Parting blade clamp, parting blade, and parting blade holder

Abstract

The parting tool assembly includes a blade holder, a parting blade, and a clamp, the clamp being secured to the blade holder via a clamp mounting portion fastened to the holder mounting portion of the blade holder, and the clamp also including a clamp portion abutting a peripheral edge of the parting blade to secure the parting blade in the blade pocket of the blade holder.

Description

Technical Field

[0001]

[0001] The subject matter of the present application relates to a parting blade clamp (hereinafter also simply referred to as "clamp") configured to clamp a parting blade to a parting blade holder (hereinafter also simply referred to as "holder"), a parting blade holder, a tool assembly including them, a method of assembly, and a method of cutting using them.

Background Art

[0002]

[0002] The present application relates to a tool assembly for a parting process (also referred to as "parting-off" or "cut-off"). It is understood that a tool assembly capable of performing parting can also perform a grooving process.

[0003]

[0003] Conventional parting blades are extended to provide a large cutting depth capacity. Typically, such parting blades are extended to have a tapered longitudinal edge to allow for a strong clamp, while still being advantageously adjustable for various overhang lengths.

[0004]

[0004] The applicant further described a parting tool assembly in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0240741 assigned to the applicant. In this publication, for example, referring to FIGS. 17 to 20 therein, a square regular-shaped parting blade and a holder are described. Such a tool assembly has the advantage of an adjustable overhang length for a more stable mounting configuration.

[0005]

[0005] Nevertheless, there are still many features that can be improved in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0240741. For example, in regularly shaped blades having insert pockets at each corner (and the blade entry point is in a non-center position that maximizes the cutting depth), it is difficult to supply coolant to both sides of the cutting insert, resulting in coolant being supplied to only one side of the cutting insert. In addition, the screws and plugs used to securely mount the blade cause large lateral protrusions that prevent the blade from parting "near the shoulder". Furthermore, providing internal coolant holes in parting blades is an expensive and difficult manufacturing task.

[0006]

[0006] With regard to the supply of coolant, as with all cutting tools, it is beneficial to cool the cutting insert during machining to increase its tool life.

[0007]

[0007] Unlike other tools, supplying coolant to a cutting insert held by a parting blade presents unique challenges. Specifically, the parting blade is preferably as thin as possible (to reduce material waste) and penetrates deep into the workpiece. The effectiveness of coolant supply decreases as the distance from the coolant outlet increases. In addition, since the cutting insert is completely enclosed by the workpiece, it is not effective to place coolant nozzles on the sides of the cutting insert. Furthermore, chips flow over the cutting insert, diverting the coolant from above.

[0008]

[0008] Many solutions have been offered to overcome the above difficulties. For example, in the past, coolant was supplied by an external conduit (used in many different tools) spaced apart from the parting blade, but this was not particularly effective, and chips and workpieces prevented the coolant from reaching the cutting insert. One such solution is to form a coolant passage within the parting blade and to guide the coolant through the parting blade itself, which is expensive as mentioned above. Another solution is to guide the coolant through the parting blade and also through the cutting insert, but this complicates the manufacturing of the cutting insert. Yet another solution is to supply coolant only to the trailing end of the cutting insert to avoid the coolant flow being obstructed by chips.

[0009]

[0009] The most well-known solution, more recently, has been to supply high-pressure coolant through a parting blade (many such blades and blade holders on the market are specified to supply coolant up to 70 bar, and the applicant's product is still configured to supply coolant up to 140 bar). However, while high-pressure coolant through a blade overcomes the problem of allowing the coolant to reach the essential area to be cooled, such passages inside the blade are manufactured through an expensive and slow manufacturing process. Since blades have a limited tool life and are then discarded relatively quickly when the typically elastic insert pockets wear out, the cost of such passages in disposable blades is therefore an important consideration. Elastic insert pockets are typically used due to the lack of space for threads in the width of the preferred very thin parting blade.

[0010]

[0010] Indexable inserts are an alternative to parting blades, but are small due to the insert material being typically much more expensive than steel blades, and pressing extremely large inserts is difficult or impractical. Because cutting inserts are small, the coolant supplied directly from the tool holder is more effective for larger depths of cut (i.e., the cutting edge is relatively further away from the tool holder) than for parting blades, and this is not much of a problem. The present invention relates specifically to parting blades, which have the inherent difficulty of supplying effective coolant to a cutting edge at a relatively large distance from the tool holder.

[0011]

[0011] The object of the present invention is to provide an improved parting blade clamp, parting blade, parting blade holder and a tool assembly comprising them. [Overview of the Initiative]

[0012]

[0012] The present invention was developed as a coolant conduit configured to be attached to a parting blade.

[0013]

[0013] In other words, the present invention is a coolant conduit that is securely mounted on a parting blade such that its outlet is close to the cutting insert and effectively supplies coolant to the cutting insert.

[0014]

[0014] The coolant conduit may have at least one extension that is thinner than the cutting width of the cutting insert, and therefore a portion of the coolant conduit is configured to enter into an envelope of a narrow slit toward the opposing chip in the workpiece being parted.

[0015]

[0015] Numerous specific safety mechanisms have been developed to ensure that cutting chips do not obstruct or damage the coolant conduits.

[0016]

[0016] Such coolant conduits have been found to be advantageous for the regular-shaped blade concept described above, in which coolant is supplied to only one side. In addition, the coolant conduits do not suffer wear from cutting forces (in contrast to parting blades with internal coolant holes), and can therefore be refitted onto many different parting blades, thereby making parting blades cheaper and easier to manufacture due to the absence of internal coolant holes. Furthermore, unlike the parting blades described above, which have coolant holes limited to a maximum pressure of 140 bar, it has been found that coolant conduits can be provided at their inlets with higher coolant pressures (resulting in a greater coolant supply and thus further extending the life of the cutting insert tool). In addition, by extending the cross-section of the coolant passage in the cutting plane, additional coolant can be supplied through each outlet (compared to conventional circular conduit outlets). Furthermore, the parting blades are stronger than those with less material (by providing voids, i.e., coolant holes), enabling maximum cutting strength. In other words, parting blades do not need to have coolant passages. This does not mean that coolant conduits are unusable in parting blades that have coolant passages, but rather that one advantageous embodiment of a parting blade does not have expensive internal coolant passages, since the coolant conduits supply the coolant.

[0017]

[0017] After the development of the coolant conduit, it was considered to further combine the coolant conduit with a mounting portion. The mounting portion allows the coolant conduit described above to be attached to the parting blade and also provides a dual function for fixing the parting blade itself to the holder. In this specification, the combined coolant conduit and clamp are referred to as the "parting blade clamp" or "clamp". The mounting portion of the clamp is referred to as the "clamp mounting portion" or "mounting portion" for simplicity.

[0018]

[0018] Following the development of the parting blade clamp, it was found that the developed clamping features were independently advantageous compared to clamping known blades, even without providing a coolant passage through the clamp. For example, the parting blade clamp appears to be even more stable, does not provide lateral protrusions like the threaded blade described above, allows for very rapid indexing of the parting blade, and requires fewer parts, thus even advantageous to the present applicant's tool assembly in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0240741.

[0019]

[0019] Furthermore, the independent and unique embodiments that have been developed are listed below.

[0020]

[0020] According to one aspect of the present invention, a parting tool assembly is provided, the parting tool assembly comprising: a blade holder; a parting blade; and a clamp; the blade holder comprising: a holder mounting portion; and a blade pocket; the parting blade comprising: mounted in the blade pocket and: opposite first blade side and second blade side, a peripheral blade edge connecting the first blade side and the second blade side; and at least a first insert pocket formed along the peripheral blade edge; the peripheral blade edge comprising: a first sub-blade edge and a second sub-blade edge extending from different sides of the first insert pocket; the clamp comprising: a clamp mounting portion; and at least one clamp portion comprising a clamp contact surface; the clamp mounting portion is fastened to the holder mounting portion; and the clamp contact surface contacts the peripheral edge of the parting blade, thereby securing the parting blade in the blade pocket.

[0021]

[0021] According to one aspect of the present invention, a method is provided for parting or grooving a workpiece using a tool assembly, the method comprising: a first step of moving the tool assembly relative to the workpiece until the cutting edge of a cutting insert contacts the workpiece; and a second step of further moving the tool assembly relative to the workpiece so that the cutting insert and a parting blade mounted on the cutting insert cut a slit in the workpiece, wherein in the second step a portion of the parting clamp enters the slit formed in the workpiece.

[0022]

[0022] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method is provided for securing a parting blade to a blade holder, the method comprising the steps of providing a parting blade clamp having a mounting portion and at least one clamping portion, the steps of providing a blade holder having a mounting portion, the steps of: a first step of connecting the mounting portion of the parting blade clamp to the mounting portion of the blade holder; a second step of mounting the parting blade in the blade pocket of the blade holder; and a third step of fastening the mounting portion of the parting blade clamp to the mounting portion of the blade holder so that at least one clamping portion abuts against the peripheral edge of the parting blade, thereby securing the parting blade in the blade pocket.

[0023]

[0023] The at least one clamp portion may be two clamp portions located on different sides of the parting blade.

[0024]

[0024] The at least one clamp portion may be two clamp portions spaced apart from each other.

[0025]

[0025] The at least one clamp portion may have at least one clamp contact surface in which at least a part of it extends into the expanded width cutting plane PC.

[0026]

[0026] The at least one clamp abutment surface can be two clamp abutment surfaces both extending in different directions within the extended width cutting plane PC.

[0027]

[0027] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of fixing a parting blade to a blade holder, the method including the step of simultaneously wedging the parting blade between two extension portions having a mechanical interlock structure for a pocket protruding edge.

[0028]

[0028] The extension portions can be part of a single parting blade clamp, and the fixing step can be made by moving the parting blade clamp in a single direction. The single direction can be towards two adjacent sub-edges of the pocket protruding edge.

[0029]

[0029] The parting blade clamp can further include at least one, preferably two, clamp portions.

[0030]

[0030] At least one, preferably two, mechanical interlock structures can be formed on the pocket protruding edge.

[0031]

[0031] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of fixing a parting blade to a blade holder, the method including the step of simultaneously wedging the parting blade between two clamp portions having a mechanical interlock structure for a pocket protruding edge.

[0032]

[0032] The clamp portions can be part of a single parting blade clamp, and the fixing step can be made by moving the parting blade clamp in a single direction. The single direction can be towards two adjacent sub-edges of the pocket protruding edge.

[0033]

[0033] The parting blade clamp can further include at least one, preferably two, extension portions.

[0034]

[0034] At least one mechanical interlock structure, preferably two mechanical interlock structures, may be formed on the pocket protruding edge.

[0035]

[0035] According to another aspect of the present invention, a parting blade clamp is provided comprising a mounting portion and at least one elongated extension portion, wherein the extension portion defines an extension direction, and an expanded width cutting plane PC is defined within the extension direction, and the mounting portion is positioned outside the cutting plane.

[0036]

[0036] Being "elongated" means that the maximum length LM of the extension is greater than the maximum height HE of the extension, i.e., the condition LM > HE is satisfied.

[0037]

[0037] It is understood that a larger maximum height HE allows for a larger cross-section (in the height direction) and therefore allows more coolant to be transmitted through the extension, while requiring a larger, less compact structure that may limit the depth of cut or interfere with the area required for the adjacent tool assembly. Nevertheless, it has been found that the coolant conduit of the present invention is preferable in which the extension is configured to supply sufficient coolant and therefore allow its outlet to be as close as possible to the cutting insert. Thus, it is even more preferable that the maximum length and maximum height satisfy the condition: LM > 2HE or LM > 2.5HE.

[0038]

[0038] Nevertheless, in order to supply a reasonable amount of coolant, each linear portion of the extension portion disposed adjacent to the insert pocket (identified as LM1 and LM3 respectively in FIG. 6C) preferably has a maximum length and a maximum height that satisfy the conditions: LM < 8HE, more preferably LM < 6HE, and most preferably LM < 5HE. The current optimum value for existing designs is 2.5HE < LM < 4.5HE, but it should be understood that many design factors (such as the size of the parting blade) can change this preferred range.

[0039]

[0039] The at least one elongated extension portion can be two extension portions spaced apart from each other.

[0040]

[0040] The at least one elongated extension portion can extend within the extended width cutting plane PC. The entirety of the elongated extension portion can extend within the extended width cutting plane PC.

[0041]

[0041] The at least one elongated extension portion can be two extension portions extending in different directions within the extended width cutting plane PC.

[0042]

[0042] The parting blade clamp can include a coolant passage having an outlet opening into the extension portion.

[0043]

[0043] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a parting blade clamp including a mounting portion and at least one clamping portion, the clamping portion including a clamp abutment surface at least a part of which extends within the extended width cutting plane PC, and the mounting portion being disposed outside the extended width cutting plane PC.

[0044]

[0044] The at least one clamping portion can be two clamping portions spaced apart from each other, each clamping portion including a clamp abutment surface, and both of the clamp abutment surfaces extend in different directions from each other and are at least partially disposed within the extended width cutting plane PC.

[0045]

[0045] The parting blade clamp may have at least one extension portion that extends from the clamp portion along the expanded width cutting plane PC.

[0046]

[0046] The parting blade clamp may be provided with a coolant passage having an outlet that opens into the extended portion.

[0047]

[0047] According to any of the above embodiments, the parting blade clamp may preferably be configured to have one or more of the following safety features.

[0048]

[0048] The extended portion may be provided with a safety protrusion or a safety recess, preferably a safety protrusion. When installed, preferably the safety protrusion is housed non-contact within the safety recess.

[0049]

[0049] The extension can preferably be biased relative to the parting blade.

[0050]

[0050] More preferably, each biased surface may be provided with a mechanical interlock structure.

[0051]

[0051] The extended portion may be thinner than the parting blade.

[0052]

[0052] The extension can extend from the lower extension surface to the upper extension surface. This provides greater structural strength than a simple cylindrical conduit, which implies specific spatial constraints for parting or grooving applications.

[0053]

[0053] The extension portion may have an inclined front extension surface for deflecting opposing chips. The inclination may be defined with respect to the direction of extension or with respect to an adjacent peripheral edge of the parting blade, etc.

[0054]

[0054] Even if such distances slightly reduce the effectiveness of the coolant, the front extension surface can be positioned at a safe distance from the insert pocket to avoid opposing chips.

[0055]

[0055] The extended portion may be coated to have heat resistance or impact resistance.

[0056]

[0056] According to any of the above embodiments, the parting blade may preferably be configured to have one or more of the following safety features.

[0057]

[0057] The blade sub-edge of the parting blade may have a safety projection or a safety recess, preferably a safety recess. When mounted, the safety projection of the parting blade clamp is preferably housed non-contactingly within the safety recess of the parting blade. It is understood that if the safety projection were to contact the safety recess, this could reduce the stability of the extension that abuts the parting blade. While it is possible to design such contact if it is designed for that purpose (within acceptable design tolerances), it is now preferable to avoid contact.

[0058]

[0058] The extension can preferably be biased against the blade sub-edge of the parting blade.

[0059]

[0059] The sub-edge of the parting blade may be equipped with a mechanical interlock structure.

[0060]

[0060] According to another aspect of the present invention, a parting blade clamp is provided which comprises a mounting portion and a coolant passage, the coolant passage comprising an inlet, an outlet and an intermediate portion, and the parting blade clamp is a rigid body.

[0061]

[0061] Due to its rigidity, the coolant conduit has a basic shape, unlike a flexible tube or pipe that conforms to the shape of the component in which it is held.

[0062]

[0062] The rigid body may preferably be formed from a metal, preferably from steel.

[0063]

[0063] The parting blade clamp may be configured to connect directly to the supply pipe.

[0064]

[0064] The parting blade clamp may be configured to extend along two non-parallel blade sub-edges.

[0065]

[0065] According to another aspect of the present invention, a parting blade is provided, the parting blade being: The first blade side surface and the second blade side surface, and the peripheral blade edge connecting the first blade side surface and the second blade side surface; A first insert pocket formed along the peripheral blade edge; The aforementioned peripheral blade edge is: The first insert pocket comprises a first blade sub-edge and a second blade sub-edge extending from different sides; The first insert pocket is: Base jaw and; Joe 2 and; A slot end connecting the base jaw and the second jaw; The base jaw is closer to the first blade sub-edge than the second jaw. The second jaw is closer to the second blade sub-edge than the base jaw. A first condition is that the second blade sub-edge is longer than the first blade sub-edge, and a first blade mechanical interlock structure is formed on the first blade sub-edge; and, At least one of the second conditions is met, such that a blade mechanical interlock structure is formed on both the first blade sub-edge and the second blade sub-edge.

[0066]

[0066] Generally speaking, prefixes such as "second" and similar words such as "first" in the term "second mechanical interlock structure" are considered to identify the name only and do not mean to specify the number of elements present.

[0067]

[0067] With respect to the first condition, another way to have the second blade sub-edge be longer than the first blade sub-edge is understood to be that the parting blade is extended along the second blade sub-edge. In other words, the parting blade is extended along the same direction as the base jaw. Hereinafter, such a blade will be referred to as the x-axis blade.

[0068]

[0068] It is known that the X-axis blades have a blade mechanical interlock structure along their elongated sides (i.e., along the second blade sub-edge and the sub-edge parallel thereto) intended to clamp the parting blade to the blade holder. Therefore, the x-axis blades have only a flat first blade sub-edge (and therefore do not have a blade mechanical interlock structure along their first blade sub-edge).

[0069]

[0069] For clarity, in the present invention, the function of the blade machine interlock structure is not primarily for the conventional inclined blade holder jaw (corresponding to the pocket protruding edge in the following embodiments), but for other components as described below. Thus, for example, a single blade machine interlock structure may be provided on a parting blade, and the remaining portion (or part thereof) of the peripheral blade edge may be flat to abut against the blade holder edge (hereinafter also referred to as the "pocket protruding edge"), and one or more screws provide a lateral force to the parting blade to maintain engagement with the blade holder support surface (hereinafter also referred to as the blade pocket side surface).

[0070]

[0070] However, in any case, in a parting blade provided with a blade machine interlock structure, it is preferable that the blade machine interlock structure provides a lateral force and also provides a function to assist in biasing the parting blade toward the blade holder support surface.

[0071]

[0071] Regarding the second condition: There exist less common parting blades (hereinafter referred to as Y-axis blades) in which the first blade sub-edge is longer than the second blade sub-edge (in other words, extended perpendicularly to the base jaw). Such Y-axis blades are known to have a blade machine interlock structure along their elongated sides (i.e., along the first blade sub-edge and the sub-edge parallel thereto) intended to clamp the parting blade to a blade holder.

[0072]

[0072] Until now, it has not been known that both elongated X-axis and Y-axis blades have a blade mechanical interlock structure along both sub-edges extending from different sides of the insert pocket. Naturally, there are sacrifices associated with providing a blade mechanical interlock structure (typically ground), and such a feature has not been known because it is not necessary for conventional parting blades that are clamped on the opposite elongated side of the parting blade. Such conventional clamps allow the overhang length of the parting blade to be advantageously varied according to the user's needs.

[0073]

[0073] The applicant's more recent development has been the development of a parting blade that does not have the advantages of variable overhang. Such a parting blade is a regularly shaped parting blade (e.g., triangular, square, but not elongated like the x-axis and y-axis blades described above), and is hereinafter referred to as the "regularly shaped blade". The regularly shaped blade does not have any blade mechanical interlocking structure because the lateral contact force is provided by a screw that passes through a threaded hole formed in the parting blade and clamps the parting blade to the blade holder. Having a screw as a lateral support eliminates the need for a blade mechanical interlocking structure and allows for better force support when the peripheral blade edge is flat. Furthermore, having both a blade mechanical interlocking structure and a laterally inserted screw is counterintuitive and may therefore hinder the mounting of the parting blade to the blade holder edge.

[0074]

[0074] As described above, it is preferable that the blade machine interlock structure also provides a function to provide lateral force and assist in biasing the parting blade toward the blade holder support surface. However, one of the challenges in developing parting blades without lateral support in the form of screws and screw hole systems (each screw providing several hundred kilograms of force laterally) is that there is an increased risk of the parting blade being dislodged from the blade holder support surface. However, tests have shown that the system provides sufficient lateral support even without a centrally located fixed configuration. Nevertheless, there are still situations in which one or more screws can be used in conjunction with such clamping contact surfaces. In such cases, smaller screws or perhaps one single small screw may suffice to overcome any lateral clamping deficiency. It should be noted that small screws have only undesirable lateral protrusions that are much smaller than the lateral protrusions of the much larger screws of the prior art that bear the entire clamping force for the parting blade.

[0075]

[0075] It is understood that the non-blade configurations of the present invention may be used with conventional blades having only a conventional blade mechanical interlocking structure or only a flat peripheral edge. This is because the blade mechanical interlocking structure is one of the optional but more preferred safety features for the extensions used in the present invention. For example, in one embodiment in which one or more extensions have a flat extension contact surface biased against a corresponding flat peripheral edge contact surface of a parting blade, and one or more screws are provided to apply a lateral force to the parting blade, the parting blade may be used with one of the non-blade configurations and may not have a blade mechanical interlocking structure.

[0076]

[0076] Nevertheless, in this embodiment in which at least one blade machine interlock structure is provided, the following features are preferred.

[0077]

[0077] The blade mechanical interlock structure may extend along most of the sub-edge. Such a feature allows both the extended mechanical interlock structure and the clamp contact surface to be fixed laterally to the blade. Alternatively, such a feature allows both the extended contact surface and the blade holder support surface to be fixed laterally to the blade.

[0078]

[0078] A blade mechanical interlock structure may be formed on the foremost blade sub-edge (for example, in the case of an x-axis blade, the foremost blade sub-edge is the first blade sub-edge; i.e., it is a non-elongated blade sub-edge; or, if the blade is mounted in a blade holder, the foremost blade sub-edge may be the sub-edge furthest from the blade holder shank). As described above, known blades do not have a blade mechanical interlock structure on the side not used for clamping to the blade holder.

[0079]

[0079] A blade mechanical interlock structure may be formed on both sub-edges extending from different sides of the insert pocket. As described above, known blades do not have a blade mechanical interlock structure on the side not used for clamping to the blade holder.

[0080]

[0080] The blade machine interlock structure can be any machine structure that can be subjected to lateral forces. In other words, the blade machine interlock structure can be any machine structure other than a flat surface. More specifically, the blade machine interlock structure comprises at least one blade sub-edge projection. More precisely, there is at least one blade sub-edge projection in a direction perpendicular to the thickness dimension. Some non-limiting but preferred examples of the at least one blade sub-edge projection are a single central blade sub-edge projection; or two or more blade sub-edge projections separated by blade sub-edge recesses positioned between them; a single non-central blade sub-edge projection; or two or more non-central blade sub-edge projections positioned at different distances from the insert pocket. Each example comprises a vertex and at least one blade sub-edge contact surface extending from the vertex to one of the first blade side and the second blade side. The blade sub-edge contact surface can be convex or concave, but most preferably is a flat inclined surface that allows for precision grinding. In the most preferred embodiment, there is a single, central blade sub-edge projection (corresponding to a typical V-shaped cross section commonly used for the longitudinal edge of a parting blade). This is because it provides equal lateral support in both lateral directions. More precisely, the single, central blade sub-edge projection has a vertex and first and second blade sub-edge contact surfaces extending from the vertex to the first and second blade sides. Preferably, the first and second blade sub-edge contact surfaces are flat inclined surfaces that allow for precision grinding; however, they may be convex or concave. The preferred internal blade angle α for the single, central blade sub-edge projection is a value of α that satisfies the condition: 120° ≤ α ≤ 170°, more preferably 140° ≤ α ≤ 160°.A typical internal blade angle α for a blade machine interlock structure for a known x-axis blade is 150°, which is considered optimal for clamping. However, a slightly smaller angle, e.g., 120°≦α≦148° or 135°≦α≦145°, may be preferred for at least a portion of the blade machine interlock structure adjacent to the insert pocket and / or at least the foremost blade sub-edge of the blade machine interlock structure of the present invention. This is particularly beneficial when a blade machine interlock structure or portion thereof with such an angle is not used to clamp a parting blade but is used for contact with an extension contact surface. In particular, a more aggressive angle (i.e., the smaller angle range described above) may be preferred because it is difficult to maintain interlock contact between the thin extension portion and the parting blade. Nevertheless, in the illustrated prototype example, a standard angle of 150° was found to work well. Preferably, the first blade sub-edge contact surface and the second blade sub-edge contact surface extend from the apex at an internal angle equal to the first blade side and the second blade side. This makes it possible to achieve the same effect on both the left and right blade holders using the same blade.

[0081]

[0081] The blade machine interlock structure of the parting blade may have the same cross-section. A variable cross-section is possible, but a uniform cross-section makes manufacturing easier.

[0082]

[0082] According to another aspect of the present invention, a parting blade is provided, the parting blade comprising: a first blade side surface and a second blade side surface; a peripheral blade edge connecting the first blade side surface and the second blade side surface; and a first insert pocket formed along the peripheral blade edge; the peripheral blade edge comprising: a first blade sub-edge and a second blade sub-edge extending from different sides of the first insert pocket, wherein a blade safety recess is formed in at least one of the first blade sub-edge and the second blade sub-edge.

[0083]

[0083] Preferably, the first insert pocket comprises: a base jaw; a second jaw; and a slot end connecting the base jaw and the second jaw; the base jaw being closer to the first blade sub-edge than the second jaw; the second jaw being closer to the second blade sub-edge than the base jaw; and the blade safety recess being formed on the second blade sub-edge.

[0084]

[0084] Preferably, there are blade safety recesses formed on each of the first blade sub-edge and the second blade sub-edge.

[0085]

[0085] Preferably, there are blade safety recesses formed on each of the first blade sub-edge and the second blade sub-edge.

[0086]

[0086] Preferably, the blade safety recess adjacent to the common insert pocket is spaced equally apart from it.

[0087]

[0087] The blade safety recess is characterized in that, in order to prevent opposing chips from getting caught between the extended portion and the blade, the extended safety protrusion extends into the sub-edge of the blade, thereby enabling the extended portion to be displaced.

[0088]

[0088] The blade safety recess is most preferred with respect to the second blade sub-edge (as the first blade sub-edge is adjacent to the base jaw, it relates to the rake side of the cutting insert mounted on the parting blade).

[0089]

[0089] However, the blade safety recess may be preferable to the first blade sub-edge for functions other than preventing opposing chips from getting caught, as described above, such as providing the user with a visual indicator that the extension is properly mounted on the thin blade. In other words, if the user observes the parting blade from the side and the extension safety protrusion is located within the blade safety recess, it can be assumed that the extension is properly mounted.

[0090]

[0090] Another advantage is that if the parting blade clamp has two extensions, it can be designed symmetrically with respect to each extension that has an extension safety projection (and therefore different parting blade clamps are not required for the left and right blade holders).

[0091]

[0091] It is understood that the non-blade portions of the present invention may be used with conventional blades that do not have blade safety recesses. This is because blade safety recesses are one of the optional but preferred safety features for the extension portions used in the present invention.

[0092]

[0092] Nevertheless, in this embodiment, in which at least one blade safety recess is provided, the following features are preferred: a. For the reasons stated above, preferably, the blade safety recess may be provided on the blade sub-edge adjacent to the second blade sub-edge. b. The blade safety recess may preferably be a first blade safety recess and a second blade safety recess provided on both the first sub-edge and the second sub-edge, respectively. c. If there are two or more blade safety recesses on a single sub-edge, they may be positioned equidistant from the center of the sub-edge. In other words, they may be positioned symmetrically along the sub-edge. Alternatively, if specified, the blade safety recesses adjacent to a common insert pocket are equally spaced therefrom. This can provide similar advantages to those described above, allowing for the symmetrical design of parting blade clamps having two extensions. In other words, the blade safety recesses may preferably be within the recess length LR measured from the sub-edge to the blade safety recess in the insert pocket, satisfying the condition: LR ≤ 30 mm, preferably LR ≤ 20 mm, most preferably LR ≤ 15 mm. While the closer the blade safety recesses and the resulting extensions are to the cutting insert, the more effective the coolant becomes, there are still constraints on how close they can be positioned due to the risk of collision with chips or the workpiece (relief side). Therefore, it is preferable that LR ≥ 4 mm, preferably LR ≥ 8 mm. d. The blade safety recess may be located adjacent to the insert pocket. In other words, the blade safety recess may be located between the insert pocket and the sub-edge center.

[0093]

[0093] Depending on the configuration of the parting blade or the configuration comprising the blade, the following are preferred features: a. The parting blade may be a regularly shaped blade. This allows the parting blade clamp used to be used in a way that enables a threadless design (therefore reducing lateral protrusions such as the blade assembly). b. The parting blade may be a solid parting blade. "Solid" means that the parting blade does not have an internal coolant channel. This is understood to allow for a much simpler manufacturing process. However, the parting blade may have a coolant channel on one side of the insert pocket (if it is difficult to provide an extension along that side of the parting blade). In such a case, the blade assembly may have, for example, one extension that supplies coolant to one side of the insert pocket and an internal coolant channel that supplies coolant to the other side of the insert pocket (or, for example, to the cutting insert through a hole in the cutting insert). In this case, the internal coolant channel is preferably a straight through hole. At least in the case of a straight through hole, the manufacturing process does not require a plugging step and is therefore at least simpler than known prior art having an internal coolant channel. c. At least a portion of the parting blade (adjacent to each insert pocket) is an elongated portion. The cutting insert is configured to be mounted in the insert pocket having a cutting width CW wider than the thickness dimension of the blade along the elongated portion, thereby allowing the elongated portion to enter the portion of the workpiece being parted. d. Each blade has multiple insert pockets. It is understood that for each additional insert pocket, the parting blade is more economically efficient. However, it is most preferable that the parting blade has two to five insert pockets, more preferably three or four. It is understood that for the parting process, the included chip requires considerably more chip evacuation area than more circular slitting blades that can accommodate more than five insert pockets. Preferably, the parting blade has insert pockets formed at each of its corners. e. The blade does not have to have a threaded hole. According to one preferred embodiment, the parting blade has a single central manufacturing hole. The central manufacturing hole allows the parting blade, which is to be rotated for the blade machine interlock structure, to be manufactured in a single mounting step. Nevertheless, the blade does not have to have a threaded hole. f. As is typical for many insert pockets, the second jaw may be of a type positioned above the base jaw, but preferably positioned behind the base jaw and extending obliquely thereto (basically perpendicularly). This is because a second jaw extending over the base jaw would be more difficult to direct towards the cutting edge of the cutting insert (which requires a steeper angle and therefore requires the extension to be at a greater height from the parting blade). This consideration is made only for extensions extending along the rake side of the sub-edge of the parting blade. Nevertheless, it should be clear that each type of known insert pocket is feasible by the present invention. g. In the present invention, while each type of known insert pocket is feasible, the parting blade is preferably provided with an elastic insert pocket (i.e., one without a screw or lever for securing the screw). This is because it is preferable to perform the parting process with a small cutting width to reduce material waste. While the present invention is most beneficial for parting, it is understood to be also suitable for grooving and certain deep grooving without a final parting step of the workpiece. h. Preferably, the thickness dimension DT of the parting blade satisfies the condition: 0.8 mm ≤ DT ≤ 4 mm, more preferably 1.2 mm ≤ DT ≤ 3 mm, and most preferably 1.4 mm ≤ DT ≤ 2.5 mm. With respect to the lower end of the range (i.e., 0.8 mm), it is understood that, with regard to coolant supply, a hole integrally formed in the blade holder can still effectively supply coolant over a small distance (e.g., 10-20 mm). Thus, the significant advantage of coolant extension lies in lengths greater than 20 mm. However, given the limitations on the cut depth / overhang to how rigid a thin parting blade can be, it is inconceivable that very long cut depths can be provided with a thickness of less than 0.8 mm. In addition, considering that the extension portion preferably has an extension thickness TE smaller than the blade thickness dimension DT (to provide relief), the amount of coolant supplied at less than 0.8 mm provides only a small effect. With respect to the upper end of the range, it is known above that it is preferable to make the blade thickness dimension as small as possible in order to reduce material waste. However, it is understood that the minimum thickness is still related to the required depth of cut. i. For consideration similar to that given for the thickness dimension DT of the parting blade, preferably, a regularly shaped parting blade has a sub-edge length LS that satisfies the condition: 30 mm ≤ LS ≤ 80 mm, more preferably 40 mm ≤ LS ≤ 70 mm, and most preferably 45 mm ≤ LS ≤ 60 mm. An alternative method for defining the size of a standard regularly shaped parting blade is by the circumscribed circle CC tangent to the peripheral blade edge. The circumscribed circle CC preferably satisfies the condition: 40 mm ≤ CC ≤ 80 mm, more preferably 45 mm ≤ CC ≤ 70 mm, and most preferably 50 mm ≤ CC ≤ 65 mm. An elongated parting blade having a sub-edge length LS along a sub-edge smaller than j. (i.e., the sub-edge adjacent to the base jaw for the x-axis blade and the sub-edge adjacent to the second jaw for the y-axis blade) satisfies the condition: 10 mm ≤ LS ≤ 40 mm, more preferably 15 mm ≤ LS ≤ 36 mm, and most preferably 24 mm ≤ LS ≤ 34 mm. k. For consideration similar to that given for the thickness dimension DT of the parting blade, preferably the cutting width CW of the cutting insert satisfies the condition: 1.0 mm ≤ CW ≤ 5 mm, more preferably 1.4 mm ≤ CW ≤ 4 mm, and most preferably 1.6 mm ≤ CW ≤ 3.2 mm. l. For consideration similar to that given for the size of the parting blade, preferably the cutting depth CD of the parting assembly satisfies the condition: 40 mm ≤ CD ≤ 160 mm, more preferably 50 mm ≤ CD ≤ 140 mm, and most preferably 60 mm ≤ CD ≤ 125 mm.

[0094]

[0094] With respect to the parting blade formed in the internal bore, it is understood that additional material must be provided at least on its rake side to allow the bore to be directed toward the cutting edge. This means that on each side of the indexable parting blade material, additional material is added to increase the size of the parting blade. Thus, the parting blade without a bore of the present invention (however, still supplying high-pressure coolant adjacent to the insert pocket) is smaller and therefore the blade itself is structurally stronger (more resistant to bending).

[0095]

[0095] Furthermore, a parting blade without voids (i.e., coolant holes) is structurally stronger than a solid parting blade.

[0096]

[0096] According to another aspect of the present invention, a holder is provided for fixing a parting blade therein in two orthogonal directions.

[0097]

[0097] More precisely, the holder comprises a blade pocket configured to secure the parting blade in both of two orthogonal directions.

[0098]

[0098] Preferably, the parting blade is indexable and has a plurality of insert pockets.

[0099]

[0099] Preferably, the clamp is configured to bias the adapter to the corner of the blade pocket.

[0100]

[0100] In addition to the above development, it was found that such adapters can be mistakenly fixed to the holder (for example, the adapter can be fixed to the holder for the X-axis feed process and then operated in the Y-axis direction). To prevent this from happening, it was considered to provide a mechanism to prevent incorrect assembly.

[0101]

[0101] A preferred embodiment provides a so-called “pocket projection” within the blade pocket, which protrudes into the blade pocket and prevents a parting blade from being mistakenly inserted therein (in the wrong orientation). In other words, the pocket projection may be housed in the recess of the parting blade in an orthogonal orientation to one of the adapters, rather than the other.

[0102]

[0102] Preferably, the pocket projection is removable and reattachable, so that the user can use an alternative orientation if desired. In the illustrated example, the pocket projection is a removable, basically cylindrical or cylindrical pin.

[0103]

[0103] Preferably, the recess of the adapter has a non-cylindrical shape so that the parting blade can be easily placed in the blade pocket.

[0104]

[0104] Preferably, the recess of the parting blade is an unused insert pocket, and therefore the parting blade itself does not need to have additional recesses that could weaken or complicate its structure.

[0105]

[0105] Preferably, the bearing surface of the parting blade is mirror symmetric with respect to a virtual bisecting circuit extending through two orthogonal positions.

[0106]

[0106] The bisector may extend through the foremost cutting edge of the insert.

[0107]

[0107] Preferably, the bearing surface of the parting blade is straight in side view.

[0108]

[0108] Preferably, the parting blade is rectangular, preferably a regular quadrilateral, and most preferably a square, when viewed from the side.

[0109]

[0109] According to another aspect of the present invention, a holder (not limited to a parting blade holder) is provided which has an insert pocket or blade pocket in which a magnet is attached.

[0110]

[0110] The holder may include a blade pocket, the blade pocket comprising: a side surface of the blade pocket; a pocket protruding edge extending from the side surface of the blade pocket; and a magnet attached to the blade pocket surface.

[0111]

[0111] Preferably, the magnet is embedded in the side of the blade pocket.

[0112]

[0112] Preferably, for the blade pocket, the magnet is made of neodymium. Initially, it was considered to use ceramic magnets due to their heat resistance. However, for the blade pocket, there is a considerable distance from the heated working area, and the thermal capacity is considered secondary to the strength of the magnet. A stronger magnet means that a smaller contact area of ​​the insert pocket is lost. Nevertheless, all types of magnets are possible.

[0113]

[0113] For the insert pocket, ceramic magnets are preferred, but other types of magnets may also be used.

[0114]

[0114] According to another aspect of the present invention, a holder is provided which has a blade pocket, the blade pocket being: Blade pocket side and; The blade pocket has a pocket protruding edge extending from the side surface; The pocket protruding edge comprises a first contact sub-surface and a second contact sub-surface extending in a direction different from that of the first contact sub-surface. Both the first contact sub-surface and the second contact sub-surface are inclined toward the side surface of the blade pocket.

[0115]

[0115] The holder may have just one holder mounting portion configured therein for clamping a parting blade. The one holder mounting portion may be a single threaded hole. The holder may further have a double right-left thread configured to be screwed into the threaded hole. The threaded hole may be located on the front surface of the holder.

[0116]

[0116] It can be understood from the following disclosure that the parting blade clamp does not have to have an extension. The parting blade clamp may have a single extension. The parting blade clamp may have two extensions extending in different directions from each other. According to either of these options, the parting blade clamp may or may not have a coolant passage.

[0117]

[0117] It will be understood from the following disclosure that the parting blade clamp may only provide an auxiliary clamping function and therefore may not have a clamping portion, but rather may have at least one extension portion. Such a parting blade clamp may have two extension portions extending in opposite directions. According to either of these options, the parting blade clamp may or may not have a coolant passage.

[0118]

[0118] Note that the clamp portion or extension portion may extend in different directions. A different direction could be a quarter turn.

[0119]

[0119] It is also possible to realize a tool assembly comprising a first extension portion and a second extension portion that are not connected to each other. In other words, the assembly may comprise two parting blade clamps according to the present invention, each comprising an extension portion.

[0120]

[0120] A tool assembly can also be realized comprising a parting blade clamp according to the present invention and a parting blade having at least one internal coolant hole extending through it.

[0121]

[0121] Regarding the shape of the parting blade clamp:

[0122]

[0122] It is preferable that at least the upper body surface (i.e., the frontmost surface) is arc-shaped.

[0123]

[0123] A preferred parting blade clamp has two extensions and is symmetrical with respect to a plane of symmetry PS that extends through the center of the main body portion.

[0124]

[0124] Regarding the shape of the extension:

[0125]

[0125] It is preferable that the extended portion or at least a part thereof has an outlet and has a linear shape. The line or linear shape means that when the extended portion is viewed in a side view, for example as shown in Figure 6C, the extended portion extends in a straight line even if its cross-section changes.

[0126]

[0126] Preferably, the extended portion exists only on the expanded width cutting plane PC.

[0127]

[0127] Preferably, the extension portion has an elongated extension cross section perpendicular to the extension direction of the extension portion. In other words, preferably, the elongated extension cross section is elongated in the direction from the lower extension surface toward the upper extension surface.

[0128]

[0128] Regarding the shape of the coolant passage:

[0129]

[0129] Preferably, the coolant passage in the extension portion perpendicular to the extension direction of the extension portion has an elongated passage cross-section. In other words, preferably, the elongated passage cross-section is elongated in the direction from the lower extension surface toward the upper extension surface.

[0130]

[0130] Preferably, the extended sub-passage is linear in shape.

[0131]

[0131] Preferably, the coolant passage splits (or branches) from the inlet in two different directions. The two directions may be opposite to each other.

[0132]

[0132] According to another aspect of the present invention, a tool assembly is provided comprising a blade holder, a parting blade, and a clamp; the clamp clamps the parting blade to the blade holder; the parting blade has a first blade sub-edge and a second blade sub-edge extending from different sides of the first insert pocket; at least one of the first blade sub-edge and the second blade sub-edge has a blade safety recess; the clamp has an extension portion having an extension safety projection formed thereon; the extension safety projection is at least partially within the blade safety recess.

[0133]

[0133] Preferably, there is a gap separating the blade safety recess and the extended safety portion.

[0134]

[0134] According to another aspect of the present invention, a parting blade clamp is provided, the parting blade clamp comprising: a body portion having a first body end, a second body end, and an intermediate body sub-part connecting the first and second ends; a mounting portion connected to the body portion; a first clamp portion connected to the first end; and a second clamp portion connected to the second end, wherein the first clamp portion comprises a first clamp contact surface; the second clamp portion comprises a second clamp contact surface facing a second direction different from a first direction, and the first and second clamp contact surfaces are at least partially located within the cutting plane; the first clamp contact surface faces a first direction; the second clamp contact surface faces a second direction different from a first direction; and the intermediate body sub-part is at least partially located outside the cutting plane.

[0135]

[0135] According to another aspect of the present invention, a parting blade clamp is provided, the parting blade clamp comprising: a body portion having a first body end, a second body end, and an intermediate portion connecting the first body end and the second body end; a mounting portion connected to the body portion; at least a first clamp portion connected to the first body end; and a first extension portion connected to the first clamp portion, wherein the first clamp portion comprises a first clamp contact surface; and the entirety of the first extension portion and at least a portion of the first clamp contact surface are positioned in the cutting plane.

[0136]

[0136] According to another aspect of the present invention, a parting blade clamp is provided, the parting blade clamp comprising: a body portion having a first body end, a second body end, and an intermediate portion connecting the first and second ends; a mounting portion connected to the body portion; and a first extension portion extending from the first body end; the entirety of the first extension portion being located within the cutting plane, and the intermediate body sub-portion being located at least partially outside the cutting plane.

[0137]

[0137] Preferably, the parting blade clamp has a clamp contact surface and is located within the cutting plane.

[0138]

[0138] Preferably, the parting blade clamp has two clamp contact surfaces extending in different directions and is located within the cutting plane.

[0139]

[0139] According to another aspect of the present invention, a parting blade clamp is provided, the parting blade clamp comprising: a body portion having a first body end, a second body end, and an intermediate portion connecting the first and second ends; a mounting portion connected to the body portion; and a first extension portion extending from the first body end; and a mechanical interlock structure being formed over the entirety of the first extension portion.

[0140]

[0140] According to another aspect of the present invention, a parting blade clamp is provided, the parting blade clamp comprising: a body portion having a first body end, a second body end, and an intermediate portion connecting the first and second ends; a mounting portion connected to the body portion; a first extension portion extending from the first body end; and an extension safety projection extending from a lower extension surface adjacent to the front extension surface.

[0141]

[0141] According to another aspect of the present invention, a tool assembly is provided, the tool assembly comprising a blade holder, a parting blade, and a clamp; the clamp clamps the parting blade to the blade holder; the parting blade has a first clamp portion and a first extension portion extending from the first clamp portion; the first clamp portion clamps the parting blade to the blade holder, and the first extension portion extends along a plane common to the parting blade.

[0142]

[0142] According to another aspect of the present invention, a parting blade clamp is provided, the parting blade clamp comprising: a body portion having a first body end, a second body end, and an intermediate body sub-part connecting the first and second ends; a mounting portion connected to the body portion; a first clamp portion connected to the first end; and a coolant passage; the first clamp portion comprising a first clamp contact surface; and the coolant passage comprising an inlet, a first outlet, and an intermediate passage extending from the inlet to the first outlet.

[0143]

[0143] Preferably, the coolant passage has at least two turns, more preferably three turns. Preferably, at least one turn is smoothly curved, more preferably all of the turns are smoothly curved.

[0144]

[0144] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method is provided for attaching a parting blade clamp to a parting blade, the method comprising: a first step of bringing an extension into contact with the parting blade; and a second step of fastening the clamp / conduit to the parting blade such that the extension is bent and the clamp contact surface adjacent to the extension is in contact with the parting blade.

[0145]

[0145] According to another aspect of the present invention, a parting blade clamp is provided, the parting blade clamp comprising: a clamping portion and an extension portion extending from the clamping portion and configured to bend; each of the clamping portion and the extension portion having a contact surface located in a common cutting plane; the contact surface of the extension portion being positioned relatively downward in the cutting plane such that the extension portion bends when both of the contact surfaces clamp a linear object.

[0146]

[0146] According to another aspect of the present invention, a tool assembly is provided comprising a blade holder, a parting blade, and a clamp, wherein the clamp clamps the parting blade to the blade holder, and the clamp is attached to the blade holder via a single screw.

[0147]

[0147] Generally speaking, the names of all elements below that use numbering (e.g., "1st") should be considered to identify the name only and not to specify the number of elements present in the claims. For example, if a claim has an element whose name includes "1st", this does not mean that the claim needs a "2nd" or any other such element, not just the name. Similarly, words such as "top" only provide definition for other elements of the same component and do not specify the overall orientation of the component itself.

[0148]

[0148] As is well known in the art, the rake face is a surface over which the cut chips are intended to flow, and the relief face is typically designed to recede from the cutting edge.

[0149]

[0149] For a further understanding of the subject matter of this application and to show how the subject matter of this application can actually be implemented, the attached drawings are provided below. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0150] [Figure 1A] This is a side perspective view of the tool assembly according to the present invention. [Figure 1B] Figure 1A is an exploded perspective view of the tool assembly. [Figure 2A] Figure 1A is a side view of the parting blade of the tool assembly. [Figure 2B] Figure 2A is a first end view of the parting blade. [Figure 2C] Figure 2A is a second end view of the parting blade. [Figure 2D]This is a schematic diagram of a possible mechanical interlock structure. [Figure 2E] This is a schematic diagram of a structure without a mechanical interlocking mechanism. [Figure 2F] This is a schematic diagram of a possible mechanical interlock structure. [Figure 2G] This is a schematic diagram of a possible mechanical interlock structure. [Figure 2H] This is a schematic diagram of a possible mechanical interlock structure. [Figure 3A] Figure 1A is a front view of the holder of the tool assembly. [Figure 3B] Figure 3A is a top view of the holder. [Figure 3C] This is a side view of the holder shown in Figure 3A. [Figure 3D] Figure 3A is a bottom view of the holder, and the mechanical interface is also schematically shown. [Figure 3E] This is a rear view of the holder shown in Figure 3A. [Figure 4A] Figure 1A is a first end view of the clamp of the tool assembly. [Figure 4B] Figure 4A is another end view of the clamp. [Figure 4C] Figure 4A is a first side view of the clamp, which has an alternative entrance circle schematically shown by a dashed line and a surface schematically identified by diagonal lines for identification purposes only. [Figure 4D] Figure 4A is another end view of the clamp, which has a surface schematically identified by diagonal lines for identification purposes only. [Figure 4E] Figure 4A is another end view of the clamp. [Figure 4F] This is another side view, opposite to the side view shown in Figure 4C. [Figure 5A] Figure 4A shows the clamp along both the mounting axis AA and the inlet axis AI, with the coolant passages schematically indicated by dashed lines. [Figure 5B] Figure 5A is a side view of the clamp, with the coolant passages schematically shown by dashed lines. [Figure 6A] Figure 1A is a front view of the tool assembly. [Figure 6B] Figure 6A is a top view of the tool assembly. [Figure 6C] Figure 6A is a side view of the tool assembly. [Figure 6D] Figure 6A is a bottom view of the tool assembly. [Figure 6E] Figure 6A is a rear view of the tool assembly. [Figure 7A] Figure 6C is a magnified view of a part of the tool assembly, with dashed lines schematically indicating that a portion of the cylindrical workpiece has been cut off. [Figure 7B] Figure 7A is a front view of the tool assembly that is roughly parting off the workpiece. [Figure 7C] Figure 7B is a top view of the tool assembly that is roughly cutting off the workpiece. [Figure 7D] Figure 7B is a side view of the tool assembly that is roughly cutting off the workpiece. [Figure 8A] This is a side perspective view of another tool assembly according to the present invention. [Figure 8B] Figure 8A is a side view of the tool assembly, further illustrating the option of coolant holes indicated by dashed lines. [Figure 9A] Figure 8A is a side view of the parting blade of the tool assembly. [Figure 9B] Figure 9A is a first end view of the parting blade. [Figure 9C] Figure 9A is a second end view of the parting blade. [Figure 10A] Figure 8A is a front view of the holder of the tool assembly. [Figure 10B] Figure 10A is a top view of the holder. [Figure 10C] Figure 10A is a side view of the holder. [Figure 10D] Figure 10A is a bottom view of the holder. [Figure 10E] Figure 10A is a rear view of the holder. [Figure 11A] Figure 8A is a first side view of the clamp of the tool assembly. [Figure 11B] Figure 11A is a rear view of the clamp. [Figure 11C] Figure 11A is a top view of the clamp. [Figure 11D] Figure 11A is a front view of the clamp. [Figure 11E] Figure 11A is another side view of the clamp. [Figure 11F] Figure 11A is a bottom view of the clamp. [Figure 12A] Figure 11A is a first side view of the clamp, where the coolant passage is schematically shown by a dashed line. [Figure 12B] Figure 12A is a top view of the clamp, with the coolant passages schematically shown by dashed lines. [Figure 12C] Figure 12A is a front view of the clamp, with the coolant passages schematically shown by dashed lines. [Figure 13A] Figure 8A is a front view of the tool assembly. [Figure 13B] Figure 13A is a bottom view of the tool assembly. [Figure 13C] Figure 13A is a side view of the tool assembly. [Figure 13D] Figure 13A is a top view of the tool assembly. [Figure 13E] Figure 13A is a rear view of the tool assembly. [Figure 14A] This is a side view of another tool assembly according to the present invention. [Figure 14B] Figure 14A is an exploded perspective view of the tool assembly. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0151]

[0150] Referring to Figures 1A and 1B, an exemplary tool assembly 10 is shown, comprising a holder 12, a parting blade 100 (in which a cutting insert 14 is mounted), and a parting blade clamp 200 for clamping the parting blade 100 to the holder 12.

[0152]

[0151] In this specific example, the tool assembly 10 further comprises a screw 16, a first O-ring 18 and a second O-ring 20, a pin 22, and a magnet 24, which will be described further later.

[0153]

[0152] The cutting insert 14 comprises a rake face 26, an opposite insert base face 28, a front relief face 30 extending downward (and slightly inward) from the rake face 26 toward the base face 28, an opposite insert back face 32, and a front cutting edge 34 formed at the intersection of the rake face 26 and the front relief face 30. Typically, the rake face 26 has a chip-forming configuration (not shown).

[0154]

[0153] The screw 16 comprises a first threaded end 16A, a second threaded end 16B, and an intermediate threaded portion 16C extending between them. The first threaded end 16A is left-hand thread and includes a tool receiving recess 16D for receiving a driver head (not shown). The second threaded end 16A is right-hand thread.

[0155]

[0154] A double-start screw 16 is a preferred option, but it is understood that any mounting mechanism is suitable (e.g., a lever, a single threaded screw with or without a spring). It should be noted that a great advantage is provided by the ability to remove the clamp from the parting blade after it has been attached to the parting blade, and then replace or index the parting blade. Therefore, the attachment of the parting blade clamp to the parting blade is preferably temporary or "removable" (to distinguish it from permanent mounting methods such as welding).

[0156]

[0155] The parting blade 100 will be described with reference to Figures 2A to 2C.

[0157]

[0156] The parting blade 100 comprises a first blade side surface 102 and a second blade side surface 104, and a peripheral blade edge 106 connecting the first blade side surface 102 and the second blade side surface 104.

[0158]

[0157] In a given example, the entire parting blade 100 has a uniform thickness measured by a thickness dimension DT parallel to the blade axis AB extending through the centers of the first and second blade sides. It is understood that it is possible to use known parting blades having a smaller thickness dimension proximal to the insert pocket and a larger thickness dimension (i.e., a reinforcing portion) distal to the insert pocket. However, it is simpler and therefore preferable to manufacture this “flat-shaped” or “plate-shaped” parting blade having a uniform thickness. It should also be noted that the holder 12 and / or clamp 200 according to the present invention also provides a parting blade that has better stability than any other tool assemblies known to the applicant. For example, in experiments, a tool assembly 10 as shown in Figure 1A successfully parted a standard steel workpiece with a diameter of 75 mm and a cutting width CW of 1.6 mm with perfect straightness.

[0159]

[0158] In other words, the first blade side surface 102 and the second blade side surface 104 are parallel to each other.

[0160]

[0159] The parting blade 100 may have a central manufacturing hole 108 that penetrates the first blade side surface 102 and the second blade side surface 104.

[0161]

[0160] The peripheral blade edge 106 includes a first blade sub-edge 110, a second blade sub-edge 112, a third blade sub-edge 114, and a fourth blade sub-edge 116.

[0162]

[0161] In a given example, each of the same blade sub-edges has the same sub-edge length LS, which can be measured parallel to the given blade sub-edge and perpendicular to the blade axis AB. In other words, the parting blade 100 is square in shape.

[0163]

[0162] The exemplary blade is optionally but preferably an indexable parting blade of a regular shape (i.e., having two or more insert pockets), and therefore the blade axis AB can also be considered an indexable axis around which the parting blade can be indexed.

[0164]

[0163] More precisely, the parting blade 100 has identical first insert pockets 118, second insert pocket 120, third insert pocket 122 and fourth insert pocket 124 formed along the peripheral blade edge.

[0165]

[0164] The following describes the first insert pocket 118 of the four identical insert pockets.

[0166]

[0165] The first insert pocket is shown to include a base jaw 118A, a second jaw 118B, and a slot end 118C connecting the base jaw 118A and the second jaw 118B.

[0167]

[0166] Along the peripheral blade edge 106, adjacent to the base jaw 118A, there is an external pocket relief face (also called the "relief face") 126A, and adjacent to the second jaw 118B, there is an external pocket rake face 126B (also called the "rake face").

[0168]

[0167] Using the first insert pocket 118 as an arbitrary reference, the direction can be defined as follows:

[0169]

[0168] The blade forward DFB extends from the third blade sub-edge 114 toward the first blade sub-edge 110, the blade rearward DRB is opposite to the blade forward DFB, the blade upward DUB extends perpendicular to the blade forward direction and toward the fourth blade sub-edge 116 toward the second blade sub-edge 112, the blade downward DDB is opposite to the blade upward DUB, the blade first lateral DS1B extends perpendicular to the blade forward DFB and toward the first blade side surface 102 toward the second blade side surface 104, and the blade second lateral DS2B is opposite to the blade first lateral DS1B.

[0170]

[0169] The blade forward DFB constitutes the feed direction for moving the tool assembly 10 relative to the workpiece for the parting-off process. As will be described later, the directions specified herein with respect to the parting-off blade correspond to the directions specified below with respect to the holder 12 when the tool assembly 10 is assembled.

[0171]

[0170] In particular, the first blade sub-edge 110 and the second blade sub-edge 112 extend from different sides of the first insert pocket 118. More specifically, the first blade sub-edge 110 extends from the first insert pocket 118 in the downward direction (DDB) of the blade, and the second blade sub-edge 112 extends from the first insert pocket 118 in the rearward direction (DRB) of the blade.

[0172]

[0171] A first blade machine interlock structure ("interlock formation") 128 is formed on the first blade sub-edge 110. When the cutting insert 14 is mounted in the first insert pocket, the cutting direction is the blade forward direction DFB, and therefore the first blade sub-edge 110 is understood to be the so-called foremost blade sub-edge.

[0173]

[0172] A preferred first blade mechanical interlock structure 128 is a convex V-shaped cross section commonly used on the longitudinal edge of a parting blade. More precisely, the first blade mechanical interlock structure 128 comprises a central apex 128A and a first blade sub-edge contact surface 128B and a second blade sub-edge contact surface 128C, which extend from the apex to the first blade side surface 102 and the second blade side surface 104 at an internal blade angle α as shown in Figure 2D.

[0174]

[0173] Since the parting blade 100 is rotationally symmetric in four directions (i.e., 90-degree rotationally symmetric), in one example all of the sub-edges are identical, and therefore, the second blade mechanical interlock structure 130, which is the same as the first blade mechanical interlock structure described above, is formed on the second blade sub-edge 112. More precisely, the second blade mechanical interlock structure comprises a central vertex 130A and a first blade sub-edge contact surface 130B and a second blade sub-edge contact surface 130C that extend from the vertex to the first blade side surface 102 and the second blade side surface 104.

[0175]

[0174] Each blade sub-edge is provided with two blade safety recesses. The first blade sub-edge 110 has a first blade safety recess 132A adjacent to the first insert pocket 118 and a second blade safety recess 134A adjacent to the fourth insert pocket 124. As shown in Figure 2A, the first blade safety recess 132A and the second blade safety recess 134A extend further back than the rearmost point 136 of the first blade sub-edge 110, which is located between the first insert pocket 118 and the first blade safety recess 132A.

[0176]

[0175] Similarly, the second blade sub-edge 112 has a first blade safety recess 132B adjacent to the first insert pocket 118 and a second blade safety recess 134B adjacent to the second insert pocket 120. As shown in Figure 2A, the first blade safety recess 132B extends further downward DDB from the foremost point 138 of the second blade sub-edge 112, which is located between the first insert pocket 118 and the first blade safety recess 132B.

[0177]

[0176] Therefore, when an opposing chip is coming towards the clamp 200, the sub-edge over which the chip passes is higher than the starting point of the extension in the safety recess, so the chip cannot get stuck between the extended safety protrusions that extend within the safety recess.

[0178]

[0177] It is understood that the first blade safety recess of the first blade sub-edge and the first blade safety recess of the second blade sub-edge are only the blade safety recesses that are functionally related to the first insert pocket. Specifically, for example, the second blade safety recess of the second blade sub-edge is used when a cutting insert is mounted in the second insert pocket, etc. Therefore, it is understood that the designation "first" when applied to blade safety recesses is associated with the blade safety recess closest to the insert pocket in operation. Thus, if the parting blade shown in Figure 2A is rotated 90° clockwise so that the insert pocket 120 occupies the position currently occupied by the insert pocket 118, what is currently the "second blade safety recess 134B" is considered the "first blade safety recess 134B".

[0179]

[0178] More precisely, the first blade machine interlock structure 128 can be considered to extend along the entire first sub-edge 110 (i.e., the majority of it eliminates small interruptions as described later), and theoretically, the first blade machine interlock structure 128 can be considered to comprise three substructures: a first substructure 140A (or “first subformation”) adjacent to the first insert pocket 118; a second substructure 142A (or “second subformation”) adjacent to the fourth insert pocket 124; and a third substructure 144A (or “third subformation”) located between the first substructure 140A and the second substructure 142A. Thus, as seen in Figure 2A, each blade sub-edge 110, 112, 114, 116 is interrupted by two spaced-apart blade safety recesses.

[0180]

[0179] Only the first substructure is functionally related to the first insert pocket. One reason for providing the entire sub-edge with such features is that the second substructure can be brought into contact with the fourth insert pocket when a cutting insert is mounted. Another reason is that in embodiments where the parting blade clamp has a clamping contact surface, the second substructure can be brought into contact with the first substructure at the same time. The reason for the third substructure is to facilitate manufacturing. In any case, the first mechanical interlock structure can only extend adjacent to the relevant insert pocket (therefore, the first sub-edge can theoretically consist only of the first substructure 140A).

[0181]

[0180] In other words, the blade sub-edge (exemplified using the first sub-edge 110) may have a first mechanical interlock structure that extends only between the first insert pocket and the sub-edge center 146 (i.e., the half of the sub-edge closer to the insert pocket). The first mechanical interlock structure may extend only within one-third of the sub-edge length LS from the first insert pocket.

[0182]

[0181] In particular, the first blade machine interlock structure is not provided on the rake side, which is planar (i.e., linear in the side view as shown in Figure 2A). This is to enable proper rake of the parting blade against workpieces that are typically cylindrical (or of a similar shape).

[0183]

[0182] Accordingly, the first blade machine interlock structure extends along most of the first sub-edge 110 (i.e., excluding the first and second blade safety recesses and the rake side surface).

[0184]

[0183] With respect to the position of the first blade safety recess 132B of the second blade sub-edge 112 (closest to the opposing chip), the extension portion (or “arm”) is preferably some distance from the cutting insert but close enough to provide effective coolant (the closer the distance, the more effective it is). Since the position of the first blade safety recess 132B is associated with the foremost point of the front extension surface 274A, the position of the first blade safety recess 132B is also associated with or defines the position of the front extension surface 274A. Thus the recess length LR is measured from the relevant sub-edge (in Figure 2A, for the fourth blade sub-edge, this is exemplified as the distance from the second jaw of the third pocket 122 to the adjacent blade safety recess 116A).

[0185]

[0184] More precisely, the second blade machine interlock structure 130 is considered to extend along the entire second sub-edge 112 (i.e., the majority of it eliminates small interruptions as described later), and theoretically, the second blade machine interlock structure 130 is considered to comprise three substructures: a first substructure 140B adjacent to the first insert pocket 118, a second substructure 142B adjacent to the second insert pocket 120, and a third substructure 144B positioned between the first substructure 140B and the second substructure 142B. When applied to blade machine interlock substructures, it is understood that the designations “first” and “third” are interchangeable depending on which of the insert pockets is considered to be actuatable.

[0186]

[0185] To provide a preferred but optional symmetrical clamp, the blade safety recess is preferably spaced equidistant from the insert pocket. More precisely, extensions E1 and E2 from adjacent blade sub-edges may converge at the extension intersection E3 to define equal safety recess distances DSR1 and DSR2 [E2 - needs to be clarified where].

[0187]

[0186] Referring to Figures 2D to 2F, the term “mechanical interlock structure” (which applies similarly to both the blade mechanical lock structure and the clamp or extension mechanical lock structure of the present invention) is explained in detail with a schematic example.

[0188]

[0187] A mechanical interlock structure (hereinafter referred to as "interlock structure," "mechanical structure," or "structure" for brevity) can be any mechanical structure except friction, which can prevent lateral forces acting on any of the components comprising the structure.

[0189]

[0188] Figure 2D shows a first (mechanical) interlock structure comprising a first interlock structure 148 and a second interlock structure 150. The first interlock structure 148 corresponds, for illustrative purposes, to the first blade mechanical interlock structure 128 described above.

[0190]

[0189] The second interlock structure 150 is shown above the first interlock structure 148 and is configured to engage with it (i.e., complementary). The second interlock structure 150 corresponds to the extension mechanical interlock structure 280A of the first extension portion 208, as illustrated later.

[0191]

[0190] To reiterate, the first interlock structure 148 comprises a central apex 128A and a first blade sub-edge contact surface 128B and a second blade sub-edge contact surface 128C that extend from the apex to the first blade side surface 102 and the second blade side surface 104 at an inner blade angle α.

[0192]

[0191] The second interlock structure 150 comprises a central apex 290A and a first extended sub-edge contact surface 292A and a second extended sub-edge contact surface 294A extending from the apex 290A.

[0193]

[0192] The first blade sub-edge contact surface 128B and the second blade sub-edge contact surface 128C, and the first extension sub-edge contact surface 292A and the second extension sub-edge contact surface 294A are preferably planar, but may be curved. For example, the first extension sub-edge contact surface 292A and the second extension sub-edge contact surface 294A may be convexly curved, and the first blade sub-edge contact surface 128B and the second blade sub-edge contact surface 128C may be planar, or any other combination.

[0194]

[0193] When the first interlock structure 148 is biased toward the second interlock structure 150, the lateral movement of the blade in the first lateral direction DS1B and the second lateral direction DS2B (the directions used were made relative to the parting blade, but are equally applicable to the clamping direction as defined below) is hindered not only by friction but also by mechanical obstruction (i.e., two projections that obstruct each other).

[0195]

[0194] Specifically, the first blade sub-edge contact surface 128B contacts the first extended sub-edge contact surface 292A, and the second blade sub-edge contact surface 128C contacts the second extended sub-edge contact surface 294A. Preferably, the apex 128A and the central apex 290A are spaced apart from each other so as not to contact (i.e., a gap is left between them) in order to ensure contact between the contact surfaces.

[0196]

[0195] When a lateral force acts on the first interlock structure 148 in the second lateral direction DS2B of the blade, the bias of the first blade sub-edge contact surface 128B relative to the first extended sub-edge contact surface 292A (i.e., the two mechanical or geometric protrusions that engage with each other) prevents the first interlock structure 148 from moving relative to the second interlock structure 150, or from being released from the second interlock structure 150.

[0197]

[0196] Similarly, when a lateral force acts on the second interlock structure 150 in the first lateral direction DS1B of the blade, the biasing of the first blade sub-edge contact surface 128B with respect to the first extended sub-edge contact surface 292A prevents relative movement or release between the first interlock structure 148 and the second interlock structure 150.

[0198]

[0197] Similarly, when a lateral force acts on the first interlock structure 148 in the first lateral direction DS1B of the blade, the biasing force of the second blade sub-edge contact surface 128C against the second extended sub-edge contact surface 294A prevents relative movement or release between the first interlock structure 148 and the second interlock structure 150.

[0199]

[0198] Similarly, when a lateral force acts on the second interlock structure 150 in the second lateral direction DS2B of the blade, the biasing force of the second blade sub-edge contact surface 128C with respect to the second extended sub-edge contact surface 294A prevents relative movement or release between the first interlock structure 148 and the second interlock structure 150.

[0200]

[0199] A third interlock structure 152 having a mechanical interlock structure is shown. The third interlock structure 152, or more precisely, its contact surface 256A, corresponds to the first clamp contact surface 256A, which will be described later as an example.

[0201]

[0200] When the third interlock structure 152 is biased against the first interlock structure 148, only the first clamp contact surface 256A and the second blade sub-edge contact surface 128C come into contact.

[0202]

[0201] From the third interlock structure 152, it is first understood that the interlock structure does not need to have only a mirror image structure.

[0203]

[0202] In this example, this is sufficient because there is a mechanical obstruction in only one direction (and is sufficient for the following embodiments because the holder 12 provides a mechanical obstruction to the parting blade 100 in the other direction).

[0204]

[0203] The blade mechanical interlock structure is understood to be a safety feature introduced to prevent lateral movement of the clamp contact surface that abuts the parting blade. Specifically, the parting blade or clamp according to the present invention does not necessarily have a mechanical interlock structure.

[0205]

[0204] For example, Figure 2E shows a fourth interlock structure 156 comprising parallel first side walls 156A and second side walls 156B and a contact surface 156C perpendicular to the first side walls 156A and second side walls 156B, and a fifth interlock structure 158 comprising parallel first side walls 158A and second side walls 158B and a contact surface 158C perpendicular to the first side walls 158A and second side walls 158B.

[0206]

[0205] When the contact surfaces 156C and 158C are biased toward each other, there are no mechanical obstacles (or geometric protrusions) to prevent relative movement when a lateral force is applied to them. This is because both the illustrated contact surfaces 156C and 158C are planar and parallel to each other.

[0207]

[0206] However, if they are biased against each other by a large force, there may be enough frictional force to bring the contact surfaces into contact with the desired position and maintain that position against a lateral force of a predetermined magnitude.

[0208]

[0207] In addition, the fact that the two contact surfaces are biased toward each other is itself a safety feature. If the structure supplying the coolant has sufficient rigidity, there are several conditions under which it can withstand the vibration and impact of chips. For example, providing elongated structures in the upper DUB and lower DDB has considerably higher rigidity than conventional circular tube conduits (which have the same diameter in the direction perpendicular to the upper DUB and lower DDB).

[0209]

[0208] Notwithstanding the foregoing, embodiments of the present invention are preferably equipped with a first safety feature (which biases the contact surfaces toward each other). In addition, it is even more desirable to provide a mechanical interlock structure.

[0210]

[0209] For example, in addition to being able to withstand lateral forces more effectively, another advantage of the safety features of mechanical interlock structures is that if there is a slight bend in either of the structures, the biasing forces of the two opposing structures toward each other can correct the misalignment of the structures.

[0211]

[0210] However, it was discovered during development that generating excessively strong biasing forces carries the risk of unintentionally bending the parting blade (which is typically very thin) (especially if one of the components is bent or tilted when installed). Therefore, excessively strong biasing forces for mechanical interlock structures also pose a risk.

[0212]

[0211] Regardless of whether there is a biasing or mechanical interlocking structure, it is always preferable that the parting blade is thinner than a parting blade (or a part thereof) configured to remain within the same expanded width cutting plane PC. As will be described later, in this context, the "expanded width cutting plane PC" is defined to have the same width as the cutting edge width CW of a cutting insert used for parting or grooving.

[0213]

[0212] Referring further to Figure 2E, as an example, if we assume that the fourth interlock structure 156 is a parting blade and the superstructure is an extension, then generally, it is preferable that the extension has a maximum extension thickness TE that is smaller than the blade thickness dimension DT.

[0214]

[0213] This is applicable to all of the exemplified biasing and mechanical interlock structures and is yet another preferred but optional safety feature. It is understood that such a safety feature can mitigate the risk of imperfect fitting, i.e., can compensate for the inclination of the extension portion and can extend the safety feature outside the cutting "plane" having a width corresponding to the extended width cutting plane PC - insert cutting width CW ("extended width cutting plane"). It is understood that the manufacturing and aligned fitting of components with widths of less than 4 mm, less than 3 mm, and even less than 2 mm are critical tasks.

[0215]

[0214] Returning to the general discussion of mechanical structure options, it should be understood that the blade mechanical interlock structure can be various other structures.

[0216]

[0215] Figure 2F shows a sixth interlock structure 160, a seventh interlock structure 162, and an eighth interlock structure 164, which are equally possible mechanical interlock structures for a parting blade (or clamp or extension portion). The parting blade preferably has a male structure as shown in the first structure 148 and the third structure 152, as it is easier to manufacture on the parting blade, but it is understood that a female structure on the parting blade is also feasible.

[0217]

[0216] The sixth interlock structure 160 comprises parallel first sub-edge surfaces 160A and second sub-edge surfaces 160B separated by a sub-edge concave surface 160C positioned between them, and a planar concave surface 160D.

[0218]

[0217] The seventh interlock structure 162 comprises a single concave curved surface 162A. The eighth interlock structure 164 comprises sub-edge surfaces 164A, 164B having two angles (V-shape) similar to those shown in the second interlock structure 150.

[0219]

[0218] A different way to describe the mechanical interlock structure is through its protrusions. Also note that there are at least one blade sub-edge protrusion (i.e., protruding perpendicular to the thickness dimension), and their positions are also variable.

[0220]

[0219] For example, the first interlock structure 148 has a central sub-edge projection 170A (composed of a first blade sub-edge contact surface 128B and a second blade sub-edge contact surface 128C).

[0221]

[0220] Alternatively, the third interlock structure 152 may be considered to have a single non-central (or lateral) sub-edge projection 170B.

[0222]

[0221] Alternatively, the second interlock structure 150 may be considered to have two laterally arranged sub-edge protrusions 150A, 150B.

[0223]

[0222] Similarly, the other female structures (i.e., the sixth structure 160, the seventh structure 162, and the eighth structure 164) can also be considered to have two laterally positioned sub-marginal projections 170C1, 170C2, 170D1, 170D2, 170E1, and 170E2.

[0224]

[0223] While it is preferable for the mechanical interlock structure to have a uniform cross-section to facilitate manufacturing, it is also possible to have a ninth interlock structure 166 having a first projection 166A on one side and a second projection 166B on the other side at a certain distance, as shown in Figure 2G. This can similarly provide lateral support in both lateral directions. In particular, a tenth interlock structure 148A configured to interlock with the ninth interlock structure 166 may have a similar non-uniform cross-section. Alternatively, the tenth interlock structure 148A may instead have a single uniform interlock structure identical to the first interlock structure 148, even if the cross-sections of the ninth interlock structure 166 alternate in the cross-section (at least once).

[0225]

[0224] Figure 2H shows that the 11th interlock structure 168 can also have three or more protrusions (i.e., the first protrusion 168A, the second protrusion 168B, and the third protrusion 168C).

[0226]

[0225] The blade holder 12 will be described in more detail with reference to Figures 1B and 3A to 3E.

[0227]

[0226] Holder 12 has a basic shape that is generally similar to the holder shown in Figures 19 and 20 of U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0240741, which is incorporated herein by reference, although it has some major differences which are described below.

[0228]

[0227] As shown in the figure, the holder forward direction DFH, the holder rear direction DRH, the holder upward direction DUH, the holder downward direction DDH, the holder first side direction DS1H, and the holder second side direction DS2H are indicated.

[0229]

[0228] The holder forward direction DFH constitutes the X-axis feed direction, which is the direction in which the tool assembly 10 is moved to cut the workpiece 60 as shown below (for example, Figure 7D).

[0230]

[0229] The holder 12 comprises a holder head portion 36 and a holder shank portion 38.

[0231]

[0230] The holder shank portion 38 is fixed to a machine interface 40, which may be a tool post or a turret.

[0232]

[0231] The holder head portion 36 is equipped with a blade pocket 42.

[0233]

[0232] The holder head portion 36 includes a holder front surface 44A, a holder rear surface 44B, a holder top surface 44C, a holder bottom surface 44D, a holder first side surface 44E, and a holder second side surface 44F.

[0234]

[0233] Preferably, the holder front surface 44A may have a front portion 44G which is preferably concave.

[0235]

[0234] It is understood that the first cutting zone boundary 44H is defined from the foremost point 44I of the front portion 44G downwards DDH of the holder, and the second cutting zone boundary 44J is defined from the uppermost point 44K of the front portion 44G backwards DRH of the holder.

[0236]

[0235] In other words, the holder 12 is designed with a cutting zone ZC (Figure 7A) above the first cutting zone boundary 44H and forward of the second cutting zone boundary 44J. The workpiece 60 is designed to enter the cutting zone ZC, and the holder 12 and assembly 10 cannot have any parts that protrude wider than the cutting width CW of the cutting insert 14 or outside the expanded cutting plane PC, as these parts would impact the parted-off workpiece 60. The arrows on the first cutting zone boundary 44H and the second cutting zone boundary 44J indicate areas that the workpiece cannot pass through because it would collide with the holder 12, which is wider than the expanded cutting plane PC.

[0237]

[0236] Conversely, outside the defined cutting zone ZC, assemblies, holders, clamps, etc., may protrude outside the expanded cutting plane PC.

[0238]

[0237] Alternatively, it is understood that all tool assemblies are designed for a given depth of cut CD. Thus, the cutting zone is a virtual cylindrical IC (Figure 7A) that corresponds in shape to the illustrated workpiece 60, and the virtual cylindrical IC is defined by a radius equal in length to the depth of cut CD (defined from the front portion 44G of the cutting insert 14 to the foremost cutting edge 34). It is understood that the diameter of the actual workpiece must be slightly smaller than the depth of cut CD in order to provide a tolerance (e.g., 1 mm). Outside the virtual cylindrical IC, the clamp 200 can extend in any direction and cannot be struck by the workpiece 60 during parting.

[0239]

[0238] In other words, the holder 12 is designed to part a cylindrical workpiece 60 having a radius that corresponds to the cutting depth CD shown in Figure 7A (i.e., from the foremost part 44G of the cutting insert 14 to the foremost cutting edge 34), or a radius that is just slightly smaller than that (for example, providing a clearance of 1 or 2 millimeters). As can be seen from Figures 7A and 7C, parts of the first clamp portion 204 and the second clamp portion 206 on the outside of the virtual cylinder IC may be configured not to enter the slit S formed in the cylindrical workpiece. On the other hand, parts of the extension portions 208, 210 must be configured to enter S (for example, sufficiently narrow).

[0240]

[0239] The blade pocket 42 comprises a blade pocket side 46 and a pocket protruding edge 48 extending along it.

[0241]

[0240] The pocket protruding edge 48 may include a lower pocket contact surface 48A, a rear pocket contact surface 48B, and preferably a pocket relief recess 48C.

[0242]

[0241] To provide lateral fixing force, an inclined (or oblique) mechanical interlock structure is formed on the pocket protruding edge 48. Specifically, both the lower pocket contact surface 48A and the rear pocket contact surface 48B are inclined to have a configuration corresponding to the third interlock structure 152. This allows the lateral protrusion of the holder 12 toward the second side direction DS2H of the holder to be smaller than if a screw or seal were present (see Figure 20E of U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0240741).

[0243]

[0242] The inclination of the lower pocket contact surface 48A is visible in Figure 3A, and the inclination of the rear pocket contact surface 48B is visible in Figure 3B.

[0244]

[0243] In this example, the inclined pocket protruding edge 48 biases the parting blade 100 toward the blade pocket side 46 for strong structural strength.

[0245]

[0244] Preferably, when the first clamp contact surface 256A contacts the second blade sub-edge contact surface 128C of the parting blade (see, for example, the first clamp portion 204), the blade pocket side surface 46 extends adjacent to the entire parting blade in order to provide curvature of the parting blade 100. Due to the thin parting blade structure, it is particularly possible to prevent the parting blade from cutting linearly within the workpiece.

[0246]

[0245] The holder shank portion 38 may have an end portion having a cylindrical or square cross-section. In Figure 3B, the holder shank portion 38 has a holder shank axis As, and as shown to understand its position, the holder shank cross-sectional shape was circular.

[0247]

[0246] In the blade pocket 42, and particularly on the blade pocket side surface 46, pin holes 53B for holding pocket protrusions are formed, and the pocket protrusions are, in a non-limiting example, the pins 22 shown in FIG. 1B. The pin 22 prevents the cutting blade 100 from being accidentally inserted in the y-axis feed direction (i.e., the upward direction DUH on the holder) if the operator desires that the x-axis feed direction be used. To operate in the y-axis feed direction, the pin 22 is removed from the pin hole 53B. It is understood that when the pin is inserted, the position of the pin hole can be changed to default the y-axis feed direction.

[0248]

[0247] In the blade pocket 42, and particularly on the blade pocket side surface 46, magnet holes 55 for holding the magnets 24 shown in FIG. 1B are formed.

[0249]

[0248] The magnet 24 prevents the cutting blade 100 from falling off the holder 12 when the clamp 200 does not fix the cutting blade 100 to the holder 12.

[0250]

[0249] Thus, this is a preferred but non-essential feature added for user convenience. The magnet 24 cannot fix the cutting blade against the clamping force and thus only prevents so-called "part dropping". Such a magnet 24 provides an auxiliary mounting mechanism that does not require any corresponding structure on the cutting blade (particularly useful for very thin blades with little room for mechanical connection, and for indexable cutting blades, a corresponding structure is required for each indexing of the cutting blade). It should also be noted that such an auxiliary mounting mechanism does not create an obstacle for slidably mounting the cutting blade 100 within the inclined pocket protruding edge 48.

[0251]

[0250] While magnets are known to be used with cutting tools, it has not been previously known to use embedded magnets in either the cutting insert pocket or the parting blade pocket. This is because the magnets are not strong enough to hold the cutting insert or parting blade against the cutting forces.

[0252]

[0251] In other words, the present invention provides an insert or adapter (or parting blade) pocket with an auxiliary mounting mechanism in the form of a magnet fixed to the pocket in a completely isolated manner. Such a configuration also includes a clamp or screw or other fastening mechanism for providing a main mounting mechanism.

[0253]

[0252] A second reason why such a configuration is not known is that it is thought that the embedded magnet can magnetize the holder (through long-term contact between the magnet and the holder), and that chips may unnecessarily connect to the holder or get stuck between the components.

[0254]

[0253] After manufacturing, it was found that the magnetization of the holder 12 was insufficient to produce an effect during cutting.

[0255]

[0254] When the magnet 24 is installed in the magnet hole 55, it is preferable that it is flush with the side surface 46 of the blade pocket, or that it is formed in a concave shape so as not to interfere with the contact of the parting blade with the side surface 46 of the blade pocket.

[0256]

[0255] Preferably, the parting blade 100 completely covers the magnet 24 so that chips (not shown) are not attracted to it.

[0257]

[0256] The surrounding wall of the magnet hole 55 theoretically resists the parting blade pulling on the magnet 24, but as a safety precaution, the magnet 24 may be adhered to the magnet hole 55.

[0258]

[0257] A groove 56 is formed on the front surface 44 of the holder.

[0259]

[0258] The groove 56 is formed to receive the clamp 200, and more specifically, most of the main body portion 202 of the clamp.

[0260]

[0259] Preferably, the groove opens to the front of the groove relative to the front end of the holder 12. Preferably, the groove opens to the rear of the groove relative to the upper end of the holder. This allows the clamp to be held so as to protrude only from the groove in the area outside the cutting zone ZC, as shown below.

[0261]

[0260] The groove 56 comprises a first side wall 56A and a second side wall 56B, and a groove bottom wall 56C.

[0262]

[0261] The depth of the groove 56 is sized to allow the main body portion 202 of the clamp to be either flush with the front surface 44 of the holder or recessed therein, so as not to obstruct the passage of the workpiece when the parting blade 100 is mounted therein.

[0263]

[0262] More precisely, the groove 56 has a depth from the surface portion 44G, and the depth is greater than the body height HB (Figure 5B) of the body portion 202 defined between the upper (or "internal") body surface 226 and the lower (or "external") body surface 228.

[0264]

[0263] The holder 12 is provided with a holder mounting portion 56D, or in this example, the holder mounting portion 56D is formed on the holder 12. In this example, the holder mounting portion is a threaded holder screw hole 56D formed in the groove bottom wall 56C.

[0265]

[0264] The groove 56 further comprises a holder outlet 56E configured to supply coolant and, in this example, to receive the clamp inlet 302 therein.

[0266]

[0265] As described above, at least one holder outlet 56E may be formed alternatively on the first side wall 56A to supply coolant to the clamp opening 312 shown in Figure 4C.

[0267]

[0266] Coolant is supplied to the holder 12 through a holder inlet 56F located on the holder bottom surface 44D. However, it is understood that the holder inlet 56F may be located, for example, on the rear surface 38A of the shank or on the bottom surface 38B of the shank, or that there may be multiple holder inlets in any combination of these locations. Although not shown, it is preferable that each of these three locations has a holder inlet to maximize the options for supplying coolant to the clamp 200 for different mechanical interfaces. One or more plugs may be attached to the holder inlets that are provided and not in use. Also, a plug is not required for the holder inlet located along the bottom surface 38B of the shank, as the mechanical interface that clamps its surface seals the hole, thereby reducing the number of parts in the assembly 10. Nevertheless, a plug may be provided or an O-ring may extend around it for an airtight seal.

[0268]

[0267] Refer to Figures 4A to 5B to describe the parting blade clamp 200 in more detail.

[0269]

[0268] The parting blade clamp 200 comprises a main body portion 202, a first clamp portion 204 extending from the main body portion 202, a second clamp portion 206 extending from the main body portion 202, a first extension portion 208 (or "first arm") extending from the first clamp portion 204, and a second extension portion 210 (or "second arm") extending from the second clamp portion 206.

[0270]

[0269] This example is symmetric with respect to a symmetry plane PS (FIG. 4C) that extends through the center of the body portion 202. Thus, each feature described for the first clamp portion 204 also applies to the second clamp portion 206, and similarly, each feature described for the first extension portion 208 also applies to the second extension portion 210.

[0271]

[0270] Merely for the purpose of explaining the boundaries of what is intended by the first clamp portion 204 and the second clamp portion 206, schematic hatching is added in FIGS. 4C and 4D to identify what the name “second clamp portion 206” (arbitrarily selected from among two identical clamp portions) means.

[0272]

[0271] Specifically, referring to FIG. 4D, the second extension portion 210 is defined within the regions indicated by reference numerals 212 and 214, the second clamp portion 206 is defined within the regions indicated by reference numerals 216 and 218, and the body portion 202 is the remaining portion of the cutting blade clamp 200 except for the first clamp portion 204 and the first extension portion 208.

[0273]

[0272] Here, the body portion 202 will be described in detail.

[0274]

[0273] The body portion 202 includes a first body end 220, a second body end 222, and an intermediate sub - portion 224 connecting the first body end 220 and the second body end 222.

[0275]

[0274] The intermediate sub - portion 224 further includes an upper (or “inner”) body surface 226, a lower (or “outer”) body surface 228 disposed opposite the upper body surface 226, a first side body surface 230 connecting the upper body surface 226 and the lower body surface 228, a second side body surface 232 connecting the upper body surface 226 and the lower body surface 228, a first end body surface 233A, and a second end body surface 233B.

[0276]

[0275] The intermediate sub-section 224 further comprises a mounting section 234. The mounting section 234 may be any configuration configured to secure the parting blade 100 to the holder 12. Thus, the “mounting section” is also referred to as the “holder mounting section”. For example, the mounting section may be a female thread (illustrated) or any known structure (e.g., a projection for receiving a lever, a hook or hook receiving configuration, a recess extending laterally parallel to the intermediate sub-section 224 or a recess that is contacted by a screw head without passing through the intermediate sub-section 224).

[0277]

[0276] In this preferred embodiment, the mounting portion 234 is a female thread having a mounting axis AA (Figure 5A) extending through its center, allowing the use of a standard double-start thread 16. Advantageously, the thread 16 is a right-hand and left-hand thread, allowing the thread 16 to lift the parting blade clamp 200 from the holder 12 (allowing for quick removal of the parting blade 100) without requiring extra components such as springs. More specifically, the standard thread is typically a right-hand thread, while the female thread 234 is a left-hand thread for the purposes described above.

[0278]

[0277] Focusing on Figures 5A and 5B, in a non-limiting embodiment, the parting blade clamp 200 further comprises a coolant passage 300.

[0279]

[0278] The coolant passage 300 includes an inlet 302, a first outlet 304, a first intermediate passage 306 extending from the inlet 302 to the first outlet 304, a second outlet 308, and a second intermediate passage 310 extending from the inlet 302 to the second outlet 308.

[0280]

[0279] In this example, the entrance 302 is formed in the intermediate sub-section 224.

[0281]

[0280] In this preferred embodiment, the inlet 302 is a male projection 302 having an inlet axis AI (Figure 5A) extending through its center. It is understood that the inlet may be provided in different ways. For example, an opening 312 (without projection, schematically shown by a dashed line in Figure 4C) may be formed on one of the first side body surface 230 and the second side body surface 232 (as illustrated in the second side body surface 232) at a position where the parting blade clamp 200 abuts against the holder 12 when it is mounted on the holder 12 (such a contact reduces leakage).

[0282]

[0281] In this embodiment, since a projection is used, it is preferable that the mounting axis AA and the entrance axis AI extend parallel to each other so that both can be easily inserted into the holder 12.

[0283]

[0282] Referring to Figure 5B, in order to prevent leakage, the illustrated male projection 302 is formed with identical first O-ring recesses 314 and second O-ring recesses 316, respectively, configured to receive one of the first O-ring 18 and the second O-ring 20. A single O-ring recess and a single O-ring are also possible, but a second O-ring recess and a second O-ring are provided because a larger coolant supply is advantageous and the coolant supply can be increased by using high-pressure coolant, thereby ensuring ultra-high coolant pressure (e.g., 340 bar or more) with minimal or no leakage.

[0284]

[0283] Since the illustrated parting blade clamp 200 was manufactured using additive manufacturing (3D printing), it was found to be advantageous to provide the first O-ring recess 314 and the second O-ring recess 316 having a unique structure. More precisely, each of the first O-ring recess 314 and the second O-ring recess 316 comprises a first (lower) annular ring 318A, 318B, a second (upper) annular ring 320A, 320B, and ring recesses 322A, 322B between them.

[0285]

[0284] As shown in the figure, each first annular ring 318A, 318B is inclined toward the associated ring recess 322A, 322B at a first ring angle θ1 formed such that the entrance axis AI satisfies the condition: θ1 ≤ 45°, preferably θ1 ≤ 43°. Each opposite second annular ring 320A, 320B is oriented toward the associated ring recess 322A, 322B at a second ring angle θ2 formed such that the entrance axis AI satisfies the condition: θ2 ≤ 90°. These structures are provided for a print orientation in which the male projection 302 is the highest vertical portion of the parting blade clamp 200. It is understood that the structures of the first annular rings 318A, 318B and the second annular rings 320A, 320B may be inverted with respect to the opposite print orientation. It is understood that the exemplified structures of the second annular rings 320A, 320B may be other than the right angles shown.

[0286]

[0285] Preferably, the mounting portion 234 is located closer to the first clamp portion 204 and the second clamp portion 206 than to the inlet 302. This reduces the tilt of the parting blade clamp 200 when it is mounted on or has been mounted on the parting blade 100. This results in a coolant passage 300 that requires an extra turn (which is unfavorable for maintaining coolant pressure) to avoid the mounting portion 234, but it is considered preferable to reduce the tilt.

[0287]

[0286] In this embodiment, the mounting portion 234 preferably intersects the expanded width cutting plane PC defined along a surface (described later) configured to abut the parting blade 100, but in this non-limiting example, a gap G (Figure 5A) is provided between the nearest contact point 236 of the main body portion 202 (which is the mounting portion 234 in this example) and the center of the expanded width cutting plane PC, allowing for additional support of the parting blade along the blade pocket side surface 46. Nevertheless, it is understood that such a pocket support wall may have a window through which the mounting portion 234 can extend. Similarly, it is understood that the parting blade clamp according to the present invention may still have an entrance closer to one of the clamp portions 204, 206 than to the mounting portion 234.

[0288]

[0287] Another feature incorporated to reduce the aforementioned risk of tilting is the provision of multiple outwardly projecting clamp contact surfaces (in this example, as shown in Figure 4C, a first clamp contact surface 238A, a second clamp contact surface 238B, a third clamp contact surface 238C, and a fourth clamp contact surface 238D formed along the second side body surface 232, and as shown in Figure 4F, a fifth clamp contact surface 240A and a sixth clamp contact surface 240B formed along the first side body surface 230). Similarly, the parting blade clamp according to the present invention may have a planar first body surface and a second body surface.

[0289]

[0288] After extensive testing, it was found that each of the first body edges 242A, 242B (for example, the second body edge 242B extends along the intersection line of the upper body surface 226 and the second end body surface 233B) is preferable to be not acute (approximately right angle) as shown, as this reduces chipping from collisions with parted-off pieces (not shown) falling during machining.

[0290]

[0289] Here, the first clamp portion 204 will be described in detail. Since the first clamp portion 204 and the second clamp portion 206 are identical, the second clamp portion 206 will not be described in detail.

[0291]

[0290] The first clamp portion 204 extends from the first body end 220. More precisely, while the body portion 202 extends parallel to the expanding width cutting plane PC, the first clamp portion 204 extends laterally from the first body end 220 (or more precisely, from its extension parallel to the expanding width cutting plane PC). In this non-limiting example, the clamp portion 204 extends perpendicularly from there. Regardless of the exact angle, importantly, the clamp contact surface of the first clamp portion 204 (described later) is located within the expanding width cutting plane PC.

[0292]

[0291] The first clamp portion 204 includes a first upper clamp surface 244A (connected to the upper body surface 226), a first lower clamp surface 243A (connected to the lower body surface 228) positioned opposite to the first upper clamp surface 244A, a first side clamp surface 248A connecting the first upper clamp surface 244A and the first lower clamp surface 242A, a first outer clamp surface 250A (connected to the first end body surface 233A), and a first inner clamp surface 252A (connected to the second side body surface 232 via a large first radial corner 254A provided to withstand clamping stress).

[0293]

[0292] The first internal clamp surface 252A includes the first clamp contact surface 256A.

[0294]

[0293] The second clamp portion 206 includes a second upper clamp surface 244B, a second lower clamp surface 246B, a second side clamp surface 248B, a second outer clamp surface 250B, and a second inner clamp surface 252B (connected to the first side body surface 232 via a large second radial corner 254B provided to withstand clamping stress).

[0295]

[0294] The second internal clamp surface 252B includes a second clamp contact surface 256B.

[0296]

[0295] Both the first clamp contact surface 256A and the second clamp contact surface 256B are at least partially on the expanded width cutting plane PC (Figure 4E). Preferably, both are extended along the expanded width cutting plane PC to provide additional strength when clamping the parting blade 100.

[0297]

[0296] The first clamp portion 204 and the second clamp portion 206, and the main body portion 202 to which they are connected, are considerably larger (bulge) than the thin and elongated first extension portion 208 and the second extension portion 210. This is because the first clamp portion 204 and the second clamp portion 206 are configured to provide a clamping function to the parting blade that applies a clamping force on the order of several hundred kilograms, and are not essentially designed to provide strong contact between the two elements, as will be discussed later in relation to the first extension portion 208 and the second extension portion 210.

[0298]

[0297] To provide additional strength, the first clamp portion 204 and the second clamp portion 206 are provided with first protruding portions 258A and second protruding portions 258B that extend beyond the first extension portion 208 and the second extension portion 210 by a protruding distance DP.

[0299]

[0298] The first clamp contact surface 256A and the second clamp contact surface 256B extend perpendicular to the expanded width cutting plane PC and simply apply a rearward force or rearward force to the parting blade 100. In this embodiment, however, it is preferable that they are inclined at an acute angle β (Figure 4B) to bias the parting blade 100 against the holder pocket (described later). In other words, the first clamp contact surface 256A and the second clamp contact surface 256B are inclined toward the first side body surface 232.

[0300]

[0299] This does not require a screw or multiple screws to provide lateral clamping force. However, as mentioned above, there may be situations in which one or more screws may be used with such clamping contact surfaces.

[0301]

[0300] As shown in the figure, in this example, the first clamp contact surface 256A and the second clamp contact surface 256B are each a single inclined surface.

[0302]

[0301] Each of the first extension portion 208 and the second extension portion 210 has a first (proximal) extension end 260A, 260B (connected to the main body portion 202), a second (distal) extension end 262A, 262B (further from the main body portion 202 than the corresponding distal extension end of the same extension portion), an elongated intermediate extension sub-part 264A, 264B, an upper (external) extension surface 266A, 262B, a lower (internal) extension surface 268A, 268B positioned opposite to the upper extension surfaces 266A, 266B, and an upper extension surface 266A It comprises first side extension surfaces 270A, 270B connecting 266B and the lower extension surfaces 266A, 266B, second side extension surfaces 272A, 272B connecting the upper extension surfaces 266A, 266B and the lower extension surfaces 266A, 266B, and front extension surfaces 274A, 274B located at the second extension ends 262A, 262B and connecting the upper extension surfaces 266A, 266B, the lower extension surfaces 268A, 268B, the first side extension surfaces 270A, 270B and the second side extension surfaces 272A, 272B.

[0303]

[0302] Here, the elements of the first extension portion 208 will be described in detail. Since the first extension portion 208 and the second extension portion 210 are identical, the second extension portion 210 will not be described in detail.

[0304]

[0303] The first extension end 260A is connected to the first clamp portion 204, more precisely to the first upper clamp surface 244A. The extension portion does not need to be associated with the clamp portion (for example, there may be a single clamp portion and two extension portions), in which case the extension portion (not shown) may be connected directly to the main body portion.

[0305]

[0304] The lower extension surface 268A includes an elastic recess 276A at the first extension end 260A, configured to reduce stress on the first extension portion 208 when the first extension portion 208 is biased against the parting blade. It is understood that the elastic recess may, as an alternative or additional, be formed along the upper extension surface 266A at the first extension end 260A, except in preferred locations.

[0306]

[0305] The lower extension surface 268A is further provided with an extension safety projection 278A at the second extension end 262A.

[0307]

[0306] The lower extension surface 268A further includes a distal extension mechanical interlock structure 280A at the second extension end 262A, which is positioned closer to the first extension end 260A than to the extension safety projection 278A.

[0308]

[0307] The lower extension surface 268A further includes a proximal extension mechanical interlock structure 282A in the intermediate extension sub-section 264A.

[0309]

[0308] Both the extension mechanical interlock structures 280A and 282A of the lower extension surface 268A include a central apex 290A and a first extension sub-edge contact surface 292A and a second extension sub-edge contact surface 294A extending from the apex 290A. In one embodiment, the extension mechanical interlock structures 280A and 282A may each have a V-shaped cross-section due to the central apex 290A and the adjacent extension sub-edge contact surfaces 292A and 294A. In other embodiments, they may represent one of the other mechanical interlock formations shown above in Figures 2D to 2F.

[0310]

[0309] As best shown in Figure 5B, there is a slight change in angle between the distal extension mechanical interlock structure 280A of the second extension end 262A and the proximal extension mechanical interlock structure 282A of the intermediate extension sub-part 264A. The line of curvature indicated by 284 in Figure 4E (Figure 5B) shows the location of the angle change.

[0311]

[0310] This means that the intended contact area between the lower extension surface 268A and the parting blade 100 (also referred to as the "first extension contact surface") is only at the second extension end 262A (in this example, a mechanical interlock structure, i.e., a distal extension mechanical interlock structure 280A, is formed on the first extension contact surface). In particular, the reason for wanting the lower extension surface 268A to contact the second extension end 262A is a safety measure to ensure that the second extension end 262A is firmly biased against the parting blade 100 so that chips are not wedge-trapped between them. Nevertheless, it is still possible to have a planar lower extension surface 268A (i.e., one with no change in angle), and the lower extension surface 268A also contacts the parting blade at its intermediate extension sub-portion.

[0312]

[0311] Specifically, in this example, referring to Figure 4E, only the area designated by 286 is intended to come into contact with the parting blade 100, while the area designated by 288 is not intended to come into contact with the parting blade 100.

[0313]

[0312] The intermediate extension sub-section 264A is provided with a proximal extension machine interlock structure 282A to reduce the gap between the parting blade and the lower extension surface 268A, thereby reducing the possibility of chips being wedge-stuck between them.

[0314]

[0313] For illustrative purposes only, the first reference plane PR1 (Figures 4C and 5B) may be defined by the distal extension mechanical interlock structure 280A of the second extension end 262A. This reference is selected because it is the contact area with the parting blade 100.

[0315]

[0314] As best shown in Figure 5B, the extended safety projection 278A extends below the first reference plane PR1.

[0316]

[0315] The proximal extension mechanical interlock structure 282A extends above the first reference plane PR1.

[0317]

[0316] In particular, the first clamp contact surface 256A extends above the first reference plane PR1. This configures the distal extension mechanical interlock structure 280A to contact the parting blade 100 before the first clamp contact surface 256A contacts the parting blade 100. It is understood that there are manufacturing difficulties in providing a large number of contact points between the two mating parts. The extension portions 208, 210 of the present invention are, by definition, less rigid than the associated clamp portion and are therefore designed to be slightly more flexible. Specifically, when the clamp 200 is mounted on the parting blade 100, the screw 16 is rotated to bring the distal extension mechanical interlock structure 280A into contact with the parting blade 100. The rotation of the screw 16 continues to flex the first extension portion 208 (and apply a biasing force to the parting blade 100) until the first clamp contact surface 256A subsequently contacts and clamps the parting blade 100. The deflection or bending is assisted by weakening the rearmost region of the first extension portion 208 with the elastic recess 276A.

[0318]

[0317] Referring to Figures 5B and 4C, the first forward direction DF1 is defined parallel to the first reference plane PR1 and extending from the first extension end 260A toward the second extension end 262A.

[0319]

[0318] The first rearward direction DR1 is defined in the opposite direction to the first forward direction DF1.

[0320]

[0319] The first upward direction DU1 is perpendicular to the first reference plane PR1 and is defined from the lower extension plane toward the upper extension plane.

[0321]

[0320] The first downward direction DD1 is defined in the opposite direction to the first upward direction DU1.

[0322]

[0321] The first lateral direction DS1 is defined on the opposite side from the second lateral direction DS2, which extends in a direction perpendicular to the plane of symmetry PS.

[0323]

[0322] A first extension axis AE1 is defined that passes through the center of the first extension portion 208.

[0324]

[0323] The first extension axis AE1 and the first reference plane PR1 are relative to a coolant angle ε (Figure 4C) that is acute in the first rearward direction DR1. This is to ensure that the coolant is directed towards the cutting insert 14, and preferably towards its cutting edge.

[0325]

[0324] The front extension surface 274A is an inclined deflection surface. Specifically, the front extension surface 274A and the first reference plane PR1 are relative to a first acute deflection angle μl, while the upper extension surface 266A and the first reference plane PR1 are relative to a second acute deflection angle μ2 which is smaller than the first acute deflection angle μl. Since the first extension portion 208 extends well above the cutting insert 14, it is understood that it is likely to be impacted by opposing chips. When the first deflection angle μl is larger, i.e., closer to being perpendicular to the first reference plane PR1, the first extension portion 208 can be significantly damaged by opposing chips. When the first deflection angle μl is small, as with the second acute deflection angle μ2, the coolant exits the parting blade clamp 200 further away from the cutting insert 14 and is ineffective. In addition, the inclined exit changes the shape / direction of the coolant exiting the extension portion. Preferably, the first acute angle of deflection μ1 satisfies the condition: 25° ≤ μ1 ≤ 65°, more preferably 35° ≤ μ1 ≤ 55°.

[0326]

[0325] A larger second acute deflection angle μ2 significantly strengthens the first extension 208 (because the extension has a more elongated cross-section, providing rigidity against bending backward when subjected to impact by chips), but this results in a configuration that is not compact (height HE will be discussed later). In this example, if there are two extensions and the parting blade clamp 200 is rotationally symmetric with respect to the tool in left and right directions, it may increase the forward projection of the tool assembly and limit the size of the workpiece that can be parted. Preferably, the second acute deflection angle μ2 satisfies the condition: 2°≦μ2≦15°, more preferably 4°≦μ2≦10°.

[0327]

[0326] Another optional safety feature is to cover the clamp or at least its extension or at least its second extension end 262A with a heat-resistant or protective coating.

[0328]

[0327] The first side extension surface 270A and the second side extension surface 272A are preferably parallel to each other and extend perpendicular to the first reference plane PR1. This allows the maximum amount of coolant to be transmitted while maintaining the first extension portion 208 within the expanded width cutting plane PC (i.e., the cutting plane is defined with the same width as the cutting edge width CW of the cutting insert 14; in other words, the expanded width cutting plane is defined by the position of the foremost cutting edge 34, has the same width as the cutting edge width CW of the cutting insert 14, and is parallel to the feed direction which is the holder forward direction DFH). The expanded width cutting plane consequently extends in all four directions: the holder forward direction DFH, the holder rearward direction DRH, the holder upward direction DUH, and the holder downward direction DDH. In other words, the extension thickness TE defined from the first side extension surface 270A to the second side extension surface 272A (Figure 6B) is smaller than the cutting width CW of the cutting insert 14. This provides clearance to prevent the first extension portion 208 from colliding with the workpiece, i.e., to prevent the extension portion 208 from contacting the workpiece as it enters the groove being cut by the cutting insert. Typically, the blade thickness dimension DT is always smaller than the cutting width CW for the same reason. As a safety precaution, it is preferable that the maximum extension thickness TE is smaller than the blade thickness dimension DT to provide clearance in case of undesirable tilting during mounting. This reduces the amount of coolant that can be supplied through the thinner extension portion, while making the risk of collision more pronounced.

[0329] Nevertheless, in all embodiments, a portion of the clamp that is within the cutting zone (and thus within the extended width cutting plane PC) is, by definition, very thin in the first and second lateral directions, and thus it is preferred that they be elongated in the upward and downward directions. This allows for structural strength (even if the extension does not have a coolant passage) when there is a coolant passage, and also allows for an increase in the coolant passage cross-section (and thus coolant supply). However, there are limiting factors (e.g., expanding the two extensions of a symmetric clamp can lead to a reduction in the size of the machinable workpiece; it can increase the risk of collision by chips; or simply to maintain the compactness for tool change in an automatic tool changer), so there is a preferred limit to the extent to which the extension can be grown.

[0330] Referring to FIGS. 5A and 5B, the maximum extension height HE from the upper extension surface 266A to the lower extension surface 268A, and the maximum extension thickness TE, which are perpendicular to the extension direction of the relevant extension, are shown. Preferably, these dimensions satisfy the condition: 1.5TE < HE < 8TE, more preferably 2TE < HE < 5TE, and most preferably 2TE < HE < 4TE.

[0331] For completeness, some corresponding elements of the same second extension 210 are identified in FIGS. 5B and 4B, namely, the elastic recess 276B, the extension safety protrusion 278B, the distal extension mechanical interlock structure 280B, the proximal extension mechanical interlock structure 282B, the central nadir 290B, the first extension sub-edge contact surface 292B and the second extension sub-edge contact surface 294B.

[0332]

[0331] Referring to Figures 5A and 5B, it should be noted that the coolant passage 300 has multiple turns. More precisely, the first intermediate passage 306 comprises a first turn 314A from the inlet 302 to the intermediate sub-section 224, a second turn 314B (approximately a quarter turn) from the main body section 202 to the first clamp section 204, and a third turn 314C (approximately a quarter turn) from the first clamp section 204 to the first extension section 208. Alternatively, the second turn 314B and the third turn 314C can be considered as a single U-shaped turn (approximately 180 degrees).

[0333]

[0332] Similarly, the second intermediate passage 310 includes corresponding turns, namely the first turn 316A, the second turn 316B, and the third turn 316C.

[0334]

[0333] Referring to Figures 7A and 7B, the process of assembly 10 for cutting off the workpiece 60 is shown.

[0335]

[0334] When the parting blade 100 is mounted on the holder 12, the assembly direction is formed using either the parting blade direction or the holder direction, and here the latter is optionally selected.

[0336]

[0335] The workpiece 60 has a central workpiece axis AW, as shown, and is rotated in a counterclockwise direction DCC during cutting.

[0337]

[0336] The holder 12 is shown after it has fully entered the workpiece 60 by moving it in the feed direction corresponding to the holder forward direction DFH (Figure 7C).

[0338]

[0337] In this embodiment, the depth of cut CD (Figure 7A) is from the foremost cutting edge 34 to the portion of the tool assembly 10 that is wider than the cutting width CW of the foremost cutting edge 34, i.e., the portion of the tool assembly 10 closest to the cutting edge outside the expanded cutting plane. In this example, referring to Figure 3C, the closest portion of the holder 12 is the concave front surface 44G of the holder 12.

[0339]

[0338] In particular, the first clamp portion 204 and the second clamp portion 206 are located outside the cutting zone ZC and, therefore, may extend forward of the path of the workpiece 60, as shown in Figure 7C.

[0340]

[0339] In contrast, in order to supply coolant in close proximity to the cutting insert 14, the first extension portion 208 and the second extension portion 210 are shown to extend entirely within the elongated slit S formed in the workpiece 60.

[0341]

[0340] Figure 7A shows how far the extended safety protrusions 278A and 278B extend below their respective sub-edges, and how much space G1 and G2 there is between each extended safety protrusion 278A and 278B and the associated first blade safety recess 132A and second blade safety recess 132B.

[0342]

[0341] When the extended safety projection comes into contact with the blade safety recess, it is understood that this can subsequently reduce the biasing force between the intended contact surface of the extension and the blade (in particular, weaken the interlock of the mechanical interlock structure).

[0343]

[0342] Referring now to Figures 8 to 13, another tool assembly 10' is shown.

[0344]

[0343] Tool assembly 10' is generally similar to tool assembly 10 described above, except for some notable differences which are briefly described below.

[0345]

[0344] The tool assembly 10' comprises a holder 12', a parting blade 100' (on which a cutting insert 14' is mounted), and a parting blade clamp 200' for clamping the parting blade 100' to the holder 12'.

[0346]

[0345] In this specific example, the tool assembly 10' further comprises a screw 16', a single O-ring 18', and a magnet (not shown).

[0347]

[0346] The parting blade 100' is basically triangular in shape and can be indexed in three directions around the central blade axis BA'.

[0348]

[0347] Focusing on the first insert pocket 118' (of the three insert pockets), the second jaw 118B' is not located behind the base jaw 118A', but extends above it.

[0349]

[0348] Due to the forward projection 119' of the parting blade 100' (required for mounting purposes), it is difficult to supply coolant to its relief side 126A'. Therefore, in this example, one possible option is to provide a single through-hole 121' (Figure 8B) extending through the parting blade 100. Only one such through-hole 121' is shown schematicly, but it is understood that there are three or more for the other two pockets. Alternatively, the parting blade may remain without coolant supply to its relief side 126A', or perhaps an additional device may be provided below the forward projection 119'.

[0350]

[0349] Therefore, only a single sub-edge 112' is provided with the blade safety recess 132B'.

[0351]

[0350] Note that there is no groove in holder 12'.

[0352]

[0351] Rather, the parting blade clamp 200' has only a single extension 208 and therefore extends only to one side of the parting blade 100', so its entirety can be on only one side of the cutting zone.

[0353]

[0352] Therefore, the holder mounting portion 56D' (which has similar screw holes) is positioned on the upper surface 44C' of the holder, behind the front portion 44G'.

[0354]

[0353] Similarly, the holder exit 56E' is located on the upper surface 44C' of the holder, behind the front portion 44G'.

[0355]

[0354] The side surface 46' of the blade pocket is provided with an upward projection 47' adjacent to the position where the clamp portion 204' contacts the parting blade 100', to ensure that the entire parting blade 100' contacts the parting blade 100'.

[0356]

[0355] With respect to the clamp 200', as described above, in any embodiment it is optional to have one or two O-rings 18'.

[0357]

[0356] The clamp 200' has a mounting portion 234' similar to that described above. A reinforcing portion 235' is added above to ensure that the clamping force is supported.

[0358]

[0357] The clamp contact surface 256A' appears to have a V-shape similar to the formation seen in the second interlock structure 150, but this is solely to provide clearance. There is only one clamp contact surface 256A' between it and the adjacent surface 257' which provides the clearance.

[0359]

[0358] Referring to Figures 12A to 12C, the coolant passage 300' appears to have multiple turns. More precisely, the intermediate passage 306' includes a first turn 314A' from the inlet 302' to the intermediate sub-section 224', a second turn 314B' from the main body section 202 to the clamp section 204', and a third turn 314C' (approximately a quarter turn) from the clamp section 204' to the single extension section 208'. From the clamp section 204' to the first extension section 208' and to the outlet 304', the coolant path is straight.

[0360]

[0359] Note that the tool assemblies 10, 10' are advantageous even if their clamps do not have coolant passages. As mentioned above, even with the clamp configuration, it is considered to be superior to independently known parting blade systems.

[0361]

[0360] Standard elongated blades extend from the blade holder without support below them (also called "overhang"). These also lack a stopper (referred to here as the pocket rear contact surface) to allow for variable overhang length functionality, and therefore require a large screw to prevent the blade from sliding within the holder. In other words, conventional systems hold parting blades using two opposing (parallel) inclined clamp contact surfaces (with large screws).

[0362]

[0361] The present invention provides an additional mechanical interlock structure to a conventional system. More precisely, a first mechanical interlock structure formed on the clamp (e.g., a first clamp contact surface 256A or a second clamp contact surface 256B) can clamp a parting blade to two non-parallel pocket protruding edges (i.e., a lower pocket contact surface 48A and a rear pocket contact surface 48B as seen in Figure 3C). Note that this example relies at least partially on two clamp contact surfaces to clamp the parting blade toward both the lower pocket contact surface 48A and the rear pocket contact surface 48B (i.e., in the region between them that is not parallel to one of them; see arrow F1 in Figure 6C). A more relevant example with respect to the direction of a single clamp contact surface is shown in the following embodiments in Figures 8 to 13 (see arrow F2 for clamping force in Figure 13C; the force does not need to be supplied in the center of the two holder contact surfaces, but rather supplied to both, at least partially, even if unevenly). Nevertheless, even with a square-shaped parting blade, this embodiment can be modified to direct force to both holder contact surfaces relative to a single clamp contact surface. Furthermore, in either case, since the cutting force biases the blade against the lower pocket contact surface 48A and the rear pocket contact surface 48B, such reorientation may be unnecessary.

[0363]

[0362] This also reduces the two, or more commonly three or four, screw systems of the prior art to a single screw that has never been known before.

[0364]

[0363] Thus, the parting blade is securely held from three sides, rather than two, using a single mounting section. In addition, mounting the parting blade is simpler because there is a defined position. One disadvantage is that the overhang is no longer variable (which allows the user to minimize the overhang for each application and improve stability). However, the current system has been found to have high stability and to be perfectly stable for the desired cutting depth, even with only a single overhang position.

[0365]

[0364] This stability is also due to the fact that the lower pocket contact surface 48A and the rear pocket contact surface 48B fully support the parting blade sub-edges (i.e., the third sub-edge 114 and the fourth sub-edge 116) along their entire length.

[0366]

[0365] Similar advantages can be found in the tool assemblies disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0240741, except that each assembly disclosed in said publication has other disadvantages, such as laterally protruding screws or seals or overhang portions that are not supported in other embodiments. Furthermore, the system provides a clamp with a single mounting portion / screw that is not known for large depth-of-cut blades.

[0367]

[0366] Furthermore, in the tool assembly 10, the parting blade is shown to be secured from four different sides using a mechanical interlock structure to provide complete stability. This stability is achieved in a tool configured to part large diameter workpieces while being secured using only a single mounting portion.

[0368]

[0367] Furthermore, with respect to the clamp, the extension is not configured to bear the overall clamping force, but the extension biases the parting blade near the insert pocket and thus "pre-presses" it. Thus, additional stability is provided to the relatively thin parting blade and is provided at a point closer to the insert pocket than any other known parting blade system.

[0369]

[0368] Therefore, any parting blade, whether a parting blade clamped by a conventional blade holder having opposing jaws or threads as shown in Figures 18 and 19 of U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0240741 or any other known blade, is also beneficial in terms of stability provided by the provision of one or more extensions that provide biasing force to the parting blade along the sub-edge associated with the insert pocket. This benefit can be realized even with extensions that do not have coolant passages.

[0370]

[0369] Therefore, a clamp may have only one or more extensions, and even without a clamping section, the benefit of stability of the parting blade may still be obtained (of course, it may be an auxiliary clamping configuration, the assembly further comprising jaws or screws to provide the main clamping force). In other words, a single extension or multiple extensions may provide a clamping function (even if insufficient) that can be extended by additional clamping elements such as jaws or screws.

[0371]

[0370] On the one hand, a clamp having a clamp portion and an extension portion reduces the number of components for fixing, and on the other hand, the extension portion is separate from the clamp portion, and if the extension portion is damaged, the clamp portion can continue to provide the clamping function independently.

[0372]

[0371] Finally, it is clear that all of the above systems can gain further advantages by having a coolant passage through it in addition to the clamp, which increases the tool life of the cutting insert, and by a high coolant pressure which can assist in chip cutting. It should be noted that known high-pressure parting blades cannot reach the pressure cutting of chips (which occurs above about 100 bar (pressure coming out of the parting blade) in the known literature). This is because there are pressure losses in the blade holder, the transition from the blade holder to the parting blade, the numerous turns within the blade holder and parting blade, and the small passage through the parting blade. The tool assemblies illustrated above were tested and reached much higher coolant pressures than those made using so-called high-pressure coolant blades. Higher pressures produce smaller chips than those made at lower coolant pressures.

[0373]

[0372] Finally, it should be noted that such coolant passages may be provided for clamps having one or more clamping portions but no extension portions (coolant simply exiting through an outlet formed in the clamping portion). Or, for illustrated embodiments having one or more clamping portions and one or more extension portions. Or, for embodiments (not shown), there is one or more extension portions, but no clamping portions formed on the same clamp as the extension portions (i.e., the parting blade is clamped in a different way). In the latter embodiment, the present invention relates to a coolant conduit as described above, having one or more unique extension portions.

[0374]

[0373] It should also be noted that the second clamp portion 206 in Figure 7D extends further forward of the holder than the rest of the tool assembly 10, which is disadvantageous because it increases the length of the tool assembly 10 (reducing its ability to act on a limited area). Nevertheless, the other advantages provided are considered to outweigh this disadvantage.

[0375]

[0374] Now, referring to Figures 14A and 14B, another tool assembly 10'' is shown.

[0376]

[0375] Tool assembly 10'' is largely the same as tool assembly 10 described above, except for some visible differences which are briefly described below.

[0377]

[0376] To provide maximum coolant pressure, the parting blade clamp 200'' is equipped with an inlet 302'' having an inlet mounting structure (female thread 201'' in this example), although a male thread connection is also possible, for example.

[0378]

[0377] Specifically, the inlet 302'' is provided with an elongated neck portion 302A'' extending from the main body portion 202'', and optionally, the inlet 302'' is provided with an external fixing surface 302B'' (which in this non-limiting example has a hexagonal configuration, but any known tool configuration, e.g., two parallel flat surfaces), to enable the user to securely hold the inlet 302'' when an external supply pipe is attached thereto.

[0379]

[0378] Therefore, instead of the holder 12'' being connected to an external supply pipe (not shown) to move coolant to the clamp, the external supply pipe is directly connected to the parting blade clamp 200'' via the inlet 302''.

[0380]

[0379] This also eliminates the need for O-rings and allows for a simplified holder structure (no coolant holes).

[0381]

[0380] The only significant change to the holder 12'' is that the groove 56'' continues downward through the front surface 44A'' of the holder (and the angle and length of the entrance 302'' allow the clamp 200'' to move from the clamped position to the released position).

[0382]

[0381] Such a configuration can provide minimal possible pressure drop for an inlet located below such a holder type, since there is no coolant transfer interface between the clamp and the holder.

Claims

1. A parting tool assembly, Blade holder and, A cutting blade, Equipped with a clamp, The aforementioned blade holder is The holder mounting part, Equipped with a blade pocket, The parting blade is mounted in the blade pocket, and The opposite first blade side and second blade side, and the peripheral blade edge connecting the first blade side and the second blade side, It comprises at least a first insert pocket formed along the peripheral blade edge, The aforementioned peripheral blade edge is The first insert pocket comprises a first blade sub-edge and a second blade sub-edge extending from different sides thereof, The clamp mentioned above is The clamp mounting part, It comprises at least one clamping portion having a clamping contact surface, The clamp mounting portion is fastened to the holder mounting portion. The clamp contact surface contacts the peripheral blade edge of the parting blade, thereby fixing the parting blade in the blade pocket. The clamp further comprises at least a first extension portion extending along a plane common to the parting blade, The first extension portion abuts against the peripheral blade edge, forming a parting tool assembly.

2. The parting tool assembly according to claim 1, further comprising a cutting insert mounted in the first insert pocket, wherein the first extension portion defines an extension direction, an expanded width cutting plane PC is defined along the extension direction, the cutting width of the cutting insert defines the width of the expanded width cutting plane PC, and the entire first extension portion is located only within the expanded width cutting plane PC.

3. The parting tool assembly according to claim 2, wherein the clamp contact surface and the contact surface of the first extension portion are arranged on the extended width cutting plane PC, and the contact surface of the first extension portion is biased with respect to the clamp contact surface such that the first extension portion flexes when both the clamp contact surface and the contact surface of the first extension portion contact the peripheral blade edge of the parting blade.

4. The parting tool assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first extension is biased against the peripheral blade edge of the parting blade at the rake side of the parting blade with respect to the first insert pocket, or the first extension is biased against the peripheral blade edge of the parting blade at the relief side of the parting blade with respect to the first insert pocket.

5. The parting tool assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first extension portion is provided with a safety protrusion or safety recess, and the parting blade is provided with a complementary safety protrusion or safety recess.

6. The parting tool assembly according to claim 5, wherein the first extension portion comprises a safety projection extending from its inner extension surface, the safety projection being housed within the safety recess of the parting blade without contacting the parting blade.

7. The parting tool assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first extension portion is equipped with a mechanical interlock structure and is biased toward a complementary mechanical interlock structure formed along the peripheral blade edge of the parting blade, and the mechanical interlock structure is biased toward the complementary mechanical interlock structure, thereby preventing relative movement between the mechanical interlock structure and the complementary mechanical interlock structure.

8. The parting tool assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the clamp comprises a second clamp portion having a second clamp contact surface extending in a direction different from the other clamp contact surface, the second clamp contact surface contacting the peripheral blade edge of the parting blade, thereby fixing the parting blade in the blade pocket.

9. The parting tool assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the clamp further comprises a main body portion having a first main body end, a second main body end, and an intermediate main body sub-portion connecting the first main body end and the second main body end, the clamp mounting portion is connected to the main body portion, the clamp portion comprises a first clamp portion connected to the first main body end and a coolant passage, the coolant passage comprises an inlet, a first outlet, and an intermediate passage extending from the inlet to the first outlet, the first outlet opening to the first extension portion.

10. The parting tool assembly according to claim 9, wherein the first extension is linear in proximity to the first insert pocket, and the first extension has an inclined front extension surface for deflecting opposing chips, the front extension surface being inclined with respect to the linear direction.

11. The parting tool assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the clamp comprises a second extension portion that extends along a plane common to the parting blade.

12. The parting tool assembly according to claim 11, wherein the first extension and the second extension are configured to extend along two non-parallel blade sub-edges of the peripheral blade edge.

13. The parting tool assembly according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the first extension and the second extension are designed symmetrically with respect to a plane of symmetry extending through the center of the clamp mounting portion.

14. The parting-off blade is wedge-fastened to the pocket protruding edge of the blade pocket between the first extension and the second extension of the clamp, and the first extension and the second extension are provided with a mechanical interlock structure, as described in any one of claims 11 to 13.

15. The parting-off blade is wedge-fastened between two non-parallel clamping portions of the clamp against the pocket protruding edge of the blade pocket, according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

16. The parting tool assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein a blade safety recess is formed in at least one or both of the first blade sub-edge and the second blade sub-edge.

17. The parting tool assembly according to claim 16, wherein blade safety recesses are formed on both the rake side and the relief side of the parting blade relative to the first insert pocket, and the blade safety recesses are arranged at equal intervals from the first insert pocket.

18. The parting tool assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the first insert pocket comprises a base jaw configured to abut against a cutting insert, a second jaw configured to abut against the cutting insert, and a slot end connecting the base jaw and the second jaw, wherein the base jaw is closer to the first blade sub-edge than the second jaw, and the second jaw is closer to the second blade sub-edge than the base jaw, and at least one of two conditions is met: a first condition that the second blade sub-edge is longer than the first blade sub-edge and a first blade mechanical interlock structure is formed on the first blade sub-edge, and a second condition that a blade mechanical interlock structure is formed on both the first blade sub-edge and the second blade sub-edge.

19. The parting tool assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein a first blade mechanical interlock structure is formed on the first blade sub-edge, a blade mechanical interlock structure is formed on the second blade sub-edge, or a blade mechanical interlock structure is formed on both the first blade sub-edge and the second blade sub-edge.

20. The parting tool assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the parting blade does not have an internal coolant channel.

21. The parting tool assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the blade pocket comprises a magnet attached to the blade pocket.

22. The parting tool assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein the blade pocket comprises a blade pocket side surface and a pocket projection edge extending from the blade pocket side surface, the pocket projection edge comprises a first contact sub-surface and a second contact sub-surface extending in a direction different from the first contact sub-surface, and both the first and second contact sub-surfaces are inclined toward the blade pocket side surface.

Images