gripping arrangement

Abstract

The present invention relates to a clamping arrangement having a clamping device (1) capable of being fastened to a clamping base, and having a clamping element (26) capable of being tensioned on the clamping device (1). The clamping device (1) has a clamping module (2) provided with a clamping member (15), which can be fixed to the clamping base by means of a fixing element (3), wherein the fixing element (3) is configured such that the clamping module (2) is thus fixed to the clamping base in a floating manner in the X-Y plane. The clamping module (2) is capable of displacement in the X-Y plane relative to the fixing element (3) in the fixed state, but cannot be displaced in the Z direction, wherein the fixing element (3) is provided with a Z-support surface (24) for clamping the element (26).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a clamping arrangement constructed according to the present invention. Background Technology

[0002] The type of clamping arrangement discussed herein is used for tensioning of clamping elements by means of the position defined by the clamping device. Here, the corresponding clamping device is often firmly mounted on the clamping base (e.g., on the machine table of the processing machine), while one or more clamping elements are generally arranged on the workpiece carrier (pallet).

[0003] To enable the precise positioning and tensioning of large workpiece carriers, clamping systems are generally used. These systems typically consist of several clamping devices mounted on a clamping base, with a corresponding number of clamping elements mounted on the workpiece carrier. The problem with such clamping systems is that they must compensate for dimensional variations in the workpiece carrier relative to the clamping base. Furthermore, it is crucial to ensure that the clamping system is not subjected to excessive geometrical / mechanical constraints in the XY plane.

[0004] In order to absorb dimensional changes of the workpiece carrier relative to the clamping base, prior art reveals zero-point clamping systems with clamping chucks for tensioning clamping bolts, wherein the clamping chuck is provided with conical mounting members that are elastically mounted in the radial direction for clamping the bolts. In such systems, very high manufacturing accuracy of the transverse feed elements relative to each other is necessary.

[0005] To prevent excessive geometric constraints of the type mentioned, a device for position-limiting clamping of a workpiece is known from EP0403428A2. This device has at least two clamping chucks with centering pins, and a corresponding number of upper portions having clamping sockets and capable of tensioning thereon. The upper portions are arranged on a workpiece mount. Each upper portion has a centering slit corresponding to the centering socket. Additionally, each upper portion has a circular clamping socket-tensioning bolt, which can be tensioned in the central mount of the corresponding clamping chuck by means of a clamping ball. Although each clamping chuck has four centering sockets, only one upper portion has a corresponding centering slit. Another upper portion, or correspondingly, several other upper portions, has only two centering slits. Therefore, the position of the workpiece mount will be established with respect to one upper portion along the X and Y directions, while with respect to another upper portion, or correspondingly, several other upper portions, only an angular position about the Z-axis will be established.

[0006] Although such devices have proven themselves in practice, their structure is relatively complex and suitable only in limited ways for the repeatable and accurate tensioning of large and heavy workpiece carriers, especially when the corresponding circular clamping sockets must be positioned very precisely relative to the center of the corresponding clamping chuck and the equally circular mounting parts. Furthermore, dimensional variations of the workpiece carrier relative to the clamping chuck can only be absorbed in a limited manner.

[0007] Furthermore, a quick-clamping device with an exchange cylinder is known from EP1743733A1. Besides the retractable joint to be attached to a tray, the quick-clamping device includes a closed housing that closes from above by means of a cover. The cover has an inlet opening for the retractable joint. Inside the closed housing, a capturing device for the retractable joint is arranged, consisting of a plurality of locking bodies evenly distributed around the circumference. Actuation of the locking bodies is performed via a piston arranged inside the closed housing, which is loaded into a clamping position by means of a spring assembly. An exchange cylinder, constructed in a canister configuration, is received within the closed housing and is mounted in a floating manner. The exchange cylinder is mounted in the XY plane but without play because the piston is guided radially without play within the cover, and the replacement cylinder then receives the piston radially without play.

[0008] EP0818270A1 discloses a clamping device having a clamping element to be arranged on a machine tool and a tool carrier capable of being tensioned thereon. The circular clamping element has a central clamping bolt that is inserted into the base body of the clamping element without play. The circular workpiece carrier has a central opening on its side wall, into which the clamping bolt of the workpiece carrier can engage for tensioning the clamping bolt. The workpiece carrier has an annular, downwardly projecting support member that protects the centering member from damage.

[0009] Finally, DE29802835U1 describes a connector with two connecting parts and a clamping device. For positioning in the XY plane, this connector has an xy reference element arranged at the first connecting part and an xy reference opposite element arranged at the second connecting part. Although the xy reference opposite element arranged at the second connecting part is formed in a fixed manner, the xy reference element arranged at the first connecting part is configured to yield elastically. Through the appropriate design of the elastic reference element, thermal position deviations will be distributed across several shoulders (i.e., the elastic reference element), resulting in the ability to maintain precise tolerances in the location positioning. Summary of the Invention

[0010] The object of the present invention is to produce a clamping arrangement belonging to the technical field mentioned in the introduction, wherein the clamping device is used to receive or compensate for tolerances or corresponding dimensional changes of a workpiece carrier in the XY plane, the workpiece carrier being tensioned by means of a clamping element on the corresponding clamping device or, correspondingly, multiple clamping elements, without the need to provide an elastic centering element, wherein the clamping arrangement will also be particularly suitable as a module for constructing a clamping system.

[0011] The solution to the problem is defined by the features of the present invention. According to the present invention, the clamping arrangement has a clamping device to be fastened to a clamping base, and a clamping element capable of being tensioned on the clamping device, wherein the clamping device has a clamping module provided with clamping members, the clamping module being able to be fixed to the clamping base by means of a fixing element, and wherein the fixing element is configured such that the clamping module can thus be fixed to the clamping base in a displaceable manner in the XY plane.

[0012] The clamping module of the clamping device is fastened to the clamping base in a movable manner in the XY plane by means of a fixing element, which creates a basic premise so that the corresponding clamping device can absorb the dimensional changes of the workpiece carrier to be tensioned on the clamping base.

[0013] Preferred embodiments and further developments of the clamping arrangement are rewritten in this invention.

[0014] Therefore, in a preferred further development, it is specified that the clamping module, in its fixed state with the fixing element in place, can be displaced relative to the fixing element in the XY plane, while in the Z direction, it is received in the fixing element by means of a clearance fit and therefore cannot be displaced substantially in the Z direction. The fixing element is provided with a Z-support surface for the clamping element. This ensures that the clamping module can compensate for tolerances in the XY plane, while transmitting clamping force in the Z direction. Furthermore, the Z-positioning of the clamping element is determined at the immovable fixing element, which can be constructed much more simply to receive high forces in the Z direction compared to the clamping module. Additionally, compared to clamping systems with tapered centering elements, the requirements for manufacturing tolerances are significantly fewer because the lateral feed only needs to be large enough to compensate for the tolerances.

[0015] In a particularly preferred development, the fixing element has a centering groove or a centering protrusion, and the clamping element has a corresponding centering protrusion or a corresponding centering groove for centering the clamping element relative to the fixing element in one direction in the XY plane. This configuration is particularly advantageous for zero-point clamping systems with several clamping arrangements because, by means of the centering element, the displaceability of the clamping module relative to the associated clamping device can be restricted to one direction, so that, by means of the corresponding arrangement of the clamping device and the clamping element, the zero point of the clamping system is always in the same position, regardless of the displaceability of the corresponding clamping module that ultimately achieves very precise clamping.

[0016] Preferably, the clamping module is constructed to be generally cylindrical, and the fixing element is constructed to be generally annular, wherein the clamping module is received in the fixing element in a floating manner with radial clearance in the XY plane. This construction achieves a particularly simple structure for the clamping module in combination with universal applicability. Due to this construction, during assembly, only the centering element of the clamping device must be positioned / aligned at the correct angle, not the clamping module itself.

[0017] In a particularly preferred development, the clamping module has a circumferential shoulder on its outer side, and the fixing element has a recess on its inner side constructed in a manner corresponding to the circumferential shoulder, wherein the outer diameter of the shoulder is at least 0.2 mm smaller than the diameter of the recess, particularly at least 0.5 mm. The difference between the outer diameter of the shoulder and the diameter of the recess determines the maximum displacement of the clamping module in the fixed state in the XY plane. This configuration can be implemented simply and economically.

[0018] The clamping module is preferably received in the fixing element along the Z-direction by means of a clearance fit, particularly by adapting the height of the shoulder to the height of the recess, such that a clearance fit is formed between the shoulder and the recess along the Z-direction. With this configuration, regardless of the displacement of the clamping module in the XY plane, it can be ensured that the clamping module is supported in the fixing element along the Z-direction in a form-fit manner, and high clamping force can be transmitted.

[0019] A further preferred development specifies that the clamping module has a plurality of clamping members arranged circumferentially, and the clamping elements have an annular circumferential clamping surface on their inner sides, with the clamping members abutting against this annular circumferential clamping surface for tensioning. This configuration is particularly advantageous for transmitting high clamping forces because the clamping module arranged circumferentially can have a very large number of clamping members, approximately 10 to 20, and the clamping module can have correspondingly large clamping surfaces.

[0020] Particularly preferably, the clamping module has a spring-loaded actuating piston, which is axially movably arranged inside the clamping module to actuate the clamping components. This configuration is simple to implement and enables reliable functioning of the clamping device.

[0021] Most particularly preferably, the actuating piston is pneumatically or hydraulically displaced from an activated position to a starting position, in which the actuating piston is under the action of a spring and presses the clamping member radially outward, and in the starting position, the clamping member is released and can be displaced radially inward. In this configuration, the actuating piston remains in the activated position under the action of the spring in a pressure-free state, so that the corresponding clamping element is securely tensioned on the clamping device, even if, for example, a pressure drop occurs in the pneumatic or hydraulic system, especially when the actuating piston is held in the locked position by means of self-locking.

[0022] Preferably, the actuating piston is operatively connected to an ejector element capable of displacement in the Z direction, which can be moved beyond the upper side of the clamping module by means of the actuating piston. Such an ejector element can function as a shock absorber during the placement of the workpiece carrier. Furthermore, the workpiece carrier can be slightly raised as a result, which is particularly advantageous so that the clamping components can be brought to the initial push-back position by means of the clamping elements.

[0023] In another particularly preferred development of the clamping arrangement, the actuating piston has recesses extending in the Z-direction, which are coordinated with the clamping member such that, in the activated position of the actuating piston, these recesses abut the clamping member at least linearly. Through these recesses, under load, i.e., when a high clamping force acts on the clamping member during tensioning of the clamping element, an enlarged support surface is created between the respective clamping member and the actuating piston, allowing significantly higher forces to be transmitted compared to conventional clamping arrangements (where the clamping balls abut against a flat surface in a point-like manner).

[0024] Preferably, the upper side of the clamping module is constructed in a frustum shape, with an ejector element arranged at the center of the frustum. This construction facilitates the automatic sliding of the corresponding clamping element along the frustum during the placement of the workpiece carrier or the corresponding clamping element, thereby centering the latter relative to the clamping device after rough alignment.

[0025] Another embodiment of the invention relates to a clamping system in which the clamping arrangement constructed according to the invention is arranged in a particularly advantageous manner to form a clamping assembly. Such a clamping system is defined by the features of the invention and is particularly advantageously suited for tensioning large to very large workpiece carriers. The corresponding clamping modules are mounted in the XY plane in a floating or correspondingly displaceable manner, and the corresponding clamping devices are provided with a first centering element, and the associated clamping elements are provided with corresponding additional centering elements for centering the respective clamping elements relative to the clamping devices in a direction in the XY plane. In the case where at least two clamping devices and two clamping elements are arranged in a corresponding manner, the directions in the XY plane are different, and dimensional variations of the workpiece carrier can be absorbed using a consistent zero point and high clamping accuracy.

[0026] Further preferred developments of the clamping system are defined in this invention.

[0027] Therefore, in another preferred development of the clamping system, it is proposed that the clamping base be constructed in a generally rectangular manner and have an even number of clamping devices, wherein the clamping devices are arranged at least in each corner region, and the longitudinal axis of the centering element guiding through the corresponding clamping device arranged in the corner region also guides through the center of the clamping devices that are diagonally opposite each other. This construction produces a very stable clamping system, which can particularly absorb dimensional changes caused by heat in the workpiece carrier.

[0028] In another preferred development of the clamping system, the workpiece carrier is constructed generally in a rectangular manner, and clamping elements are arranged at least in each corner region, wherein the longitudinal axis of the centering element, which guides through the corresponding clamping element arranged in the corner region, also guides through the center of the clamping elements that are diagonally opposite each other. This ensures that the zero point of the clamping system is in a defined position and remains there, even if individual or all clamping modules move to accommodate changes in the dimensions of the workpiece carrier in the XY plane.

[0029] Particularly preferably, the corresponding clamping element is arranged in a recess of the workpiece carrier such that its lower plane is positioned rearward relative to the lower side of the workpiece carrier. In this way, the corresponding clamping element is received in the workpiece carrier in a manner particularly protected from mechanical damage.

[0030] Finally, in this invention, clamping elements are defined as being particularly advantageously suited for use in clamping arrangements or clamping systems according to the invention. Such clamping elements are robust, simple to construct, and economically producible.

[0031] Further advantageous embodiments and combinations of features of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description. Attached Figure Description

[0032] The accompanying drawings, used to explain the example embodiments, illustrate:

[0033] Figure 1 A perspective view shows the clamping arrangement consisting of clamping devices and clamping elements;

[0034] Figure 2 The exploded diagram shows the following based on Figure 1 A separate part of the clamping device;

[0035] Figure 3 The clamping device and clamping elements are shown in cross-sectional view;

[0036] Figure 4 A cross-section is shown through the clamping device in the starting position, together with the clamping element, which is loosely placed on the clamping device and secured to the workpiece carrier.

[0037] Figure 5 A cross-section is shown through the clamping device together with the clamping element, which is tensioned on the clamping device and secured to the workpiece carrier;

[0038] Figure 6 The clamping system is shown in perspective, having four clamping devices constructed according to the present invention;

[0039] Figure 7 The clamping system is shown in perspective, having three clamping devices constructed according to the present invention;

[0040] Figure 8 An alternative example embodiment of the clamping device together with the workpiece carrier is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0041] Figure 1 The clamping arrangement is shown in perspective. The clamping arrangement includes a clamping device 1 (also designated as a clamping chuck) and a clamping element 26 (capable of being tensioned on the clamping device 1). The clamping device 1 is fastened to a clamping base, such as a machine table, and the clamping element 26 is arranged on a tray serving as a workpiece carrier or tool carrier. The fastening of the clamping device 1 to the clamping base and the fastening of the clamping element 26 to the workpiece carrier occur by means of a plurality of screws 30, 31, some of which are shown by reference. The clamping device 1 includes a clamping module 2 and a fixing element 3. The fixing element 3 is used for the floating fastening of the clamping module 2 to the clamping base, allowing it to still be displaced in the XY plane after the fixing element is installed. In practice, the clamping module 2 is fastened to the clamping base / machine table by means of the fixing element 3, such that it can be approximately [percentage missing] relative to the fixing element 3 in the XY plane formed by the upper side of the clamping base. Movement from 0.1mm to 1mm. Depending on the embodiment, for example, at most approximately A further movement of 2 mm is also possible. More detailed explanation follows. The clamping module 2 is provided with a plurality of clamping components 15 arranged in the form of clamping balls along the circumference, by means of which the clamping element 26 can be tensioned on the clamping device 1. The fixing element 3, constructed generally in a ring-like manner, is provided with two centering grooves 23 that are diametrically opposed to each other. The two centering grooves 23 are constructed and arranged to correspond to two centering protrusions 28 arranged on the clamping element 26. These centering elements achieve alignment of the clamping element 26 during tensioning on the clamping device 1 in one direction.

[0042] By means of the exploded view showing the basic independent parts of the clamping device 1 Figure 2 To explain the structure of the clamping device 1 in more detail, viewed from bottom to top, the clamping module 2 includes an actuating piston 4, three compression springs 8, inserts 9, three push rods 10, a retaining ring 11, a clamping housing 13 (which has radial openings 14 for receiving clamping members 15), and an ejector element 19. The actuating piston 4, arranged inside the clamping housing 13, has an annular groove 5 into which the clamping members 15 can extend about their inner sides. In each case, the groove 5 is defined on both sides by an inclined annular surface. Above the groove 5, a pressure surface 6 is arranged to extend along the outer circumference of the actuating piston 4, thus decreasing in diameter downwards. The pressure surface 6 is used to actuate the clamping members 15 by pressing them outwards (i.e., pressing them out of the clamping housing 13) when the actuating piston 4 descends. An axially (i.e., in the Z direction) recess 7 enters the pressure surface 6, which coordinates with the clamping member 15 such that when a high clamping force is transmitted, an enlarged support surface is created between the corresponding clamping member 15 and the actuating piston 4, so that a higher clamping force can be transmitted compared to a conventional clamping arrangement (in which the clamping ball abuts against a flat clamping surface in a point-like manner).

[0043] The clamping housing 13 has a shoulder 16 that surrounds the lower side in an annular manner. The shoulder 16 is used to clamp the housing 13 or correspondingly the clamping module 2 to be fixed to the clamping base by means of the fixing element 3. The upper side of the clamping housing 13 is constructed in a frustum shape to form a tapered centering surface 18. A central opening 17 enters the frustum-shaped upper side of the clamping housing 13 and is used to receive an ejector element 19. The ejector element 19, arranged at the center of the frustum, has a tapered upper side that is at least partially adapted to the shape and inclination of the frustum-shaped upper side of the clamping housing 13. Therefore, the frustum-shaped upper side of the clamping housing 13, together with the ejector element 19, forms a large centering surface for the corresponding clamping element placed on the clamping module 2.

[0044] The fixing element 3 has a circumferential recess 21 on its inner side, which coordinates with the shoulder 16 of the clamping housing 13. Along the Z-direction, the recess 21 is defined upwardly by an inwardly extending protrusion 22, which forms a Z-stop for the shoulder 16. The recess 21 has a diameter slightly larger than the shoulder 16 of the clamping housing 13 to allow the clamping module 2 to float or be correspondingly displaced and fixed in the XY plane, as explained more closely below. On its upper side, the fixing element 3 has a raised support surface, which serves as a Z-support for the lower plane of the clamping element. When the fixing element 3 abuts its large lower surface against the clamping base, it can receive high clamping forces acting on the support surface along the Z-direction with a simple structure. In any case, providing such a Z-support surface to the clamping module 2 for the workpiece carrier or clamping element 26 would be significantly more complex. Additionally, two centering grooves 23 that enter the fixing element 3 and are in a state of being opposite each other in diameter can be seen.

[0045] Figure 3 A cross-section is shown through the clamping element 26 (in the region of its centering protrusion 28) and the clamping device 1 in the locked state. The clamping module 2 is fixed to the clamping base 50, shown only by means of the fixing element 3. In the fixed state, the annular shoulder 16 of the clamping module 2 extends radially into the recess 21 of the fixing element 3. However, there is a so-called "clearance fit" between the upper side of the shoulder 16 and the upper wall of the recess 21 into the fixing element 3, that is, a very small distance (about a few micrometers) is provided between the upper side of the shoulder 16 and the upper boundary of the recess 21. For example, according to ISO H7 / g6, a circumferential clearance S exists radially with respect to the centering clamping module 2 between the lateral surface of the shoulder 16 and the lateral wall of the recess 21 into the fixing element. The gap S makes it possible for the clamping module 2 to be displaced radially (i.e., in the XY plane) from the central position shown here in all directions by the size of the gap S, which in this case is also partly specified as a floating mount. The size of the gap S determines the maximum displacement path of the clamping module 2 relative to the fixing element 3. Preferably, the gap S is at least 0.1 mm in total, allowing the clamping module to be displaced from the central position in the XY plane by at least... 0.1mm. However, floating mounting should not be understood as meaning a mounting in which the clamping module can be displaced in all directions (i.e., by 360°), but rather as an area sufficient (if applicable) to limit displaceability or, consequently, to float, in extreme cases, to limit that area to one direction. For medium-sized clamping devices, the outer diameter of the shoulder 16 is approximately 0.2mm to 1mm smaller than the inner diameter of the recess 21 in the fixing element 3, so that the clamping module can be radially displaced from its central position in the XY plane by approximately 0.1mm and 0.5mm. Medium-sized is understood to mean clamping device 1, whose clamping module 2 has a diameter between approximately 8cm and 12cm and a height between approximately 5cm and 8cm. The size of the gap S, or correspondingly, the difference between the outer diameter of the shoulder 16 and the inner diameter of the recess 21, depends particularly on the size of the respective clamping device, especially when different sizes are available for workpiece carriers of different sizes. It will be understood that, in absolute terms, larger workpiece carriers are also subject to larger dimensional changes, particularly thermally induced dimensional changes. Another criterion for the size of the gap S can also depend on the materials used for the workpiece carrier and the clamping base, especially when the different materials have largely different coefficients of thermal expansion. This is, for example, in cases where the clamping base is made of steel and the workpiece carrier is made of aluminum, as frequently occurs in practice. Therefore, it is entirely possible, in some embodiments, to provide a gap S greater than 1 mm. For example, in certain structural configurations, particularly in very large embodiments, a gap S of approximately, at most about 2 mm, can be provided, which corresponds to... Possible displacement path of clamping module 2 relative to fixed element 3, 2mm.

[0046] An actuating piston 4, disposed inside the clamping module 2, is capable of axial displacement (i.e., along the Z-direction) between an upper starting position and a lower locked position (shown here). In this example, the actuating piston 4 is in its downwardly displaced locked position under the action of a compression spring. During descent, the actuating piston 4 presses the clamping member 15 radially outward by its pressure surface 6, which is arranged on the outer side and widens upward in a slightly tapered manner. A lifting surface 6a extends below the actual pressure surface 6 and forms a small angle with the horizontal plane compared to the pressure surface 6. The lifting surface 6a causes: in the first stage, during the descent of the actuating piston 4, the clamping member 15 is rapidly displaced radially or correspondingly outwardly away through the path (stroke) of the actuating piston 4, while in the second stage, only a relatively small radial displacement of the clamping member 15 is caused through the path (stroke) of the actuating piston 4 via the pressure surface 6. In addition, the geometry of the pressure surface 6 is designed so that the actuating piston 4 is held in the locked position by means of self-locking. Compared to conical centering elements that must be coordinated with each other with great precision, this type of construction, which combines two-stage "lateral feed" with the floating mounting of the corresponding clamping modules, places less demand on the manufacturing tolerances of the elements, which are crucial for centering.

[0047] In addition, according to Figure 3In the cross-sectional view, it can be seen that the hydraulic line 33 and the pneumatic line 36 are guided from below to the interior of the clamping module 2 above the axis of the insert 9. The hydraulic connection line 33a, or correspondingly the pneumatic connection line 36a, which guides through the clamping base 50 is only shown by indication. In any case, the two connection lines 33a, 36a are configured such that they also achieve a tight connection in the event of radial displacement of the clamping module 2 within the outlined frame. The hydraulic line 33 extends radially to an annular space 34 arranged above the central portion of the actuating piston 4, which can be hydraulically operated at excessive pressure. The pneumatic line 36 is connected to a plurality of cleaning openings 37 through which air can be blown for cleaning of the opposing surfaces. The discharge openings 37a, which are enlarged in diameter, enter a lateral surface of a centering groove 23. When the pressure drops rapidly in the pneumatic line via such discharge opening 37a, and when the discharge opening 37a is not closed / sealed by the centering protrusion, it can be particularly used to detect the presence of a workpiece carrier equipped with clamping element 26 and to securely tension it on clamping device 1. Furthermore, the enlarged discharge opening 37a with a diameter of at least 2 mm has the advantage that it is less prone to contamination and almost unblocked compared to a relatively small opening with a diameter of, for example, less than 1.5 mm. Additionally, the hydraulic line 35 is guided to the pressure chamber 32 located below the actuating piston 4 via an indicator line. On the upper side of clamping module 2, a tapered centering surface 18 can be seen. Also visible are one of the three push rods 10 and one of the three compression springs. The corresponding tappet 10's shaft portion is received in an opening 38 in the actuating piston 4, the depth of which is configured such that, as the actuating piston 4 rises, the end of the tappet shaft stands fully on the base of the opening 38 only at the end of the upward guiding movement, and the ejector element 19 is pressed by the actuating piston 4 with respect to the final portion of its upward lifting movement. To move the actuating piston 4 upward to the starting position, the pressure chamber 32 below the actuating piston 4 is hydraulically actuated with excessive pressure, causing the actuating piston 4 to move upward in opposition to the forces of the three compression springs.

[0048] Compared to clamping systems with clamping sockets arranged on the workpiece carrier and clamping chucks constructed in a manner corresponding to these clamping sockets, a significantly higher clamping force can be achieved using the clamping arrangement constructed according to the invention. This is because the annularly constructed clamping element 26, which radially surrounds the clamping module 2, has a significantly larger clamping surface, especially when the cylindrical clamping module 2 has a relatively large outer diameter and significantly more clamping members 15 compared to a conventional clamping chuck. Furthermore, the individual clamping members 15 can transmit higher forces by entering the recess of the actuating piston 4.

[0049] Figure 4A cross-section is shown through the clamping device in its initial position, along with a clamping element 26 loosely placed on it, arranged in a stepped recess 45 of the workpiece carrier 44. The lower plane of the clamping element 26, which serves as a Z-support, and its centering protrusion 28 are positioned rearward relative to the lower side 48 of the workpiece carrier 44. Thus, the corresponding clamping element 26 is received in a protected manner within the workpiece carrier 44. To precisely align the fixing element 3 relative to the clamping base 50 before tightening, a pin 42 is provided, which is inserted into corresponding blind openings in the fixing element 3 and the clamping base 50. Similarly, a pin 43 is provided for centering the clamping element 26 relative to the workpiece carrier 44. A conventional screw connection is provided to fasten the fixing element 3 to the clamping base 50; however, this conventional screw connection is not shown in more detail. The clamping element 26 is also fastened to the workpiece carrier 44 using screws (not shown in more detail). To move the actuating piston 4 to the upper starting position shown here, the pressure chamber 32 below the actuating piston 4 is placed under excessive pressure. Regarding the upward guiding movement of the actuating piston 4, the corresponding push rod 10 stands on the base of the opening in the actuating piston 4 shortly before the end of the upward movement and participates in the final portion of the upward movement. Thus, the push rod 10 presses the ejector element 19 approximately 1 mm above the upper side of the clamping housing 13, thereby placing the ejector element 19 itself on the base of the stepped recess 45 and supporting the workpiece carrier 44 in the Z direction or slightly raising the workpiece carrier 44.

[0050] In the raised state, the annular groove 5 of the actuating piston 4 is located at the height of the clamping member 15, thereby allowing the clamping member 15 to be moved inward back into the annular groove 5 so that, in the initial state of the clamping device 1 shown here, the clamping element 26 can be placed on the clamping device 1 and can also be removed.

[0051] The workpiece carrier 44, when placed onto the clamping device 1, abuts against the ejector element 19 by both the depth of the recess 45 and the height of the step 46 in coordination with the clamping device 1 and the clamping module 2. In practice, the ejector element 19 abuts against the base of the stepped recess 45 in the workpiece carrier 44 before the clamping element 26 is finally centered by its protrusion and thus engages in the groove of the clamping device in the XY plane. In any case, the elements (workpiece carrier 44, recess 45, clamping element 26, and clamping device 1 / ejector element 19) are coordinated with each other such that, in the loosely placed state of the workpiece carrier 44, the Z-support 24 of the clamping device 1 ( Figure 1 ) and the lower side 29 of the plane of the clamping element 26 Figure 1There is a gap of approximately 1 mm between them. Here, the protrusion of the clamping element 26 engages in the groove of the clamping device 1, and the clamping element 26 is roughly centered relative to the clamping device 1 in the XY plane. By inserting the clamping element 26 into the recess of the workpiece carrier 44, and with the lower side of the plane used for Z-centering set rearward relative to the lower side 49 of the workpiece carrier 44, the clamping element 26 is well protected from external influences (such as mechanical damage). Instead of the continuous lower side 29, the clamping element 26 may also have only a partially planar surface portion.

[0052] Figure 5 The clamping device 1 is shown in the locked position, together with the workpiece carrier 44 tensioned thereon by means of the clamping element 26. To move the actuating piston 4 from the initial position to the locked position shown, excessive pressure in the pressure chamber 32 is reduced, causing the actuating piston 4 to move downward under the action of the compression spring 8. Here, the actuating piston presses the clamping member 15 radially outward, wherein its external pressure surface 6 is slightly tapered upward. The clamping members 15 place themselves on the annular circumferential clamping surface 27 of the clamping element 26. Figure 3 The clamping element 26 is pulled downward along the Z direction until the lower side of the plane of the clamping element 26 is adjacent to the Z support member 24 of the clamping device 1. Figure 1 As the ejector element 19 does not automatically move to its lower rest position when the actuating piston 4 descends, the ejector element 19 is pressed down by the base of the recess 45 in the workpiece carrier 44, especially when the push rod 10 is no longer standing on the base of the opening 38 in the actuating piston 4 and can move down together with the ejector element 19.

[0053] When the clamping element 26 is tensioned on the clamping device 1, the protrusion of the clamping element 26 abuts against the groove of the clamping device, and the clamping element 26 is precisely centered relative to the clamping device 1 in the XY plane. Preferably, the clamping element 26 rests on the Z-support member 24 of the clamping device 1 on its lower side. Figure 1 Before the clamping element 26 is placed on the Z-support 24, i.e., when there is still a gap of about a few micrometers to a few hundredths of a millimeter between the lower side of the clamping element 26 and the Z-support 24, the socket-groove centering elements coordinate with each other such that the two lateral surfaces of the centering socket abut against the two groove walls of the corresponding centering groove. Therefore, fine centering between the clamping element 26 and the clamping device 1 is completed before the clamping element 26 abuts against the Z-support of the clamping device.

[0054] In order to enable the centering process to be completed in the Z direction, the elements of the clamping arrangement 1 (which are fundamental to the function) are coordinated with each other in size and shape, such that the removal of the gap between the lower plane of the clamping element 26 and the Z support 24 of the clamping device 1 can be achieved by utilizing the material elasticity in the areas of the centering socket and the centering groove. Therefore, it is not necessary to provide a spring-elastic yielding element in the Z direction (as is mainly present in clamping systems constructed according to the prior art).

[0055] After the clamping element 26 is tensioned on the clamping device 1, the clamping force can be additionally increased by high-pressure hydraulic or pneumatic action through the annular space 34 above the actuating piston 4. A high clamping force is maintained even after the removal of excessive hydraulic or pneumatic pressure when the actuating piston 4 is held in the locked position by means of self-locking.

[0056] The cleaning openings (including enlarged discharge openings) supplied via the pneumatic line 36 are arranged such that they are closed / sealed when the clamping element 26 is tensioned onto the clamping device 1 by means of the clamping element 26 or its corresponding centering element. This makes it possible to determine, by monitoring the pressure or airflow in the pneumatic line 36, whether the clamping element 26 is present and (if applicable) securely tensioned.

[0057] Figures 1 to 5 The clamping arrangement 1 shown forms the base element for forming a clamping system, by which large and / or heavy workpieces or corresponding workpiece carriers can be tensioned in the working area of ​​a processing machine (e.g., a milling machine, grinding machine, etching machine, or lathe). Under the term "large" or "correspondingly very large" workpiece carriers, these carriers are typically understood to have dimensions between approximately 0.5m and 2m. Workpieces with a total weight of up to several thousand kilograms can be secured to such workpiece carriers. In any case, such clamping arrangements form modular components, by means of which large to very large clamping systems can be realized.

[0058] Figure 6 A first example embodiment of such a clamping system is shown, having four clamping devices 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d arranged on a clamping base 50 of a clamping assembly, and four clamping elements 26a, 26b, 26c, 26d arranged on a workpiece carrier 44. As shown, the X and Y axes extend parallel to the upper side / surface of the clamping base 50, while the Z direction extends perpendicular to it. Therefore, the XY plane of the clamping arrangement is defined by the upper side / surface of the clamping base 50.

[0059] Four clamping devices 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d are arranged on the upper side of the clamping base 50, and four clamping elements 26a, 26b, 26c, 26d are fastened in corresponding recesses 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d in the workpiece carrier 44. The clamping base 50 may also be, for example, a table for a processing machine. Both the clamping devices 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d and the clamping elements 26a, 26b, 26c, 26d are constructed according to the previously explained exemplary embodiment. The workpiece carrier 44 has a continuous planar lower side 48. The upper side of the clamping base 50 then forms an XY plane here. The advantage of the corresponding clamping modules 2a-2d floating or correspondingly movable fixed in the XY plane is particularly advantageous in the case of clamping assemblies including three or more clamping devices. However, in each of the four clamping devices 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d, the corresponding clamping modules 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d are mounted in a floating manner, and the four clamping elements 26a, 26b, 26c, 26d are firmly and immovably connected to the workpiece carrier 44. When the clamping devices 1a-1c; 1b-1d, or correspondingly the fixing elements 3a-3b; 3c-3d, are in a diagonally opposite state, the centering grooves are respectively located on the common longitudinal axis central axes L1, L2, while when the clamping elements 26a-26c; 26b-26d are in a diagonally opposite state, their centering protrusions 28a-28c; 28b-28d are located on the common longitudinal axis central axes M1, M2, wherein… The four clamping devices 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d, or correspondingly, the centering grooves 23a, 23b, 23c, 23d of the fixing elements 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, are arranged in positions and alignments corresponding to the clamping elements 26a, 26b, 26c, 26d (which include their centering protrusions 28a, 28b, 28c, 28d) so that the workpiece carrier 44 is aligned in the X, Y, and Z directions when tensioned by means of the four clamping devices 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d. When the clamping modules 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d are received in a floating manner in the fixing elements 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d in the radial direction or correspondingly in the XY plane, these variations in the length of the workpiece carrier 44 relative to the clamping base 50 can receive / compensate for up to a specified measurement value. However, it should be noted that during installation, the distance between the respective centers (intermediates) of the fixing elements 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d fastened to the clamping base 50 is laterally and diagonally aligned as accurately as possible with the distance between the respective centers of the clamping elements 26a, 26b, 26c, 26d fastened to the workpiece carrier 44, so that the clamping modules 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d can compensate for dimensional changes (expansion or corresponding contraction) of the workpiece carrier 44 with respect to the clamping base 50 in the radial direction (i.e., in the XY plane). In this way, a self-centering clamping system is achieved, in which excessive mechanical constraint in the XY plane is prevented.The actuating piston is provided with two stages of "lateral feed" via clamping module 2 or correspondingly, and the corresponding clamping module 2 is mounted in a floating manner in the XY plane, with relatively small requirements set for the manufacturing tolerances of the key components used for clamping and centering (i.e., clamping module 2 together with fixing element 3 and clamping element 26).

[0060] When mounting clamping devices 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d on the clamping base 50 and clamping modules 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d on the workpiece carrier 44, it is important to note that the clamping base 50 and the workpiece carrier 44 have approximately the same temperature, so that dimensional changes, for example, caused by heat in the workpiece carrier 44, can be absorbed / compensated in both directions. The zero point in this type of clamping system is located at the intersection P of the central axes L1, L2 of the two longitudinal axes of the clamping devices 1a, 1c; 1b, 1d, which are diagonally opposite each other on the clamping base 50. In any case, if the corresponding clamping modules will move in a predetermined direction in the XY plane, the zero point P does not move, for example, to receive dimensional changes caused by heat in the workpiece carrier 44, so that, with respect to a given zero point, the workpiece carrier 44 can be repeatedly and accurately tensioned on the clamping base 50. Tests show that approximately... Repeatability of 5 micrometers when tensioning workpiece carrier 33.

[0061] In the case of a square clamping base, such as Figure 6 As shown, the centering elements (centering grooves) of adjacent clamping devices are rotated approximately 90° relative to each other, and the longitudinal central axes L1, L2 intersect each other at an angle of 90°. This also applies to square workpiece carriers, where the centering elements (centering protrusions) of adjacent clamping elements are similarly rotated approximately 90° relative to each other. In the case of rectangular rather than square clamping bases, the intersection angle of the longitudinal central axes L1, L2 is approximately off-center from 90°.

[0062] The clamping modules 2a-2c of the clamping devices 1a-1d are provided with a large-area conical centering surface 18. Figure 3The positioning of the workpiece carrier 44 relative to the clamping base 50 is relatively simple because, given the average size of the corresponding clamping arrangement, its clamping module 2 has a diameter of approximately 8 to 12 cm. The corresponding clamping element 26 itself is centered relative to the relevant clamping device until a lateral offset of at most approximately 2 cm is achieved. Therefore, before being fully positioned, the workpiece carrier 44 only needs to be roughly positioned relative to the clamping base 50, i.e., accurate to approximately 1-2 cm. During descent, fine positioning is then performed by sliding the corresponding clamping elements, along with their lower sides, on the conical centering surface of the corresponding clamping modules 2a-2d until the corresponding clamping elements 26a-26d are concentrically aligned with the relevant clamping modules 2a-2d. During this centering process, the clamping modules 2a-2d can move along a predetermined direction in the XY plane, and by substantially bearing the diagonal distance of the corresponding clamping elements 26a-26c due to their floating mounting, they can be precisely aligned with the corresponding clamping elements 26a-26d. Subsequently, the workpiece carrier 44 can be lowered so that the centering protrusions of the corresponding clamping elements 26a-26d engage in the grooves of the corresponding fixing elements 3a-3d, and are aligned with the workpiece carrier 44 at an accurate angle. When the workpiece carrier 44 is subsequently tensioned, the clamping modules 2a-2d move precisely toward the center of the corresponding clamping elements 26a-26d via the clamping balls (which engage with the corresponding clamping elements 26a-26d), and precise adjustment of the diagonal distance is then performed. Here, the clamping balls of the clamping modules 2a-2d pull the corresponding clamping elements 26a-26d downwards until the corresponding clamping elements 26a-26d are adjacent to the Z-support of the corresponding fixing elements 3a-3c with their lower plane side. The fixing elements 3a-3d are fastened to the clamping base 50, and the corresponding clamping modules 2a-2d are received in the corresponding fixing elements 3a-3d along the Z-direction by means of a clearance fit. The clamping modules 2a-2d do not "turn" upwards when tensioning the workpiece carrier 44, so that a sufficiently high clamping force can be applied and transmitted along the Z-direction. When it is stated that the fixing element 3 is immovable along the Z-direction, this does not mean that it does not yield along the Z-direction within a very small tolerance of a few micrometers; this is caused partly by the clearance of the clearance fit and partly by the elasticity of different components and materials.

[0063] Figure 7An alternative example embodiment of the clamping system is shown, suitable for smaller workpiece carriers. The clamping system has three clamping devices 1a, 1b, 1c arranged on a clamping base 50, and three clamping elements 26a, 26b, 26c arranged on the workpiece carrier 44. The clamping devices 1a, 1b, 1c are evenly distributed on the clamping base such that all three clamping devices 1a, 1b, 1c are equidistant from each other, and the longitudinal axis center axes L1, L2, L3, placed by the centering elements (grooves) of the fixing elements 3a, 3b, 3c arranged on the clamping base, form angles of 120° with each other. In this example, the zero point is located at the intersection of the three longitudinal axis center axes L1, L2, L3. The clamping elements 26a, 26b, 26b arranged on the workpiece carrier 44 are arranged in a manner corresponding to the clamping devices 1a, 1b, 1c of the clamping base 50. In the tensioned state, the longitudinal axis center axes M1, M2, M3 of the workpiece carrier 44, which extends through the centering element (protrusion), extend parallel to the longitudinal axis center axes L1, L2, L3 placed by the centering element (groove) of the fixing element 3a, 3b, 3c.

[0064] The operating mode and according to the workpiece carrier 44 being tensioned on the clamping base 50 or correspondingly on the clamping assembly. Figure 6 The operating modes in the example embodiments are essentially the same, so that they will not be discussed in detail here.

[0065] Figure 8 An alternative example embodiment of a clamping system is shown, which includes a circular clamping base 50a and a circular workpiece carrier 44a. Since both the clamping device and the clamping element are based on... Figure 6 The clamping devices and elements are constructed identically, and therefore share the same reference numerals. The clamping system has four clamping devices 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d and four corresponding clamping elements 26a, 26b, 26c, 26d. The four clamping devices 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d are evenly arranged along a circular line on the clamping base 50a to the clamping assembly, and the four clamping elements 26a, 26b, 26c, 26d are arranged on the workpiece carrier 44a. The X and Y axes also extend parallel to the upper side / surface of the clamping base 50a and form an XY plane, while the Z direction extends perpendicular to it.

[0066] Four clamping devices 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d are arranged on the upper side of the clamping base 50a, preferably in its outer region, i.e., not near the center in any case, while clamping elements 26a, 26b, 26c, 26d are arranged corresponding to it and are received in a protected manner in the corresponding recesses 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d within the workpiece carrier 44. The clamping modules 2a-2d are then mounted in a floating manner in the XY plane. When the clamping devices 1a-1c; 1b-1d, or correspondingly the fixing elements 3a-3c; 3b-3d, are in a state where they are diametrically opposite to each other, the centering grooves 23a-23c; 23b-23d are then located on the common longitudinal axis centerlines L1, L2, and when the clamping elements 26a-26c; 26b-26d are in a state where they are diametrically opposite to each other, their centering protrusions 28a-28c; 28b-28d are located on the common longitudinal axis centerline M1. On M2, the four clamping devices 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d or correspondingly, the centering grooves 23a, 23b, 23c, 23d of the fixing elements 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d are arranged in positions and alignments corresponding to the clamping elements 26a, 26b, 26c, 26d (which include their centering protrusions 28a, 28b, 28c, 28d) so that the workpiece carrier 44a is aligned in the X, Y, and Z directions when tensioned by means of the four clamping devices 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d.

[0067] It also applies here again to the arrangement of the clamping devices 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d in the outer region of the clamping base 50a, which brings advantages: such a clamping arrangement can receive both very high torsional moments and very high tilting moments.

[0068] The longitudinal axis centers L1 and L2 of the corresponding centering elements (centering grooves 23a, 23b, 23c, 23d) that guide through the clamping modules 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d intersect at the center P1 of the clamping base 50a, while the longitudinal axis centers M1 and M2 of the corresponding centering elements (centering protrusions 28a, 28b, 28c, 28d) that guide through the clamping elements 26a, 26b, 26c, 26d intersect at the center P2 of the workpiece carrier 44a.

[0069] If necessary, the circular clamping base can also be combined with a rectangular workpiece carrier, or vice versa.

[0070] It will be understood that the foregoing exemplary embodiments are not to be considered definitive or comprehensive. Therefore, within the scope of this invention, alternatives to those described above are preferred. Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8The example embodiments also allow for clamping systems with more than three or correspondingly four clamping devices. For example, clamping systems with six or eight clamping devices can be formed, wherein in the case of very large clamping systems, the corresponding clamping modules may be able to shift radially (i.e., in the XY plane), if applicable, by more than the aforementioned 0.5 mm. In the case of more than four clamping devices, it is not absolutely necessary for all clamping devices or corresponding clamping elements to have centering elements (centering grooves / centering protrusions), but if applicable, in the case of independent clamping devices and / or clamping elements, centering elements may be omitted so that the corresponding clamping devices perform only the clamping function and not the centering function. The term workpiece carrier does not necessarily refer to an element used to receive the workpiece, but if applicable, tools or other objects may also be fastened thereto, wherein clamping elements (if applicable) may also be directly fastened to the workpiece so that the workpiece itself will be the workpiece carrier. In addition, the workpiece carrier does not have to be circular or rectangular, but can also be, for example, elliptical, hexagonal or octagonal.

[0071] Some advantages of the clamping device or corresponding clamping system constructed according to the present invention can be summarized as follows:

[0072] By using corresponding clamping modules to be installed in a floating manner, it can still be moved after being fixed in the XY plane, and the dimensional changes of the workpiece carrier can be absorbed with very high clamping accuracy.

[0073] The floating installation of the clamping module can prevent excessive mechanical constraint of the clamping system in the XY plane;

[0074] The corresponding clamping module can generate very high clamping and holding forces, and can also accept high lateral forces;

[0075] The clamping device, or corresponding clamping module, is constructed in a simple and compact manner and has a relatively small overall height;

[0076] The clamping element can be mechanically secured to the workpiece carrier;

[0077] By utilizing clamping devices and clamping elements constructed with a modular structure, a clamping system capable of handling very large and heavy workpiece carriers can be realized.

[0078] In addition, very large workpiece carriers can be tensioned on the clamping base with repeatability in the range of approximately 10 to 20 micrometers.

[0079] The clamping device can be easily and quickly arranged on clamping bases with different structures;

[0080] Clamping elements can be easily and quickly arranged on workpiece carriers with different structures;

[0081] The corresponding clamping elements are securely locked by means of mechanically and (if applicable) hydraulically or pneumatically loaded actuating pistons;

[0082] The actuating piston is held in the locked position by means of self-locking, so that the clamping element remains firmly tensioned even in the event of a power failure.

[0083] The compression spring ensures that the clamping force is maintained even when there is no energy.

[0084] The clamping device features a dirt-resistant design and is easy to clean;

[0085] The clamping system is insensitive to length changes caused by the temperature of the workpiece carrier;

[0086] The clamping devices are arranged externally or correspondingly in the corner area, and thus centering and pressing are performed there. In particular, compared with clamping devices arranged closer to the center, both very high torsional moments and very high tilting moments can be received.

[0087] List of reference numerals in the attached diagram:

[0088] 1. Clamping device

[0089] 2. Clamping module

[0090] 3. Fixing components

[0091] 4. Actuating piston

[0092] 5. Annular groove

[0093] 6. Pressure surface

[0094] 7. Axial concave area

[0095] 8. Compression spring

[0096] 9. Insert

[0097] 10. Tappet

[0098] 11. Maintain the ring

[0099] 13. Clamping the housing

[0100] 14. Opening

[0101] 15. Clamping components

[0102] 16. Shoulders

[0103] 17. Center opening

[0104] 18. Conical centering surface

[0105] 19. Ejector element

[0106] 21. Recess (fixed element)

[0107] 22. Protrusion (fixing element)

[0108] 23. Centering groove (fixing element)

[0109] 24. Z-support component (fixed element)

[0110] 26. Clamping element

[0111] 27. Clamping surface

[0112] 28. Centering protrusion

[0113] 29. Lower side of the plane

[0114] 30. Screw clamping device

[0115] 31. Screw clamping element

[0116] 32. Pressure chamber (below the piston)

[0117] 33. Hydraulic line

[0118] 34. Annular space (above the piston)

[0119] 35. Hydraulic supply line

[0120] 36. Aerodynamic lines

[0121] 37. Clean the opening

[0122] 38. Opening

[0123] 39. Pressure chamber above the piston

[0124] 40. Lower clamping module

[0125] 42. Sales base

[0126] 43. Pin workpiece carrier

[0127] 44. Workpiece carrier (pallet)

[0128] 45. Stepped concave portion

[0129] 46. ​​Stairs

[0130] 47.The base of the concave part

[0131] 48. Lower workpiece carrier

[0132] 50. Clamp the base.

Claims

1. A clamping arrangement having a clamping device (1) capable of being fastened to a clamping base (50), and having a clamping element (26) capable of being tensioned on the clamping device (1), characterized in that, The clamping device (1) has a clamping module (2) with a clamping member (15), the clamping module (2) being fixed to the clamping base (50) by means of a fixing element (3), wherein the fixing element (3) is configured such that the clamping module (2) is thus movablely fixed to the clamping base (50) in the XY plane formed by the upper side of the clamping base (50). The fixing element (3) has a centering groove (23) or a centering protrusion, and the clamping element (26) has a centering protrusion (28) or a corresponding centering groove constructed in a manner corresponding to the clamping element (26) for centering the clamping element (26) relative to the fixing element (3) in one direction in the XY plane.

2. The clamping arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that, The clamping module (2) can be displaced relative to the fixing element (3) in the XY plane when the fixing element (3) is in a fixed state, and the clamping module (2) is received in the fixing element (3) in the Z direction by means of clearance fit, and the fixing element (3) is provided with a Z support surface (24) for the clamping element (26).

3. The clamping arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that, The clamping module (2) is generally cylindrical in construction, and the fixing element (3) is generally annular in construction, wherein the clamping module (2) is received in the fixing element (3) in a floating manner with radial clearance in the XY plane.

4. The clamping arrangement according to claim 3, characterized in that, The clamping module (2) has a circumferential shoulder (16) on its outer side, and the fixing element (3) has a recess (21) on its inner side constructed in a manner corresponding to the circumferential shoulder (16), wherein the outer diameter of the shoulder (16) is at least 0.2 mm smaller than the diameter of the recess (21), particularly at least 0.5 mm.

5. The clamping arrangement according to claim 4, characterized in that, The clamping module (2) is received in the fixing element (3) in the Z direction by means of a clearance fit, particularly by means of the height of the shoulder (16) being adapted to the height of the recess (21), such that in the Z direction, a clearance fit is formed between the shoulder (16) and the recess (21).

6. The clamping arrangement according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, The clamping module (2) is provided with a plurality of clamping components (15) arranged in a circular pattern, and the clamping element (26) is provided with an annular circumferential clamping surface (27) on its inner side, and the clamping components (15) are adjacent to the annular circumferential clamping surface (27) for tensioning.

7. The clamping arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The clamping module (2) has a spring-loaded actuating piston (4), which is axially movable inside the clamping module (2) in order to actuate the clamping component (15).

8. The clamping arrangement according to claim 7, characterized in that, The actuating piston (4) is pneumatically or hydraulically displaced from an activated position to a starting position in which the actuating piston (4) is under the action of a spring (8) and, if applicable, additionally hydraulically or pneumatically loaded, and in which the actuating piston (4) presses the clamping member (15) radially outward, and in which the clamping member (15) is released and is able to be displaced radially inward in the starting position, wherein the actuating piston (4) is held in the activated position in particular by means of self-locking.

9. The clamping arrangement according to claim 7, characterized in that, The actuating piston (4) is operatively connected to the ejector element (19), which is displaceable in the Z direction and can move beyond the upper side of the clamping module (2) by means of the actuating piston (4).

10. The clamping arrangement according to claim 7, characterized in that, The actuating piston (4) has a recess (7) extending in the Z direction, which is coordinated with the clamping member (15) such that when the clamping element (26) is tensioned, an enlarged support surface is created between the corresponding clamping member (15) and the actuating piston (4).

11. The clamping arrangement according to claim 9, characterized in that, The upper side of the clamping module (2) is constructed in the form of a truncated body, and the ejection element (19) is arranged at the center of the truncated body.

12. A clamping system comprising a clamping base (50, 50a), a workpiece carrier (44, 44a), and at least three clamping arrangements constructed according to any one of claims 1 to 11, the clamping system having at least three clamping devices (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d) arranged on the clamping base (50, 50a) and a corresponding number of clamping elements (26a, 26b, 26c, 26d) arranged on the workpiece carrier (44, 44a), wherein the upper side of the clamping base (50, 50a) forms the XY plane, characterized in that, The corresponding clamping devices (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d) are provided with first centering elements (23a, 23b, 23c, 23d), and the corresponding clamping elements (26a, 26b, 26c, 26d) are provided with corresponding second centering elements (28a, 28b, 28c, 28d) for centering the corresponding clamping elements (26a, 26b, 26c, 26d) relative to the clamping devices (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d) in a direction in the XY plane, wherein the directions are different in the XY plane for at least two clamping devices (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d) and two clamping elements (26a, 26b, 26c, 26d) arranged in a manner corresponding to them.

13. The clamping system according to claim 12, characterized in that, The clamping base (50) is generally rectangular in shape and has an even number of clamping devices (1a-1d), wherein the clamping devices (1a-1d) are arranged at least in each corner region, and wherein the longitudinal axis of the central axis (L1, L2) of the first centering element (23a-23d) that guides through the respective clamping devices (1a-1d) arranged in the corner region also guides through the center of the clamping devices (1a-1d) that are diagonally opposite each other.

14. The clamping system according to claim 12 or claim 13, characterized in that, The workpiece carrier (44a) is constructed in a generally circular manner and is provided with at least three clamping elements (26a-26d) arranged in its outer region, wherein the clamping elements (26a-26d) are specifically arranged such that the longitudinal axis center axes (M1, M2) of the corresponding second centering elements (28a-28d) that guide through the clamping elements (26a-26d) meet or intersect at the center of the workpiece carrier (44a).

15. The clamping system according to claim 12 or claim 13, characterized in that, The workpiece carrier (44) is generally rectangular in shape, and the clamping elements (26a-26d) are arranged at least in each corner region, wherein the longitudinal axis of the central axis of the second centering element (28a-28d) that guides through the respective clamping elements (26a, 26d) arranged in the corner region also guides through the center of the clamping elements (26a-26c; 26b-26d) that are diagonally opposite to each other.

16. The clamping system according to claim 14, characterized in that, The corresponding clamping elements (26a-26d) are arranged in the stepped recesses (45a-45d) of the workpiece carrier (44,44a) such that their lower plane (29) and the second centering elements (28a-28d) are set rearward relative to the lower plane (48) of the workpiece carrier (44,44a).

17. A clamping element (26a-26d) for use in a clamping arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 11 or in a clamping system according to any one of claims 12 to 16, characterized in that, The clamping element (26) is generally constructed in a ring-shaped manner and has an annular circumferential clamping surface (27) on its inner side. The clamping member (15) can be adjacent to the annular circumferential clamping surface (27) for tensioning, and the clamping element (26) has at least partially a planar underside (29) serving as a Z-support.

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