surface (34).

[0063] According to some embodiments of the subject matter of the present application, the cutting insert (22) may include a through hole (36) for receiving a fastening member (102) (e.g., a clamping screw as described later in the description). The through hole (36) may extend along the center axis (C) of the insert. The through hole (36) may be open to the upper and lower surfaces (28, 30) of the insert.

[0064] Referring to FIG. 3, the cutting insert (22) has a polygonal base shape formed by at least three insert corner portions (38). The upper and lower surfaces (28, 30) of the insert also have corresponding polygonal base shapes. According to some embodiments of the subject matter of the present application, the cutting insert (22) may exhibit N-fold rotational symmetry about the insert center axis (C), where N is a positive integer greater than or equal to 3. In this non-limiting example illustrated in the drawings, N=3, that is, the cutting insert (22) has a triangular shape formed by exactly three insert corner portions (38).

[0065] Referring to FIG. 4, the cutting insert (22) includes a cutting edge (40) configured to perform a metal cutting operation, formed at the intersection of the insert upper surface (28) and the insert peripheral surface (32). A portion of the insert upper surface (28) adjacent to the cutting edge (40) and extending away from it functions as a rake surface. A portion of the insert peripheral surface (32) adjacent to the cutting edge (40) and extending away from it functions as a relief surface. In the triangular shape configuration of the cutting insert (22), the cutting insert (22) may include exactly three cutting edges (40) formed at the intersection of the insert upper surface (28) and the insert peripheral surface (32). The exactly three cutting edges (40) may be located at different insert corner portions (38). When the cutting tool (20) is assembled (see FIG. 11), one of the cutting edges (40) forms an active cutting edge (40A) and the remaining cutting edges (40) form inactive cutting edges (40B). The cutting insert (22) has N indexable positions that can be seated within the insert pocket (26), and each indexable position has one associated active cutting edge. Note that the cutting insert (22) is of the laydown type.

[0066] According to some embodiments of the subject matter of the present application, the cutting edge (40) may be formed on a cutting tooth portion (42) located at each insert corner portion (38). At the assembly position of the cutting tool (20), the cutting tooth portion (42) may protrude in a direction perpendicular to the forward feed direction (P1) (see FIG. 11).

[0067] The insert peripheral surface (32) includes at least three insert side surfaces (44). The insert peripheral surface (32) includes at least three insert corner surfaces (46) formed in the insert corner portion (38). The at least three insert side surfaces (44) alternate with the at least three insert corner surfaces (46). Each insert side surface (44) extends between two adjacent insert corner surfaces (46). The at least three insert side surfaces (44) include first and second insert side surfaces (44-1, 44-2). In the triangular shape configuration of the cutting insert (22), the insert peripheral surface (32) includes exactly three insert side surfaces (44) and exactly three insert corner surfaces (46). Note that the cutting edge (40) is formed at the intersection of the upper surface of the insert (28) and at least one of the three corner surfaces of the insert (46).

[0068] The first and second insert side surfaces (44-1, 44-2) each include the first and second insert side contact surfaces (48-1, 48-2). The first and second insert side contact surfaces (48-1, 48-2) each form the first and second insert side planes (SI1, SI2) (see FIG. 6).

[0069] The insert lower surface (30) includes three insert lower contact surfaces (50). The three insert lower contact surfaces (50) are angularly spaced apart with respect to the insert central axis (C). The three insert lower contact surfaces (50) are configured to contact a complementary surface on the insert pocket (26). According to some embodiments of the subject matter of this application, the insert lower surface (30) may include exactly three insert lower contact surfaces (50).

[0070] Referring again to FIG. 7, the three insert lower contact surfaces (50) include at least one insert wedge contact surface (50W). The at least one insert wedge contact surface (50W) is formed on at least one male or female insert joining member (51). The at least one insert wedge contact surface (50W) is inclined with respect to the insert center axis (C). According to some embodiments of the subject matter of this application, the at least one insert wedge contact surface (50W) converges toward at least one of the first and second insert side planes (SI1, SI2) in a direction away from the insert upper surface (28). The at least one insert wedge contact surface (50W) may be planar. In the configuration of the insert lower surface (30) having exactly three insert lower contact surfaces (50), the exactly three insert lower contact surfaces (50) may include exactly one insert wedge contact surface (50W).

[0071] According to some embodiments of the subject matter of the present application, at least one insert joining member (51) may include at least one insert wedge recess (52) recessed within the insert lower surface (30). According to some embodiments of the subject matter of the present application, at least one insert joining member (51) may be positioned on a flat insert lower base surface (34).

[0072] According to some embodiments of the subject matter of the present application, at least one insert wedge recess (52) may have at least one insert wedge contact surface (50W) formed thereon. Each of the at least one insert wedge recess (52) may have exactly one insert wedge contact surface (50W) formed thereon.

[0073] Referring to FIG. 5, the three insert lower contact surfaces (50) include at least one insert bearing contact surface (50B). Referring to FIG. 7, according to some embodiments of the subject matter of the present application, one of the at least one insert bearing contact surface (50B) is located below the cutting edge (40). The at least one insert bearing contact surface (50B) may be planar. The at least one insert bearing contact surface (50B) may be oriented perpendicular to the insert center axis (C). Each of the at least one insert bearing contact surface (50B) may be formed on the insert lower base surface (34). In the configuration of the insert lower surface (30) having exactly three insert lower contact surfaces (50), the exactly three insert lower contact surfaces (50) may include exactly two insert bearing contact surfaces (50B).

[0074] Note that the above disclosure regarding the cutting insert (22) relates to a single indexable position of the cutting insert (22). All indexable positions have features corresponding to those described above. In particular, in the case of a triangular cutting insert (22), there are exactly three insert wedge recesses (52).

[0075] A second aspect of the subject matter of the present application relates to an insert holder (24). Now, referring to FIGS. 8 through 10, an insert holder (24) having a holder longitudinal axis (B) forming opposite forward and reverse directions (DF, DR) is shown. As shown in FIG. 8, the insert holder (24) has a holder forward end (54). The insert holder (24) includes a holder forward end surface (56) and a holder peripheral surface (58) formed at the holder forward end (54), and the holder peripheral surface (58) forms a circumferential boundary of the holder forward end surface (56). The holder peripheral surface (58) extends circumferentially with respect to the holder longitudinal axis (B). The holder peripheral surface (58) includes a holder upper surface (60) and a holder side surface (62) that intersect each other and also intersect the holder forward end surface (56).

[0076] It should be noted that throughout the description of the invention and the claims, the use of the terms “forward” and “reverse” refers to relative positions in the direction of the holder longitudinal axis (B), which is downward and upward, respectively, in FIG. 11. In the present disclosure, “forward” is associated with the cutting end of the cutting tool (20).

[0077] Referring to FIG. 8, the insert holder (24) includes a holder pocket recess surface (64) and a holder pocket opening surface (66) intersecting the holder pocket recess surface (64). In this non-limiting example illustrated in the drawing, designed for external screw turning, the holder pocket recess surface (64) is formed from the holder upper surface (58), and the holder pocket opening surface (66) is formed from the holder forward end surface (56). However, the invention also applies to internal screw turning, where the holder pocket recess surface (64) is formed from the holder upper surface (58), and the holder pocket opening surface (66) is formed from the holder side surface (62) (not shown).

[0078] The insert pocket (26) includes a pocket opening (68) that is recessed within the holder pocket recess surface (64) and opens to the holder pocket opening surface (66). The purpose of the insert pocket (26) is to accommodate a cutting insert (22) when it is removablely attached to the insert holder (24). The insert pocket (26) includes a pocket base surface (76) and a pocket peripheral surface (78) oriented transversely thereto. As illustrated in FIGS. 9, 10 and 11, the pocket peripheral surface (78) extends partially circumferentially around a pocket center axis (E) forming opposite upward and downward directions (DU, DD). The pocket peripheral surface (78) forms a partial boundary of the pocket base surface (76). The pocket center axis (E) may be perpendicular to the pocket base surface (76). Generally speaking, the pocket base surface (76) is the lowest part of the pocket (26). The pocket center axis (E) can intersect the plank infeed axis (T).

[0079] In addition, it should be noted that the use of the terms “upward” and “downward” throughout the description of the invention and claims refers to relative positions in the direction of the pocket center axis (E), which is upward and downward, respectively, in FIG. 10.

[0080] According to some embodiments of the subject matter of the present application, the insert holder (24) may include a shim (80) that is detachably attached to the insert holder (24), that is, the shim (80) is detachable from the insert holder (24). The shim (80) forms part of the insert pocket (26). In particular, the pocket base surface (76) is formed on the shim (80) (the upper surface of the shim).

[0081] According to some embodiments of the subject matter of the present application, the insert pocket (26) may include a screw hole (82) for screwing in a clamping screw. The screw hole (82) may extend along the pocket center axis (E). The screw hole (82) may be open to the pocket base surface (76).

[0082] Referring to FIG. 9, according to some embodiments of the subject matter of the present application, the pocket base surface (76) may have a polygonal base shape formed by at least three pocket base corner portions (84). In this non-limiting example illustrated in the drawing, the pocket base surface (76) has a triangular shape formed by exactly three pocket base corner portions (84).

[0083] The pocket main surface (78) comprises at least two pocket side surfaces (86). The at least two pocket side surfaces (86) comprise first and second pocket side surfaces (86-1, 86-2). According to some embodiments of the subject matter of the present application, the first and second pocket side surfaces (86-1, 86-2) may be connected by a pocket intermediate side surface (88). As illustrated in FIG. 9, the pocket intermediate side surface (88) may form a gap within the insert pocket (26) for a cutting tooth portion (42) having an inactive cutting edge (40B). The first pocket side surface (86-1) may extend to the pocket opening (68). The first pocket side surface (86-1) may intersect with the holder pocket opening surface (66).

[0084] Referring to FIG. 9a, the first and second pocket side surfaces (86-1, 86-2) each include the first and second pocket side contact surfaces (90-1, 90-2). The first and second pocket side contact surfaces (90-1, 90-2) converge toward each other in the rearward transport direction (P2). The first and second pocket side contact surfaces (90-1, 90-2) each form the first and second pocket side half-planes (SP1, SP2). The first and second pocket side half-planes (SP1, SP2) end at the half-plane axis (HP) where they intersect each other. In other words, both the first and second pocket side half-planes (SP1, SP2) extend from the half-plane axis (HP). According to some embodiments of the subject matter of the present application, the first pocket side contact surface (90-1) and the pocket opening (68) may be located on one side of a transfer plane (P) comprising the flank infeed axis (T) and the pocket center axis (E). The second pocket side contact surface (90-2) may be located on the other side of the transfer plane (P). Referring to FIG. 8, note that the second pocket side contact surface (90-2) may be divided by a recess portion (91) (thus, two coplanar sub-surfaces exist), but is still considered as a single surface.

[0085] Referring again to FIG. 9, the pocket base surface (76) includes three pocket base contact surfaces (92) that are angularly spaced apart from the pocket center axis (E). The three pocket base contact surfaces (92) are configured to contact a complementary surface on the cutting insert (22). According to some embodiments of the subject matter of the present application, the pocket base surface (76) may include exactly three pocket base contact surfaces (92). In a triangular configuration of the pocket base surface (76), exactly three pocket base contact surfaces (92) may be located at different pocket base corner portions (84).

[0086] The three pocket base contact surfaces (92) include at least one pocket wedge contact surface (92W). The at least one pocket wedge contact surface (92W) is formed on at least one male or female pocket coupling member (97). The at least one male or female pocket coupling member (97) is of the opposite type to the at least one male or female insert coupling member (51). That is, when the at least one male or female pocket coupling member (97) is of the male type, then the at least one male or female insert coupling member (51) is of the female type, and vice versa. The at least one pocket wedge contact surface (92W) is inclined with respect to the pocket center axis (E). According to some embodiments of the subject matter of the present application, the at least one pocket wedge contact surface (92W) may converge downward toward at least one of the first and second pocket side half-planes (SP1, SP2). At least one pocket wedge contact surface (92W) may converge toward both the first and second pocket side half-planes (SP1, SP2) in a downward direction. In the configuration of the pocket base surface (76) having exactly three pocket base contact surfaces (92), the exactly three pocket base contact surfaces (92) may include exactly one pocket wedge contact surface (92W).

[0087] Referring to FIG. 10, according to some embodiments of the subject matter of the present application, in a cross-sectional view taken in a pocket vertical plane (V) oriented parallel to the pocket center axis (E) and intersecting at least one pocket wedge contact surface (92W), at least one pocket wedge contact surface (92W) may be convexly curved. The pocket vertical plane (V) may bisect at least one pocket wedge contact surface (92W). In a cross-sectional view taken in a pocket horizontal plane oriented perpendicular to the pocket center axis (E) and intersecting at least one pocket wedge contact surface (92W), at least one pocket wedge contact surface (92W) may be convexly curved.

[0088] Referring to FIG. 9a, in a plan view of the insert pocket (26) (i.e., along the pocket center axis (E)), for any given contact point (100) on at least one pocket wedge contact surface (92W), a first virtual straight line (L1) containing the given contact point (100) intersects the first pocket side half-plane (SP1) perpendicularly at the first intersection point (I1). A second virtual straight line (L2) containing the given contact point (100) intersects the second pocket side half-plane (SP2) perpendicularly at the second intersection point (I2). The first and second intersection points (I1, I2) form a principal angle (α) at ​​the given contact point (100). A virtual straight contact line (CL) oriented perpendicularly to at least one pocket wedge contact surface (92W) and including a contact point (100) intersects at least one of the first and second pocket side half-planes (SP1, SP2) at a contact intersection point (IC). It is understood that the contact line (CL) intersects both the first and second pocket side half-planes (SP1, SP2) at the half-plane axis (HP). The contact and the second intersection point (IC, I2) form a contact angle (β) at the given contact point (100). The contact angle satisfies the condition: 0° < β < α. In some embodiments, the contact angle (β) may satisfy the condition: 0° < β ≤ α / 2. In some embodiments, the contact angle (β) may satisfy the condition: 0° < β < α / 2.

[0089] According to some embodiments of the subject matter of the present application, at least one pocket coupling member (97) may include at least one pocket wedge protrusion (94) protruding from a pocket base surface (76). At least one pocket wedge protrusion (94) may include branching first and second protrusion flank surfaces (96-1, 96-2). At least one pocket wedge protrusion (94) may have at least one pocket wedge contact surface (92W) formed thereon. Specifically, each pocket wedge contact surface (92W) may be formed on the first protrusion flank surface (96-1). Each of at least one pocket wedge protrusion (94) may have exactly one pocket wedge contact surface (92W) formed thereon. At least one pocket wedge protrusion (94) may include exactly one pocket wedge protrusion (94).

[0090] The three pocket base contact surfaces (92) include at least one pocket support contact surface (92S). According to some embodiments of the subject matter of the present application, one of the at least one pocket support contact surface (92S) is located adjacent to the pocket opening (68). Positioning one of the at least one pocket support contact surface (92S) near the cutting area provides solid support for the cutting insert (22). The at least one pocket support contact surface (92S) may be planar. The at least one pocket support contact surface (92S) may be oriented perpendicular to the pocket center axis (E). In the configuration of the pocket base surface (76) having exactly three pocket base contact surfaces (92), the exactly three pocket base contact surfaces (92) may include exactly two pocket support contact surfaces (92S). Additionally, exactly one pocket wedge contact surface (92W) can be positioned closer to the pocket middle side surface (88) than exactly two pocket support contact surfaces (92S).

[0091] According to some embodiments of the subject matter of the present application, the insert pocket (26) may include at least one pocket support protrusion (98) protruding from the pocket base surface (76). The at least one pocket support protrusion (98) may have at least one pocket support contact surface (92S) formed thereon. Each of the at least one pocket support protrusion (98) may have exactly one pocket support contact surface (92S) formed thereon. The at least one pocket support protrusion (98) may include exactly two pocket support protrusions (98).

[0092] In the assembly position of the cutting tool (20), the cutting insert (22) is removablely attached to the insert holder (24) by the fastening member (102).

[0093] The cutting tooth portion (42) associated with the active cutting edge (40A) is located in the pocket opening (68).

[0094] The first and second pocket side contact surfaces (90-1, 90-2) are each contacted with the first and second insert side contact surfaces (48-1, 48-2).

[0095] The insert lower surface (30) contacts the pocket base surface (76) at each of the three insert lower contact surfaces (50) and three pocket base contact surfaces (92). Specifically, at least one pocket support contact surface (92S) contacts at least one insert bearing contact surface (50B). At least one insert coupling member (51) is coupled to at least one pocket coupling member (97). Specifically, at least one pocket wedge contact surface (92W) contacts at least one insert wedge contact surface (50W). According to some embodiments of the subject matter of the present application, the insert lower surface (30) contacts the pocket base surface (76) at each of the three insert lower contact surfaces (50) and three pocket base contact surfaces (92).

[0096] Note that in an embodiment having at least one insert wedge recess (52) and at least one pocket wedge protrusion (94), the second protrusion flank surface (96-2) is not in contact. At least one pocket wedge protrusion (94) may be located within at least one insert wedge recess (52). According to some embodiments of the subject matter of this application, exactly one pocket wedge protrusion (94) may be located within exactly one insert wedge recess (52).

[0097] According to some embodiments of the subject matter of the present application, the fastening member (102) may be a clamping screw. The clamping screw may be positioned within the through hole (36) and may be screwed into the screw hole (82).

[0098] The fastening member (102) is configured to apply a clamping force (F) on the cutting insert (22) in the clamping force direction (FD) when operated. In the case of a clamping screw, operation is performed by tightening the clamping screw.

[0099] Referring to FIG. 12, according to some embodiments of the subject matter of the present application, the screw hole (82) may be centered with respect to the through hole (36) (i.e., the through hole and the screw hole are coaxial). In this configuration, the clamping force (F) is directed completely vertically downward.

[0100] The assembly of the cutting tool (20) (i.e., adjusting the cutting tool (20) to the assembly position) is achieved by performing the following steps. First, the fastening member (102) is actuated, thereby applying a clamping force (F) onto the cutting insert (22). Due to the inclined orientation of at least one pocket wedge contact surface (92W) and at least one insert wedge contact surface (50W), the clamping force (F) presses the first and second insert side contact surfaces (48-1, 48-2) toward the first and second pocket side contact surfaces (90-1, 90-2) so that the surfaces slide across each other. By the continuous application of clamping force (F), the first insert side contact surface (48-1) comes into contact with the first pocket side contact surface (90-1) and / or the second insert side contact surface (48-2) comes into contact with the second pocket side contact surface (90-2). Additional application of clamping force (F) firmly contacts both the first and second insert side contact surfaces (48-1, 48-2) with the first and second pocket side contact surfaces (90-1, 90-2), respectively.

[0101] It should be noted that the subject matter of the present invention is not to a toothed coupling of the type described, for example, in US 5,810,518 (i.e., mutually engaging grooves and ridges).

[0102] Although some embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated in the drawings, the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the extent permitted by the art and the present specification is intended to be read as such. Any combination of the above embodiments is also considered and is within the scope of the appended claims. Accordingly, the foregoing description should not be interpreted as restrictive, but merely as examples of specific embodiments. A person skilled in the art will conceive other variations within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

Claim 1 It is a cutting tool having a flank infeed axis forming opposite forward and backward feed directions, and the cutting tool is: as an insert holder, the insert holder is: A holder pocket recess surface and a holder pocket opening surface intersecting the holder pocket recess surface; and It includes an insert pocket having a pocket central axis, wherein the insert pocket is recessed within the holder pocket recess surface and opens from the pocket opening to the holder pocket opening surface, It includes a pocket peripheral surface that extends partially circumferentially around the pocket central axis and forms a partial boundary of the pocket base surface: The pocket main surface includes first and second pocket side contact surfaces that converge toward each other in the rearward transport direction, each forming a first and second pocket side half-plane, and both the first and second side half-planes extend from the half-plane axis; The pocket base surface includes three pocket base contact surfaces, and the three pocket base contact surfaces are angularly spaced apart with respect to the pocket center axis, and At least one pocket support contact surface; and It comprises at least one pocket wedge contact surface formed on at least one male or female pocket joining member, wherein the at least one pocket wedge contact surface is inclined with respect to the pocket center axis; and for any given contact point on the at least one pocket wedge contact surface in a plan view of the insert pocket: A first imaginary straight line containing a given contact point intersects the first pocket side half-plane perpendicularly at the first intersection point; A second imaginary straight line containing a given contact point intersects the second pocket side half-plane perpendicularly at the second intersection point; The first and second intersection points form a principal angle at a given point of contact; A virtual straight contact line oriented perpendicularly to at least one pocket wedge contact surface and including a contact point intersects at least one of the first and second pocket side half-planes at the contact intersection; An insert holder having a contact intersection point and a second intersection point forming a contact angle at a given contact point, and the contact angle satisfying the condition: 0° < β < α; and a cutting insert having an insert center axis, wherein the cutting insert (22) is: Opposing upper and lower surfaces of an insert and a peripheral surface of an insert extending between them; It includes a cutting edge formed at the intersection of the upper surface of the insert and the peripheral surface of the insert; The insert main surface comprises at least three insert side surfaces and at least three insert corner surfaces alternating therewith, and the at least three insert side surfaces each comprise a first and a second insert side contact surface; The lower surface of the insert includes three lower insert contact surfaces angularly spaced apart from the central axis of the insert, and the three lower insert contact surfaces are: At least one insert bearing contact surface; and It comprises at least one insert wedge contact surface formed on at least one male or female insert joining member, wherein the male or female insert joining member is of a type opposite to at least one male or female pocket joining member, and the at least one insert wedge contact surface is inclined with respect to the insert center axis; The cutting insert is retained removably within the insert pocket by a fastening member, and The first and second pocket side contact surfaces are each in contact with the first and second insert side contact surfaces; At least one pocket support contact surface is in contact with at least one insert bearing contact surface; A cutting tool comprising a cutting insert, wherein at least one insert joining member is joined to at least one pocket joining member, and at least one pocket wedge contact surface contacts at least one insert wedge contact surface. Claim 2 A cutting tool according to claim 1, wherein at least one pocket support contact surface is located adjacent to the pocket opening; and at least one insert bearing contact surface is located below the cutting edge. Claim 3 A cutting tool according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one pocket support contact surface is flat; and at least one insert bearing contact surface is flat. Claim 4 A cutting tool according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first pocket side contact surface and the pocket opening are located on one side of a feed plane including a flank infeed axis and a pocket center axis, and the second pocket side contact surface is located on the other side of the feed plane. Claim 5 A cutting tool according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the lower surface of the insert contacts the pocket base surface only at three lower insert contact surfaces and three pocket base contact surfaces, respectively. Claim 6 A cutting tool according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein at least one pocket coupling member comprises at least one pocket wedge protrusion protruding from a pocket base surface, and at least one pocket wedge contact surface formed thereon; at least one insert coupling member comprises at least one insert wedge recess recessed within an insert lower surface, and at least one insert wedge recess has at least one insert wedge contact surface formed thereon; and at least one pocket wedge protrusion is located within at least one insert wedge recess. Claim 7 A cutting tool, wherein each of at least one pocket wedge protrusion has exactly one pocket wedge contact surface formed thereon. Claim 8 A cutting tool according to claim 6 or 7, wherein each of at least one insert wedge recess has exactly one insert wedge contact surface formed thereon. Claim 9 A cutting tool according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the insert pocket comprises at least one pocket support protrusion protruding from the pocket base surface, and the at least one pocket support protrusion has at least one pocket support contact surface formed thereon. Claim 10 A cutting tool according to claim 9, wherein each of at least one pocket support projection has exactly two insert wedge bearing surfaces formed thereon. Claim 11 A cutting tool according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein at least one insert wedge contact surface is flat. Claim 12 A cutting tool according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein in a cross-sectional view taken in a pocket vertical plane oriented parallel to the pocket center axis and intersecting at least one pocket wedge contact surface, at least one pocket wedge contact surface is convexly curved. Claim 13 A cutting tool according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the insert lower surface comprises a flat insert lower base surface; and each of at least one insert bearing contact surface is formed on the insert lower base surface. Claim 14 A cutting tool according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the pocket base surface comprises exactly 3 pocket base contact surfaces; and the insert lower surface comprises exactly 3 insert lower contact surfaces. Claim 15 In paragraph 14, the pocket base surface has a triangular basic shape formed by exactly three pocket base corner portions; and the cutting tool, wherein exactly three pocket base contact surfaces are located on different pocket corner base portions. Claim 16 A cutting tool according to claim 14 or 15, wherein exactly three pocket base contact surfaces comprise exactly one pocket wedge contact surface and exactly two pocket support contact surfaces, and exactly three insert lower contact surfaces comprise exactly one insert wedge contact surface and exactly two insert bearing contact surfaces. Claim 17 In paragraph 16, the first and second pocket side surfaces are connected by the middle pocket side surface; and the cutting tool is positioned closer to the middle pocket side surface than to the two pocket support side surfaces. Claim 18 A cutting tool according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the contact angle satisfies the condition: 0° < β < α / 2. Claim 19 A cutting tool according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the fastening member is configured to apply a clamping force on a cutting insert in the direction of the clamping force; and at least one pocket wedge contact surface and at least one insert wedge contact surface are configured to slide across each other such that when the clamping force is applied on the cutting insert, the first and second insert side contact surfaces are pressed toward and come into contact with the first and second pocket side contact surfaces, respectively. Claim 20 A cutting tool according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the cutting insert includes a through hole extending along the insert center axis and opening to the upper and lower surfaces of the insert; the insert pocket includes a screw hole extending along the pocket center axis and opening to the pocket base surface; the fastening member is a clamping screw; and the clamping screw is positioned within the through hole and screw-coupled with the screw hole. Claim 21 In paragraph 20, the screw hole is a cutting tool centered with respect to the through hole. Claim 22 A cutting tool according to any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein the insert holder comprises a shim removably attached thereto; and the pocket base surface is formed on the shim.

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