Length-adjustment device, tool clamping apparatus, system and length adjustment method
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- EP · EP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- E ZOLLER GMBH & CO KG
- Filing Date
- 2024-08-14
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-24
Smart Images
Figure EP2024072933_27022025_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] Length adjustment device, tool clamping device, system and length adjustment method
[0002] State of the art
[0003] The invention relates to a length adjustment device according to the preamble of claim 1, a tool clamping device according to claim 13, a system according to claim 14 and a length adjustment method according to the preamble of claim 15.
[0004] A length adjustment device for at least partially automated adjustment of a longitudinal position of a tool in a tool receiving opening of a tool chuck has already been proposed, comprising a linearly movable and rotatably mounted rod unit which has a coupling element at one axial end at least for coupling to a tool surface of a length adjustment element of the tool chuck.
[0005] The object of the invention is, in particular, to provide a generic device with advantageous properties regarding the length adjustment of tools in different tool chucks and thus preferably different adjustment processes / variants. This object is achieved according to the invention by the features of the independent patent claims, while advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention can be found in the subclaims.
[0006] Advantages of the invention The invention is based on a length adjustment device for an at least partially automated, preferably fully automated, adjustment of a longitudinal position of a tool in a tool receiving opening of a tool chuck, with a linearly movable and rotatably mounted rod unit which has a coupling element, for example an external hexagon, at one axial end, at least for coupling to a tool surface of a length adjustment element, in particular a length adjustment screw, of the tool chuck, for example a hexagon socket.
[0007] It is proposed that the length adjustment device comprise a spring element which axially spring-mounts at least part of the rod unit in a manner which enables axially tensioned, in particular pretensioned, pressing of the coupling element against the length adjustment element of the tool chuck by means of rotation of the rod unit, at least while searching for a locking position between the coupling element and the tool surface. This advantageously enables an efficient and / or simple adjustment option for tool chucks with length adjustment elements operable via tool surfaces. Advantageously, a high degree of coupling flexibility can be achieved. Advantageously, a quick and / or simple coupling between the tool surface of the tool chuck and a coupling element of a rod unit of the length adjustment device can be enabled.Advantageously, this coupling can be achieved independently of complex CNC control algorithms for finding the appropriate coupling position.
[0008] In particular, the length adjustment device is provided for adjusting and / or providing a stop for the tool in the tool receiving opening of the tool chuck. In particular, the rod unit is provided for certain tool chuck types to directly provide the stop for the tool and for other specific tool chuck types to actuate a separate length adjustment element of the tool chuck. In particular, the linear mobility of the rod unit is provided for adjusting the stop position of the rod unit in certain tool chuck types and for coupling it to the length adjustment elements of other specific tool chuck types.In particular, the rotatability of the rod unit is provided for finding a mutual coupling position between the tool surface of the length adjustment element and the coupling element of the rod unit and for actuating the length adjustment element in the other specific tool chuck types.The stop position of the rod unit can be adjusted either directly by contact, in particular between a shank end of the tool, preferably a cutting tool, and the rod unit, in particular a stop element of the rod unit, or by freeing or turning a screw of the tool chuck, for example an MQL (minimal quantity lubrication) screw, as far downwards as possible, and then directly adjusting the length of the tool via the stop between the rod unit and the shank end of the tool, and then screwing the screw, in particular the MQL screw, back in until it stops with the tool now adjusted to its length. This advantageously ensures, particularly when MQL screws are present, that the lubricant (oil-air mixture) is transferred to the shank end of the tool and thus to the internal cooling channels of the tool.
[0009] The tool is preferably designed as a shank tool, in particular as a machining tool, in particular a milling and / or turning and / or other cutting tool, for use in a processing machine. The tool is preferably intended to form a connection, in particular a heat-shrink connection, with the tool chuck. A “tool chuck” should be understood in particular to mean a component which is intended to receive a tool and to connect the tool to a machine. In particular, the tool chuck is designed as an interface between the tool and the machine. The tool chuck is preferably designed as a shrink-fit chuck, preferably a heat-shrink chuck, or as a chuck, such as a hydraulic expansion chuck, a Weldon chuck or a collet chuck.For example, the tool chuck can be designed as a tool chuck with an MQL length adjustment screw or with an IKZ (internal cooling lubricant supply) length adjustment screw. In particular, the length adjustment device is intended for the length adjustment of tools in tool chucks without any length adjustment element and for the length adjustment of tools in tool chucks with a length adjustment element (through-drilled or not through-drilled). "Intended" should be understood in particular to mean specially programmed, designed, and / or equipped. The fact that an object is intended for a specific function should be understood in particular to mean that the object fulfills and / or performs this specific function in at least one application and / or operating state.Preferably, the length adjustment device is provided to adjust a longitudinal position of the tool in the tool holder opening of the tool holder, in particular with high precision (pm).
[0010] In particular, the rod unit has the coupling element at an axial end facing the tool chuck. An axial end of the rod unit is in particular an end lying in the longitudinal direction of the rod unit. The coupling element is in particular designed as a tool blade, e.g., a screwdriver blade. For example, the coupling element can be designed as a hexagon socket, an hexagon socket, a slotted blade, a Phillips blade, a Torx blade, or another counterpart for a screw head drive known to those skilled in the art. In particular, the coupling element of the rod unit is provided for a preferably positive coupling with the tool surface of the length adjustment element. In particular, the tool surface is provided for a preferably positive coupling with the coupling element of the rod unit. The tool surface can be designed as any type of known screw head drive, e.g.,as a hexagon socket, as a slot, as a Phillips head, as a Torx head, etc. In particular, the length adjustment element is designed as a length adjustment screw, e.g. an MMS screw or an IKZ screw, which is adjustable, preferably within the tool chuck / the tool holder opening of the tool chuck. In particular, the length adjustment screw can be drilled through or can be designed without a through-hole. The rod unit preferably comprises various interchangeable stop elements, which can have different coupling elements. The stop element of the rod unit is preferably interchangeable depending on the tool chuck used. The stop element of the rod unit is preferably interchangeable manually and / or automatically via a robot, e.g. a handling robot.For this purpose, the rod unit can have an interchangeable interface for various stop elements, as described in the international patent application with application number PCT / EP2023 / 069213. The content of the international patent application with application number PCT / EP2023 / 069213 is incorporated in its entirety by reference into this document.
[0011] A spring element is understood, in particular, to be any technical component that can be sufficiently elastically deformed in practical use. The spring is preferably a helical spring, in particular a helical compression spring. An axially spring-loaded mounting of the rod unit preferably generates a spring force that is directed at least substantially parallel to a main extension direction of the rod unit. A "main extension direction" of an object is understood, in particular, to be a direction that runs parallel to a longest edge of a smallest geometric cuboid that just completely encloses the object.“Substantially parallel” is to be understood here in particular as an alignment of a direction relative to a reference direction, in particular in a plane, wherein the direction has a deviation from the reference direction of in particular less than 8°, advantageously less than 5°, and particularly advantageously less than 2°. The axially tensioned, in particular pretensioned, pressing of the coupling element is preferably generated by a spring force of the spring element. In particular, the spring element is compressed / tensioned in at least one operating state in which a tip of the rod unit touches a part of the length adjustment element, so that the rod unit is pressed against the length adjustment element by the spring force of the spring element. In particular, the spring element is partially compressed / tensioned while searching for the locking position.In particular, the spring element is at least partially compressed / tensioned while searching for the engagement position, at least as long as the coupling element and the tool surface are disengaged. In particular, after finding the engagement position, the spring element is relaxed or at least significantly less tensioned than during the search for the engagement position, at least as long as the coupling element and the tool surface are in engagement with one another. In particular, in the engagement position, the coupling element of the rod unit and the tool surface of the length adjustment element engage with one another, preferably in a form-fitting manner. In particular, in the engagement position, the coupling element of the rod unit is countersunk into the tool surface of the length adjustment element, or vice versa.In particular, the coupling element of the rod unit that abuts the length adjustment element is not recessed into the tool surface of the length adjustment element outside of the locking position. In particular, the spring element ensures that the rod unit, in particular the coupling element of the rod unit, is inserted axially / parallel to the main extension direction of the rod unit into the tool surface of the length adjustment element, or vice versa, when a relative overlap position is found between the coupling element of the rod unit and the tool surface of the length adjustment element. This advantageously allows the locking position to be found quickly and easily by rotating the rod unit.As soon as the rotation of the rod unit establishes a suitable relative position between the coupling element of the rod unit and the tool surface of the length adjustment element, the spring element automatically couples / engages the coupling element with the tool surface. In particular, in the engaged position, the length adjustment element can be actuated using the rod unit, for example, by screwing in or unscrewing the length adjustment screw of the tool chuck.
[0012] It is further proposed that the length adjustment device comprise a spring-loaded unit designed to selectively enable or disable the axially spring-loaded mounting of the rod unit by the spring element. This advantageously allows for a high degree of flexibility. In particular, the springing of the rod unit can advantageously be switched on and off. For example, the springing of the rod unit by the spring element can be used to locate and actuate length adjustment elements / length adjustment screws. For purely axial (precision) length adjustment by means of an axial movement of the rod unit, the springing is deactivated by the spring element in order to achieve precise axial positioning of the rod unit.Advantageously, in addition to the particularly convenient operation of length adjustment elements such as length adjustment screws in tool chucks with such length adjustment elements, precise length adjustment via a stop on the rod unit in tool chucks without length adjustment elements such as length adjustment screws can also be enabled. The spring-loaded unit can be arranged above or below an engagement point for a rotary drive generating the rotational movement of the rod unit. In particular, the spring-loaded unit is also provided for selectively preventing the rotational movement of the rod unit. In particular, the spring-loaded unit is intended to be activated before a purely axial length adjustment (a length adjustment generated purely by an axial movement of the rod unit).
[0013] If the spring-releasing unit is designed as a stop unit with an end stop element, in particular one that can be extended and retracted axially, for contacting a further axial end of the rod unit opposite the axial end, or as a clamping unit for clamping the rod unit, an advantageous construction can be achieved. This advantageously enables a reliable and / or cost-effective implementation. In particular, the clamping unit clamps the rod unit in such a way that an axial movement of the rod unit relative to the clamping unit is impossible. In particular, the clamping unit and the rod unit are only axially movable together, at least in the clamped state. In particular, the rod unit remains axially movable when clamped by the clamping unit.The clamping element can, for example, clamp the rod unit at a point on the rod element located above (in the direction of the tool chuck) the spring element. In particular, the end stop element decouples the spring element and the rod unit. Preferably, the end stop element partially fills a spring area / a designated spring travel of the spring element, so that the rod unit first hits the end stop element before the spring element can be actuated / compressed.
[0014] Furthermore, it is proposed that the length adjustment device comprise a translation drive unit for axially adjusting the rod unit, with a translation slide that supports at least the spring-relieving unit and at least the rod unit. This advantageously allows for a simple construction. Furthermore, a high adjustment precision can be advantageously achieved. In particular, the tool chuck is mounted independently of the translation slide. In particular, the translation drive unit and / or the translation slide is provided for axially adjusting at least the rod unit relative to the tool chuck. In particular, the translation drive unit and / or the translation slide is provided for carrying out the (precision) length adjustment by means of axial movement of the rod unit.In particular, the translation drive unit is provided for micrometer-precise adjustment of a translation position, in particular at least of the rod unit. In particular, the rod unit and the spring-loaded unit are arranged in a fixed position relative to one another, at least in a clamped state of the spring-loaded unit.
[0015] Furthermore, it is proposed that the length adjustment device comprise a translational drive unit for axially adjusting the rod unit, with a translational carriage that carries at least one rotational drive unit for generating the rotation of the rod unit. This advantageously enables a particularly simple construction. In particular, during an axial adjustment of the rod unit, the rotational drive unit moves along with the rod unit.
[0016] In addition, it is proposed that in a first length adjustment operating state, the axial adjustment is provided by means of the translational drive unit for adjusting the longitudinal position of a tool in a tool chuck of a first type, and that in a second length adjustment operating state, the rotation of the rod unit, in particular by means of the rotational drive unit, is provided for adjusting the longitudinal position of a tool in a tool chuck of a second type different from the first type. This advantageously makes it possible to achieve a high level of flexibility. In particular, the first tool chuck type is a tool chuck without a length adjustment element / length adjustment screw, e.g. a tool chuck without an MQL screw. In particular, the second tool chuck type is a tool chuck with a length adjustment element / length adjustment screw, e.g. a tool chuck with an MQL screw.
[0017] It is further proposed that the length adjustment device comprise a sensor unit which is provided at least for the direct or indirect detection of a tensioned state of the spring element and a relaxed state of the spring element. This advantageously makes it possible to achieve high operating efficiency and / or user-friendliness. Advantageously, based on the tensioned state of the spring element, it can be determined whether or not the coupling element of the rod unit and the tool surface of the length adjustment element are in engagement with one another. In particular, the coupling element of the rod unit and the tool surface of the length adjustment element are disengaged from one another as long as a tensioned state of the spring element is detected by the sensor unit.In particular, the coupling element of the rod unit and the tool surface of the length adjustment element are in engagement with one another when a relaxed state of the spring element is detected by the sensor unit, in particular immediately following detection of a tensioned state of the spring element. In particular, the spring element is in the tensioned state while searching for the locking position. In particular, the spring element is in the relaxed state after finding the locking position. In particular, the spring element is also in the relaxed state when no search for the locking position is currently in progress. For example, the indirect detection of the tensioned state can occur by observing an element moving with the rod unit or by observing a displacement of an element due to a movement of the rod unit.
[0018] If the sensor unit comprises at least one mechanical sensor element, in particular a button, preferably a microswitch, at least one optical sensor element, and / or at least one inductive proximity sensor element, for detecting an axial relative position of the rod unit, an advantageous design and / or reliable detection can be achieved. In particular, the mechanical sensor element is mechanically actuated by a movement of the rod unit relative to the mechanical sensor element and in particular relative to the translation carriage.In particular, the optical sensor element and / or the inductive proximity sensor element is arranged in a fixed position relative to the translation carriage and monitors at least a part of the rod unit or an element moving with the rod unit, so that the optical sensor element and / or the inductive proximity sensor element can detect a relative movement of the rod unit to the optical sensor element and / or to the inductive proximity sensor element, in particular to the translation carriage. A relative movement of the rod unit to the optical sensor element and / or to the inductive proximity sensor element, in particular to the translation carriage, is indicative of a change in state, in particular a compression change, of the spring element. Preferably, the spring element is supported on a side facing away from the rod unit on the translation carriage or on a component mounted in a fixed position relative to the translation carriage.The optical sensor element can be designed to observe an optical marking on the rod unit. The inductive proximity sensor element can be designed to interact with a metallic and / or magnetic part of the rod unit.
[0019] It is also proposed that the rod unit be guided, at least in sections, in a center of the spring element, which is designed in particular as a spiral compression spring / helical compression spring. This advantageously allows for a compact and / or stable construction.
[0020] Furthermore, it is proposed that the extendable and retractable end stop element is guided, at least in sections and / or at least in one operating state, in a center of the spring element, which is in particular designed as a spiral compression spring / helical compression spring. This advantageously makes it possible to achieve a compact and / or stable construction, in particular of the spring-releasing unit. In particular, the end stop element can be moved into the center of the spring element or out of the center of the spring element. In particular, the operating state in which the end stop element is arranged in the center of the spring element is at least the above-mentioned first length-adjustment operating state. In particular, the end stop element can (continue to) be activated (arranged in the center of the spring element) in the second length-adjustment operating state following the finding of the engaging position, but this does not have to be the case.The spring force of the spring element could also be chosen to be sufficiently high to hold the rod unit in the tool surface alone.
[0021] It is also proposed that the rod unit have at least one support collar element for supporting the spring element. This advantageously allows a simple and / or stable construction to be achieved. The support collar element preferably forms a support surface for an axial end of the spring unit, which is arranged facing the rod unit and / or the tool chuck. In particular, the support collar element also forms a mounting element for mounting an elongated pin element / an elongated connecting pin of the rod unit. The pin element / connecting pin is provided on a side facing the tool chuck for mounting the aforementioned interchangeable interface for various stop elements.
[0022] Furthermore, it is proposed that the rod unit be constructed in multiple parts, wherein a sub-element of the rod unit comprises the support collar element and is provided for receiving a further sub-element of the rod unit, in particular a further sub-element of the rod unit comprising the coupling element or a connecting pin for connection to an interchangeable interface for mounting various further sub-elements of the rod unit with various coupling elements. This advantageously allows a simple and / or stable construction to be achieved. In particular, the rod unit also comprises a stop element that can be mounted or is mounted in the interchangeable interface.
[0023] Furthermore, a tool clamping device, in particular a shrink-fit clamping device, with the length adjustment device and a system comprising the tool clamping device and the tool chuck are proposed. Advantageously, particularly precise positioning of the tool in the tool chuck can be achieved. In particular, the shrink-fit clamping device comprises at least one induction heating unit for temporarily thermally expanding a tool receiving opening of the tool chuck.
[0024] In addition, a length adjustment method for at least partially automated, preferably fully automated, adjustment of a longitudinal position of a tool in a tool receiving opening of a tool chuck is proposed by means of the rotatably mounted rod unit, which has a coupling element, for example an external hexagon, at least for coupling to a tool surface of a length adjustment element, in particular a length adjustment screw, of the tool chuck, for example a hexagon socket, in particular by means of the length adjustment device, wherein the rod unit is mounted in an axially spring-loaded manner such that when the rod unit is pressed against the length adjustment element of the tool chuck outside of a locking position between the coupling element and the tool surface, a spring element is tensioned, in particular pre-tensioned, and that when the locking position is adjusted, e.g.By rotating the rod unit, at least the coupling element of the rod unit is coupled to the tool surface by releasing the spring element, in particular by inserting it into the tool surface. This advantageously allows for an efficient and / or simple adjustment option for tool chucks with length adjustment elements operable via tool surfaces. This coupling can advantageously be achieved independently of complex CNC control algorithms for finding the appropriate coupling position.
[0025] Furthermore, it is proposed that after coupling the coupling element to the tool surface, the length adjustment element of the tool chuck, in particular the length adjustment screw of the tool chuck, is actuated by rotation. This advantageously allows for simple and reliable length adjustment of tools in tool chucks with length adjustment elements, preferably length adjustment screws.
[0026] The length adjustment device, tool clamping device, system, and method according to the invention are not intended to be limited to the application and embodiment described above. In particular, the length adjustment device, tool clamping device, system, and method according to the invention may comprise a number of individual elements, components, and units that differs from the number stated herein to fulfill a function described herein.
[0027] Drawings
[0028] Further advantages will become apparent from the following description of the drawings. The drawings illustrate two exemplary embodiments of the invention. The drawings, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination. Those skilled in the art will also expediently consider the features individually and combine them into useful further combinations.
[0029] They show:
[0030] Fig. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a system with a tool clamping device having a length adjustment device and with a tool chuck,
[0031] Fig. 2 is a schematic sectional view of a first part of the length adjustment device,
[0032] Fig. 3a is a schematic sectional view of a second part of the length adjustment device and a tool chuck of a second type, Fig. 3b is a schematic sectional view of one of several possible tool-side ends of a rod unit of the length adjustment device,
[0033] Fig. 4 is a schematic sectional view of a tool chuck of a first type,
[0034] Fig. 5 is a schematic sectional view of a tool surface of a length adjustment element of the tool chuck and a coupling element of a rod unit of the length adjustment device in a first relative position to each other,
[0035] Fig. 6 is a schematic sectional view of the tool surface of the length adjustment element of the tool chuck and the coupling element of the rod unit of the length adjustment device in a second relative position to each other forming a locking position,
[0036] Fig. 7 shows an enlarged section of the schematic sectional view of the first part of the length adjustment device with a spring element in a tensioned state,
[0037] Fig. 8 shows the enlarged section of the schematic sectional view of the first part of the length adjustment device with the spring element in a relaxed state and with a deactivated spring-releasing element,
[0038] Fig. 9 shows the enlarged section of the schematic sectional view of the first part of the length adjustment device with the spring element in the relaxed state and with an activated spring-releasing element,
[0039] Fig. 10 is a schematic flow diagram of a length adjustment process and
[0040] Fig. 11 is a schematic sectional view of the first part of an alternative length adjustment device. Description of the embodiments
[0041] Figure 1 shows a schematic perspective view of a system 66a with a tool clamping device 62a and a tool chuck 14a. The tool clamping device 62a is designed, for example, as a shrink fit clamping device. The tool clamping device 62a comprises a length adjustment device 64a. The length adjustment device 64a is provided for an at least partially automated adjustment of a longitudinal position of a tool 10a in a tool receiving opening 12a of a tool chuck 14a. In the example shown in Fig. 1, the tool chuck 14a is designed as a heat shrink chuck. Alternative tool chucks 14a, such as hydraulic expansion chucks, collet chucks, or Weldon chucks, can also be compatible with the length adjustment device 64a. The tool chuck 14a can have a length adjustment element 24a, e.g., a length adjustment screw (cf. Fig. 3a), such as an MQL screw known to those skilled in the art (e.g.,from Göhring, Albstadt) or an internal cooling screw known to those skilled in the art. Alternatively, the tool chuck 14'a can also be designed without a length adjustment element 24a (see Fig. 4). In the event that a length adjustment element 24a is present in the tool chuck 14a (hereinafter also referred to as the second tool chuck type), the length adjustment device 64a is provided to actuate the length adjustment element 24a by rotation (screwing in or unscrewing) and thereby axially position the tool 10a in the tool receiving opening 12a. The length adjustment element 24a has a tool surface 22a. The tool surface 22a is designed, for example, as a hexagon socket (see Figures 5 and 6).In the case where no length adjustment element 24a is present in the tool chuck 14'a (hereinafter also referred to as the first tool chuck type), the length adjustment device 64a is provided to axially position the tool 10a in the tool receiving opening 12a through direct stop contact. This situation represents a first length adjustment operating state. In the first length adjustment operating state, the length adjustment device 64a is provided to adjust a longitudinal position of the tool 10a in the tool chuck 14'a of the first type by means of a purely axial adjustment of a rod unit 16a. The tool clamping device 62a has a holding unit 68a. The holding unit 68a is provided to hold the tool chuck 14a upright. The tool clamping device 62a has an induction coil 86a.The induction coil 86a is provided to heat the tool chuck 14a in the area of the tool receiving opening 12a and thereby enlarge the tool receiving opening 12a through thermal expansion. The tool clamping device 62a has a tower 82a. The tower 82a has a rail 88a. The induction coil 86a can be moved vertically along the rail 88a for placement on the tool chuck 14a. The tool clamping device 62a has a base frame 84a. The length adjustment device 64a is arranged in the base frame 84a.
[0042] Figures 2 and 3 show schematic sectional views of different parts of the length adjustment device 64a. The length adjustment device 64a has the rod unit 16a. The rod unit 16a is mounted for linear movement. The rod unit 16a is mounted for rotational movement. The rod unit 16a is constructed in multiple parts. The rod unit 16a has an axial end 18a, which faces the tool chuck 14a / the holding unit 68a of the tool clamping device 62a. The rod unit 16a has a further axial end 34a, which faces away from the tool chuck 14a / the holding unit 68a of the tool clamping device 62a. The rod unit 16a has a coupling element 20a at the axial end 18a (see Fig. 3a). The coupling element 20a of Fig. 3 is designed as an external hexagon. The rod unit 16a has a stop element 70a. The stop element 70a is designed to be replaceable.The rod unit 16a could thus also be equipped with a stop element 70a for direct length adjustment in tool chucks 14a without a length adjustment element 24a, which is round at a tool-side end (see Fig. 3b). The stop element 70a is provided for establishing contact with the tool 10a or for establishing contact with the length adjustment element 24a of the tool chuck 14a, in each case for the length adjustment of the tool 10a. The stop element 70a has the coupling element 20a. The coupling element 20a is provided for coupling with the tool surface 22a of the length adjustment element 24a of the tool chuck 14a. For example, the coupling element 20a is designed as an external hexagon (see Figures 5 and 6). The rod unit 16a has a change interface 60a (see Fig. 3).The interchangeable interface 60a is described in more detail in the international patent application with the application number PCT / EP2023 / 069213. The interchangeable interface 60a is intended for assembling various additional sub-elements of the rod unit 16a with various coupling elements 20a. The interchangeable interface 60a provides a changeover function for exchanging the stop element 70a. The rod unit 16a has a connecting pin 58a. The connecting pin 58a connects the interchangeable interface 60a and thus the stop element 70a to drive units 38a, 42a of the length adjustment device 64a, which can generate a rotational and a translational movement of the rod unit 16a. The connecting pin 58a connects the interchangeable interface 60a to a support collar element 56a of the rod unit 16a. The stop element 70a forms a sub-element of the rod unit 16a. The exchange interface 60a forms a partial element of the rod unit 16a.The connecting pin 58a forms a sub-element of the rod unit 16a. The support collar element 56a forms a sub-element of the rod unit 16a.
[0043] The length adjustment device 64a has a spring element 26a. The spring element 26a is embodied, for example, as a spiral compression spring in the figures. The spring element 26a axially spring-loadedly supports the rod unit 16a. The spring element 26a creates a spring-loaded mounting of the rod unit 16a in the axial direction 72a of the rod unit 16a. The spring element 26a axially spring-loadedly supports the rod unit 16a in a manner that enables axially tensioned, in particular pretensioned, pressing of the coupling element 20a against the length adjustment element 24a of the tool chuck 14a, at least while searching for a locking position between the coupling element 20a and the tool surface 22a by means of a rotation of the rod unit 16a.
[0044] Figures 5 and 6 schematically illustrate the search for the locking position. Figure 5 shows the situation in which the rod unit 16a, in particular the stop element 70a of the rod unit 16a, abuts with the coupling element 20a against an underside of the length adjustment element 24a. The coupling element 20a of the rod unit 16a and the tool surface 22a of the length adjustment element 24a do not yet overlap in this case, and the spring element 26a is compressed, as shown by way of example in Figure 7, thus generating a spring force that presses the rod unit 16a upward against the underside of the length adjustment element 24a. During this pressing of the rod unit 16a against the length adjustment element 24a by the spring element 26a, the rod unit 16a, in particular at least the stop element 70a, is rotated. In this case, the rotational movement of the rod unit 16a is not transmitted to the length adjustment element 24a.When a suitable rotational position of the rod unit 16a relative to the length adjustment element 24a is reached, the coupling element 20a and the tool surface 22a, in particular the hexagon, overlap. In the overlap position, the rod unit 16a, in particular the coupling element 20a of the rod unit 16a, can slide axially into the tool surface 22a of the length adjustment element 24a by relaxing the spring element 26a. Figure 6 shows the situation in the overlap position. The rod unit 16a, in particular the stop element 70a of the rod unit 16a, is inserted into the tool surface 22a of the length adjustment element 24a. The coupling element 20a and the tool surface 22a form a positive connection with one another. The spring element 26a is relaxed as shown in Fig. 8, thus generating a holding force that holds the coupling element 20a in the tool surface 22a.If the rod unit 16a is now rotated, the length adjustment element 24a follows this rotation, particularly due to the positive locking. The rotational movement of the rod unit 16a is in this case transferred to the length adjustment element 24a, which is thereby screwed up or down, particularly in the axial direction 72a. The situation outlined in Figure 6 represents a second length adjustment operating state. In the second length adjustment operating state, the length adjustment device 64a is provided for adjusting the longitudinal position of the tool 10a in the second-type tool chuck 14a by means of the rotation of the rod unit 16a.
[0045] The rod unit 16a is guided in sections in a center 54a of the spring element 26a, which is designed as a spiral compression spring. The rod unit 16a has the support collar element 56a. The support collar element 56a is provided to support a first side 74a of the spring element 26a. The support collar element 56a is provided to receive the connecting pin 58a. The connecting pin 58a is mounted on the support collar element 56a on a side of the support collar element 56a opposite the spring element 26a.
[0046] The length adjustment device 64a has a translation drive unit 38a (see Fig. 2). The translation drive unit 38a is provided for axial adjustment of the rod unit 16a. The translation drive unit 38a has a translation slide 40a. The translation drive unit 38a has a drive shaft 76a. The movement of the translation slide 40a is driven by the drive shaft 76a. The movement of the translation slide 40a is guided by the drive shaft 76a. The translation slide 40a supports the rod unit 16a. The length adjustment device 64a has a rotation drive unit 42a (see Fig. 2). The rotation drive unit 42a is provided for generating the rotational movement of the rod unit 16a. The translation carriage 40a carries the rotation drive unit 42a.The spring element 26a is supported on a further side 78a, which is in particular opposite the side 74a, on an element that moves along with the translation carriage 40a, in particular on a part of the translation carriage 40a itself.
[0047] The length adjustment device 64a has a sensor unit 44a (see Fig. 2). The sensor unit 44a is provided for detecting a tensioned state 46a (see Fig. 7) of the spring element 26a. The sensor unit 44a is provided for detecting a relaxed state 48a (see Fig. 8) of the spring element 26a. The sensor unit 44a is provided for detecting the respective state 46a, 48a of the spring element 26a by detecting an axial relative position of the rod unit 16a to the sensor unit 44a or to a sensor element 50a of the sensor unit 44a. The sensor unit 44a has the sensor element 50a. In the embodiment of Fig. 2, the sensor element 50a is designed as a mechanical sensor element 50a. The mechanical sensor element 50a is a button / microswitch which is triggered / deflected by a relative movement of the rod unit 16a.In the illustrated case, the mechanical sensor element 50a is in contact with the support collar element 56a and is triggered / deflected by the support collar element 56a when the support collar element 56a moves during compression of the spring element 26a.
[0048] The length adjustment device 64a has a spring-loaded unit 28a. The translation carriage 40a supports the spring-loaded unit 28a. The spring-loaded unit 28a is provided to selectively enable or disable the axially spring-loaded mounting of the rod unit 16a by the spring element 26a. The spring-loaded unit 28a shown in Fig. 2 is designed as a stop unit 30a with an axially extendable and retractable end stop element 32a (in the axial direction 72a). The end stop element 32a is provided for contacting the further axial end 34a of the rod unit 16a. The further axial end 34a of the rod unit 16a is arranged opposite the axial end 18a of the rod unit 16a. In an activated state (see Fig. 9), the end stop element 32a prevents an axial movement of the rod unit 16a that is independent of the translation slide 40a.The end stop element 32a blocks relative movements of the rod unit 16a to the translational carriage 40. The end stop element 32a fixes a relative position of the rod unit 16a in the axial direction 72a relative to the translational carriage 40a. The extendable and retractable end stop element 32a is designed as a pneumatic cylinder or as a hydraulic cylinder. The extendable and retractable end stop element 32a is guided, at least in one operating state, in particular in the extended operating state, in the center 54a of the spring element 26a designed as a spiral compression spring. The extendable and retractable end stop element 32a is intended to be extended in the relaxed state 48a of the spring element 26a.The extendable and retractable end stop element 32a is intended to be retracted into the center 54a of the spring element 26a in the relaxed operating state until it is in block with the support collar element 56a / the underside of the rod unit 16a.
[0049] Fig. 10 shows a schematic flow diagram of a length adjustment method for an at least partially automated adjustment of the longitudinal position of a tool 10a in a tool receiving opening 12a of tool chucks 14a by means of the length adjustment device 64a.
[0050] In at least a first method part 94a of the length adjustment method, a tool 10a is adjusted to length in a tool chuck 14a of the second type. In at least one method step 80a of the first method part 94a, the rod unit 16a is pressed against the length adjustment element 24a of the tool chuck 14a. If the coupling element 20a and the tool surface 22a are outside a mutual engagement position (see Fig. 5), the spring element 26a is tensioned, in particular pretensioned, by pressing the rod unit 16a against the length adjustment element 24a of the tool chuck 14a. Because the rod unit 16a is axially spring-mounted by the spring element 26a, the rod unit 16a is moved relative to the translation slide 40a when the spring element 26a is tensioned. The sensor element 50a of the sensor unit 44a is mounted so that it moves along with the translation carriage 40a.The movement of the rod unit 16a during tensioning of the spring element 26a actuates the sensor element 50a. The sensor element 50a is deflected upon actuation by the rod unit 16a, in particular the support collar element 56a of the rod unit 16a. By actuating the sensor element 50a, the tensioned state 48a of the spring element 26a is registered by the length adjustment device 64a, in particular by a computing unit 100a of the length adjustment device 64a. As a result, the length adjustment device 64a, in particular by the computing unit 100a, detects that the coupling element 20a and the tool surface 22a are not (yet) in the engaged position. In at least one further method step 90a of the first method part 94a, the rod unit 16a is rotated. The aim of the rotation in this method step 90a is to find the locking position.Once the locking position has been found, the coupling element 20a is retracted into the tool surface 22a by releasing the tensioned spring element 26a. The tool surface 22a forms a recess for the positive axial reception of the coupling element 20a. The sensor element 50a is actuated again. The deflection of the sensor element 50a is canceled by releasing the sensor element 50a from the support collar element 56a. In at least one further method step 92a of the first method part 94a, the rod unit 16a is rotated further. The purpose of the rotation in this method step 92a is to screw the length adjustment element 24a, which is designed as a length adjustment screw, up or down.After coupling the coupling element 20a to the tool surface 22a, in method step 92a the length adjustment element 24a of the tool chuck 14a, in particular the length adjustment screw of the tool chuck 14a, is actuated by means of the rotation of the rod unit 16a.
[0051] In at least one second method part 96a of the length adjustment method, a tool 10a is adjusted to length in a tool chuck 14'a of the first type. In at least one method step 98a, the rod unit 16a is de-springed by the spring removal unit 28a. In the process, the function of the spring element 26a is deactivated. Upon activation of the spring removal unit 28a, the rod unit 16a is no longer spring-mounted. For de-springing, the end stop element 32a of the stop unit 30a is extended into a block with the rod unit 16a. In an alternative embodiment of the length adjustment device 64b, the rod unit 16b could also be clamped by a clamping unit 36b of the alternative length adjustment device 64b. In at least one further method step 102a of the second method part 96a, the rod unit 16a is moved in the axial direction 72a.The rod unit 16a is axially retracted from below into the tool receiving opening 12a of the tool chuck 14'a by means of the translation slide 40a and forms a direct, fixed-position (unsprung) stop for the tool 10a to be mounted in a length-adjusted manner.
[0052] Figure 11 shows a further exemplary embodiment of the invention. The following descriptions and the drawings are essentially limited to the differences between the exemplary embodiments, whereby with regard to components with the same designation, in particular with regard to components with the same reference numerals, reference can in principle also be made to the drawings and / or the description of the other exemplary embodiments, in particular Figures 1 to 10. To distinguish the exemplary embodiments, the letter a is placed after the reference numerals of the exemplary embodiment in Figures 1 to 10. In the exemplary embodiment in Figure 11, the letter a is replaced by the letter b.
[0053] Figure 11 shows an alternative length adjustment device 64b for at least partially automated adjustment of the longitudinal position of a tool 10b in a tool receiving opening 12b of a tool chuck 14b, comprising a rod unit 16b and a translation drive unit 38b with a translation slide 40b. The rod unit 16b is axially spring-mounted by a spring element 26b in a manner that enables axially tensioned pressing of a coupling element 20b of the rod unit 16b against a length adjustment element 24b of the tool chuck 14b, at least while searching for a locking position between the coupling element 20b and a tool surface 22b of the length adjustment element 24b by means of a rotation of the rod unit 16b. The alternative length adjustment device 64b has an alternative spring-releasing unit 28b. The alternative spring-releasing unit 28b is designed as a clamping unit 36b.The clamping unit 36b is designed to clamp the rod unit 16b. Clamping the rod unit 16b deactivates the spring action of the spring element 26b. Clamping the rod unit 16b prevents any relative axial movement between the rod unit 16b and the translation slide 40b.
[0054] The alternative length adjustment device 64b has a sensor unit 44b. The sensor unit 44b is provided for detecting the respective tension state of the spring element 26b by detecting an axial relative position of the rod unit 16b to the sensor unit 44b or to a sensor element 52b of the sensor unit 44b. The sensor unit 44b has the sensor element 52b. The sensor element 52b is designed as a proximity sensor element 52b. Alternatively, the sensor unit 44b could also have an optical sensor element.
[0055] Reference symbol
[0056] 10 tools
[0057] 12 Tool holder opening
[0058] 14 tool chucks
[0059] 16 rod unit
[0060] 18 Axial end
[0061] 20 coupling element
[0062] 22 Tool area
[0063] 24 Length adjustment element
[0064] 26 spring element
[0065] 28 Defeathering unit
[0066] 30 stop unit
[0067] 32 End stop element
[0068] 34 Axial end
[0069] 36 clamping unit
[0070] 38 Translation drive unit
[0071] 40 translation carriages
[0072] 42 Rotation drive unit
[0073] 44 Sensor unit
[0074] 46 Tense state
[0075] 48 Relaxed state
[0076] 50 Mechanical sensor element
[0077] 52 Proximity sensor element
[0078] 54 Center
[0079] 56 Support collar element
[0080] 58 connecting pin
[0081] 60 exchange interface
[0082] 62 tool clamping device
[0083] 64 Length adjustment device
[0084] 66 System holding unit
[0085] Stop element axial direction side
[0086] drive shaft
[0087] Page
[0088] Process step
[0089] Tower base frame induction coil rail
[0090] Process step Process step Process part Process part
[0091] Process step computing unit
[0092] Process step
Claims
Claims 1. Length adjustment device (64a-b) for an at least partially automated, preferably fully automated, adjustment of a longitudinal position of a tool (10a-b) in a tool receiving opening (12a-b) of a tool chuck (14a-b), comprising a linearly movable and rotatably mounted rod unit (16a-b), which has a coupling element (20a-b), for example an external hexagon, at one axial end (18a-b), at least for coupling to a tool surface (22a-b) of a length adjustment element (24a-b), in particular a length adjustment screw, of the tool chuck (14a-b), for example a hexagon socket, characterized by a spring element (26a-b) which axially spring-mounts at least part of the rod unit (16a-b),which enables an axially tensioned pressing of the coupling element (20a-b) against the length adjustment element (24a-b) of the tool chuck (14a-b) at least while searching for a locking position between the coupling element (20a-b) and the tool surface (22a-b) by means of a rotation of the rod unit (16a-b).
2. Length adjustment device (64a-b) according to claim 1, characterized by a spring-loaded unit (28a-b) which is provided to selectively release or prevent the axially spring-loaded mounting of the rod unit (16a-b) by the spring element (26a-b).
3. Length adjustment device (64a-b) according to claim 2, characterized in that the spring-releasing unit (28-b) is designed as a stop unit (30a) with an end stop element (32a) which can be extended and retracted, in particular axially, for contacting a further axial end (34a-b) of the rod unit (16a-b) opposite the axial end (18a-b) or as a clamping unit (36b) for clamping the rod unit (16a-b).
4. Length adjustment device (64a-b) according to claim 2 or 3, characterized by a translation drive unit (38a-b) for an axial adjustment of the rod unit (16a-b), with a translation Carriage (40a-b) which carries at least the de-springing unit (28a-b) and at least the rod unit (16a-b).
5. Length adjustment device (64a-b) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a translation drive unit (38a-b) for an axial adjustment of the rod unit (16a-b), with a Translation carriage (40a-b) which carries at least one rotation drive unit (42a-b) for generating the rotation of the rod unit (16a-b).
6. Length adjustment device (64a-b) according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that in a first length adjustment operating state, the axial adjustment by means of the translation drive unit (38a-b) is provided for adjusting the longitudinal position of a tool (10a-b) in a tool chuck (14'ab) of a first type, and that in a second length adjustment operating state, the rotation of the rod unit (16a-b), in particular by means of the rotation drive unit (42a-b), is provided for adjusting the longitudinal position of a tool (10a-b) in a tool chuck (14a-b) of a second type different from the first type.
7. Length adjustment device (64a-b) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a sensor unit (44a-b) which is provided at least for a direct or indirect detection of a tensioned state (46a-b) of the spring element (26a-b) and a relaxed state (48a-b) of the spring element (26a-b).
8. Length adjustment device (64a-b) according to claim 7, characterized in that the sensor unit (44a-b) has at least one mechanical sensor element (50a), in particular a button, preferably a microswitch, at least one optical sensor element and / or at least one inductive proximity sensor element (52b) for detecting an axial relative position of the rod unit (16a-b).
9. Length adjustment device (64a-b) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the rod unit (16a-b) is guided at least in sections in a center (54a-b) of the spring element (26a-b), which is designed in particular as a spiral compression spring / helical compression spring.
10. Length adjustment device (64a) at least according to claim 3, characterized in that the extendable and retractable end stop element (32a) is guided at least in sections and / or at least in an operating state in a center (54a) of the spring element (26a), which is designed in particular as a spiral compression spring / helical compression spring.
11. Length adjustment device (64a-b) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the rod unit (16a-b) has at least one support collar element (56a-b) for supporting the spring element (26a-b).
12. Length adjustment device (64a-b) according to claim 11, characterized in that the rod unit (16a-b) is designed in several parts, wherein a partial element of the rod unit (16a-b) has the support collar element (56a-b) and is provided for receiving a further partial element of the rod unit (16a-b), in particular a further partial element of the rod unit (16a-b) having the coupling element (20a-b) or a connecting pin (58a-b) for connection to an interchangeable interface (60a-b) for mounting various further partial elements of the rod unit (16a-b) with various coupling elements (20a-b).
13. Tool clamping device (62a-b), in particular a shrink clamping device, with a length adjustment device (64a-b) according to one of the preceding claims.
14. System (66a-b) with a tool clamping device (62a-b) according to claim 13 and with the tool chuck (14a-b).
15. Length adjustment method for an at least partially automated, preferably fully automated, adjustment of a longitudinal position of a tool (10a-b) in a tool receiving opening (12a-b) of a tool chuck (14a-b), by means of a rotatably mounted rod unit (16a-b) which has a coupling element (20a-b), for example an external hexagon, at one axial end (18a-b), at least for coupling to a tool surface (22a-b) of a length adjustment element (24a-b), in particular a length adjustment screw, of the tool chuck (14a-b), for example a hexagon socket, in particular by means of a length adjustment device (64a-b) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the rod unit (16a-b) is mounted in an axially spring-loaded manner such thatthat when the rod unit (16a-b) is pressed against the length adjustment element (24a-b) of the tool chuck (14a-b) outside of a locking position between the coupling element (20a-b) and the tool surface (22a-b), a spring element (26a-b) is tensioned, and that when the locking position is adjusted, e.g. by means of a rotation of the rod unit (16a-b), at least the coupling element (20a-b) of the rod unit (16a-b) is coupled to the tool surface (22a-b) by relaxing the spring element (26a-b), in particular is introduced into the tool surface (22a-b).
16. Length adjustment method according to claim 15, characterized in that after coupling the coupling element (20a-b) to the tool surface (22a-b), the length adjustment element (24a-b) of the tool chuck (14a-b), in particular the length adjustment screw of the tool chuck (14a-b), is actuated by means of rotation.