Positioning device and method for EDM shaping of impeller flow channels in additive manufacturing

Abstract

This invention relates to a positioning device and method for EDM shaping of impeller flow channels in additive manufacturing, belonging to the field of EDM technology. The device includes an operating table, a mounting frame, a positioning adjustment mechanism, a Y-axis moving table assembly, an angle adjustment mechanism, and a clamping and limiting mechanism. The mounting frame is connected to the spindle of a CNC machine tool; the electrode is clamped by an electromagnet of the clamping and limiting mechanism; the rotation drive motor of the positioning adjustment mechanism drives the electrode to rotate evenly in sections; the X-axis motor adjusts the X-axis position of the electrode; the Y-axis motor changes the Y-axis position of the electrode by adjusting the position of the Y-axis movable block; the pitch adjustment motor of the angle adjustment mechanism adjusts the pitch angle of the electrode on the movable frame; through the drive of the motors, the electrode is initially introduced and withdrawn from the blank flow channel, facilitating the EDM CNC machine tool to obtain the initial coordinates of the electrode. Compared with the traditional method of calculating the initial machining position of the electrode using visual image technology, this method has advantages such as strong adaptability, high stability, high efficiency, and low cost.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of electrical discharge machining technology, specifically to a positioning device and method for electrical discharge shaping of impeller flow channels in additive manufacturing. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of electrical discharge machining (EDM) for turbomachinery, particularly for manufacturing irregularly twisted flow channel structures in impeller and bladed disk parts, traditional machining methods often rely on material removal to achieve the final part shape. However, the flow channel space in these parts typically occupies 10% to 50% of the overall volume, leading to significant raw material waste and increased equipment utilization. Given that these parts often use expensive materials such as high-temperature alloys or titanium alloys, the high proportion of material removal further increases production costs. With the increasing application of small and complex structural components in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and wind turbines, the axial thrust requirements for impeller-type parts are often not substantial. Furthermore, considering the manufacturing industry's shift towards sustainable development and environmentally friendly applications, additive manufacturing technology will undoubtedly become a crucial tool in this field. Therefore, when thrust requirements are not extremely stringent, additive manufacturing can be used to first create a blank impeller with a preliminary flow channel structure, which can then be precisely finished using EDM to ensure the flow channel structure meets the necessary precision standards. This machining strategy not only effectively reduces raw material waste and lowers production costs but also improves production efficiency, better adapting to the development trends of the manufacturing industry.

[0003] Additive manufacturing technology can produce parts with complex internal structures and high precision, such as closed turbine disks, impellers, and blades. However, while the flow channels or blades of these parts already have a general outline, problems such as insufficient precision or high surface roughness may occur during additive manufacturing, requiring subsequent shaping and finishing processes such as electrical discharge machining (EDM). In this process, ensuring that the electrode can accurately enter the pre-machined flow channel without damaging the blades of the existing blank part and causing part scrap is key to improving machining accuracy and efficiency. The impeller blank part involved in this patent is a part with a preliminary shape produced using additive manufacturing technology such as 3D printing. Traditionally, impeller parts are mostly processed by forging or casting. The rotating blank of the impeller (without processing of the flow channels and blades) is produced by forging or casting, and then the flow channels are machined using an EDM CNC machine tool to form the blades. In this machining mode, the positioning of the blades mainly relies on axial and radial position references, which are used to accurately determine the relative positions of the blades in the axial and radial directions, thereby ensuring the accuracy of the electrode feed position. Given the characteristics of a rotating body, the axial end face and outer cylindrical profile of the impeller naturally become ideal choices for these two reference points. However, when using additive manufacturing, the blades already possess a certain initial profile. Therefore, the electrode machining starting point must begin from a specific circumferential angle position to avoid accidentally etching away the already formed blade material during the feed process, leading to part scrap. Obtaining accurate initial coordinates for electrode machining before formally machining the additively manufactured blank is a crucial step in ensuring subsequent machining accuracy and finished product quality. Therefore, a positioning device and method for EDM shaping of the flow channel of an additively manufactured impeller is needed to solve the above problems. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide a positioning device and method for EDM shaping of impeller flow channels in additive manufacturing that is highly accurate and easy to use.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: a positioning device for EDM shaping of impeller flow channels in additive manufacturing, comprising, from top to bottom, a mounting frame, a positioning adjustment mechanism, an operating table, an X-axis moving stage assembly, a Y-axis moving stage assembly, an angle adjustment mechanism, and a clamping and limiting mechanism; wherein the operating table is fixedly connected to the mounting frame.

[0006] The positioning and adjustment mechanism includes a rotary drive motor mounted on the operating table via a support base. A connecting block is fixedly connected to the output end of the rotary drive motor. A limiting disk is rotatably connected inside the operating table, and a connecting column is fixedly connected to the bottom of the limiting disk. This facilitates uniform rotation and partitioning of the electrode, allowing for large-angle rotation of the electrode during the positioning process and enabling accurate recording of the rotation angle values. The limiting disk is provided with a positioning groove, which cooperates with the connecting block to ensure greater stability during electrode partitioning.

[0007] The X-axis moving stage assembly includes an X-axis connecting stage fixedly connected to the bottom of the connecting column, and also includes an X-axis bidirectional threaded rod, an X-axis limiting rod, an X-axis motor, and an X-axis movable block. The X-axis bidirectional threaded rod and the X-axis limiting rod are installed within a cavity in the X-axis connecting stage. The X-axis motor is installed at the left or right end of the X-axis connecting stage, and its output shaft is connected to one end of the X-axis bidirectional threaded rod. The X-axis movable block is installed on the X-axis bidirectional threaded rod and the X-axis limiting rod, and is threadedly connected to the X-axis bidirectional threaded rod and slidably connected to the X-axis limiting rod. This facilitates adjusting the relative position of the electrode, adjusting the X-axis orientation of the electrode during its guidance process within the impeller channel, and further effectively recording the initial X-axis coordinate values ​​after electrode adjustment.

[0008] The Y-axis moving stage assembly includes a Y-axis connecting stage fixedly connected below the X-axis movable block, and also includes a Y-axis threaded rod, a Y-axis limiting rod, a Y-axis motor, and a Y-axis movable block. The Y-axis threaded rod and the Y-axis limiting rod are installed within a cavity in the Y-axis connecting stage. The Y-axis motor is installed at the front or rear end of the Y-axis connecting stage, and its output shaft is connected to one end of the Y-axis threaded rod. The Y-axis movable block is installed on the Y-axis threaded rod and the Y-axis limiting rod, and is threadedly connected to the Y-axis threaded rod and slidably connected to the Y-axis limiting rod. This facilitates adjustment of the Y-axis orientation of the electrode during the guiding process within the impeller channel, avoids collisions between the electrode and the blade crown during the guiding process, and further effectively records the initial Y-axis coordinate value after electrode adjustment.

[0009] The angle adjustment mechanism includes a support frame fixedly connected below the Y-axis movable block, a movable frame hinged below the support frame, and a toothed plate fixedly connected inside the movable frame; a worm and a rotating shaft are also installed inside the support frame; a worm wheel and a gear are fixedly connected on the rotating shaft, wherein the worm wheel meshes with the worm and the gear meshes with the toothed plate; a pitch adjustment motor is also fixedly connected to the support frame, the output end of which is connected to one end of the worm, facilitating the adjustment of the pitch angle of the electrode after it is clamped at the top of the movable frame, thereby allowing the electrode to move freely during the guidance process in the flow channel.

[0010] The clamping mechanism includes a connecting frame with mounting slots on both sides and a clamping box at each mounting slot. Inside the clamping box, a sliding block is positioned at each mounting slot, and an electromagnet is positioned at the end furthest from the connecting frame. A spring is positioned between the sliding block and the electromagnet. An adsorption block is also installed on the side of the sliding block opposite the electromagnet. This facilitates sufficient clamping and positioning of the electrode, preventing displacement or detachment during positioning and improving the stability and reliability of the clamping mechanism.

[0011] The X-axis connecting platform is fixedly connected to a support plate for supporting the X-axis bidirectional threaded rod and the X-axis limiting rod. The X-axis connecting platform has a groove at the position corresponding to the X-axis movable block, and the X-axis movable block is slidably connected inside the groove, which facilitates greater stability during the adjustment of the electrode X-axis.

[0012] The Y-axis connecting platform and the Y-axis movable block are respectively provided with a groove, and the Y-axis movable block is slidably connected inside the groove, which facilitates more stable adjustment of the electrode Y-axis.

[0013] The method for initial electrode positioning using the positioning device for EDM shaping of impeller flow channels in additive manufacturing includes the following steps:

[0014] Step 1: Secure the mounting bracket of this positioning device to the CNC machine tool spindle using bolts to establish a coordinate system OXYZ. During operation, the Z-axis direction and distance are adjusted by the spindle. The rotation angle is achieved through the positioning and angle adjustment mechanisms. The X-axis angle and distance are changed by adjusting the X-axis moving stage assembly, and the Y-axis angle and distance are changed by adjusting the Y-axis moving stage assembly.

[0015] Step 2: When the electrode just exits the flow channel, record all values ​​after the device is adjusted, and set the angle of the angle adjustment mechanism to 0. Let the distance between the center of the mounting bracket and the clamping mechanism be z1, the distance between the center of the Y-axis moving stage assembly and the center of the X-axis moving stage assembly be x1, the distance between the angle adjustment mechanism and the center of the Y-axis moving stage assembly be y1, and the counterclockwise rotation angle of the adjustment mechanism be θ1. Then, the initial working coordinates after the electrode positioning is completed should be the combination of the coordinates adjusted by the device of this invention and the initial coordinates of the main shaft. Set the initial coordinates of the main shaft to (x2, y2, z2), and let the initial working coordinates of the electrode positioning be (x0, y0, z0). Then:

[0016]

[0017] z0 = z2 + z1;

[0018] Specifically, when the Y-axis moving stage component is adjusted to the same direction as the Y-axis coordinate axis, the sign is negative; otherwise, it is positive.

[0019] Step 3: Remove the device from the CNC machine tool spindle, install the electrode on the CNC machine tool spindle, operate the CNC machine tool, and move its spindle to the obtained initial position coordinates of the electrode.

[0020] Step 4: Execute the relevant electrode trajectory search G-code program of the CNC EDM machine to complete the subsequent flow channel finishing work.

[0021] The method for locating the initial position of the electrode includes the following steps:

[0022] In step 2, the electrode entering and exiting the flow channel is achieved jointly by controlling the machine tool spindle and this device. This device uses a pitch adjustment motor to rotate the worm gear, which, through worm wheel meshing, causes the rotating shaft and gears to rotate together. The gears then mesh with the gear plate, causing the gear plate to rotate, thus allowing the movable frame to rotate outside the support frame. A rotary drive motor rotates the connecting block, causing the limiting disc to rotate inside the operating table, thereby rotating the connecting column. An X-axis motor rotates the X-axis bidirectional threaded rod, which, in conjunction with the X-axis limiting rod, moves the X-axis movable block. A Y-axis motor rotates the Y-axis threaded rod, which, in conjunction with the Y-axis limiting rod, moves the Y-axis movable block. The clamping mechanism is moved in the above manner. Compared with the prior art, this invention provides a positioning device and method for EDM shaping of impeller flow channels in additive manufacturing, which has the following beneficial effects:

[0023] 1. Unlike existing technologies that rely on finding a reference point on the blank part to calculate the initial machining position of the electrode, this invention directly obtains the initial machining position of the electrode by preliminarily simulating the electrode's guidance within the blank's flow channel. The working method involves securely mounting the impeller blank within the machining area of ​​an EDM CNC machine tool, then using this positioning device to clamp the electrode, allowing it to smoothly enter and reach the end position of the impeller blank's flow channel and safely exit. During this process, the precise position of the electrode after exiting is recorded, and this position is set as the starting reference point for the electrode's formal operation. Next, the spindle of the EDM CNC machine tool is moved to this position, followed by electrode assembly, and then the subsequent machining tasks are completed. This positioning device can actually check whether the electrode has safely exited the flow channel area during the electrode's exit process, further verifying the feasibility of the electrode design.

[0024] 2. This positioning device for EDM shaping of impeller flow channels in additive manufacturing works by using a rotary drive motor with a positioning adjustment mechanism to rotate a connecting block, facilitating uniform rotation of the electrode and enabling large-angle rotation of the electrode during the positioning phase, recording the rotation angle values. An X-axis motor rotates an X-axis bidirectional threaded rod, facilitating adjustment of the X-axis direction of the electrode during guidance within the impeller flow channel and recording the values. A Y-axis motor in a Y-axis moving stage assembly rotates a Y-axis threaded rod, facilitating adjustment of the Y-axis direction of the electrode during guidance within the impeller flow channel and recording the values. A pitch adjustment motor in an angle adjustment mechanism rotates a worm gear, facilitating adjustment of the pitch angle of the electrode clamped at the top of the movable frame, allowing free movement of the electrode during guidance within the flow channel. An electromagnet with a clamping and limiting mechanism, along with springs, provides sufficient clamping and limiting of the electrode, preventing displacement or detachment during guidance and improving clamping stability and reliability.

[0025] 3. This invention utilizes multiple precision mechanical structures to achieve initial electrode positioning within the impeller blank flow channel, further verifying the feasibility of the electrode design. The electrode coordinates are acquired just as it exits the flow channel, providing initial coordinates for subsequent EDM (Electrical Discharge Machining) CNC machining of the blank flow channel. Traditional visual image technology for obtaining the impeller blank's reference information requires further calculation of the electrode's initial machining coordinates, along with image acquisition, processing, and analysis. This process can be time-consuming, and visual image technology can be affected by factors such as light and surface reflection, leading to a decrease in the accuracy of the obtained blank reference. In contrast, the positioning device of this invention, driven by a motor, can rapidly adjust the electrode's position and angle, achieving rapid positioning, which helps improve processing efficiency and shorten the production cycle. The positioning device of this invention has multiple adjustable mechanisms, adaptable to impeller flow channels of different shapes and sizes, as well as electrodes of different specifications, exhibiting wide applicability and meeting diverse processing needs. Attached Figure Description

[0026] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort:

[0027] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the front structure of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the adjustment component structure of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 3This is a schematic diagram of the X-axis mobile station component structure of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the X-axis mobile station component of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the Y-axis mobile station component structure of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the Y-axis mobile station component of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the angle adjustment mechanism of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the angle adjustment mechanism of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the clamping and limiting mechanism of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the clamping and limiting mechanism of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 11 This is a coordinate system diagram for locating the initial position of the electrodes in this invention.

[0038] In the diagram: 1. Operating table; 2. Mounting frame; 3. Positioning and adjustment mechanism; 31. Support base; 32. Rotary drive motor; 33. Connecting block; 34. Limiting plate; 35. Connecting column; 4. X-axis moving stage assembly; 41. X-axis connecting table; 42. X-axis motor; 43. X-axis movable block; 44. Support plate; 45. X-axis bidirectional threaded rod; 46. X-axis limiting rod; 5. Y-axis moving stage assembly; 51. Y-axis connecting table; 5 2. Y-axis motor; 53. Y-axis movable block; 54. Y-axis threaded rod; 55. Y-axis limiting rod; 6. Angle adjustment mechanism; 61. Support frame; 62. Movable frame; 63. Gear plate; 64. Pitch adjustment motor; 65. Worm gear; 66. Rotating shaft; 67. Gear; 68. Worm wheel; 7. Clamping and limiting mechanism; 71. Connecting frame; 72. Pressure box; 73. Electromagnet; 74. Spring; 75. Locking block; 76. Adsorption block. Detailed Implementation

[0039] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0040] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0041] Example 1:

[0042] Please see Figure 1-4 The present invention provides a technical solution: a positioning device for EDM shaping of impeller flow channels in additive manufacturing, comprising, from top to bottom, a mounting frame 2, a positioning adjustment mechanism 3, an operating table 1, an X-axis moving table assembly 4, a Y-axis moving table assembly 5, an angle adjustment mechanism 6, and a clamping and limiting mechanism 7; wherein the operating table 1 is fixedly connected to the mounting frame 2.

[0043] Furthermore, the positioning adjustment mechanism 3 includes a rotary drive motor 32 mounted on the operating table 1 via a support base 31, and a connecting block 33 is fixedly connected to the output end of the rotary drive motor 32. A limit plate 34 is rotatably connected inside the operating table 1, and a connecting column 35 is fixedly connected to the bottom of the limit plate 34, which facilitates uniform rotation of the electrode, thereby facilitating large-angle rotation of the electrode during the positioning work stage and making it easier to accurately record the rotation angle value.

[0044] Furthermore, the limiting disk 34 is provided with a positioning groove, which cooperates with the connecting block 33 to facilitate a more stable partitioning process.

[0045] Furthermore, the X-axis moving stage assembly 4 includes an X-axis connecting platform 41 fixedly connected below the connecting column 35, and also includes an X-axis bidirectional threaded rod 45, an X-axis limiting rod 46, an X-axis motor 42, and an X-axis movable block 43; wherein the X-axis bidirectional threaded rod 45 and the X-axis limiting rod 46 are installed in the cavity within the X-axis connecting platform 41; the X-axis motor 42 is installed at the left or right end of the X-axis connecting platform 41 and its output shaft is connected to one end of the X-axis bidirectional threaded rod 45; the X-axis movable block 43 is installed on the X-axis bidirectional threaded rod 45 and the X-axis limiting rod 46, and is threadedly connected to the X-axis bidirectional threaded rod 45 and slidably connected to the X-axis limiting rod 46, which facilitates the adjustment of the relative positions of the two sets of electrodes, adjusts the X-axis orientation of the electrodes during the guiding process within the impeller channel, and further effectively records the X-axis values ​​of the initial coordinates after the electrode adjustment is completed.

[0046] Furthermore, a support plate 44 is fixedly connected inside the X-direction connecting platform 41 to support the X-direction bidirectional threaded rod 45 and the X-direction limiting rod 46; and a groove is opened at the corresponding position of the X-direction connecting platform 41 and the X-direction movable block 43, and the X-direction movable block 43 is slidably connected inside the groove, which facilitates a more stable adjustment process.

[0047] Example 2:

[0048] Please see Figure 5-6 Furthermore, in conjunction with Embodiment 1, the Y-axis moving stage assembly 5 includes a Y-axis connecting stage 51 fixedly connected below the X-axis movable block 43, and also includes a Y-axis threaded rod 54, a Y-axis limiting rod 55, a Y-axis motor 52, and a Y-axis movable block 53. The Y-axis threaded rod 54 and the Y-axis limiting rod 55 are installed within the cavity of the Y-axis connecting stage 51. The Y-axis motor 52 is installed at the front or rear end of the Y-axis connecting stage 51, and its output shaft is connected to one end of the Y-axis threaded rod 54. The Y-axis movable block 53 is installed on the Y-axis threaded rod 54 and the Y-axis limiting rod 55, and is threadedly connected to the Y-axis threaded rod 54 and slidably connected to the Y-axis limiting rod 55. This facilitates adjustment of the Y-axis orientation of the electrode during the guiding process within the impeller channel, avoids collisions between the electrode and the blade crown during the guiding process, and further effectively records the initial Y-axis coordinate value after electrode adjustment.

[0049] Furthermore, grooves are provided at the corresponding positions of the Y-direction connecting platform 51 and the Y-direction movable block 53, and the Y-direction movable block 53 is slidably connected inside the groove, which facilitates a more stable adjustment process.

[0050] Example 3:

[0051] Please see Figure 7-8 Furthermore, combining Embodiment 1 and Embodiment 2, the angle adjustment mechanism 6 includes a support frame 61 fixedly connected below the Y-direction movable block 53, and a movable frame 62 hinged below the support frame 61. A toothed plate 63 is fixedly connected inside the movable frame 62. A worm gear 65 and a rotating shaft 66 are also installed inside the support frame 61. A worm wheel 68 and a gear 67 are fixedly connected to the rotating shaft 66, wherein the worm wheel 68 meshes with the worm gear 65, and the gear 67 meshes with the toothed plate 63. A pitch adjustment motor 64 is also fixedly connected to the support frame 61, and the output end of the pitch adjustment motor 64 is connected to one end of the worm gear 65. This facilitates adjusting the pitch angle of the electrode after it is clamped at the top of the movable frame 62, thereby allowing the electrode to move freely during its guidance within the flow channel.

[0052] Example 4:

[0053] Please see Figure 9-11Furthermore, in conjunction with Embodiments 1 to 3, the clamping mechanism 7 includes a connecting frame 71, with mounting grooves on both sides of the connecting frame 71, and a clamping box 72 is provided at each mounting groove. Inside the clamping box 72, a sliding block 75 is provided at the mounting groove, and an electromagnet 73 is provided at the end furthest from the connecting frame 71. A spring 74 is provided between the sliding block 75 and the electromagnet 73. An adsorption block 76 is also installed on the side of the sliding block 75 opposite to the electromagnet 73. This facilitates sufficient clamping and limiting of the electrode, preventing displacement or detachment during the positioning process, and improving the stability and reliability of the clamping.

[0054] In actual operation, when using this device, firstly, the motor of the device is equipped with a protective cover to avoid accidents such as current interference during use. Simultaneously, the mounting bracket 2 is fixed and limited by bolts to the CNC machine tool spindle of the equipment being used, establishing a coordinate system OXYZ. Adjustments are made according to the different models of the flow channels to be shaped. The operator selects a suitable electrode and places it inside the connecting frame 71. The electromagnet 73 operates, working in conjunction with the spring 74, causing the adsorption block 76 to move, thereby moving the clamping block 75. The clamping block 75 passes through the electrode to clamp and limit its movement. After clamping, the pitch adjustment motor 64 operates, causing the worm gear 65 to rotate. Through the meshing transmission of the worm gear 65 and worm wheel 68, the worm gear 65... The rotating shaft 66 rotates together with the gear 67. The gear 67 meshes with the toothed plate 63, causing the toothed plate 63 to rotate, which in turn causes the movable frame 62 to rotate outside the support frame 61. The rotating drive motor 32 operates, causing the connecting block 33 to rotate, which in turn causes the limiting disk 34 to rotate inside the operating table 1, which in turn causes the connecting column 35 to rotate, changing the rotation angle of the electrode's XOY plane. The X-axis motor 42 operates, causing the X-axis bidirectional threaded rod 45 to rotate, which, in conjunction with the X-axis limiting rod 46, causes the X-axis movable block 43 to move, changing the electrode's x-position. The Y-axis motor 52 operates, causing the Y-axis threaded rod 54 to rotate, which, in conjunction with the Y-axis limiting rod 55, causes the Y-axis movable block 53 to move, changing the electrode's y-position.

[0055] When the electrode just exits the flow channel, record all values ​​after the device is adjusted, and set the angle of the angle adjustment mechanism 6 to 0. Let the distance between the center of the mounting bracket 2 and the clamping mechanism 7 be z1, the distance between the center of the Y-axis moving stage assembly 5 and the center of the X-axis moving stage assembly 4 be x1, the distance between the angle adjustment mechanism 6 and the center of the Y-axis moving stage assembly 5 be y1, and the counterclockwise rotation angle of the positioning adjustment mechanism 3 be θ1. Then, the initial working coordinates after the electrode positioning is completed should be the combination of the coordinates adjusted by the device of this invention and the initial coordinates of the main shaft. Set the initial coordinates of the main shaft to (x2, y2, z2), and let the initial working coordinates of the electrode positioning be (x0, y0, z0). Then:

[0056]

[0057] z0 = z2 + z1;

[0058] Specifically, when the Y-axis moving stage component is adjusted to the same direction as the Y-axis coordinate axis, the sign is negative; otherwise, it is positive.

[0059] Remove the device from the CNC machine tool spindle, install the electrode on the CNC machine tool spindle, operate the CNC machine tool, and move its spindle to the obtained initial position coordinates of the electrode.

[0060] The relevant electrode trajectory search G-code program of the CNC EDM machine is executed to complete the subsequent flow channel finishing work.

[0061] It should be noted that, in this document, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.

Claims

1. A positioning device for EDM shaping of impeller flow channels in additive manufacturing, characterized in that: From top to bottom, it includes a mounting frame (2), a positioning adjustment mechanism (3), an operating table (1), an X-axis moving table assembly (4), a Y-axis moving table assembly (5), an angle adjustment mechanism (6), and a clamping and limiting mechanism (7); wherein the operating table (1) is fixedly connected to the mounting frame (2); The positioning adjustment mechanism (3) includes a rotary drive motor (32) mounted on the operating table (1) via a support base (31). The output end of the rotary drive motor (32) is fixedly connected to a connecting block (33). A limit plate (34) is rotatably connected inside the operating table (1). A connecting column (35) is fixedly connected to the bottom of the limit plate (34). The limit plate (34) is provided with a positioning groove, which cooperates with the connecting block (33). The X-axis moving stage assembly (4) includes an X-axis connecting stage (41) fixedly connected below the connecting column (35), and also includes an X-axis bidirectional threaded rod (45), an X-axis limiting rod (46), an X-axis motor (42), and an X-axis movable block (43); wherein the X-axis bidirectional threaded rod (45) and the X-axis limiting rod (46) are installed in the cavity inside the X-axis connecting stage (41); the X-axis motor (42) is installed at the left or right end of the X-axis connecting stage (41) and its output shaft is connected to one end of the X-axis bidirectional threaded rod (45); the X-axis movable block (43) is installed on the X-axis bidirectional threaded rod (45) and the X-axis limiting rod (46), and is threadedly connected to the X-axis bidirectional threaded rod (45) and slidably connected to the X-axis limiting rod (46); The Y-axis moving stage assembly (5) includes a Y-axis connecting stage (51) fixedly connected below the X-axis movable block (43), and also includes a Y-axis threaded rod (54), a Y-axis limiting rod (55), a Y-axis motor (52), and a Y-axis movable block (53); wherein the Y-axis threaded rod (54) and the Y-axis limiting rod (55) are installed in the cavity inside the Y-axis connecting stage (51); the Y-axis motor (52) is installed at the front end or rear end of the Y-axis connecting stage (51) and its output shaft is connected to one end of the Y-axis threaded rod (54); the Y-axis movable block (53) is installed on the Y-axis threaded rod (54) and the Y-axis limiting rod (55), and is threadedly connected to the Y-axis threaded rod (54) and slidably connected to the Y-axis limiting rod (55); The angle adjustment mechanism (6) includes a support frame (61) fixedly connected below the Y-axis movable block (53), a movable frame (62) hinged below the support frame (61), and a toothed plate (63) fixedly connected inside the movable frame (62); a worm (65) and a rotating shaft (66) are also installed inside the support frame (61); a worm wheel (68) and a gear (67) are fixedly connected on the rotating shaft (66), wherein the worm wheel (68) meshes with the worm (65), and the gear (67) meshes with the toothed plate (63); a pitch adjustment motor (64) is also fixedly connected to the support frame (61), and the output end of the pitch adjustment motor (64) is connected to one end of the worm (65).

2. The positioning device for EDM shaping of impeller flow channels in additive manufacturing according to claim 1, characterized in that: The clamping and limiting mechanism (7) includes a connecting frame (71), with mounting grooves on both sides of the connecting frame (71) and a pressure box (72) at the mounting groove; inside the pressure box (72), a sliding block (75) is provided at the mounting groove, and an electromagnet (73) is provided at the end away from the connecting frame (71). A spring (74) is provided between the sliding block (75) and the electromagnet (73), and an adsorption block (76) is also installed on the side opposite to the sliding block (75) and the electromagnet (73).

3. The positioning device for EDM shaping of impeller flow channels in additive manufacturing according to claim 1, characterized in that: The X-axis moving stage assembly (4) consists of one X-axis connecting platform (41), one X-axis bidirectional threaded rod (45), one X-axis limiting rod (46), two X-axis motors (42), and two X-axis movable blocks (43). The two X-axis motors (42) are respectively installed at the left and right ends of the X-axis connecting platform (41), and their output shafts are respectively connected to one end of the X-axis bidirectional threaded rod (45).

4. The positioning device for EDM shaping of impeller flow channels in additive manufacturing according to claim 1, characterized in that: The X-direction connecting platform (41) is fixedly connected to a support plate (44) for supporting the X-direction bidirectional threaded rod (45) and the X-direction limiting rod (46); the X-direction connecting platform (41) is provided with a groove at the corresponding position of the X-direction movable block (43), and the X-direction movable block (43) is slidably connected inside the groove.

5. The positioning device for EDM shaping of impeller flow channels in additive manufacturing according to claim 1, characterized in that: The Y-direction connecting platform (51) and the Y-direction movable block (53) are provided with grooves at corresponding positions, and the Y-direction movable block (53) is slidably connected inside the groove.

6. A method for initial electrode positioning using the positioning device for EDM shaping of impeller flow channels in additive manufacturing as described in claim 1, comprising the following steps: Step 1: Fix and limit the mounting bracket (2) of this positioning device to the spindle of the CNC machine tool by bolt connection, and establish the coordinate system OXYZ; When this device is working, the Z-axis direction and distance are adjusted by the spindle driving this device, the angle is rotated by the positioning adjustment mechanism (3) and the angle adjustment mechanism (6), the X-axis angle and distance are changed by adjusting the X-axis moving stage assembly (4), and the Y-axis angle and distance are changed by adjusting the Y-axis moving stage assembly (5); Step 2: When the electrode just exits the flow channel, record the values ​​after the device is adjusted, and adjust the angle of the angle adjustment mechanism (6) to 0. Let the distance between the center of the mounting bracket (2) and the clamping limit mechanism (7) be z1, the distance between the center of the Y-axis moving stage assembly (5) and the center of the X-axis moving stage assembly (4) be x1, the distance between the angle adjustment mechanism (6) and the center of the Y-axis moving stage assembly (5) be y1, and the counterclockwise rotation angle of the positioning adjustment mechanism (3) be θ1. Then the initial working coordinates after the electrode positioning is completed should be the combination of the coordinates adjusted by this device and the initial coordinates of the main shaft. Set the initial coordinates of the main shaft to (x2, y2, z2). Let the initial working coordinates of the electrode positioning be (x0, y0, z0), then we have: z0 = z2 + z1; in, When the Y-axis moving stage component is adjusted to the same direction as the Y-axis coordinate axis, the sign is negative; otherwise, the sign is positive. Step 3: Remove the device from the CNC machine tool spindle, install the electrode on the CNC machine tool spindle, operate the CNC machine tool, and move its spindle to the obtained initial position coordinates of the electrode. Step 4: Execute the relevant electrode trajectory search G-code program of the CNC EDM machine to complete the subsequent flow channel finishing work.

7. The method for initial electrode positioning according to claim 6 includes the following process: In step 2, the electrode entering and exiting the flow channel is achieved by controlling the machine tool spindle and this device together, wherein the pitch adjustment motor (64) is set to work, causing the worm (65) to rotate, and the worm gear (68) meshes with the worm (65) to drive the rotating shaft (66) together with the gear (67) to rotate, and then the gear (67) meshes with the toothed plate (63) to rotate the toothed plate (63), thereby causing the movable frame (62) to rotate outside the support frame (61); by setting The rotary drive motor (32) operates, causing the connecting block (33) to rotate, thereby causing the limiting disk (34) to rotate inside the operating table (1), thereby causing the connecting column (35) to rotate; the X-axis motor (42) operates, causing the X-axis bidirectional threaded rod (45) to rotate, cooperating with the X-axis limiting rod (46), causing the X-axis movable block (43) to move; the Y-axis motor (52) operates, causing the Y-axis threaded rod (54) to rotate, cooperating with the Y-axis limiting rod (55), causing the Y-axis movable block (53) to move; the clamping and limiting mechanism (7) is driven to move in the above manner.

Images