Workpiece holding device with a vise anchoring configuration

Abstract

An assembly 800 includes a device 802 with fingers (806, 808, Figure 12), which adjustably move along a longitudinal axis relative to a housing 812. A clamping bolt (710, Figure 11) mounted transverse

Description

BACKGROUND

[0001] In the manufacturing industry, various manufacturing and assembly operations are performed on numerously configured workpieces. Such operations involve manufacturing and assembly operations being performed on such workpieces. To properly hold the workpiece, workpiece holding devices must be able to properly grasp and manipulate the workpiece.

[0002] Workpiece holding devices are configured to clamp a workpiece of perform manufacturing operations thereon. However, in some cases, components of the workpiece holding device that clamp on a particular workpiece may damage or mar the workpiece. It may thus be desirable to configure such clamping components in a manner that reduces the probability of damaging the workpiece. Further, it may also to configure the workpiece holding device with an anchoring system that facilitates mounting the workpiece holding device to a vise. It is with respect to these and other considerations that the disclosure made herein is presented. SUMMARY

[0003] Within examples described herein, the present disclosure describes implementations that relate to a workpiece holding device with a vise anchoring configuration.

[0004] Within additional examples described herein, the present disclosure describes an assembly that includes: a workpiece holding device having a housing; a plurality of pull studs disposed partially through respective lateral holes in the housing, wherein the plurality of pull studs are configured to be coupled to a vise; and a plurality of wedge pins disposed in respective transversal holes and interacting respectively with the plurality of pull studs, thereby pulling the housing of the device toward the vise.

[0005] Within examples, the present disclosure also describes a method of forming the assembly. Within additional examples, the present disclosure describes a tool used to install and remove the wedge pins from the housing.

[0006] The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, implementations, and features described above, further aspects, implementations, and features will become apparent by reference to the figures and the following detailed description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0007] The novel features believed characteristic of the illustrative examples are set forth in the appended claims. The illustrative examples, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, further objectives and descriptions thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detailed description of an illustrative example of the present disclosure when read in conjunction with the accompanying Figures.

[0008] Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of a device for holding a workpiece, according to an example implementation.

[0009] Figure 2 illustrates another perspective view of the device of Figure 1, according to an example implementation.

[0010] Figure 3 illustrates an exploded perspective view of the device of Figure 1, according to an example implementation.

[0011] Figure 4 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the device of Figure 1, according to an example implementation.

[0012] Figure 5 illustrates a perspective view of a body of a finger, according to an example implementation.

[0013] Figure 6 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the device of Figure 1, according to an example implementation.

[0014] Figure 7 illustrates a perspective cross-sectional front view of the device of Figure 1, according to an example implementation.

[0015] Figure 8 illustrates a cross-sectional front view of the device of Figure 1, according to an example implementation.

[0016] Figure 9 illustrates another cross-sectional side view of the device of Figure 1 showing an interface between driving wedges and driven wedges, according to an example implementation.

[0017] Figure 10 illustrates a partial side cross-sectional view of the device of Figure I in an unlocked state, according to an example implementation.

[0018] Figure 11 illustrates a partial side cross-sectional view of the device of Figure 1 after driven wedges have moved downward and a retaining tube has contacted interior surfaces of fingers of the device, according to an example implementation.

[0019] Figure 12 illustrates a perspective view of an assembly having a workpiece holding device mounted to a vise, according to an example implementation.

[0020] Figure 13 illustrates a partial perspective exploded view of the assembly of Figure 12, according to an example implementation.

[0021] Figure 14 illustrates a partial perspective cross-sectional view of the assembly of Figure 12, according to an example implementation.

[0022] Figure 15 illustrates a side view of a pull stud, according to an example implementation.

[0023] Figure 16 illustrates a perspective view of a wedge pin, according to an example implementation.

[0024] Figure 17 illustrates a cross-sectional partial view of the assembly of Figure 12 showing interaction between a wedge pin and a pull stud, according to an example implementation.

[0025] Figure 18 illustrates a side view of the assembly of Figure 12 showing a wedge pin inserted into a housing of a workpiece holding device, according to an example implementation.

[0026] Figure 19 illustrates a partial view of the assembly of Figure 12 showing a set screw interacting with a wedge pin, according to an example implementation.

[0027] Figure 20 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of the assembly of Figure 12 showing a set screw disposed in a housing of a workpiece holding device and interacting with a wedge pin, according to an example implementation.

[0028] Figure 21 illustrates a perspective partial cross-sectional view of the assembly of Figure 12 showing a housing of a workpiece holding device anchored to a vise, according to an example implementation.

[0029] Figure 22 illustrates a perspective view of a tool for installing and removing wedge pins, according to an example implementation.

[0030] Figure 23 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the tool of Figure 22 being used to install a wedge pin into a housing of a workpiece holding device, according to an example implementation.

[0031] Figure 24 is a flowchart of a method for forming the assembly of Figure 12, according to an example implementation. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] In order to accommodate the many types of manufacturing and assembly operations and also accommodate numerous types of workpiece configurations, it may be desirable for workpiece holding devices to adapt to a wide variety of workpiece shapes and sizes. The absence of prior knowledge regarding the type of workpiece, variations in the type of workpiece, and the variations in the workpiece location and position present difficulties in providing a workpiece holding device that can adapt to these situations. These challenges are multiplied by the need to provide a workpiece holding device that is simple, robust, and tolerant of poor or inaccurate information.

[0033] It may thus be desirable to provide a workpiece holding device that could provide an accurate and consistent system for adjustably engaging a variety of workpieces having numerous configurations. It may also be desirable to reduce the probability of damaging or marring parts being clamped by the workpiece holding device. This way, workpiece quality and the manufacturing first yield pass may be enhanced. It may further be desirable configure the workpiece holding device such that it could be mounted to various types of vises via an anchoring system that ensures stability of the workpiece holding device during operation.

[0034] Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of a device 100 for holding a workpiece, Figure 2 illustrates another perspective view of the device 100, and Figure 3 illustrates an exploded perspective view of the device 100, according to an example implementation. Figures 1-3 are described together.

[0035] The figures depicting the device 100 include a coordinate system 101. The x-axis can be referred to as the transverse axis, and movement along the x-axis can be referred to as transverse motion (e.g., movement along the negative x-axis direction can be referred to as movement in a first transverse direction, while movement along the positive x-axis direction can be referred to as movement in a second transverse direction that is opposite the first transverse direction).

[0036] Movement along the y-axis can be referred to as lateral motion (e.g., movement along the positive y-axis direction can be referred to as movement in a first lateral direction, while movement along the negative y-axis direction can be referred to as movement in a second lateral direction that is opposite the first lateral direction). Movement along the z-axis (longitudinal axis) can be referred to as longitudinal motion (e.g., movement along the positive z-axis direction can be referred to as movement in a first longitudinal direction or distal direction, while movement along the negative z-axis direction can be referred to as movement in a second longitudinal direction or proximal direction that is opposite the first transverse direction).

[0037] Referring to Figures 1-3, the device 100 includes a housing base plate 102 sandwiched or interposed between a first fixed housing plate 104 and a second fixed housing plate 106. The first fixed housing plate 104 is coupled to the housing base plate 102 via shoulder bolt 103 and shoulder bolt 105 shown in Figure 2. Similarly, the second fixed housing plate 106 is coupled to the housing base plate 102 via shoulder bolt 107 and shoulder bolt 109 shown in Figure 1. In an example, the device 100 can have a housing with unitary construction that combines the housing base plate 102, the first fixed housing plate 104, and the second fixed housing plate 106 as shown in Figure 12.

[0038] The device 100 represents one side of a workpiece holding apparatus. A second device similar to the device 100 can be used such that a workpiece can be secured between the two devices.

[0039] The device 100 includes a rib 108 fixedly-coupled to the housing base plate 102. The rib 108 is located at a center of the housing base plate 102 between the first fixed housing plate 104 and the second fixed housing plate 106.

[0040] Figure 4 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the device 100, according to an example implementation. The cross section shown in Figure 4 is taken a long a plane that passes through the rib 108 looking in the negative x-axis direction of the coordinate system 101.

[0041] The rib 108 is coupled to the housing base plate 102 via shoulder bolt 400 and shoulder bolt 402. The heads of the shoulder bolts 400, 402 are received within respective cavities formed in the housing base plate 102. Particularly, the housing base plate 102 has a shoulder 404 against which a head of the shoulder bolt 400 rests and a shoulder 406 against which a head of the shoulder bolt 402 rests. The shoulders 404, 406 act as reference surfaces to locate the rib 108 with respect to the housing base plate 102. The shoulder bolts 400, 402 have threaded ends that engage threads tapped in respective bolt holes formed in the rib 108.

[0042] Further, a rib tip 408 is removably coupled to the rib 108. Particularly, the rib 108 can have a dowel hole configured to receive a first rib dowel 410 and another dowel hole configured to receive a second rib dowel 412. During assembly, the rib dowels 410, 412 are press-fitted in their respective dowel holes in the rib 108. The rib tip 408 has corresponding dowel holes that can be aligned with the rib dowels 410, 412 mounted to the rib 108, and then the rib tip 408 is slid about the rib dowels 410, 412 to be mounted to the rib 108. A rib screw 414 is then used to affix the rib tip 408 to the rib 108.

[0043] In examples, the rib tip 408 is made of a material different from the material of the rib 108. For instance, the rib tip 408 can be made of a softer material compared to the material of the rib 108. The rib 108 can be made of hardened material.

[0044] In examples, the rib tip 408 has a shoulder or step 416. The rib 108, and particularly the rib tip 408 having the step 416, operate as or provide a fixed reference surface for a workpiece to rest on. The fingers can then be actuated to engage the workpiece. Different rib tips can have different step depths.

[0045] The rib 108 further has a through-hole 418. The through-hole 418 allows a retaining tube and clamping bolt (described below) to pass therethrough.

[0046] Referring back to Figures 1-3, the device 100 further includes a first set of fingers 110, such as finger 111. The device 100 also includes a second set of fingers 112, such as finger 113 and finger 115. Both sets of fingers rest against a surface of the housing base plate 102. The first set of fingers 110 are interposed between the second fixed housing plate 106 and the rib 108, whereas the second set of fingers 112 are interposed between the first fixed housing plate 104 and the rib 108.

[0047] In the example implementation shown in Figures 1-3, the first set of fingers 110 have six fingers and the second set of fingers 112 have respective six fingers. However, in other example implementations, more or fewer fingers can be used in each set.

[0048] The first set of fingers 110 can be referred to as left-hand set of fingers as they are located to the left of the rib 108 when looking in the positive z-axis direction. The second set of fingers 112 can be referred to as right-hand set of fingers as they are located to the right of the rib 108 when looking in the positive z-axis direction.

[0049] The sets of fingers 110, 112 can slide longitudinally along the z-axis of the coordinate system 101. Each finger of the sets of fingers 110, 112 is individually-actuated, e.g., manually or via any actuation mechanism.

[0050] In an example, the sets of fingers 110, 112 can all be pushed back (in the negative z-axis direction) behind the rib tip 408, such that the rib tip 408 is the foremost portion in the positive z-axis direction. The workpiece can then be located relative to the reference surface provided by the rib tip 408, and some or all of the sets of fingers 110, 112 can then be pushed toward the workpiece to grab it and secure it. Once the sets of fingers 110, 112 are in the desired position relative to the workpiece, they are clamped in the x-axis direction as described below.

[0051] The rib 108 provides a non-moving surface for the sets of fingers 110, 112 fingers to be clamped against. As described below, a locking or retaining mechanism is used to squeeze the first set of fingers 110 against the rib 108 while squeezing the second set of the fingers 112 against the rib 108 in the distal direction. Advantageously, having the rib 108 stationary in the middle between the sets of fingers 110, 112 allows larger and more consistent squeezing forces (along the x-axis direction) to be applied to the sets of fingers 110, 112.

[0052] Figure 5 illustrates a perspective view of a body of the finger 111, and Figure 6 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the device 100, according to an example implementation. The cross section shown in Figure 6 is taken a long a plane that passes through the finger 111 looking in the negative x-axis direction of the coordinate system 101. The finger 111 is described with respect to Figures 5-6 as a representative of the fingers of both sets. The other fingers can be configured similarly.

[0053] The body of the finger 111 is formed as a generally rectangular block having a slot 500 configured as a through-window (e.g., generally-rectangular through-hole with rounded corners). The slot 500 is bounded by interior distal surface 502, interior proximal surface 504, a first interior lateral surface 506, and a second interior lateral surface 508. The first interior lateral surface 506 can be referred to as an interior bottom surface, and the second interior lateral surface 508 can be referred to as an interior top surface.

[0054] The finger 111 has a first finger dowel hole 510 and a second finger dowel hole 512. The finger 111 also includes a screw hole 514. The finger dowel holes 510, 512 and the screw hole 514 facilitate mounting a removable or replaceable finger tip.

[0055] For example, referring to Figure 6, a replaceable finger tip 516 can be coupled to the finger 111. The replaceable finger tip 516 is removable and can be replaced with another finger tip based on the type, material, and / or shape of the workpiece to be held.

[0056] To mount the replaceable finger tip 516 to the finger 111, a first finger dowel 518 is press-fitted in the first finger dowel hole 510 and a second finger dowel 520 is press-fitted in the second finger dowel hole 512. The replaceable finger tip 516 has corresponding dowel holes that can be aligned with the finger dowels 518, 520 mounted to the finger 111, and then the replaceable finger tip 516 is slid about the finger dowels 518, 520 to be mounted to the finger 111. A finger screw 522 can be mounted through the screw hole 514 and is used to affix the replaceable finger tip 516 to the finger 111 when screwed in.

[0057] The replaceable finger tip 516 can have a shape and / or material that are suitable for a particular workpiece. For example, referring to Figures 1 and 5 together, the replaceable finger tip 516 has a substantially rounded end portion 524 having an extended or axially-protruding portion 526 and a step or recessed portion 528, which are used to engage a workpiece. Other replaceable tips can have other shapes, e.g., flat surfaces or protrusions shaped differently.

[0058] Further, the replaceable finger tip 516 can be made of a material different from a respective material of the finger 111. For example, the replaceable finger tip 516 is made of a softer material (e.g., brass) than the material (e.g., steel) of the finger 111. In this example, with the material of the replaceable finger tip 516 being soft, damage to the workpiece may be avoided.

[0059] In an example, fingers of the first set of fingers 110 (e.g., the finger 111) are similar to fingers of the second set of fingers 112 (e.g., the finger 113). In other examples, however, the fingers of the first set of fingers 110 are different from fingers of the second set of fingers 112.

[0060] For example, one side of each finger may be roughened or made coarse via shot blasting or other surface treatments. However, the side of the fingers of the first set of fingers 110 that is roughened is opposite to the side of the fingers of the second set of fingers 112 that is roughened. As a particular example, the side that is facing toward the rib 108 is made coarse. Thus, in this example, sides of the first set of fingers 110 facing toward negative x-axis are made coarse, whereas sides of the second set of fingers 112 facing toward the positive x axis are made coarse.

[0061] For instance, referring the finger 111 in Figures 1 and 5, it has a side surface 530 facing toward the second fixed housing plate 106 and a side surface 532 opposite the side surface 530 and facing toward the rib 108. In the case of the finger 111, the side surface 532 is made coarse, while the side surface 530 is made soft or smooth. Conversely, the finger 113 in Figure 1 has a side surface 534 facing toward the rib 108 and another side surface opposite the side surface 534 and facing toward the first fixed housing plate 104. The side surface 534 is made coarse, while the other side is made soft or smooth.

[0062] Having side surfaces of the fingers facing toward the rib 108 made coarse increases the coefficient of friction between adjacent fingers. As the fingers are stacked together, a rough surface of one finger contacts a smooth or soft surface of the adjacent finger. Thus, a rough surface engages or deforms the non-treated smooth surface of the adjacent finger, thereby increasing the friction or grip force between the adjacent fingers.

[0063] With this configuration, after a finger is actuated (e.g.. moved along the z-axis toward a workpiece), it may remain in the actuated position prior to applying side clamping forces (as described below) while adjusting the positions of the other fingers. This may allow the operator to move the fingers individually until the fingers are in a desired position, then the operator may apply the clamping forces. Further, when the operator applies the clamping force, the increased coefficient of friction between the fingers enhances retaining the fingers in the clamped or locked position. Other finger configurations are possible as described below with respect to Figures 12-22.

[0064] Once the fingers are actuated or adjusted longitudinally to a particular configuration that matches a desired shape of the workpiece, the device 100 includes a locking mechanism that retains the fingers and locks them in position.

[0065] Figure 7 illustrates a perspective cross-sectional front view of the device 100, and Figure 8 illustrates a cross-sectional front view of the device 100, according to an example implementation. The device 100 includes a retaining tube 700 (e.g., a hollow cylinder) disposed through respective slots of the fingers, e.g., the slot 500 of the finger 111, and through the through-hole 418 of the rib 108. As such, the retaining tube 700 extends transversely with respect to the sets of fingers 110, 112 and the rib 108. As described below, the retaining tube 700 is configured to retain the sets of fingers 110, 112 such that the sets of fingers 110, 112 are precluded from moving along the y-axis. In an example, the retaining tube 700 may also be configured to preclude the sets of fingers 110, 112 from rotating or rocking about the x-axis during operation of the device 100.

[0066] As best shown in Figure 3, the fixed housing plates 104, 106 each has a respective through-window that is generally-rectangular. The retaining tube 700 extends transversely and is disposed between the fixed housing plates 104, 106. The retaining tube 700 is also received partially within the respective through windows thereof.

[0067] The retaining tube 700 is configured to limit respective strokes of the sets of fingers 110, 112 in the z-axis direction. For example, referring to the finger 111, when the finger 111 is pulled in the negative z-axis direction, the finger 111 can move until the interior distal surface 502 contacts the retaining tube 700, which then precludes further movement in the negative z-axis direction. When the finger 111 is actuated in the positive z-axis direction, it can move until the interior proximal surface 504 contacts the retaining tube 700, which then precludes further movement in the positive z-axis direction (see Figure 6).

[0068] The device 100 further comprises a driving wedge 702 and a driven wedge 704 received through the rectangular window of the second fixed housing plate 106. The driving wedge 702 contacts the driven wedge 704 along an inclined plane as described below. The device 100 similarly includes a driving wedge 706 and a driven wedge 708 received through the rectangular window of the first fixed housing plate 104. The driving wedge 706 contacts the driven wedge 708 along an inclined plane as described below.

[0069] The device 100 further includes a clamping bolt 710 mounted transversely through the driving wedge 702, the driven wedge 704, the retaining tube 700 (which is hollow), the respective slots of the sets of fingers 110, 112, the driven wedge 708, and the driving wedge 706. The clamping bolt 710 has a bolt head 712 resting against a clamping bolt washer 714, which in turn contacts the driving wedge 702.

[0070] In an example, the device 100 further includes a first wave spring 716 disposed within the driven wedge 704. The first wave spring 716 rests against a shim 718, which in turn rests against a shoulder or step formed by the exterior surface of the retaining tube 700. The first wave spring 716 is preloaded to apply a biasing force in an outward direction (i.e., in the positive x-axis direction) on the driven wedge 704 and the driving wedge 702.

[0071] Similarly, the device 100 includes a second wave spring 720 disposed within the driven wedge 708. The second wave spring 720 rests against a shim 722, which in turn rests against a shoulder or step formed by the exterior surface of the retaining tube 700. The second wave spring 720 is preloaded to apply a biasing force in an outward direction (i.e., in the negative x-axis direction) on the driven wedge 708 and the driving wedge 706.

[0072] In an example, the clamping bolt 710 is configured as a lead screw, such that rotary motion of the clamping bolt 710 about the x-axis causes it to translate or move linearly along the x-axis, and thereby causing the driving wedge 702 to move therewith. Particularly, in an example, the clamping bolt 710 has male threads 717 (exterior threads) formed on an exterior peripheral surface at an end portion of the clamping bolt 710. For instance, the male threads 717 can be Acme or trapezoidal threads. However, other types of threads (e.g., square threads) may be used.

[0073] The driving wedge 706 has female threads (interior threads) in a tapped hole through which the clamping bolt 710 extends and configured to engage with the male threads 717 of the clamping bolt 710. The male threads 717 of the clamping bolt 710 and the female thread of the driving wedge 706 are configured such when the clamping bolt 710 is rotated and translates in a given direction, the driving wedge 706 moves in the opposite direction.

[0074] For instance, if the clamping bolt 710 is rotated clockwise, it translates in the negative x-axis direction, pushing the driving wedge 702 in the negative x-axis direction, and pulling the driving wedge 706 in the positive x-axis direction. Conversely, if the clamping bolt 710 is rotated counter-clockwise, it translates in the positive x-axis direction, allowing the driving wedge 702 to move in the positive x-axis direction (via the biasing force of the first wave spring 716), and causing the driving wedge 706 to move in the negative x-axis direction. In other examples, two clamping bolts could be used, one on each side, to independently move the driving wedges 702, 706.

[0075] Figure 9 illustrates another cross-sectional side view of the device 100 showing an interface between the driving wedges 702, 706 and the driven wedges 704, 708, according to an example implementation. As depicted in Figure 9, the driving wedge 702 has an inclined surface that contacts a respective inclined surface of the driven wedge 704 along an angled or inclined plane 724. Similarly, the driving wedge 706 has an inclined surface that contacts a respective inclined surface of the driven wedge 708 along an angled or inclined plane 726.

[0076] Figures 7-9 illustrate the device 100 in an unlocked or unclamped state. In this unlocked state, the clamping bolt 710 is unscrewed (i.e., is moved in the positive x-axis direction), and the first wave spring 716 pushes the driven wedge 704 and the driving wedge 702 outward such that there is a gap between the driven wedge 704 and the finger 111. Similarly, the movement of the clamping bolt 710 in the positive x-axis direction causes the driving wedge 706 to move in the negative x-axis direction, and the second wave spring 720 pushes the driven wedge 708 toward the driving wedge 706 such that there is a gap between the driven wedge 708 and the finger 115.

[0077] In the unlocked position, a gap 728 separates the bottom surface of the driven wedge 704 from the interior surface of the second fixed housing plate 106. Similarly, in the unlocked position, a gap 730 separates the bottom surface of the driven wedge 708 from the interior surface of the first fixed housing plate 104.

[0078] The retaining tube 700 is disposed through respective holes in the driven wedges 704, 708 such that the exterior surface of the retaining tube 700 contacts the interior surfaces of the driven wedges 704, 708 bounding their respective holes. Thus, when the driven wedges 704, 708 are shifted upward, the retaining tube 700 is also shifted upward.

[0079] Figure 10 illustrates a partial side cross-sectional view of the device 100 in an unlocked state, according to an example implementation. As depicted, the retaining tube 700 is shifted slightly upward along with the driven wedges 704 such that a gap 732 separates the bottom surface of the retaining tube 700 from the interior bottom surfaces of the sets of fingers 110, 112 (e.g., the first interior lateral surface 506 of the finger 111). In another example, the retaining tube 700 contacts the sets of fingers 110, 112 but does not apply a force thereon, such that the sets of fingers 110, 112 are free to move along the z-axis.

[0080] In the unlocked position, the operator can adjust the longitudinal positions of the sets of fingers 110, 112 as desired. Once the sets of fingers 110, 112 are actuated or adjusted longitudinally (along the z-axis) to a particular configuration that matches a desired shape of the workpiece, the clamping bolt 710 is screwed in (e.g., rotated clockwise) to move in the negative x-axis direction. As the clamping bolt 710 moves, it causes the driving wedge 702 to move therewith in the negative x-axis direction and causing the driving wedge 706 to move in the positive x-axis direction as described above.

[0081] Due to the driving wedge 702 contacting the driven wedge 704 along inclined surfaces, linear motion of the driving wedge 702 in the negative x-axis direction causes the driven wedge 704 to slide along the inclined plane 724, thereby moving initially downward in the negative y- axis direction (in a lateral direction) traversing a portion of the gap 728. Similarly, due to the driving wedge 706 contacting the driven wedge 708 along inclined surfaces, linear motion of the driving wedge 706 in the positive x-axis direction causes the driven wedge 708 to slide along the inclined plane 724, thereby moving initially downward in the negative y-axis direction traversing a portion of the gap 730. In an example, grease or other lubricant can be used at the interface between the driving wedge 702 and the driven wedge 704 and between the driving wedge 706 and the driven wedge 708 to facilitate the sliding motion of the driven wedges 704, 708.

[0082] As the driven wedges 704, 708 move downward, they move the retaining tube 700 downward therewith. The driven wedges 704, 708 and the retaining tube 700 can move downward until the retaining tube 700 contacts the interior bottom surfaces of the sets of fingers 110, 112 (e.g.. the first interior lateral surface 506 of the finger 111).

[0083] Figure 11 illustrates a partial side cross-sectional view of the device 100 after the driven wedges 704, 708 have moved downward and the retaining tube 700 has contacted the interior surfaces of the fingers 110, according to an example implementation. As shown, the gap 728 is smaller in Figure 11 compared to Figures 9-10, indicating that the driven wedge 704 has moved downward.

[0084] Further, the retaining tube 700 now contacts the interior bottom surfaces of the fingers 110, and the gap 732 no longer exists. As such, the retaining tube 700 and the driven wedges 704, 708 are precluded from moving further downward along the y-axis.

[0085] Thereafter, as the clamping bolt 710 continues to move the driving wedges 702, 706 inward (i.e., toward the sets of fingers 110, 112, respectively), the driven wedges 704, 708 are forced to move inward in a linear direction along the x-axis. Particularly, the driven wedge 704 moves toward and contacts the finger 111 of the first set of fingers 110, thereby compressing the first wave spring 716, and the driven wedge 708 moves toward and contacts the finger 115 of the second set of fingers 112, thereby compressing the second wave spring 720.

[0086] As such, the driven wedges 704, 708 go through a two-phase movement as the clamping bolt 710 is rotated to clamp the sets of fingers 110, 112. Initially, the driven wedges 704, 708 move downward along the y-axis until the retaining tube 700 contacts the interior bottom surfaces of the sets of fingers 110, 112. Then, the driven wedges 704, 708 move linearly along the x-axis toward the respective fingers.

[0087] As the driven wedge 704 presses against the finger 111, the finger 111 in turn presses against an adjacent finger, and so forth, until the first set of fingers 110 are squeezed against each other and between the driven wedge 704 on one side and the rib 108 on the other side. Similarly, as the driven wedge 708 presses against the finger 115, the finger 115 in turn presses against an adjacent finger, and so forth, until the second set of fingers 112 are squeezed against each other and between the driven wedge 708 on one side and the rib 108 on the other side. As a result, the sets of fingers 110, 112 are secured in a locked position. In the example where one side of the fingers is coarse, the surface roughness of one side interacting with a smooth side of an adjacent finger enhances locking the fingers in position.

[0088] Notably, the device 100 is symmetric such that the clamping bolt 710 flipped to facilitate operating it from either side. In other words, the clamping bolt 710, the bolt washer 714, the driving wedges 702, 706, and the driven wedges 704, 708 can be removed and flipped to be mounted on the opposite side of the housing base plate 102. This way, the clamping bolt 710 can be operated (i.e., screwed and unscrewed) from either side of the device 100, and particularly whichever side is more convenient to the operator given and the setup of the machine. In addition, as two devices 100 are used to secure a workpiece, the orientation of the respective clamping bolts can be matched so that the operator can adjust both devices from the same side rather than having to change sides.

[0089] The device 100 can be configured to be mounted or anchored to a vise of a particular machine (e.g., a particular lathe) or can be configured in a generic manner with an adaptor that facilitates mounting the housing base plate 102 to multiple vise configurations. For example, referring to Figure 3, the housing base plate 102 can be coupled to an adaptor block 114 via dowels and fasteners such as dowel 116 and fastener 118.

[0090] The adaptor block 114 is used to anchor the device 100 to a vise of a given machine. The adaptor block 114 can be replaced with other adaptor blocks with a different bolt and hole pattern that allows the device 100 coupled thereto to be mounted to any type of vise.

[0091] Other anchoring mechanisms could be used. Particularly, most vises may have a hole pattern (e.g., a four-hole pattern) that facilitates mounting devices thereto. As such, it may be desirable to have a workpiece holding device, such as the device 100, configured to be mounted to such vises, via an anchoring system using such hole pattern. This way, the hole pattern in the workpiece holding device can be changed to match a particular vise, while using the same anchoring system or mechanism.

[0092] Figure 12 illustrates a perspective view of an assembly 800 having a device 802 mounted to a vise 804, and Figure 13 illustrates a partial perspective exploded view of the assembly 800, according to an example implementation. Figures 12-13 are described together.

[0093] The device 802 can be similar to the device 100 described above. For example, the device 802 has a first set of fingers 806 and a second set of fingers 808 with a rib 810 therebetween. The device 802 has a housing 812 with a combined or unitary construction (e.g., combines the housing base plate 102, the first fixed housing plate 104, and the second fixed housing plate 106 into a single structure).

[0094] Referring to Figure 13, the vise 804 has a particular hole pattern. For example, the hole pattern can be a four-hole pattern having a first hole 814, a second hole 816, a third hole 818, and a fourth hole not shown in the partial view of Figure 13 that is transversely opposite from the third hole 818 and longitudinally aligned with the first hole 814. The housing 812 of the device 800 has four lateral holes (at the bottom of the housing 812) that correspond to the four holes of the vise 804.

[0095] Further, the vise 804 can have one or more keyways such as keyway 820 and keyway 822. The housing 812 has corresponding keys, such as key 824, configured to be inserted into or received within the keyways 820, 822 of the vise 804 when the device 802 is mounted to the vise 804.

[0096] The assembly 800 further includes an anchoring system that facilitates coupling the device 802 to the vise 804 in a stable, robust manner. The anchoring system includes four pull studs: a first pull stud 826, a second pull stud 828, a third pull stud 830, and a fourth pull stud 832. The pull studs 826-832 have threaded portions and are configured to be screwed into the four holes (e.g., the holes 814, 816, 818, etc.) of the vise 804.

[0097] For example, the first pull stud 826 is screwed into the first hole 814, the second pull stud 828 is screwed into the second hole 816, the third pull stud 830 is screwed into the third hole 818, and so on. The device 802 can then be mounted to the vise 804 such that the keys of the housing 812 (e.g., the key 824) are aligned with the key ways 820-822, and the pull studs 826-832 are received within the four holes in the housing 812 that correspond to the four holes of the vise 804.

[0098] Figure 14 illustrates a partial perspective cross-sectional view of the assembly 800, according to an example implementation. As shown in Figure 14, the device 802 is mounted to the vise 804 such that the pull stud 832 is inserted into or accommodated within a lateral hole 833 formed in the housing 812. The other pull studs 826-830 are also inserted into respective holes in the housing 812.

[0099] The housing 812 further includes four transversal holes, such as transversal hole 834 shown in Figure 14), which intersect with the four lateral holes (e.g., the lateral hole 833) of the housing 812 in which the pull studs 826-832 are received. The axes of the transversal holes is perpendicular to the axes of the lateral holes.

[00100] The anchoring system further includes wedge pins and set screws configured to be disposes in the transversal holes. Particularly, referring back to Figure 13, the anchoring system includes: (i) a first wedge pin 836 and a first set screw 838 configured to be disposed in a first transversal hole in the housing 812, (ii) a second wedge pin 840 and a second set screw 842 configured to be disposed in a second transversal hole in the housing 812, (iii) a third wedge pin 844 and a third set screw 846 configured to be disposed in a third transversal hole in the housing 812, and (iv) a fourth wedge pin 848 and a fourth set screw 850 configured to be disposed in the transversal hole 834 (e.g., fourth transversal hole) in the housing 812. The pull studs 826-832 along with the wedge pins 836, 840, 844, 848 and the set screws 838, 842, 846, and 850 operate as an anchoring system or mechanism that affixes the device 802 to the vise 804 in a stable, robust configuration.

[00101] Figure 15 illustrates a side view of the pull stud 832, according to an example implementation. The pull stud 832 has a housing engaging portion 900 and a vise engaging portion 902. The housing engaging portion 900 is configured to be received within the housing 812 as shown in Figure 14, while the vise engaging portion 902 is coupled to the vise 804. For example, the vise engaging portion 902 can have threads 904 that engage corresponding threads in the fourth hole in the vise 804 to couple the pull stud 832 to the vise 804.

[00102] In the example implementation of Figure 15, the housing engaging portion 900 is configured to have an hour-glass shape as depicted. Particularly, the housing engaging portion 900 has a top bust or top flange 906 and a bottom bust or bottom flange 908, separated from each other by a waist portion 910 configured as a narrower section connecting the flanges 906-908.

[00103] The waist portion 910 has a cylindrical portion 912 (which appears as a straight portion in the side view of Figure 15) connected to the top flange 906 via a curved surface 914, and connected to the bottom flange 908 via a curved surface 916. The other pull studs can be configured similarly.

[00104] The wedge pin 848 is configured to interact with the curved surface 914 to anchor the housing 812 to the vise 804. In an example, the curved surface 914 can have a conical surface portion 918 (e.g., a tapered curved surface that appears as having a tapered straight line in the side view of Figure 15). In this example, the wedge pin 848 can be configured to particularly interact with the conical surface portion 918 to anchor the housing 812 to the vise 804.

[00105] Figure 16 illustrates a perspective view of the wedge pin 848, according to an example implementation. As depicted, the wedge pin 848 is generally cylindrical in shape. The wedge pin 848 has a flat surface 920 that extends transversely as shown and is configured to contact the curved surface 914, and particularly contact the conical surface portion 918, when the wedge pin 848 is inserted into the transversal hole 834 of the housing 812.

[00106] In one example, to facilitate insertion of the wedge pin 848 into the transversal hole 834, the wedge pin 848 can have a relief curved portion 922 on one side of the flat surface 920, and another similar relief curved portion on the other side of the flat surface 920. Such relief curved portions can be machined into the wedge pin 848, for example. With this configuration, as the wedge pin 848 is inserted into the transversal hole 834, the wedge pin 848 does not impact any portions of the pull stud 832. This facilitates sliding the wedge pin 848 all the way in the transversal hole 834 without interfering with any portions of the pull stud 832.

[00107] Further, an end 924 of the wedge pin 848 facing outward includes a slot or groove 926 that is aligned with the flat surface 920. The groove 926 operates as a mark that facilitates inserting the wedge pin 848 at a particular angle such that the flat surface 920 mates with the conical surface portion 918 of the pull stud 832.

[00108] Figure 17 illustrates a cross-sectional partial view of the assembly 800 showing interaction between the wedge pin 848 and the pull stud 832, and Figure 18 illustrates a side view of the assembly 800 showing the wedge pin 848 inserted into the housing 812, according to an example implementation. As shown in Figures 17-18, the wedge pin 848 is inserted at an angle (e.g., 5 degrees) to a transversal axis of the transversal hole 834, for example. As shown in Figure 18, in an example, the housing 812 can have a keyway or slot 928, and the groove 926 of the wedge pin 848 can be aligned with the slot 928 to orient the wedge pin 848 at the desired angle.

[00109] The wedge pin 848 is inserted at the desired angle such that the flat surface 920 of the wedge pin 848 is aligned with the conical surface portion 918 of the pull stud 832. After insertion of the wedge pin 848, the set screw 850 is inserted into the transversal hole 834.

[00110] Figure 19 illustrates a partial view of the assembly 800 showing the set screw 850 interacting with the wedge pin 848, and Figure 20 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of the assembly 800 showing the set screw 850 disposed in the housing 812 and interacting with the wedge pin 848, according to an example implementation. The set screw 850 has external threads 930 and the housing 812 has corresponding internal threads bounding the transversal hole 834 such that as the set screw 850 is threaded into the housing 812, it moves transversely toward the wedge pin 848. The set screw 850 can have a flat tip that interfaces with the wedge pin 848, and thus as the set screw 850 moves transversely, the wedge pin 848 also move transversely therewith.

[00111] Referring to Figures 17, 19-20 together, as the wedge pin 848 moves in the transversal direction, the wedge pin 848 is wedge against the pull stud 832 such that the flat surface 920 of the wedge pin 848 interfaces and forms a Hertzian line contact with the conical surface portion 918 of the pull stud 832. Particularly, the flat surface 920 of the wedge pin 848 applies a normal force on the pull stud 832. In response, the pull stud 832 (which is threaded into the vise 804) applies a reaction force on the wedge pin 848. This reaction force operates a vertical or lateral clamping force that causes the housing 812 (and thus the device 802) to be pulled toward and anchored to the vise 804.

[00112] Figure 21 illustrates a perspective partial cross-sectional view of the assembly 800 showing the housing 812 anchored to the vise 804, according to an example implementation. The above-described mechanism effectively creates a mechanical lever that transforms the transversal screw tension resulting from the transversal movement of the set screw 850 acting on the wedge pin 848 into a vertical or lateral clamping force. Particularly, as the set screw 850 and the wedge pin 848 move transversely, the housing 812 of the device 802 is pulled down toward the vise 804, thereby interlocking the housing 812 to the vise 804.

[00113] The operations described above with respect to the wedge pin 848, the set screw 850, and the pull stud 832 is repeated for the three other wedge pins, set screws, and pull studs. In examples, a particular installation tool can be used to insert the wedge pins into their respective transversal holes in the housing 812 at the particular desired angle. Such tool can also be used to remove the wedge pins when desired.

[00114] Figure 22 illustrates a perspective view of a tool 1000 for installing and removing the wedge pins, according to an example implementation. The tool 1000 has a tubular housing 1002. The tubular housing 1002 can be made as an anodized aluminum tube, for example. The tool 1000 further includes a screw 1004 (e.g., a button head cap screw) that extends through the tubular housing 1002. The tool 1000 also includes a nut 1006 (e.g., a rotating flange nut) coupled to the screw 1004.

[00115] The tubular housing 1002 has a ridge or key 1008 formed on its end face. In an example, the tool 1000 can also have one or more magnets, such as magnet 1010 and magnet 1012, mounted or disposed in the tubular housing 1002. The magnets 1010-1012 can be disposed on both sides of the screw 1004, for example, as shown in Figure 22.

[00116] Figure 23 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the tool 1000 being used to install the wedge pin 848 into the housing 812, according to an example implementation. Figure 23 does not show the vise 804 to reduce visual clutter in the drawing.

[00117] Notably, the wedge pin 848 can have an internal threaded blind hole having internal threads 1014 as shown in Figure 23. To install the wedge pin 848, the screw 1004 is threaded into the wedge pin 848, engaging the internal threads 1014. The screw 1004 is also used to place the wedge pin 848 at the desired rotational orientation where the groove 926 is angularly aligned with the key 1008 in the tubular housing 1002.

[00118] The tool 1000 is then oriented such that the key 1008 is angularly aligned with and is received within the slot 928 of the housing 812, and the tool 1000 is then used to insert the wedge pin 848 into the transversal hole 834 of the housing 812. This way, the wedge pin 848 is inserted at an orientation at which the flat surface 920 of the wedge pin 848 interfaces with the conical surface portion 918 of the pull stud 832 (see Figure 17). The magnets 1010-1012 face toward the housing 812 and can magnetically couple the tubular housing 1002 to the housing 812 to maintain the tubular housing 1002 attached to the housing 812 in a stable manner during insertion of the wedge pin 848.

[00119] The tool 1000 can then be removed, e.g., by unscrewing the screw 1004 from the wedge pin 848 and removing the tool 1000. The set screw 850 can then be inserted in the transversal hole 834 to apply a force on the wedge pin 848 against the pull stud 832 as described above. This process is repeated for the other three wedge pins.

[00120] The tool 1000 can also be used to remove the wedge pins when needed (e.g., for maintenance purposes). The set screw 850 can be removed first, and then the screw 1004 of the tool 1000 is again screwed into the wedge pin 848 while the key 1008 is aligned with the slot 928, and the magnets 1010-1012 attaching the tubular housing 1002 to the housing 812. The screw 1004 is then used to un-torque or loosen, e.g., via the nut 1006, the wedge pin 848 from the pull stud 832, and then the wedge pin 848 is pulled out of the transversal hole 834 via the screw 1004.

[00121] Figure 24 is a flowchart of a method 1100 for forming the assembly of Figure 12, according to an example implementation. In other words, the method 1100 can be used to couple or anchor a workpiece holding device such as the device 802 to a vise such as the vise 804.

[00122] The method 1100 may include one or more operations, functions, or actions as illustrated by one or more of blocks 1102-1108. Although the blocks are illustrated in a sequential order, these blocks may also be performed in parallel, and / or in a different order than those described herein. Also, the various blocks may be combined into fewer blocks, divided into additional blocks, and / or removed based upon the desired implementation. It should be understood that for this and other processes and methods disclosed herein, flowcharts show functionality and operation of one possible implementation of present examples. Alternative implementations are included within the scope of the examples of the present disclosure in which functions may be executed out of order from that shown or discussed, including substantially concurrent or in reverse order, depending on the functionality involved, as would be understood by those reasonably skilled in the art.

[00123] At block 1102, the method 1100 includes providing the vise 804 having a hole (e.g., the hole 814, 816, 818, etc.).

[00124] The term “providing” as used herein, and for example with regard to the vise 804, the device 802, the tool 1000, or other components, includes any action to make the component available for use, such as bringing the component to an apparatus or to a work environment for further processing (e.g., mounting other components, etc.).

[00125] At block 1104, the method 1100 includes mounting the pull stud 832 into the hole of the vise 804 to couple the pull stud 832 to the vise 804. This may include threading the vise engaging portion 902 of the pull stud 832 into the vise 804, for example.

[00126] At block 1106, the method 1100 includes mounting a workpiece holding device (e.g., the device 802) to the vise 804, wherein the workpiece holding device comprises the housing 812 having the lateral hole 833, wherein the pull stud 832 is received partially in the lateral hole 833 of the housing 812 as the workpiece holding device is mounted to the vise 804, wherein the housing 812 further comprises the transversal hole 834 that intersects with the lateral hole 833.

[00127] At block 1108, the method 1100 includes inserting the wedge pin 848 into the transversal hole 834 of the housing 812 such that the wedge pin 848 is wedged against the pull stud 832, thereby pulling the housing 812 of the workpiece holding device toward the vise 804.

[00128] The method 1100 can include any of the other steps described throughout herein. For example, as described above, the method 1100 can further include, after inserting the wedge pin 848 in the transversal hole 834, inserting the set screw 850 in the transversal hole 834 to interface with the wedge pin 848. The method 1100 may also include moving the set screw 850 in a transversal direction, causing the wedge pin 848 to move therewith to be wedged against the pull stud 832 such that transversal movement of the wedge pin 848 is transformed into a lateral clamping force that anchors the housing 812 of the workpiece holding device to the vise 804.

[00129] The detailed description above describes various features and operations of the disclosed systems with reference to the accompanying figures. The illustrative implementations described herein are not meant to be limiting. Certain aspects of the disclosed systems can be arranged and combined in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are contemplated herein.

[00130] Further, unless context suggests otherwise, the features illustrated in each of the figures may be used in combination with one another. Thus, the figures should be generally viewed as component aspects of one or more overall implementations, with the understanding that not all illustrated features are necessary for each implementation.

[00131] Additionally, any enumeration of elements, blocks, or steps in this specification or the claims is for purposes of clarity. Thus, such enumeration should not be interpreted to require or imply that these elements, blocks, or steps adhere to a particular arrangement or are carried out in a particular order.

[00132] Further, devices or systems may be used or configured to perform functions presented in the figures. In some instances, components of the devices and / or systems may be configured to perform the functions such that the components are actually configured and structured (with hardware and / or software) to enable such performance. In other examples, components of the devices and / or systems may be arranged to be adapted to, capable of, or suited for performing the functions, such as when operated in a specific manner.

[00133] By the term “substantially” or “about” it is meant that the recited characteristic, parameter, or value need not be achieved exactly, but that deviations or variations, including for example, tolerances, measurement error, measurement accuracy limitations and other factors known to skill in the art, may occur in amounts that do not preclude the effect the characteristic was intended to provide.

[00134] The arrangements described herein are for purposes of example only. As such, those skilled in the art will appreciate that other arrangements and other elements (e.g.. machines, interfaces, operations, orders, and groupings of operations, etc.) can be used instead, and some elements may be omitted altogether according to the desired results. Further, many of the elements that are described are functional entities that may be implemented as discrete or distributed components or in conjunction with other components, in any suitable combination and location.

[00135] While various aspects and implementations have been disclosed herein, other aspects and implementations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and implementations disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope being indicated by the following claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. Also, the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular implementations only, and is not intended to be limiting.

[00136] Implementations of the present disclosure can thus relate to one of the enumerated example implementation (EEEs) listed below.

[00137] EEE 1 is an assembly comprising: a device comprising: a housing, a plurality of fingers mounted to the housing and configured to adjustably move along a longitudinal axis relative to the housing, and a clamping bolt mounted transversely through the plurality of fingers, wherein the clamping bolt is configured to press the plurality of fingers in a transverse direction, thereby securing the fingers in a locked position upon positioning the fingers longitudinally at a desired position; a plurality of pull studs disposed partially through respective lateral holes in the housing, wherein the plurality of pull studs are configured to be coupled to a vise; and a plurality of wedge pins disposed in respective transversal holes and interacting respectively with the plurality of pull studs, thereby pulling the housing of the device toward the vise.

[00138] EEE 2 is the assembly of EEE 1, wherein a pull stud of the plurality of pull studs comprises a curved surface, and wherein a wedge pin of the plurality of wedge pins comprises a flat surface, and wherein the wedge pin is disposed in a respective transversal hole such that the flat surface of the wedge pin interacts with the curved surface of the pull stud.

[00139] EEE 3 is the assembly of EEE 2, wherein the pull stud comprises: a housing engaging portion disposed within the respective lateral hole in the housing, wherein the housing engaging portion comprises the curved surface; and a vise engaging portion configured to be coupled to the vise.

[00140] EEE 4 is the assembly of EEE 3, wherein the housing engaging portion is configured to have an hour-glass shape and comprises: a top flange; a bottom flange; and a waist portion connected to the top flange via the curved surface, and connected to the bottom flange via another curved surface.

[00141] EEE 5 is the assembly of any of EEEs 2-4, wherein the curved surface comprises a conical surface portion, and wherein the flat surface of the wedge pin interfaces with the conical surface portion of the pull stud.

[00142] EEE 6 is the assembly of EEE 5, wherein the wedge pin is disposed within the respective transversal hole at an angle such that the flat surface of the wedge pin has a Hertzian line contact with the conical surface portion and applies a normal force thereto.

[00143] EEE 7 is the assembly of EEE 6, wherein the wedge pin comprises a groove formed in an end of the wedge pin facing outward from the respective transversal hole, wherein the groove is aligned with the flat surface and is configured as a mark that facilitates inserting the wedge pin at a particular angle such that the flat surface mates with the conical surface portion of the pull stud.

[00144] EEE 8 is the assembly of EEE 7, wherein the housing has slot, and wherein the groove of the wedge pin is aligned with the slot to orient the wedge pin at the particular angle.

[00145] EEE 9 is the assembly of any of EEEs 2-8, wherein the wedge pin comprises a first relief curved portion on one side of the flat surface, and second relief curved portion on another side of the flat surface.

[00146] EEE 10 is the assembly of any of EEEs 1-9, further comprising: a plurality of set screws inserted in the respective transversal holes, wherein each set screw interfaces with a respective wedge pin of the plurality of wedge pins such that a transversal movement of a set screw wedges the respective wedge pin against a respective pull stud, thereby transforming the transversal movement of the set screw and the respective wedge pin into a lateral clamping force that anchors the housing to the vise.

[00147] EEE 11 is a method of forming the assembly of any of EEEs 1-10. For example, the method comprises: providing a vise having a hole; mounting a pull stud into the hole of the vise to couple the pull stud to the vise; mounting a workpiece holding device to the vise, wherein the workpiece holding device comprises a housing having a lateral hole, wherein the pull stud is received partially in the lateral hole of the housing as the workpiece holding device is mounted to the vise, wherein the housing further comprises a transversal hole that intersects with the lateral hole; and inserting a wedge pin into the transversal hole of the housing such that the wedge pin is wedged against the pull stud, thereby pulling the housing of the workpiece holding device toward the vise.

[00148] EEE 12 is the method of EEE 11, wherein the pull stud comprises a curved surface, and wherein the wedge pin comprises a flat surface, and wherein inserting the wedge pin into the transversal hole comprises: inserting the wedge pin into the transversal hole such that the flat surface of the wedge pin interacts with the curved surface of the pull stud.

[00149] EEE 13 is the method of EEE 12, wherein the pull stud comprises: (i) a housing engaging portion disposed within the lateral hole in the housing, wherein the housing engaging portion comprises the curved surface, and (ii) a vise engaging portion threaded into the hole of the vise, wherein the housing engaging portion is configured to have an hour-glass shape and comprises: (i) a top flange, (ii) a bottom flange, and (iii) and a waist portion connected to the top flange via the curved surface, and connected to the bottom flange via another curved surface, wherein the curved surface comprises a conical surface portion, and wherein inserting the wedge pin into the transversal hole comprises: inserting the wedge pin into the transversal hole such that the flat surface of the wedge pin interfaces with the conical surface portion of the pull stud.

[00150] EEE 14 is the method of EEE 13, wherein inserting the wedge pin into the transversal hole comprises: inserting the wedge pin into the transversal hole at an angle such that the flat surface of the wedge pin has a Hertzian line contact with the conical surface portion and applies a normal force thereto.

[00151] EEE 15 is the method of EEE 14, wherein the wedge pin comprises a groove formed in an end of the wedge pin, wherein the groove is aligned with the flat surface, and wherein the method further comprises: using the groove as a mark when inserting the wedge pin into the transversal hole to orient the wedge pin at a particular angle such that the flat surface mates with the conical surface portion of the pull stud.

[00152] EEE 16 is the method of EEE 15, wherein the housing has slot, and wherein using the groove as the mark comprises: aligning the groove of the wedge pin with the slot to orient the wedge pin at the particular angle when inserting the wedge pin into the transversal hole.

[00153] EEE 17 is the method of EEE 16, wherein the wedge pin comprises an internal threaded blind hole, and wherein the method further comprises: providing a tool comprising: (i) a tubular housing having a key, and (ii) a screw extending through the tubular housing; engaging the screw with the wedge pin via the internal threaded blind hole, wherein the groove of the wedge pin is aligned with the key of the tubular housing of the tool; and inserting the wedge pin in the transversal hole via the tool such that the key of the tubular housing is received within the slot of the housing of the workpiece holding device.

[00154] EEE 18 is the method of EEE 17, wherein the tool further comprises one or more magnets disposed in the tubular housing and facing toward the housing of the workpiece holding device, and wherein the method further comprises: attaching the tubular housing of the tool to the housing of the workpiece holding device via the one or more magnets.

[00155] EEE 19 is the method of any of EEEs 17-18, further comprising: using the tool to remove the wedge pin from the transversal hole by engaging the screw with the wedge pin, loosening the wedge pin from the pull stud, and pulling the wedge pin out of the transversal hole.

[00156] EEE 20 is the method of any of EEEs 11-19, further comprising: after inserting the wedge pin in the transversal hole, inserting a set screw in the transversal hole to interface with the wedge pin; and moving the set screw in a transversal direction, causing the wedge pin to move therewith to be wedged against the pull stud such that transversal movement of the wedge pin is transformed into a lateral clamping force that anchors the housing of the workpiece holding device to the vise.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. An assembly comprising:a device comprising: a housing, a plurality of fingers mounted to the housing and configured to adjustably move along a longitudinal axis relative to the housing, and a clamping bolt mounted transversely through the plurality of fingers, wherein the clamping bolt is configured to press the plurality of fingers in a transverse direction, thereby securing the fingers in a locked position upon positioning the fingers longitudinally at a desired position;a plurality of pull studs disposed partially through respective lateral holes in the housing, wherein the plurality of pull studs are configured to be coupled to a vise; anda plurality of wedge pins disposed in respective transversal holes and interacting respectively with the plurality of pull studs, thereby pulling the housing of the device toward the vise.

2. The assembly of claim 1, wherein a pull stud of the plurality of pull studs comprises a curved surface, and wherein a wedge pin of the plurality of wedge pins comprises a flat surface, and wherein the wedge pin is disposed in a respective transversal hole such that the flat surface of the wedge pin interacts with the curved surface of the pull stud.

3. The assembly of claim 2, wherein the pull stud comprises:a housing engaging portion disposed within the respective lateral hole in the housing, wherein the housing engaging portion comprises the curved surface; anda vise engaging portion configured to be coupled to the vise.

4. The assembly of claim 3, wherein the housing engaging portion is configured to have an hour-glass shape and comprises:a top flange;a bottom flange;and a waist portion connected to the top flange via the curved surface, and connected to the bottom flange via another curved surface.

5. The assembly of claim 2, wherein the curved surface comprises a conical surface portion, and wherein the flat surface of the wedge pin interfaces with the conical surface portion of the pull stud.

6. The assembly of claim 5, wherein the wedge pin is disposed within the respective transversal hole at an angle such that the flat surface of the wedge pin has a Hertzian line contact with the conical surface portion and applies a normal force thereto.

7. The assembly of claim 6, wherein the wedge pin comprises a groove formed in an end of the wedge pin facing outward from the respective transversal hole, wherein the groove is aligned with the flat surface and is configured as a mark that facilitates inserting the wedge pin at a particular angle such that the flat surface mates with the conical surface portion of the pull stud.

8. The assembly of claim 7, wherein the housing has slot, and wherein the groove of the wedge pin is aligned with the slot to orient the wedge pin at the particular angle.

9. The assembly of claim 2, wherein the wedge pin comprises a first relief curved portion on one side of the flat surface, and second relief curved portion on another side of the flat surface.

10. The assembly of claim 1, further comprising:a plurality of set screws inserted in the respective transversal holes, wherein each set screw interfaces with a respective wedge pin of the plurality of wedge pins such that a transversal movement of a set screw wedges the respective wedge pin against a respective pull stud, thereby transforming the transversal movement of the set screw and the respective wedge pin into a lateral clamping force that anchors the housing to the vise.

11. A method comprising:providing a vise having a hole;mounting a pull stud into the hole of the vise to couple the pull stud to the vise;mounting a workpiece holding device to the vise, wherein the workpiece holding device comprises a housing having a lateral hole, wherein the pull stud is received partially in the lateral hole of the housing as the workpiece holding device is mounted to the vise, wherein the housing further comprises a transversal hole that intersects with the lateral hole; andinserting a wedge pin into the transversal hole of the housing such that the wedge pin is wedged against the pull stud, thereby pulling the housing of the workpiece holding device toward the vise.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the pull stud comprises a curved surface, and wherein the wedge pin comprises a flat surface, and wherein inserting the wedge pin into the transversal hole comprises:inserting the wedge pin into the transversal hole such that the flat surface of the wedge pin interacts with the curved surface of the pull stud.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the pull stud comprises: (i) a housing engaging portion disposed within the lateral hole in the housing, wherein the housing engaging portion comprises the curved surface, and (ii) a vise engaging portion threaded into the hole of the vise, wherein the housing engaging portion is configured to have an hour-glass shape and comprises: (i) a top flange, (ii) a bottom flange, and (iii) and a waist portion connected to the top flange via the curved surface, and connected to the bottom flange via another curved surface, wherein the curved surface comprises a conical surface portion, and wherein inserting the wedge pin into the transversal hole comprises:inserting the wedge pin into the transversal hole such that the flat surface of the wedge pin interfaces with the conical surface portion of the pull stud.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein inserting the wedge pin into the transversal hole comprises:inserting the wedge pin into the transversal hole at an angle such that the flat surface of the wedge pin has a Hertzian line contact with the conical surface portion and applies a normal force thereto.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the wedge pin comprises a groove formed in an end of the wedge pin, wherein the groove is aligned with the flat surface, and wherein the method further comprises:using the groove as a mark when inserting the wedge pin into the transversal hole to orient the wedge pin at a particular angle such that the flat surface mates with the conical surface portion of the pull stud.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the housing has slot, and wherein using the groove as the mark comprises:aligning the groove of the wedge pin with the slot to orient the wedge pin at the particular angle when inserting the wedge pin into the transversal hole.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the wedge pin comprises an internal threaded blind hole, and wherein the method further comprises:providing a tool comprising: (i) a tubular housing having a key, and (ii) a screw extending through the tubular housing;engaging the screw with the wedge pin via the internal threaded blind hole, wherein the groove of the wedge pin is aligned with the key of the tubular housing of the tool; andinserting the wedge pin in the transversal hole via the tool such that the key of the tubular housing is received within the slot of the housing of the workpiece holding device.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the tool further comprises one or more magnets disposed in the tubular housing and facing toward the housing of the workpiece holding device, and wherein the method further comprises:attaching the tubular housing of the tool to the housing of the workpiece holding device via the one or more magnets.

19. The method of claim 17. further comprising:using the tool to remove the wedge pin from the transversal hole by engaging the screw with the wedge pin, loosening the wedge pin from the pull stud, and pulling the wedge pin out of the transversal hole.

20. The method of claim 11, further comprising:after inserting the wedge pin in the transversal hole, inserting a set screw in the transversal hole to interface with the wedge pin; andmoving the set screw in a transversal direction, causing the wedge pin to move therewith to be wedged against the pull stud such that transversal movement of the wedge pin is transformed into a lateral clamping force that anchors the housing of the workpiece holding device to the vise.42

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