Tool adapter with insert receiving pocket and fastening hole and cutting tool assembly - Patents.com

Abstract

The tool adapter (20) has an adapter axis (AA) that defines an adapter forward direction (DF) and an adapter rearward direction (DR), and includes a front holding portion (22) having a base jaw (26), a clamping jaw (28), and an insert-receiving pocket (30) disposed between the base jaw (26) and the clamping jaw (28), the insert-receiving pocket (30) having a lower support surface (32) and an opposing upper clamping surface (34); and a rear mounting portion (24) disposed axially rearward of the front holding portion (22), the rear mounting portion (24) having an axially rearward-facing rear mounting surface (50) and a first fastening hole (54). A primary slot (42) separates the base jaw (26) from the clamp jaw (28) and communicates with the insert-receiving pocket (30); a secondary slot (52) transverse to the primary slot (42) separates the clamp jaw (28) from the rear mounting portion (24); and a first fastener hole (54) has a first hole axis (A1) that intersects the rear mounting surface (50) and the secondary slot (52).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates generally to a tool adaptor having an insert receiving pocket and fastening holes and a cutting tool assembly having such a tool adaptor for use in metal cutting processes, and more particularly, in turning and grooving operations. [Background technology]

[0002] In the field of cutting tools used in turning and grooving processes, there are several examples of tool adapters having insert receiving pockets and fastening holes.

[0003] U.S. Patent No. 6,270,294 discloses a parting or grooving tool having a holder fitted with an adapter having an insert receiving slot formed between a support portion and a clamping portion of the adapter. The holder includes a saw blade that mates with the saw blade of the adapter. A threaded hole is formed in the saw blade of the holder and a through hole is formed in the adapter in registration with the respective hole of the holder. A screw extends through the aligned through hole and the threaded hole to secure the adapter to the holder. A slot intersects one of the adapter's through holes to render the clamping portion elastically deformable. The through hole includes a conical entry surface and an associated screw includes a conical head that acts as a wedge to clamp the clamping portion with the insert.

[0004] US Patent No. 7,264,424 discloses a tool head adapted to receive cutting inserts for chip removal machining, the tool head including a base holder having a lower support portion and an upper clamp portion defining an insert receiving pocket therebetween. A slot passes through the base holder at a location spaced from the pocket, and the clamp portion is joined to the remainder of the base holder by a hinge portion about which the clamp portion is elastically displaceable towards the cutting insert. A recess passes through the base holder parallel to and in communication with the slot for receiving a nut roll. A clamp screw extends through a hole in the base holder to engage the nut roll, the clamp screw being operable to displace the nut roll into the slot to expand the slot and thereby elastically displace the clamp portion about the hinge towards the cutting insert.

[0005] Korean Patent No. 100901472 discloses a modular tool assembly including a shank having a connection surface formed at one end thereof, an adapter having a mounting surface and a head portion, an insert housing portion formed on one side of the head portion of the adapter for accommodating an insert, and an engagement structure portion disposed opposite the connection surface of the shank and the mounting surface of the adapter. The engagement structure portion includes a first linear structure portion and a second linear structure portion.

[0006] SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT EMBODIMENT It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved tool adapter.

[0007] It is also an object of the present invention to provide a tool adapter with improved mounting capabilities. Summary of the Invention

[0008] In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a tool adapter having an adapter axis defining an adapter forward direction and an adapter rearward direction, the tool adapter comprising: a forward retaining portion having a base jaw, a clamping jaw, and an insert receiving pocket disposed between the base jaw and the clamping jaw, the insert receiving pocket having a forward retaining portion having a lower support surface and an opposing upper clamping surface, the lower support surface defining a first plane; a rear mounting portion disposed axially rearward of the front holding portion, the rear mounting portion having an axially rearward facing rear mounting surface and a first fastening hole; a primary slot separating the base jaw from the clamp jaw and communicating with the insert receiving pocket; A secondary slot transverse to the primary slot separates the clamp jaws from the rear attachment portion; The first fastener hole has a first hole axis that intersects the aft mounting surface and the secondary slot.

[0009] There is also provided a cutting tool assembly according to the present invention, comprising: a tool shank extending longitudinally along a shank axis, and a tool adapter of the type described above removably secured to a forward mounting portion of the tool shank; The front mounting portion has a front mounting surface and a first shank bore intersecting the front mounting surface, The rear mounting surface of the tool adapter interacts with the front mounting surface of the shank; A first fastening screw occupies the first fastening hole of the adapter and the first shank hole of the shank for securing the tool adapter to the tool shank.

[0010] For a better understanding, the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which dashed lines represent cut boundaries for partial views of the components, in which: FIG. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a tool adapter according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a front view of the tool adapter shown in FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a first side view of the tool adapter shown in FIG. [Figure 4]FIG. 2 is a second side view of the tool adapter shown in FIG. 1. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a rear view of the tool adapter shown in FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a plan view of the tool adapter shown in FIG. [Figure 7] 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VII-VII of the tool adapter shown in FIG. 3. [Figure 8] 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VIII-VIII of the tool adapter shown in FIG. 3. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cutting tool assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of the cutting tool assembly shown in FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a front view of the cutting tool assembly shown in FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a plan view of the cutting tool assembly shown in FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] As shown in Figures 1 to 6, one aspect of the present invention relates to a tool adapter 20 having an adapter axis AA that defines an adapter forward direction DF and an adapter rearward direction DR, and comprising a front holding portion 22 and a rear mounting portion 24 arranged rearward in the axial direction of the front holding portion 22 (i.e., along the adapter axis AA).

[0013] In some embodiments of the present invention, tool adapter 20 may be manufactured from tool steel.

[0014] Additionally, in some embodiments of the present invention, tool adapter 20 may have a unitary, integral, one-piece construction.

[0015] As shown in FIGS. 1-3, the front retaining portion 22 includes a base jaw 26, a clamp jaw 28, and an insert receiving pocket 30 disposed between the base jaw 26 and the clamp jaw 28. As shown in FIG.

[0016] In one embodiment of the present invention, the insert-receiving pocket 30 may have a lower support surface 32 and an opposing upper clamping surface 34 .

[0017] Also, in some embodiments of the present invention, the lower support surface 32 may be formed on the base jaw 26 and the upper clamping surface 34 may be formed on the clamping jaw 28 .

[0018] As can be seen from Figures 2 and 3, the uppermost portion of the lower support surface 32 lies on a first plane P1.

[0019] In some embodiments of the present invention, the first plane P1 may be parallel to the adapter axis AA.

[0020] As can be seen in the front view of FIG. 2, the adapter 20 is rotationally oriented about the adapter axis AA such that the clamp jaws 28 are above the base jaws 26 and the projection of the first plane P1 extends horizontally on the page.

[0021] As shown in FIGS. 1-3, the lower support surface 32 and the upper clamping surface 34 may correspondingly extend along a pocket axis AP that is transverse to the adapter axis AA.

[0022] In one embodiment of the present invention, the pocket axis AP may be parallel to the first plane P1 and may extend in a direction corresponding to the insertion direction of the cutting insert into the insert-receiving pocket 30.

[0023] In one embodiment of the present invention, the insert-receiving pocket 30 may have a stop surface 36 formed on the base jaw 26. The stop surface 36 may be transverse to the lower support surface 32.

[0024] As shown in FIGS. 1-3, the base jaw 26 may have a base jaw front surface 38 facing axially forward and a base jaw peripheral surface 39 facing radially outward.

[0025] As shown in Figs. 1 to 3, the clamp jaw 28 may have a clamp jaw front surface 40 facing axially forward and a clamp jaw peripheral surface 41 facing radially outward.

[0026] In one embodiment of the present invention, the lower support surface 32 may intersect a base jaw front surface 38 and the upper clamping surface 34 may intersect a clamping jaw front surface 40 .

[0027] Additionally, in some embodiments of the present invention, the stop surface 36 may intersect the base jaw front surface 38 .

[0028] Additionally, in some embodiments of the present invention, the base jaw front surface 38 and the clamp jaw front surface 40 may be coplanar.

[0029] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, a primary slot 42 separates the base jaw 26 from the clamp jaw 28 and communicates with the insert-receiving pocket 30 .

[0030] In some embodiments of the present invention, the clamp jaw 28 may be resiliently displaceable relative to the base jaw 26 .

[0031] Additionally, in some embodiments of the present invention, the primary slot 42 may have an end portion 46 that is positioned away from the insert-receiving pocket 30 .

[0032] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the slot plane PS may pass through at least a portion of the primary slot 42 between the base jaw 26 and the clamping jaw 28.

[0033] In one embodiment, the slot plane PS may bisect the portion of the primary slot 42 .

[0034] Also, in some embodiments, the slot plane PS may be parallel to the first plane P1.

[0035] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the base jaw 26 and the clamp jaw 28 may be integral with one another at a clamp pivot portion 44 adjacent an end portion 46 of the primary slot.

[0036] As shown in FIG. 7, in a cross section along a second plane P2 perpendicular to the adapter axis AA and passing through the insert receiving pocket 30, the end portion 46 of the primary slot 42 may be located distal from the insert receiving pocket 30.

[0037] In one embodiment of the present invention, the clamp jaw pivot portion 44 may have a resilient axis of rotation AR extending along an adapter forward direction DF and an adapter rearward direction DR.

[0038] Also, in some embodiments of the present invention, the elastic axis of rotation AR may be parallel to the adapter axis AA.

[0039] Additionally, in certain embodiments of the present invention, the end portion 46 of the primary slot 42 may include a primary stress relief groove 48 extending parallel to the resilient axis of rotation AR.

[0040] In embodiments of the present invention in which primary slot 42 has end portion 46 and clamp jaw pivot portion 44 has a resilient axis of rotation AR extending along an adapter forward direction DF and an adapter rearward direction DR, it may be advantageous to manufacture tool adapter 20 by additive manufacturing due to limitations of conventional machining. In such cases, tool adapter 20 is considered to be an "additively manufactured tool adapter."

[0041] As shown in Figures 3 and 7, the second plane P2 may intersect the lower support surface 32 and the upper clamping surface 34 of the insert-receiving pocket.

[0042] 3 and 7, the second plane P2 may intersect with the stopper surface 36 of the insert-receiving pocket.

[0043] In some embodiments of the present invention, the pocket axis AP may be contained in the second plane P2.

[0044] Also, in some embodiments, in addition to containing the pocket axis AP, the second plane P2 may be perpendicular to the first plane P1 and the adapter axis AA.

[0045] As shown in FIGS. 3-6, the rear mounting portion 24 has an axially rearward facing rear mounting surface 50 and a secondary slot 52 transverse to the primary slot 42 separates the clamp jaws 28 from the rear mounting portion 24 .

[0046] In such an embodiment of the invention, the clamp jaw 28 may be resiliently displaceable relative to the rear mounting portion 24 as well as the base jaw 26 .

[0047] Also, in such an embodiment of the invention, the rear mounting portion 24 and the base jaw 26 may have a combined stiffness. In other words, the rear mounting portion 24 and the base jaw 26 are not elastically displaceable relative to each other, even though the clamp jaw 28 is elastically displaceable relative to both the rear mounting portion 24 and the base jaw 26.

[0048] 3 and 4, the rear mounting portion 24 may be considered to include a first rear sub-portion 24a disposed axially rearward of and spaced apart from the clamp jaw 28 (i.e., along the adapter axis AA) and a second rear sub-portion 24b disposed axially rearward of and connected to the base jaw 26 (i.e., along the adapter axis AA). It will thus be appreciated that configuring the clamp jaw 28 to be elastically displaceable relative to the rear mounting portion 24 allows both the first rear sub-portion 24a and the second rear sub-portion 24b, as well as the base jaw 26, to be advantageously utilized to mount the tool adapter 20 to the interface member.

[0049] In some embodiments of the present invention, the rear mounting surface 50 may be at least partially serrated.

[0050] As shown in Figures 3, 4 and 6, the secondary slots 52 may be transverse to the adapter axis AA.

[0051] In some embodiments of the present invention, the secondary slots 52 may communicate with the primary slots 42, as shown in FIG.

[0052] Additionally, in some embodiments of the present invention, the elastic axis of rotation AR may intersect the secondary slot 52, as shown in FIG.

[0053] As shown in FIG. 8, in a cross-sectional view of FIG. 3 taken along a third plane P3 parallel to the slot plane PS and intersecting the clamp jaw 28, the rear mounting portion 24 and the clamp jaw 28 may be completely spaced apart by the second slot 52.

[0054] In some embodiments of the present invention, in a cross section along any plane parallel to the slot plane PS and intersecting the clamp jaw 28 , the rear mounting portion 24 and the clamp jaw 28 may be completely separated by the secondary slot 52 .

[0055] As shown in the side views of tool adapter 20 in Figures 3 and 4, secondary slot 52 may have a main secondary slot portion 52a and a secondary secondary slot portion 52b, and secondary slot portion 52b may be angled relative to main secondary slot portion 52a.

[0056] In such embodiments of the invention, the secondary slots 52 may be described as having an angled configuration.

[0057] In some embodiments of the present invention, a fourth plane P4 perpendicular to the first plane P1 may bisect the main secondary slot portion 52a.

[0058] Additionally, in some embodiments of the present invention, the slot plane PS may intersect the minor secondary slot portion 52b.

[0059] It should be appreciated that in embodiments of the present invention in which the secondary slot 52 has an angled configuration, the base jaw 26 and rear mounting portion 24 may be configured to have a high level of combined stiffness.

[0060] Additionally, in embodiments of the present invention where secondary slots 52 have an angled configuration, it may be advantageous to manufacture tool adapter 20 by additive manufacturing due to the limitations of conventional machining.

[0061] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the rear mounting portion 24 has a first fastening hole 54 having a first hole axis A1 that intersects the rear mounting surface 50 and the secondary slot 52.

[0062] In some embodiments of the present invention, the first bore axis A1 may intersect the clamp jaw 28.

[0063] Additionally, in some embodiments of the present invention, the first hole axis A1 may be parallel to the adapter axis AA.

[0064] Additionally, in some embodiments of the present invention, the first fastening holes 54 may be through holes, and the first fastening holes 54 may extend through the rear mounting portion 24 and the clamp jaw 28 .

[0065] In other embodiments of the invention (not shown), the first fastening holes 54 may be threaded holes disposed entirely within the rear mounting portion 24 .

[0066] It should be appreciated that the first fastening hole 54 may be utilized to attach the tool adapter 20 to the interface member.

[0067] 2, 4 and 5, the first fastening hole 54 may include a first forward hole portion 54a having a first forward diameter FD1 and a first rearward hole portion 54b having a first rearward diameter RD1.

[0068] In such an embodiment of the invention, the first fastening hole 54 may be described as having a stepped configuration.

[0069] In some embodiments of the present invention, the first front bore portion 54a may be coaxial with the first rear bore portion 54b.

[0070] As shown in Figures 2, 4 and 5, the first rear bore portion 54b may be entirely disposed within the rear mounting portion 24, the first forward bore portion 54a may be disposed axially forward of the first rear bore portion 54b (i.e., along the adapter axis AA), and the first forward diameter FD1 may be larger than the first rear diameter RD1.

[0071] In some embodiments of the present invention, the first rear bore portion 54b may intersect the rear mounting surface 50.

[0072] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 6, the rear mounting portion 24 may have a first axially forward facing bearing surface 56 and the first rear bore portion 54b may intersect the first bearing surface 56.

[0073] In some embodiments of the present invention, the first bearing surface 56 may be annular.

[0074] As shown in Figures 4 and 6, the secondary slots 52 may intersect with a first forward bore portion 54a.

[0075] In some embodiments of the present invention, the first forward bore portion 54 a may intersect the clamp jaw front face 40 .

[0076] Additionally, in one embodiment of the present invention, first forward hole portion 54a may be circumferentially surrounded by clamp jaw 28, and the entire circumference of first forward hole portion 54a may intersect with clamp jaw front surface 40 in a front view of tool adapter 20, as shown in FIG.

[0077] In other embodiments of the invention (not shown), the first forward hole portion 54a may not be circumferentially surrounded by the clamp jaw 28, and the first forward hole portion 54a may circumferentially intersect the peripheral surface 41 of the clamp jaw.

[0078] As shown in Figures 2, 3 and 6, the forward retaining portion 22 may include a clamping hole 58 extending along a clamping axis AC, and the clamping hole 58 may have a first clamping hole portion 58a and a second clamping hole portion 58b spaced apart by the primary slot 42.

[0079] In some embodiments of the present invention, the first clamping hole portion 58a and the second clamping hole portion 58b may extend coaxially along a clamping axis AC.

[0080] Additionally, in some embodiments of the present invention, as best seen in FIG. 2, the clamping axis AC may intersect the first plane P1.

[0081] In other embodiments of the present invention (not shown), the forward retaining portion 22 may lack the clamping hole 58 and an external force may be applied to increase the distance between the lower support surface 32 and the upper clamping surface 34 for both inserting and removing the cutting insert into and from the insert receiving pocket 30.

[0082] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the first clamp hole portion 58a may be a through hole and the second clamp hole portion 58b may be a threaded hole.

[0083] In one embodiment of the present invention, the first clamp hole portion 58a may be formed in the clamp jaw 28 and the second clamp hole portion 58b may be formed in the base jaw 26.

[0084] Additionally, in some embodiments of the present invention, the entire second clamp hole portion 58b may be disposed axially rearward of the insert receiving pocket 30 (ie, along the adapter axis AA).

[0085] Additionally, in some embodiments of the present invention, the first clamp hole portion 58a may include a countersunk portion to accommodate the clamp screw head.

[0086] As shown in Figures 2 and 6, a fifth plane P5 perpendicular to the first plane P1 may include the first hole axis A1, and the clamp hole 58 and the insert receiving pocket 30 may be disposed on the same side of the fifth plane P5.

[0087] In some embodiments of the present invention, the fifth plane P5 may include the adapter axis AA.

[0088] As shown in FIG. 2, in a front view of the tool adapter 20, an axial projection of the clamping axis AC may intersect the insert receiving pocket 30.

[0089] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the rear mounting portion 24 may include a second fastening hole 60, and the second fastening hole 60 may have a second hole axis A2 that intersects the rear mounting surface 50.

[0090] In some embodiments of the present invention, the first fastening hole 54 and the second fastening hole 60 may be located on opposite sides of the slot plane PS.

[0091] As shown in FIGS. 2, 4 and 5, the second fastening holes 60 may be through holes, and the second fastening holes 60 may extend through the rear mounting portion 24 and the base jaw 26.

[0092] In some embodiments of the present invention, the second bore axis A2 may intersect the base jaw front surface 38.

[0093] It should be appreciated that the second fastening hole 60 may be utilized to attach the tool adapter 20 to the interface member.

[0094] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, the second fastening hole 60 may have a stepped configuration and may include a second forward hole portion 60a having a second forward diameter FD2 and a second rearward hole portion 60b having a second rearward diameter RD2.

[0095] In one embodiment of the invention, the second forward bore portion 60a may be disposed axially (i.e., along the adapter axis AA) forward of the second rear bore portion 60b, and the second forward diameter FD2 may be greater than the second rear diameter RD2.

[0096] As shown in FIGS. 1, 3, 7 and 8, the tool adapter 20 may include an upper coolant passage 62 that extends through the clamp jaws 28.

[0097] In one embodiment of the present invention, the upper coolant passage 62 may have an upper exit opening 64 in the clamping jaw peripheral surface 41 adjacent the upper clamping surface 34 of the insert receiving pocket.

[0098] As shown in FIG. 3, the second plane P2 may bisect the upper outlet opening 64.

[0099] In some embodiments of the present invention, the upper coolant passage 62 may communicate with a central coolant passage 66 that extends through the rear mounting portion 24 .

[0100] Additionally, in some embodiments of the present invention, the central coolant passage 66 may have a rear inlet opening 68 in or associated with the rear mounting face 50 .

[0101] As shown in FIG. 3, the rear inlet opening 68 may be formed in an aft centering conduit 69 that extends rearwardly from the aft mounting face 50 .

[0102] In some embodiments of the present invention, rear inlet opening 68 may have a center coincident with adapter axis AA.

[0103] It should be appreciated that in an embodiment of the invention in which the primary slot 42 has an end portion 46 and the base jaw 26 and clamp jaw 28 are mutually integral with the clamp pivot portion 44, as shown in FIG. 8, the forward retention portion 22 is advantageously configured to provide an efficient path for the upper coolant passage 62 to communicate with the central coolant passage 66.

[0104] It should also be appreciated that in embodiments of the present invention in which the secondary slot 52 has an angled configuration, more space is provided axially (i.e., along the adapter axis AA) rearward of the minor secondary slot portion 52b for efficient routing of the central coolant passage 66.

[0105] As shown in FIGS. 1, 3 and 7, the tool adapter 20 may include a lower coolant passage 70 extending through the base jaw 26.

[0106] In one embodiment of the present invention, the lower coolant passage 70 may have a lower exit opening 72 in the base jaw peripheral surface 43 adjacent the lower support surface 48 of the insert receiving pocket.

[0107] As shown in FIG. 3, the second plane P2 may bisect the lower outlet opening 72.

[0108] In some embodiments of the present invention, the lower coolant passage 70 may communicate with the central coolant passage 66 .

[0109] It should be appreciated that producing the tool adapter 20 by additive manufacturing may advantageously facilitate efficient routing of the upper coolant passage 62, the central coolant passage 66, and the lower coolant passage 70.

[0110] As shown in Figures 9-12, another aspect of the present invention relates to a cutting tool assembly 74 including a tool shank 76 extending longitudinally along a shank axis AS and a tool adapter 20 removably secured to a forward mounting portion 78 of the tool shank 76.

[0111] In some embodiments of the present invention, the tool shank 76 may be elongated and may include vibration isolation components (not shown).

[0112] Additionally, in some embodiments of the present invention, the shank axis AS and the adapter axis AA may be coaxial.

[0113] Further, in some embodiments of the present invention, at least the front mounting portion 78 of the tool shank may be cylindrical and may have a shank diameter DS centered about the shank axis AS.

[0114] As shown in FIG. 10, the front mounting portion 78 has a front mounting surface 80 and a first shank bore 82 intersecting the front mounting surface 80 .

[0115] In some embodiments of the present invention, the shank axis AS may intersect the front mounting surface 80 of the shank.

[0116] Additionally, in some embodiments of the present invention, the front mounting surface 80 may be at least partially serrated.

[0117] As shown in Figures 9 and 12, the rear mounting surface 50 of the tool adapter interacts with the front mounting surface 80 of the shank, and a first fastening screw 84 occupies the first fastening hole 54 of the adapter and the first shank hole 82 of the shank to secure the tool adapter 20 to the tool shank 76.

[0118] In some embodiments of the present invention, the first fastener hole 54 and the first shank hole 82 may be coaxial.

[0119] Additionally, in some embodiments of the present invention, the first shank bore 82 may be a threaded bore, and the first fastening screw 84 may be threadably engaged with the first shank bore 82 .

[0120] Further, in one embodiment of the present invention, the first fastening screw 84 may have a first screw head 86, and tightening by rotation of the first fastening screw 84 may result in fastening contact between the first screw head 86 and the first bearing surface 56 of the rear mounting portion.

[0121] It should be understood that tightening or loosening by rotation of the first fastening screw 84 may not result in elastic displacement of the clamp jaw 28 relative to the base jaw 26 .

[0122] As shown in FIGS. 9-12, the cutting insert 88 may be removably retained in the insert-receiving pocket 30. As shown in FIG.

[0123] In one embodiment of the present invention, the cutting insert 88 is preferably manufactured by molding pressing and sintering a cemented carbide such as tungsten carbide, and may be coated or uncoated.

[0124] Also, in some embodiments of the present invention, the cutting insert 88 may have one active cutting edge 90, and a sixth plane P6 perpendicular to the adapter axis AA may bisect the active cutting edge 90.

[0125] As shown in FIG. 12, the sixth plane P6 may coincide with the second plane P2.

[0126] In an embodiment of the invention in which the pocket axis AP may be transverse to the adapter axis AA and the sixth plane P6 bisects the active cutting edge 90, the cutting tool assembly 74 may be used for internal grooving operations.

[0127] As shown in FIG. 11, in a front view of the cutting tool assembly 74, a first imaginary circle C1 included in the sixth plane P6 circumscribes both the tool adapter 20 and the cutting insert 88 removably held therein, and the first imaginary circle C1 has a first diameter D1.

[0128] In some embodiments of the present invention, the first diameter D1 may be greater than the shank diameter DS.

[0129] As shown in FIG. 11, in a front view of the cutting tool assembly 74, the first imaginary circle C1 may include the entire tool adapter 20 and the entire front mounting portion 78 of the tool shank 76.

[0130] In one embodiment of the present invention, the cutting tool assembly 74 may have a cutting depth DC along the pocket axis AP.

[0131] Also, in some embodiments of the present invention, the cutting depth DC may be greater than half the difference between the first diameter D1 and the shank diameter DS, ie, DC>(D1-DS) / 2.

[0132] An example of one size of cutting tool assembly 74 may have a first diameter D1 of 20 mm, a shank diameter DS of 16 mm, and a cutting depth CD of 3 mm.

[0133] It will be appreciated that for cutting tool assemblies 74 having a first diameter D1 of less than 40 mm, the above-described configuration of the clamp pivot portion 44 formed between the base jaw 26 and the clamp jaw 28, and the secondary slot 52 having an angled configuration, are particularly advantageous in achieving efficient routing of the upper coolant passage 62 and the central coolant passage 66, respectively.

[0134] As shown in FIG. 10, the cutting insert 88 may include opposing lower and upper abutment surfaces 92 and 94 and an insert peripheral surface 96 between the lower and upper abutment surfaces 92 and 94 .

[0135] In one embodiment of the present invention, the active cutting edge 90 may be formed at the intersection of the upper abutment surface 94 and the insert peripheral surface 96 .

[0136] Additionally, in some embodiments of the present invention, the insert peripheral surface 96 may include a rear abutment surface 98 distal from the working cutting edge 90 .

[0137] As shown in FIG. 11, the lower and upper clamping surfaces 32, 34 of the insert-receiving pocket may be in clamping contact with the lower and upper abutment surfaces 92, 94, respectively, of the insert.

[0138] Also, as shown in FIG. 11, the stop surface 36 of the insert-receiving pocket may abut against the rear abutment surface 98 of the insert.

[0139] In embodiments of the present invention in which the tool adapter rear mounting portion 24 includes the second fastening hole 60 , the tool shank front mounting portion 78 may have a second shank hole 100 that intersects the front mounting surface 80 .

[0140] In such an embodiment of the invention, a second fastening screw 102 may occupy the second fastening hole 60 in the adapter and the second shank hole 100 in the shank.

[0141] In some embodiments of the present invention, the second fastener hole 60 and the second shank hole 100 may be coaxial.

[0142] Also, in some embodiments of the present invention, the second shank bore 100 may be a threaded bore, and the second fastening screw 102 may be threadably engaged with the second shank bore 100 .

[0143] In an embodiment of the invention in which the tool adapter front retention portion 22 includes a clamp hole 58 and the clamp hole 58 has a first clamp hole portion 58a and a second clamp hole portion 58b separated by a primary slot 42, the clamp screw 104 may occupy the first clamp hole portion 58a and the second clamp hole portion 58b, as shown in Figures 9, 10 and 12.

[0144] In an embodiment of the invention in which the first clamp hole portion 58a is a through hole and the second clamp hole portion 58b is a threaded hole, the clamp screw 104 may threadably engage the second clamp hole portion 58b.

[0145] It should be appreciated that tightening or loosening by rotation of the clamp screw 104 may resiliently displace the clamp jaw 28 relative to the base jaw 26 .

[0146] It should also be appreciated that rotating the clamp screw 104 to tighten or loosen may resiliently displace the clamp jaws 28 relative to the rear mounting portion 24 .

[0147] Although the invention has been described in some detail, it should be understood that various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention as hereinafter claimed.

Claims

1. A tool adapter (20) having an adapter axis (AA) defining an adapter forward direction (DF) and an adapter rearward direction (DR), A forward retaining portion (22) having a base jaw (26), a clamping jaw (28), and an insert receiving pocket (30) disposed between said base jaw (26) and said clamping jaw (28), The insert receiving pocket (30) comprises a forward retaining portion (22) having a lower support surface (32) and an opposing upper clamping surface (34); a rear mounting portion (24) arranged axially rearward of the front retaining portion (22) along the adapter axis (AA), a rear mounting portion (24) having an axially rearward facing rear mounting surface (50) and a first fastening hole (54); a primary slot (42) separating the base jaw (26) from the clamp jaw (28) and communicating with the insert receiving pocket (30); a secondary slot (52) extending transversely to the primary slot (42) separates the clamp jaw (28) from the rear mounting portion (24); The tool adapter (20), wherein the first fastening hole (54) has a first hole axis (A1) that intersects the rear mounting surface (50) and the secondary slot (52).

2. The tool adapter (20) of claim 1, wherein said first bore axis (A1) intersects said clamping jaw (28).

3. The tool adapter (20) of claim 1, wherein the clamp jaw (28) is resiliently displaceable relative to the base jaw (26) and the rear mounting portion (24).

4. The first fastening hole (54) is a through hole, The tool adapter (20) of claim 1, wherein the first fastening hole (54) extends through the rear mounting portion (24) and the clamp jaw (28).

5. The first fastening hole (54) includes a first forward hole portion (54a) having a first forward diameter (FD1) and a first rearward hole portion (54b) having a first rearward diameter (RD1); the first rear hole portion (54b) is entirely disposed in the rear mounting portion (24); The first front bore portion (54a) is disposed axially forward of the first rear bore portion (54b); The tool adaptor (20) of claim 4, wherein said first forward diameter (FD1) is greater than said first rearward diameter (RD1).

6. The lower support surface (32) is formed on the base jaw (26); The tool adapter (20) of claim 1, wherein the upper clamping surface (34) is formed on the clamping jaw (28).

7. The tool adaptor (20) of claim 6, wherein said lower support surface (32) and said upper clamping surface (34) extend along a pocket axis (AP) defined in a direction transverse to said adaptor axis (AA).

8. The insert receiving pocket (30) has a stop surface (36) formed on the base jaw (26), The tool adapter (20) of claim 6, wherein said stop surface (36) extends in a direction transverse to said lower support surface (32).

9. The front retaining portion (22) includes a clamping hole (58) extending along a clamping axis (AC); The tool adapter (20) of claim 1, wherein the clamp hole (58) has a first clamp hole portion (58a) and a second clamp hole portion (58b) spaced apart by the primary slot (42).

10. The first clamp hole portion (58a) is a through hole, The tool adapter (20) of claim 9, wherein the second clamp hole portion (58b) is a threaded hole.

11. The lower support surface (32) defines a first plane (P1); A fifth plane (P5) perpendicular to the first plane (P1) includes the first hole axis (A1); The tool adaptor (20) of claim 9, wherein the clamping hole (58) and the insert receiving pocket (30) are disposed on the same side of the fifth plane (P5).

12. When viewed from the front, the tool adapter (20) The tool adapter (20) of claim 9, wherein an axial projection of said clamping axis (AC) intersects said insert receiving pocket (30).

13. The tool adapter (20) of claim 1, wherein said secondary slot (52) communicates with said primary slot (42).

14. the secondary slot (52) comprises a main secondary slot portion (52a) and a minor secondary slot portion (52b); The tool adaptor (20) of claim 1, wherein said minor secondary slot portion (52b) is angled relative to said major secondary slot portion (52a).

15. The lower support surface (32) defines a first plane (P1); The tool adaptor (20) of claim 14, wherein a fourth plane (P4) perpendicular to said first plane (P1) bisects said main secondary slot portion (52a).

16. The tool adapter (20) of claim 1, wherein said base jaw (26) and said clamp jaw (28) merge with one another at a clamp pivot portion (44) adjacent an end portion (46) of said primary slot (42).

17. 17. The tool adaptor (20) of claim 16, wherein in a cross section taken along a second plane (P2) perpendicular to the adapter axis (AA) and passing through the insert receiving pocket (30), the end portion (46) of the primary slot (42) is located distal from the insert receiving pocket (30).

18. The tool adaptor (20) of claim 16, wherein said clamp pivot portion (44) has a resilient axis of rotation (AR) extending along said adapter forward direction (DF) and said adapter rearward direction (DR).

19. The tool adapter (20) of claim 18, wherein said elastic axis of rotation (AR) intersects said secondary slot (52).

20. a slot plane (PS) passing through at least a portion of the primary slot (42) between the base jaw (26) and the clamp jaw (28); 2. The tool adapter (20) of claim 1, wherein in a cross section along a third plane (P3) parallel to the slot plane (PS) and intersecting the clamp jaw (28), the rear mounting portion (24) and the clamp jaw (28) are completely spaced apart by the secondary slot (52).

21. 1. A cutting tool assembly (74) comprising: a tool shank (76) extending longitudinally along a shank axis (AS); and a tool adapter (20) according to claim 1 removably secured to a forward mounting portion (78) of the tool shank (76), The forward mounting portion (78) has a forward mounting surface (80) and a first shank bore (82) intersecting the forward mounting surface (80); the rear mounting surface (50) of the tool adapter interacts with the front mounting surface (80) of the shank; A cutting tool assembly (74), wherein a first fastening screw (84) occupies the first fastening hole (54) of the adapter and the first shank hole (82) of the shank to secure the tool adapter (20) to the tool shank (76).

22. A cutting insert (88) is removably retained within said insert receiving pocket (30); The cutting insert (88) has one active cutting edge (90); 22. The cutting tool assembly (74) of claim 21, wherein a sixth plane (P6) perpendicular to the adapter axis (AA) bisects the active cutting edge (90).

23. The front retaining portion (22) of the adapter includes a clamp hole (58); the clamp hole (58) having a first clamp hole portion (58a) and a second clamp hole portion (58b) spaced apart by the primary slot (42); a clamp screw (104) occupies the first clamp hole portion (58a) and the second clamp hole portion (58b); The cutting tool assembly (74) of claim 21, wherein tightening or loosening by rotation of the clamping screw (104) results in elastic displacement of the clamping jaw (28) relative to the base jaw (26).

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