Method of clamping the first cutting blade or adapter to the retainer

Abstract

A method for clamping a first cutting blade or adapter to a retainer. The retainer includes two blade recesses configured for machining along two different orthogonal directions, or the retainer includes a single adapter recess configured for retaining an adapter along two different orthogonal directions. The method includes the steps of: selecting one of the two orthogonal directions for machining, and securing the first cutting blade to the appropriate one of the two recesses, or securing the adapter to the adapter recess, for machining along the selected orthogonal direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The subject matter of this invention generally relates to a retainer configured for machining operations along a Y-axis feed direction. The retainer has a recess configured to retain a cutting insert (hereinafter also referred to as a "blade") or an adapter, which in turn is configured to retain the blade. The invention also relates to a tool assembly comprising the retainer and a cutting insert, or the retainer, the adapter, and a cutting insert held by the retainer, and a method of mounting the cutting insert or adapter to the retainer and / or machining using the tool assembly.

[0002] More specifically, the present invention relates to a preferred type of adapter, which is a separation tool (hereinafter also referred to as a "tool" or "separation adapter"), and in such cases, the separation adapter, the retainer, and the tool assembly including the separation adapter and the retainer are configured for separation and grooving operations along the Y-axis feed direction. Background Technology

[0003] This application relates to tooling components and machining operations in the so-called Y-axis supply direction.

[0004] Such operations are disclosed, for example, in patent publication US2020 / 0009757, which relates to the Y-axis tool portion, and US2019 / 0358710, which relates to a machining method with the same structure (hereinafter, "the patent publications").

[0005] Returning to the aforementioned patent publication, it is described that it is desirable to reduce vibration in conventional cutting or deep grooving operations. Therefore, an alternative cutter section is proposed, wherein, in general, the cutter section extends in substantially the same direction as the main clearance surface of the cutting blade mounted to the cutter section.

[0006] The applicant further discusses such instruments in US2019 / 0240741, which was assigned to the applicant.

[0007] This invention relates to an improved Y-axis retainer and a tool assembly including the improved Y-axis retainer, as well as a machining method using the adapter. In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the improved Y-axis adapter is a split tool. Summary of the Invention

[0008] It was observed that relatively few CNC machine tools are capable of providing machining operations along the Y-axis.

[0009] Therefore, Y-axis supply tools are in low demand and are therefore relatively expensive due to their low production volume.

[0010] The second issue to note is that the Y-axis tool component is more complex to set up than the standard X-axis tool component, requiring multiple offsets before starting the machining operation.

[0011] The present invention is a development of a single retainer and a tool assembly comprising the single retainer, configured for both machining operations along the Y-axis supply direction and machining operations along the X-axis supply direction (hereinafter, for the sake of brevity, this concept will be referred to as "two orthogonal directions").

[0012] The present invention also relates to a method of mounting a cutting blade or adapter to such a retainer.

[0013] According to an advantageous embodiment, the retainer is configured to secure the cutting tool thereto in two orthogonal directions. For example, according to a first aspect, the retainer can be configured by providing an X-axis cutting tool recess and different Y-axis cutting tool recesses on the same retainer. In other words, the retainer can be configured with two recesses, each recess configured for machining in different orthogonal directions.

[0014] The retainer may be defined by the X-axis blade recess and the Y-axis blade recess, which are oriented orthogonally to each other (as described in detail below).

[0015] More precisely, a method is provided for clamping a first cutting blade or adapter to a retainer, the retainer including a first blade recess and a second blade recess both configured for machining a workpiece along one of two different orthogonal directions, or the retainer including a single adapter recess configured for holding an adapter along a first orientation and a second orientation, the single adapter recess being configured for machining a workpiece along one of two different orthogonal directions, the method comprising the steps of: selecting a first orthogonal direction; and securing a first cutting blade in the first blade recess for machining along the selected first orthogonal direction; or securing an adapter in the adapter recess along the first orientation for machining along the selected first orthogonal direction.

[0016] According to a second aspect of the invention, a retainer is provided, the retainer comprising: a shank portion including a shank central axis; and a head portion; the head portion including a first blade recess and a second blade recess; the first blade recess including a base surface extending substantially perpendicular to the shank central axis and at least one side wall extending in a longitudinal direction substantially parallel to the shank central axis; and the second blade recess including a base surface extending in a longitudinal direction substantially parallel to the shank central axis and at least one side wall extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to the shank central axis.

[0017] Alternatively, according to a third aspect of the invention, a retainer is provided, the retainer comprising: a shank portion including a shank central axis; and a head portion; the head portion including a first blade recess and a second blade recess; the first blade recess including a threaded hole extending substantially perpendicular to the shank central axis; and the second blade recess including a threaded hole extending substantially parallel to the shank central axis.

[0018] Furthermore, according to a fourth aspect of the invention, a retainer is provided, the retainer comprising: a first blade recess; and a second blade recess; the first blade recess being oriented to retain a cutting blade along a first orthogonal direction; and the second blade recess being oriented to retain the cutting blade along a second orthogonal direction different from the first orthogonal direction. Alternatively, the first blade recess is oriented to retain the cutting blade along the first direction, and the second blade recess is oriented to retain the cutting blade along a second direction orthogonal to the first direction.

[0019] According to any of the above aspects, the features may preferably include the following: The retainer may include a head portion having external ribs formed thereon. The external ribs may be positioned adjacent to the shank portion. When two cutting blades are mounted to the retainer, the rake surface of the first cutting blade may be substantially parallel to the end surface of the head portion, and the rake surface of the second blade may be substantially parallel to the side surface of the head portion.

[0020] Alternatively, according to another aspect, the retainer may be defined as a tool assembly (i.e., an assembly including the retainer and also including at least one cutting blade). The cutting blade includes a leading cutting edge (when mounted in a blade recess), which helps to define orientation for two orthogonal directions for the two blade recesses.

[0021] It will be understood that in some CNC machine tools, the retainer can be held in one orientation (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 6B (Example: X-axis supply orientation) and machining operations can be performed using the first insert in the X-axis insert recess without detaching the retainer from the turret or tool post. The retainer can be reoriented by the CNC machine tool to perform machining operations using the second insert in the Y-axis insert recess (e.g., ...). Figure 6C (As illustrated in the example). It will be understood that the operations may alternatively be performed in reverse order.

[0022] Alternatively, the retainer (or tool assembly) can be easily used for machining along either the X-axis or Y-axis feed direction. This allows manufacturers to mass-produce dual-purpose tools. Furthermore, it reduces the amount of inventory that needs to be maintained by the user.

[0023] According to some preferred embodiments, the blade recesses may be identical (and thus configured to hold identical blades, as illustrated in FIG6). Alternatively, according to other preferred embodiments, the blade recesses may be different (and thus configured to hold blades of different shapes).

[0024] It will be understood that the tool described above can be considered disadvantageous, as many users would not prefer a retainer with the additional cost of a second blade recess and would therefore prefer a standard retainer. Nevertheless, it is believed that at least some users will find the dual Y-axis and X-axis capability beneficial.

[0025] Another advantage is that an integrated retainer with blade recesses formed thereon is structurally more robust than a retainer that retains the adapter with blade recesses formed on the adapter. In other words, there is a loss of stability due to the presence of non-integrated parts.

[0026] The two blade recesses may preferably be spaced apart from each other (e.g., the two blade recesses may be located at opposite corners on the diameter of the head portion). However, it is possible for the two blade recesses to be on the same side of the retainer, or even for the blade recesses to be opened toward each other, although they are orthogonally positioned relative to each other.

[0027] According to another aspect of the invention, a retainer is provided, which is configured to secure an adapter thereto in two orthogonal directions.

[0028] This is an advantageous embodiment, although it has lower stiffness than the examples above (since the optimal support cannot be achieved along two different intended machining directions, at least not utilizing a compactly designed tool). However, since the adapter is typically significantly larger than the cutting blade, such disadvantages of the optimal support are considered to be outweighed by the benefits of a single retainer, which allows machining along two different orthogonal directions.

[0029] The adapter then includes blade recesses. Preferably, the adapter is indexable and includes multiple blade recesses.

[0030] Preferably, the retainer includes a single adapter recess configured to secure the adapter in both orthogonal directions.

[0031] Such embodiments are more economical than two separate blade recesses when a single adapter recess can be used for both orthogonal directions.

[0032] The aforementioned construction of a single adapter recess can be achieved, for example, by providing additional holes (for each of the two orthogonal directions) in the adapter recess.

[0033] In other words, the adapter recess may be configured with at least one clamping hole for one orientation and at least one clamping hole for another orientation. In some preferred embodiments, at least one clamping hole is not used when clamping in one orientation.

[0034] Alternatively, the individual adapter recess may include an external clamp or wedge (of the type shown in Figure 12A of USPA 2019 / 0240741) to hold the adapter in the adapter recess. To construct a retainer for holding the adapter in both orientations, the clamp is preferably configured to bias the adapter into a corner of the blade recess. Alternatively, the clamp may be used at the side of the adapter recess adapted to a particular orientation.

[0035] While the embodiments described above allow the tool components to move in two orthogonal directions during the cutting operation, it is envisioned that the adapter be positioned such that less offset is required during setup.

[0036] To elaborate further, the retainer and adapter can be configured such that when the adapter is mounted to the retainer, no offset is required in at least one of two orientations along at least one axis. For example, if the retainer is primarily constructed for X-axis feeding machining (such as... Figure 1A (As shown in the figure), and when the adapter is mounted as shown in the figure, no offset input to the CNC machine tool is required. And when the same adapter is changed to... Figure 2 When supplying the Y-axis in the machining direction as shown, an offset needs to be provided along the X-axis direction instead of the Y-axis supply direction. Conversely, in Figure 5 The recess shown (which is a modified recess that is essentially similar to the recess shown in USPA2019 / 0240741) requires two offsets for each orientation.

[0037] More preferably, according to a particularly advantageous embodiment, the retainer and adapter are configured such that when the adapter is mounted to the retainer, at least along one axis, offset is not required in both orientations. Therefore, for example, if the retainer is primarily constructed for X-axis feeding machining (such as... Figure 1A (As shown in the figure), and the adapter is mounted as shown in the figure, then in any case, no offset input to the CNC machine tool is required. And along as shown in the figure... Figure 2 The Y-axis supply machining direction shown in the diagram requires only a single offset along the X-axis. It will be understood that this greatly improves the user-friendliness of operating such retainers and / or tooling components.

[0038] Further regarding the above developments, it has been found that such adapters can be incorrectly and improperly mounted to the retainer (e.g., the adapter can be mounted to the retainer for X-axis supply operation and then for operation in the Y-axis direction). To prevent such incidents, a mechanism is envisioned to prevent incorrect assembly.

[0039] A preferred aspect is to provide a so-called "recess protrusion" in the recess of the retainer, which protrudes into the recess and prevents the adapter from being incorrectly inserted therein (in the wrong orientation). In other words, the recess protrusion is received in the recess of the adapter along one orthogonal orientation of the adapter (but not along the other orientation).

[0040] Preferably, the recessed protrusion is removable and reattachable so that the user can use an alternative orientation when desired. In the illustrated example, the recessed protrusion is a removable pin having a substantially cylindrical or cylindrical shape. However, it will be understood that the recessed protrusion need not be cylindrical, and other pin shapes are contemplated.

[0041] Preferably, the recess of the adapter has a non-cylindrical shape, so that the adapter can be easily placed in the adapter recess.

[0042] Preferably, the recess of the adapter is an unused blade recess, so the adapter itself does not need to have an additional recess that would weaken or complicate its structure.

[0043] A particular advantageous embodiment for separation operation is shown, although it is possible that the adapter can also hold the turning insert in two different orientations (with the necessary modifications).

[0044] To elaborate on the above description of offset, for known Y-axis tool assemblies, offset is required along both the X and Y axes. A standard X-axis supply separation tool (or "separation adapter") can be secured to a retainer (which is secured to the machine docking section), and the separation operation can be initiated without any need to offset the position of the tool assembly (i.e., adjust the setting for the non-zero position used to cut the edge; referred to below as "offset").

[0045] This invention therefore allows for preferred non-elongated, preferably transposeable adapters with smaller offsets than currently known.

[0046] While machines capable of Y-axis feeding machining can provide both of the aforementioned offsets, it is envisioned that providing a single offset tooling assembly would reduce setup complexity, thereby reducing complexity for the user. Although setup is more complex than with an X-axis feeding tooling assembly that does not require any offset, it still provides the advantage of Y-axis stability (reduced vibration).

[0047] According to some preferred embodiments, a tool assembly is provided, comprising: a separation adapter; a cutting blade secured in a blade recess of the separation adapter and including a leading cutting edge; and a retainer including a retainer shank portion, the retainer shank portion further including an uppermost retainer shank surface and a retainer shank cross-sectional shape; wherein: the retainer shank cross-sectional shape is square or rectangular, and the leading cutting edge is aligned with the uppermost retainer shank surface; or the retainer shank cross-sectional shape is circular, and the retainer shank axis extends to the leading cutting edge.

[0048] According to another aspect of the present invention, a retainer is provided, the retainer comprising: a handle portion including a handle central axis; and a head portion; the head portion including an adapter recess; the adapter recess including: a first plurality of holes for a first orientation; a second plurality of holes for a second orientation; the first plurality of holes and the second plurality of holes being positioned mirror-symmetrically.

[0049] According to another aspect of the invention, a retainer is provided, the retainer comprising: a handle portion including a handle central axis; and a head portion; the head portion including an adapter recess; the adapter recess including: a first plurality of holes for a first orientation; a second plurality of holes for a second orientation; the spacing between the first plurality of holes and the spacing between the second plurality of holes being the same; the first plurality of holes and the second plurality of holes being shifted relative to each other.

[0050] According to another aspect of the invention, a tool assembly is provided, the tool assembly comprising: a retainer including an adapter recess; and an adapter; the retainer and the adapter being configured such that the adapter can be mounted to the adapter recess in two different orthogonal directions.

[0051] The retainer may be any of the aspects described.

[0052] The adapter may be configured to be mounted to the adapter recess at a first orthogonal position via at least one of a first plurality of holes, and may be configured to be mounted to the adapter recess at different orthogonal positions via at least one of a second plurality of holes.

[0053] The adapter can be configured to be installed into the adapter recess at a first orthogonal position only through a first plurality of holes, and can be configured to be installed into the adapter recess at a different orthogonal position only through a second plurality of holes.

[0054] The adapter can be installed as follows: The adapter can be secured in the adapter recess along a first orientation using fewer than all of the plurality of holes. Subsequently, using fewer than all of the plurality of holes, and excluding at least one of the plurality of holes used to secure the adapter in the first orientation, the adapter can be removed and secured in the adapter recess along a second orientation.

[0055] The adapter can be configured to be installed into the adapter recess in a first orthogonal orientation, and configured to be prevented from being installed into the adapter recess in a different orthogonal orientation by a recess protrusion. If the recess protrusion is removed, the adapter can be installed into the adapter recess in a different orthogonal orientation.

[0056] Preferably, the recessed protrusion is positioned such that, along a first orthogonal orientation, it protrudes into the blade recess of the adapter, which is mounted to the adapter recess along the first orthogonal orientation.

[0057] It is noteworthy that, for square or rectangular retainer shanks (which are the standard shank type in the industry), for clarity, as is known in the art, the uppermost retainer shank surface is typically aligned with the foremost cut edge used for standard X-axis retainers. However, no known Y-axis tool assembly is constructed for the same retainer shank surface (which will be referred to as the “foremost retainer shank surface” if the Y-axis supply direction is considered independently; the name “uppermost retainer shank surface” is used herein because the X-axis is used as a reference) to also align with the cut edge in an orthogonal orientation along the Y-axis. Furthermore, no known tool assembly is known for retaining adapters in two different orthogonal orientations.

[0058] The above-described configuration allows the foremost cutting edge to align with the surface of the uppermost retainer shank, and, if necessary, in the X-axis direction (i.e., the direction parallel to the elongation direction of the retainer shank portion), this will then require the tool assembly to be offset in a single direction only.

[0059] The reference to the "circular" alternative cross-sectional shape is a simplification, defining a substantially cylindrical or substantially conical shank cross-section according to the types described in ISO standards 26623-1 or 12164-3. It will be understood that this is also the standard shank type in industry. For this type of shank, the leading cutting edge will be aligned with the axis of the center retainer shank, which, if necessary, i.e., in the X-axis direction, will then require the tool assembly to be offset in only a single direction.

[0060] The alternative is based on the same concept, but only considers two main handle types (i.e., where the alignment position is at the center of the handle in a round type, or at the front of the handle in a square / rectangular type). It will be understood that the term "round" extends to different handle types, but essentially means the alignment position is along the center of the handle.

[0061] According to another preferred embodiment, a tool assembly is provided, comprising: a separation adapter; a cutting blade; and a retainer; the separation adapter comprising: opposing first and second sides; and an outer peripheral edge connecting the first and second sides; the outer peripheral edge comprising: opposing front and rear sub-edges; and an upper sub-edge connecting the front and rear sub-edges; the first and second sides defining a first lateral direction extending from the first side toward the second side and a second lateral direction opposite to the first lateral direction; the forward direction is defined as perpendicular to the first lateral direction. The second lateral direction points from the rear sub-edge toward the front sub-edge, and the rearward direction is opposite to the forward direction; the upward direction is defined as being perpendicular to both the first and second lateral directions, and also perpendicular to both the forward and rearward directions; the downward direction is defined as being opposite to the upward direction; a blade recess is formed at the intersection of the front sub-edge and the upper sub-edge; the blade recess includes: a base pawl including a foremost base pawl surface; a second pawl at least partially located above the base seat pawl; and a slot end connecting the base pawl and the second pawl; the adapter shank portion includes: an adapter. The clamping arrangement includes: a cutting blade secured in a blade recess, and comprising: a blade base surface adjacent to a base jaw; an upward-facing front blade surface located above the blade base surface; a blade second surface adjacent to a second jaw; a foremost clearance surface extending downward from the front blade surface; and a foremost cutting edge formed at the intersection of the front blade surface and the foremost clearance surface; a retainer including: a retainer head portion; and a retainer shank portion connected to the retainer head portion; the retainer head portion including: an adapter recess, the adapter shank portion being secured in the adapter recess; and the retainer shank portion... Includes: a retainer handle axis extending through the center of the retainer handle and extending parallel to the upward and downward directions; a retainer handle cross-sectional shape extending perpendicular to the retainer handle axis and being (a) square or rectangular or (b) circular; an uppermost retainer handle surface; and an imaginary line extending from the uppermost retainer handle surface; wherein: the retainer handle cross-sectional shape is square or rectangular and the foremost cut edge is aligned with the uppermost retainer handle surface; or the retainer handle cross-sectional shape is circular and the retainer handle axis extends to the foremost cut edge.

[0062] According to another aspect of the invention, a method is provided for machining a workpiece having a central axis of rotation (AW) using a cutting tool having an operable cutting blade, the workpiece being configured to rotate about the central axis of rotation (AW), the cutting tool being configured to selectively move relative to the workpiece along a first cutting direction or a second cutting direction toward the central axis of rotation (AW), the first cutting direction and the second cutting direction being perpendicular to the central axis of rotation (AW) and also perpendicular to each other, the method comprising: providing a cutting tool including a tool holder having a shank portion and a head portion, the shank portion being held in a machine docking portion, the head portion having an operable cutting blade mounted therein; and selectively moving the cutting tool relative to the workpiece to machine the workpiece in either of the following: a first cutting direction, while the workpiece rotates along a first rotational direction such that the cutting force experienced by the operable cutting blade is directed transversely to the direction from the head portion to the machine docking portion; or a second cutting direction, while the workpiece rotates along a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction such that the cutting force experienced by the operable cutting blade is directed parallel to the direction from the head portion to the machine docking portion.

[0063] The head portion may include an end surface and a first blade recess and a second blade recess that are both open toward the end surface, the first blade recess and the second blade recess having the same corresponding first cutting blade and second cutting blade seated therein; the first cutting blade is an operational cutting blade when the cutting tool moves along a first cutting direction; and the second cutting blade is an operational cutting blade when the cutting tool moves along a second cutting direction.

[0064] The adapter may include a first main adapter side and a second main adapter side, each side being configured to face the surface of the adapter recess when the adapter is mounted in the adapter recess. The adapter also includes a plurality of blade recesses, at least one of which has a cutting blade held therein.

[0065] The method may optionally include: securing an adapter in an adapter recess in a first orientation before moving the cutting tool relative to the workpiece along a first cutting direction, wherein the side of the first main adapter faces the surface of the recess; or securing an adapter in an adapter recess in a second orientation before moving the cutting tool relative to the workpiece along a second cutting direction, wherein the side of the second main adapter faces the surface of the recess.

[0066] According to another aspect of the invention, a method is provided for machining a workpiece having a central axis of rotation (AW) using a cutting tool, the workpiece being configured to rotate about the central axis of rotation (AW), the cutting tool being configured to selectively move relative to the workpiece along a first cutting direction or a second cutting direction toward the central axis of rotation (AW) to machine the workpiece, the first cutting direction and the second cutting direction being perpendicular to the central axis of rotation (AW) and also perpendicular to each other, the method comprising: providing a cutting tool including a tool holder having a shank portion and a head portion, the shank portion being held in a machine docking portion, the head portion including an adapter recess having a recessed surface; providing an adapter including a first main adapter side and a second main adapter side, each side being configured to face the recessed surface when the adapter is mounted in the adapter recess, the adapter... It also includes a plurality of blade recesses, at least one of which has a cutting blade held therein; and selectively, an adapter is mounted in an adapter recess, wherein a first main adapter side faces the recess surface, and then, as the workpiece rotates in a first rotation direction, a cutting tool is moved relative to the workpiece in a first cutting direction to machine the workpiece, such that the cutting force experienced by the operable cutting blade is directed transversely to the direction from the head portion to the machine docking portion; or an adapter is mounted in an adapter recess, wherein a second main adapter side faces the recess surface, and then, as the workpiece rotates in a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction, a cutting tool is moved relative to the workpiece in a second cutting direction to machine the workpiece, such that the cutting force experienced by the operable cutting blade is directed parallel to the direction from the head portion to the machine docking portion.

[0067] According to another aspect of the invention, a method is provided for machining a workpiece having a central axis of rotation (AW) using a cutting tool, the workpiece being configured to rotate about the central axis of rotation (AW), the cutting tool being configured to selectively move relative to the workpiece along a first cutting direction or a second cutting direction toward the central axis of rotation (AW), the first cutting direction and the second cutting direction being perpendicular to the central axis of rotation (AW) and also perpendicular to each other, the method comprising: providing a cutting tool including a tool holder having a shank portion and a head portion, the shank portion being held in a machine mating portion, the head portion including an end surface and a first blade recess and a second blade recess opening toward the end surface. The first blade recess and the second blade recess have the same corresponding first and second cutting blades seated therein; and the cutting tool is selectively moved relative to the workpiece to process the workpiece in either of the following ways: a first cutting direction, while the workpiece rotates in a first rotation direction such that only the first cutting blade is operable, and the cutting force experienced by the first cutting blade is directed transversely to the direction from the head portion to the machine docking portion; or a second cutting direction, while the workpiece rotates in a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction such that only the second cutting blade is operable, and the cutting force experienced by the second cutting blade is directed parallel to the direction from the head portion to the machine docking portion.

[0068] According to another aspect of the invention, a method for clamping a blade or adapter to a retainer is provided, comprising the steps of: selecting one of two orthogonal directions; and securing the blade or adapter to a suitable one of two recesses, or securing the adapter to an adapter recess along one of two possible orthogonal directions.

[0069] Another preferred step is to move the retainer relative to the workpiece along one of the two orthogonal directions.

[0070] The preferred step is to set the offset only along the X-axis direction, which is defined as the direction parallel to the elongated shank of the retainer; and after step (b), to move the separation adapter relative to the rotating workpiece along the Y-axis direction to machine or cut off the workpiece, which is defined as the direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction.

[0071] The preferred step is to set the offset only along the Y-axis direction, which is defined as the direction parallel to the elongated shank of the retainer; and after step (b), to move the separation adapter relative to the rotating workpiece along the X-axis direction to machine or cut off the workpiece, which is defined as the direction perpendicular to the Y-axis direction.

[0072] In the most preferred embodiment, the adapter may provide a single offset to only one of the two orientations.

[0073] Preferred additional steps include removing the adapter (where the adapter is the one from step b) and securing the adapter along a second (different) orthogonal orientation. Yet another step includes moving the retainer relative to the workpiece along a selected second orthogonal orientation.

[0074] When adapters are involved, the above examples / implementations and methods are preferably performed using an adapter constructed for the separation operation (hereinafter, "separation adapter").

[0075] What may seem to be of no benefit to the operator is that a single offset is simpler than two offsets (because an offset needs to be input in any case). However, the inventors believe that such benefits can still outweigh the small amount of additional stability (which is potentially lost by aligning the adapter or blade in a slightly less optimal position to achieve the desired alignment advantage).

[0076] A preferred additional step (wherein it is a cutting blade in step b) is to secure the second cutting blade in the second of the two recesses, and to move the tool assembly along the first axis to machine the workpiece using the first cutting blade, and subsequently move the tool assembly along a second axis orthogonal to the first axis to machine the workpiece using the second cutting blade. Preferably, this also includes rotating the workpiece in a first direction during the machining using the first cutting blade, and rotating the workpiece in the opposite direction during the machining using the second cutting blade.

[0077] Preferably, the second claw of the blade recess is located entirely behind the base claw. Alternatively or additionally, the second claw of the blade recess and the base claw extend adjacent to each other in a direction parallel to the upward and downward directions.

[0078] Preferably, the adapter according to the invention includes a plurality of blade recesses.

[0079] Preferably, the blade recess of the present invention is of the illustrative elastic type (i.e., without screws).

[0080] The various features described above are described using terms such as “forward.” It will be understood that such terms mean that, relative to the rest of the component (e.g., the adapter or cutting edge), the feature is more along the forward direction (i.e., in the case of being closest to the workpiece; in other words, the forward direction along the supply direction). It will also be understood that all directions given are for reference to the features relative to each other, not relative to the ground in an absolute sense. Similarly, it will be understood that while directions may be optionally chosen to be defined relative to a particular component (such as a separation adapter), they may similarly be defined relative to the retainer or tool assembly.

[0081] As is well known in the art, the rake surface is a surface on which the machined chips are intended to flow, and the clearance surface is typically designed to recede from the cutting edge.

[0082] Preferably, the support surface of the adapter is mirror-symmetric about the bisecting pivot line extending through the two orthogonal positions.

[0083] The bisector can extend through the foremost cutting edge of the blade.

[0084] Preferably, the supporting surface of the adapter is straight in the side view.

[0085] Preferably, in the side view, the adapter has a quadrilateral shape, more preferably a regular quadrilateral shape, and most preferably a square shape.

[0086] It will be understood that the present invention relates only to the construction of tool assemblies and retainers for different orthogonal orientations. For the sake of detail, the present invention does not relate to tool designs configured to allow for precise adjustments in position that extend all the way to, for example, 90° (or more) repositioning of the blade or adapter.

[0087] Depending on any aspect, the retainer may be moved along a first or second orthogonal direction to machine the workpiece (or reposition it from one orientation to another).

[0088] In cases where the adapter is reinstalled into the adapter recess in different orientations, the same insert recess may be used for machining, or different insert recesses may be used for machining. Attached Figure Description

[0089] To better understand the subject matter of this application and to illustrate how this application can be implemented in practice, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0090] Figure 1A A side view of the tool assembly in the X-axis supply position according to the present invention, which also shows a schematic workpiece and a schematic machine docking part;

[0091] Figure 1B for Figure 1A The back view of the tool components in the document;

[0092] Figure 2 for Figure 1A A side view of the tool assembly, with its adapter oriented in the Y-axis supply orientation. This side view also shows a schematic workpiece (except for the lack of recess protrusion 53 in the recess). Figure 1A As shown in and Figure 4A (to be better shown in the text);

[0093] Figure 3 for Figure 1AThe adapter in Figure 1A The X-axis supply orientation belt is located in the middle. Figure 2 A schematic representation of the Y-axis supply orientation;

[0094] Figure 4A In order to be in Figure 2 The perspective view of the retainer and adapter, which are installed in the Y-axis supply orientation but are blocked by recessed protrusions;

[0095] Figure 4B For corresponding Figure 4A Side view of the retainer and adapter;

[0096] Figure 4C for Figure 4A An enlarged and slightly rotated view of the surrounding section marked "IV";

[0097] Figure 5 A possible recess for another retainer according to the invention;

[0098] Figure 6A A side perspective view of yet another tool assembly according to the present invention;

[0099] Figure 6B for Figure 6A The end view of the tool assembly shows the tool assembly and schematic workpiece in the X-axis supply position;

[0100] Figure 6C for Figure 6A A side view of the tool assembly, showing the tool assembly and schematic workpiece in the Y-axis supply position;

[0101] Figure 6D for Figure 6A A side perspective view of the tool component in the image, showing the removal of the Y-axis blade; and

[0102] Figure 6E for Figure 6A The side perspective view of the tool component in the image, where the X-axis blade has been removed. Detailed Implementation

[0103] Reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B The tool assembly 10 is shown, which includes a retainer 12, a separation adapter 14 fixed to the retainer 12 (which has a shape at least with respect to the separation tool, the straight support surface, and at least one blade recess (which in this example is a first blade recess 15A, a second blade recess 15B, a third blade recess 15C, and a fourth blade recess 15D), generally similar to the separation tool shown in Figures 18A to 18C of USPA2019 / 0240741), and an operational cutting blade 16 fixed to the separation adapter 14.

[0104] The contents of USPA 2019 / 0240741 (and most specifically, Figures 18, 19 and 20) are incorporated herein by reference.

[0105] Special reference Figure 1A The retainer 12 is positioned near the schematic cylindrical rotating workpiece 20. As indicated, the workpiece 20 has a central workpiece axis AW and rotates counterclockwise in the DCC direction in this view during machining.

[0106] For explanation and reference, the forward direction DF, the backward direction DR, the upward direction DU, the downward direction DD, the first lateral direction DS1, and the second lateral direction DS2 are shown in the diagram.

[0107] The forward direction DF forms the X-axis supply direction, and the tool assembly 10 moves along the X-axis supply direction to machine the workpiece 20.

[0108] The cutting blade 16 includes: a front blade surface 22 and an opposing blade base surface 24, a foremost clearance (gap) surface 26A extending downward (and slightly inward; i.e., in the downward direction DD and slightly in the rearward direction DR) from the front blade surface 22 and the opposing blade rear surface 28, and a foremost cutting edge 30A formed at the intersection of the front blade surface 22 and the foremost clearance surface 26A.

[0109] Preferably, the front blade surface 22 includes a chip-forming arrangement (not shown).

[0110] Each of the first blade recess 15A, the second blade recess 15B, the third blade recess 15C, and the fourth blade recess 15D of the adapter is identical and revolves around the center AI of the indexing axis. Figure 3 (As shown in the diagram) Equally spaced circumferentially, adapter 14 has four-way rotational symmetry about the center AI of the rotation axis. Figure 1A As seen in the image, the second blade recess 15B includes a base chuck 17A, a second chuck 17B, and a groove end 17C. It is understood that the remaining recesses 15A, 15C, and 15D have similar structures.

[0111] Returning to the first blade recess 15A, adjacent to each of the blade recesses 15, on the outer side of the separation adapter 14, adjacent to the base chuck 17A, there is an outer recess clearance surface 17D, and adjacent to the second chuck 17B, there is an outer recess front blade surface 17E.

[0112] Brief reference Figure 3The split adapter 14 also includes a first main adapter side 19A and a second main adapter side 19B. A first peripheral adapter support surface 54A, a second peripheral adapter support surface 54B, a third peripheral adapter support surface 54C, and a fourth peripheral adapter support surface 54D are connected to the first main adapter side 19A and the second main adapter side 19B.

[0113] The retainer 12 includes a retainer head portion 32 and a retainer handle portion 34.

[0114] The retainer handle portion 34 is fixed to the machine docking portion 18, which may be a tool post or a turret, etc.

[0115] The retainer head portion 32 includes an adapter recess 36.

[0116] The retainer head portion 32 includes a retainer concave front surface 44, which is useful for structural strength when the retainer 12 is used with a standard release adapter.

[0117] The adapter recess 36 includes an adapter recess side surface 46 and a recess protruding edge 48 extending therefrom.

[0118] The protruding edge 48 of the recess may include a lower adjacent surface 48A of the recess, which, in this preferred but non-limiting example, faces forward in the DF direction; a rear adjacent surface 48B of the recess, which faces upward in the DU direction; and preferably, it may also include a recess gap recess 48C connecting the lower adjacent surface 48A and the rear adjacent surface 48B of the recess.

[0119] The retainer handle portion 34 also has a retainer handle axis AS, which is shown for understanding its position, and the retainer handle cross-sectional shape is circular.

[0120] The foremost imaginary line L1 extends along the X-axis direction (which is forward DF in the reference direction shown) from the surface 52A of the uppermost retainer handle to the foremost cutting edge 30A.

[0121] In this example, the name "uppermost retainer shank surface" refers to the foremost surface of the shank along the Y-axis direction (which is the upward direction DU in the reference direction shown), and the name is arbitrarily referred to herein relative to the X-axis direction, i.e., it is in... Figure 1A The middle part is the surface of the retainer shank that is mostly in the upward direction DU; it will be understood that the name "topmost" is merely a name, and for square or rectangular shanks, the surface indicated as 52A is the relevant reference surface as known in the art. For cylindrical or other circular types of shanks, the foremost surface is the thin, linear portion of the shank that is parallel to the retainer shank axis AS and is the foremost portion of the shank in the Y-axis direction.

[0122] Since the position of the retainer handle portion 34 is set according to its connection with the machine docking portion 18, the position of the foremost cutting edge 30A is calibrated to zero in the CNC machine tool, and no offset input is required.

[0123] Even without the foremost hypothetical line L1 (such as...) Figure 1A As shown in the side view (which is a useful explanatory aid), it is understood that the foremost cutting edge 30A extends directly from the uppermost retainer handle surface 52A in the forward direction DF.

[0124] As further explained below, the adapter recess 36 is formed with a recess protrusion 53, which is in the form of a pin 53A fixed in the pin hole 53B (in Figure 4C (This is better illustrated in the image).

[0125] Now refer to Figure 2 In order to reach from Figure 1A As shown in the diagram, the release adapter 14 is removed from the retainer 12, and, for example, a two-step sequence comprising one rotation and one flip can be performed. For example, after removal, the release adapter 14 may first be rotated clockwise (90°) about the indexing axis AI of the release tool, and then flipped from right to left before reinsertion. In another sequence, by first flipping the release adapter 14 from left to right, and then rotating it counterclockwise by 90° before reinsertion, a rotation from... Figures 1A to 2 The conversion. Below is about... Figure 3 Describe yet another sequence. Any of these sequences results in the separation adapter 14 now being oriented in a second orthogonal direction for machining the workpiece 20. With respect to any of these sequences, the separation adapter 14 is effectively pivoted about the foremost cutting edge 30A to now be oriented in the second orthogonal direction for machining the workpiece 20.

[0126] Furthermore, after removing the disconnect adapter 14, but before reinstalling it into the retainer 12, Figure 1A The pin 53A shown is first removed from the pin hole 53B, and then the disconnect adapter 14 is installed into the adapter recess 36.

[0127] More specifically, in the reconstructed tool, the upward direction DU now also supplies direction to the Y-axis, along which the tool assembly 10 moves relative to the workpiece 20 in order to machine the workpiece 20 (which now rotates clockwise in the direction DC).

[0128] Because the foremost cutting edge 30A is in two positions (i.e., at...) Figure 1A and Figure 2 Of the two, it is aligned with the so-called uppermost retainer handle surface 52A, therefore for Figure 2The only calibration required for the orientation is in the forward direction DF and the backward direction DR to ensure that the foremost cutting edge 30A is aligned with the central workpiece axis AW, as schematically shown by the second imaginary line L2, which extends from the center point WC to the foremost cutting edge 30A perpendicular to the forward direction DF and the backward direction DR.

[0129] diagonal plane P( Figure 2 It can extend through the foremost cutting edge 30A and through the opposing jaws of the blade recess.

[0130] Although the terms “inversion” and “reverse” are known in the art, there is no term known to the applicant for changing the orientation of a particular tool or cutting blade from the X-axis orientation to the Y-axis orientation (i.e., changing between the “two different orthogonal orientations”).

[0131] One approach involves defining that the blade recess front side and the blade recess clearance side pivot relative to each other (where the adapter of the current shape pivots at an angle of 180°).

[0132] Alternatively, the operable cutting blade 16 and its mounted disengagement adapter 14 can be flipped (i.e., rotated 180°) about the diagonal plane P. Figure 2 At least the blade recess is mirror-symmetrical in the first orientation to the second orientation, which is achieved after the split adapter 14 is flipped about the diagonal plane P.

[0133] Alternatively, the blade recess may be pivotable 180° about the bisector LB, which extends through the center of the two orthogonal positions. The bisector LB may be defined as extending through a predetermined cutting edge position defined by the blade recess, as is known in the art (the position occupied by cutting edge 30A). More precisely, the bisector LB extends through the center of the release adapter 14 (depending on the shape of the release adapter 14, this does not necessarily mean passing through the center of the indexing axis AI, but rather means being equally spaced from the first main adapter side 19A and the second main adapter side 19B).

[0134] Still alternatively defined, with respect to the operable cutting blade 16, the foremost cutting edge 30A can be held in a single position, and the blade (and any components mounted thereon, such as adapters) pivots 180° about the foremost cutting edge. In other words, the opposite ends of the cutting edges 30A (which are located at...) Figure 1A and Figure 2 (As seen in the image, extending into the plate) is reversed.

[0135] To ensure understanding, please refer to the following: Figure 3 This schematically illustrates how such positional changes are achieved (rather than simply showing...). Figures 1A to 2The diagram illustrates a pivoting adapter, which is difficult to understand with respect to symmetrical objects using 2D diagrams. To help understand this, a more detailed explanation can be shown, rather than requiring such an exact sequence of movements in practice.

[0136] The same adapter 14 described above is shown in the first (initial) position 14A, the second (intermediate) position 14B, and the third (final) position 14C with respect to the forward direction DF.

[0137] In the topmost diagram, the first position 14A of the adapter can, for example, correspond to Figure 1A The orientation shown is shown in the image. (This example uses [specific orientation] for illustrative purposes only.) Figure 1A The direction shown in the figure; its alternative is Figure 2 In this case, the forward direction DF shown in the first position 14 will be replaced by the upward direction DU, etc. (with necessary modifications).

[0138] From its initial position, the adapter 14 (or blade) at initial position 14A rotates 90° counterclockwise in the DCC direction while keeping the foremost cutting edge 30A in the same position (i.e., without translational movement, but only rotational movement (for ease of understanding, the adapter 14 at translational position 14B is drawn at a different translational position, but can be imagined as adjacent to the first position 14A, where the foremost cutting edge 30A is at the same non-translational location); such that the front blade surface 22 of the adapter 14 at intermediate position 14B is now orthogonal to the first position 14A).

[0139] While keeping the front blade surface 22 (and the foremost cutting edge 30A) in the same position (i.e., without undergoing translational movement), the adapter 14B flips from right to left, as indicated by arrow 56.

[0140] Therefore, at the final position 14C, the adapter 14 is in the second orthogonal orientation, which in this case is the Y-axis supply orientation, or the upward direction DU (in this example, a non-restrictive relative direction is used).

[0141] Now refer to Figures 4A to 4C If pin 53A is not removed from pin hole 53B, adapter 14 will not be able to move along... Figure 2 The orientation shown is for installation into the adapter recess 36. In the example shown, when attempting to connect with... Figure 2 When the adapter 14 is installed to the retainer 12 in the same orientation, the outer recessed clearance surface 17D abuts the pin 53A. Therefore, the recessed protrusion prevents incorrect installation of the adapter 14 when one of the particular orientations is to be repeatedly used for machining.

[0142] When the blade recess is asymmetrical, the location of the recess protrusion (in the unrestricted case) is particularly useful at the location of the blade recess (i.e., where the blade recess will be located on the adapter recess 36). This is because when the adapter 14 is correctly installed, the user does not need to perform any additional actions for installation, and does not even need to pay attention to or notice the recess protrusion.

[0143] Although the above examples do not describe a specific method (in which the separate adapter 14 is mounted (i.e., secured) to the retainer 12), Figure 5 An exemplary approach will be described in detail.

[0144] Referring to this application Figure 5 It should be noted that Figure 19A of USPA2019 / 0240741 has a tool holder 404 and an adapter recess, which, with Figure 5 The adapter recess is similar to 400, but not identical.

[0145] Figure 19A of USPA2019 / 0240741 and the current Figure 5 Corresponding features are indicated by the same reference numerals. Specifically, the two adapter recesses include: a first threaded tool hole 432 and a tool retainer outlet orifice 434 for delivering coolant to the release adapter 14; a biasing hole 436 for providing a biasing element 438 (Figure 20A of USPA2019 / 0240741); and a recess surface 444 having a plurality of peripherally threaded tool holes 450A, 450C (note that in this preferred embodiment, only two peripherally threaded tool holes are found to be necessary, rather than the three shown in USPA2019 / 0240741).

[0146] Now, referring only to this application... Figure 5 In order to make the adapter recess 400 configuration suitable for two different orthogonal orientations, additional elements are added, with the corresponding elements suffixed with an apostrophe (').

[0147] Therefore, an additional first threaded tool hole 432', an additional tool retainer outlet hole 434', and two additional peripheral threaded tool holes 450A' and 450C' are added. Figure 5 As seen in the plan view, the adapter recess 400 has a recess bisector plane P1, first threaded tool holes 432, 432', outlet holes 434, 434', and outer peripheral threaded tool holes 450A, 450A'; 450C, 450C' have mirror symmetry about the recess bisector plane P1.

[0148] In this example, the bias hole 436 and bias element 438 are provided only for a single orientation. However, it will be understood that additional bias holes (not shown) may be provided as needed, and the bias element 438 may be mounted to an additional bias hole. In such a case, the entire recess surface 444 will have mirror symmetry about the recess bisector plane P1.

[0149] What will be understood is... Figure 5 Only one possible modification among many is shown, which can achieve the two different orthogonal orientations.

[0150] It will be understood that the adapter should have adjacent surfaces (or outer surfaces) to allow for more than one orthogonal orientation. These adjacent surfaces can then be mounted to the same recessed surface to maintain similar cut edge positions.

[0151] Finally, refer to Figures 6A to 6C An example of constructing a tool component 100 for two different orthogonal orientations is shown.

[0152] The tool assembly 100 includes a retainer 102 and at least one (and in the example shown, two) cutting blades 104, 106, which are identical but are referred to herein as X-axis cutting blade 104 and Y-axis cutting blade 106 for illustrative purposes.

[0153] X-axis cutting blade 104 is fixed in X-axis blade recess 105. Figure 6C And the Y-axis cutting blade 106 is fixed in the Y-axis blade recess 107. Figure 6D ).

[0154] Preferably, the retainer includes a handle portion 108 and a head portion 110. An X-axis recess 105 and a Y-axis recess 107 are both formed on the head portion 110 and open toward the end surface 120 of the head portion 110. However, the X-axis recess seating surface 105A and the Y-axis recess seating surface 107A face in different orthogonal directions.

[0155] The external rib 112 (preferably extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis AL of the handle portion 108) provides a stop function between the head portion 110 and the handle portion 108.

[0156] exist Figure 6BIn this cutting configuration, the X-axis cutting blade 104 is oriented to machine the workpiece 114 along the direction marked "X". In this cutting configuration, the resulting first cutting force FX (i.e., the majority of the cutting force portion tangential to the workpiece 114; note that the total cutting force is directed slightly more towards the shank portion 108) experienced by the operable X-axis cutting blade 104 is directed transversely to the mating direction D1 (basically from the head portion 110 towards the machine mating portion held therein in the shank portion 108). Figure 6A As seen in the image, the docking direction D1 extends approximately along the length of the handle portion 108.

[0157] exist Figure 6C In this cutting configuration, the Y-axis cutting blade 106 is oriented to machine the workpiece 116 along the direction labeled "Y". In this cutting configuration, the resulting second cutting force FY (i.e., the majority of the cutting force portion tangential to the workpiece 114) experienced by the operable Y-axis cutting blade 106 is directed parallel to the direction D1 from the head portion toward the machine docking portion held therein by the shank portion 108. And again, as... Figure 6C As seen in the diagram, direction D1 extends generally along the length of the handle portion 108. In some embodiments, D1 may extend in a rearward direction DR.

[0158] Since the X-axis blade recess 105 and the Y-axis blade recess 107 are positioned far apart from each other, in this preferred embodiment, they can be simultaneously mounted to the retainer 102 at opposite corners on the diameter of the head portion 110, and workpieces 114, 116 can be machined even if only one of the two blades will be operational at any given time.

[0159] If machining along two orientations in a single mounting is not required, the retainer 102 may optionally have only a single cutting blade mounted thereto, such as Figure 6D and Figure 6E As shown in the image.

Claims

1. A method of clamping an adapter to a retainer, the retainer including individual adapter recesses configured to retain the adapter along a first orientation and a second orientation, each individual adapter recess being configured to machine a workpiece along one of two different orthogonal directions, the two different orthogonal directions being a Y-axis supply direction and an X-axis supply direction, the method comprising the steps of: (a) Select the first orthogonal direction; (b) Secure the adapter to the adapter recess along the first orientation for machining along a selected first orthogonal direction; (c) Machining the workpiece in the first machining step without first providing more than one offset to a CNC machine tool operatively connected to the retainer; as well as (d) Remove the adapter; and subsequently (e) Secure the adapter in the second of the two orientations to further machine the workpiece in a second machining step, again without providing more than one offset to the CNC machine tool. The adapter includes a blade recess and a cutting blade mounted to the blade recess, and the method further includes, during step (e), moving the retainer along a second orthogonal direction to machine the workpiece via the cutting blade using the adapter. When machining with the adapter in the first orientation, the workpiece is rotated in the first rotation direction, and when machining with the adapter in the second orientation, the workpiece is rotated in the opposite second direction.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The method further includes: moving the retainer along the first orthogonal direction to machine the workpiece via the adapter using the cutting blade.

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The machining along the first orthogonal direction and the second orthogonal direction is performed using the same cutting tool recess.

4. The method according to claim 1, wherein, After the adapter is removed from the adapter recess, but before it is secured back into the adapter recess along the second orientation, a two-step sequence of one rotation and one flip of the adapter is performed.

5. The method according to claim 1, wherein, After the adapter is removed from the adapter recess, but before the adapter is secured to the adapter recess along the second orientation, the foremost cutting edge of the cutting blade remains in a single position, and the cutting blade and the adapter to which it is secured are rotated 180° about a diagonal plane or bisector extending through the foremost cutting edge of the cutting blade.

6. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The adapter is secured to the adapter recess, and the adapter recess includes a plurality of holes: wherein the method includes securing the adapter to the adapter recess along the first orientation using fewer than all of the plurality of holes.

7. The method according to claim 6, wherein, After the adapter is secured to the adapter recess along the first orientation, the adapter is removed, and then secured to the adapter recess along the second orientation using fewer than all of the plurality of holes, and without using at least one of the plurality of holes used to secure the adapter to the first orientation.

8. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The adapter is secured to the adapter recess, and wherein: the adapter includes an adapter recess; the adapter recess includes a recess protrusion for preventing the adapter from being installed in the adapter recess along the second orientation; and the method includes securing the adapter to the adapter recess, wherein the recess protrusion protrudes into the adapter recess.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein, The adapter recess is the blade recess of the adapter.

10. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The adapter includes a plurality of blade recesses and further includes: performing machining along at least one of the first orthogonal direction and the second orthogonal direction by using two or more of the plurality of blade recesses.

11. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The first and second machining steps are performed in the X-axis direction feed without first providing any offset to the CNC machine tool operatively connected to the retainer.

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