Adjustable Indexable Drill with Modular Cartridge for Precision Hole Making
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional indexable drills face limitations in drilling smaller holes, lack self-centering capability, and require multiple drill sizes for precise hole diameters, leading to reduced accuracy, increased inventory, and operational hazards due to coolant mist.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable indexable drill design with centrally disposed cutting inserts and modular cartridges that allow for adjustable drilling sizes, improved chip evacuation, and reduced coolant usage, enhancing stability and efficiency by distributing cutting forces and allowing single-pass hole creation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional indexable drills are used for smaller holes (3/4 inch or less), then the drill design is typically one flute effective, but the drilling speed is slower compared to two flute effective twist drills or spade insert drills
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic cartridge system that allows the drill to switch between one-flute and two-flute configurations based on the drilling application. The cartridge can be positioned in different locations along the drill body, enabling the drill to adapt its flute effectiveness dynamically. This resolves the contradiction by allowing the drill to achieve two-flute effectiveness for smaller holes when needed, while maintaining indexable insert capabilities for larger holes.
2Ease of operation
If conventional indexable drills are used, then inserts are replaceable and cost effective for larger drill sizes, but the drills lack self-centering capability and are not effective for holes deeper than 3 times the diameter
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the drill into distinct functional components: a replaceable insert cartridge system for ease of operation, and a self-centering mechanism with guide elements for precision. The cartridge holds the indexable inserts and can be replaced independently, while the self-centering features (such as guide pads or alignment elements) remain on the drill body. This segmentation allows both insert replaceability and deep hole accuracy to coexist.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary self-centering elements (such as guide pads, alignment features, or centering mechanisms) that act as mediators between the indexable insert system and the workpiece. These intermediaries provide the necessary self-centering capability and stability for deep hole drilling, while allowing the insert cartridge system to maintain its replaceability and cost-effectiveness advantages.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple drill sizes are used for precise hole diameters, then close tolerance holes can be drilled, but inventory requirements increase and operational hazards due to coolant mist increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal drill system where a single drill body with a modular cartridge system can accommodate multiple insert sizes and configurations. The cartridge can be positioned at different locations along the drill body and can hold inserts of varying sizes. This multi-functionality allows one drill to replace multiple specialized drills, reducing inventory complexity while maintaining the ability to drill close tolerance holes across a range of diameters.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~5
Figure 3
AI summary
An adjustable drill is provided comprising a drill body having a face surface with a directional feature provided therewith. At least one cartridge is selectively mounted adjacent the face surface and selectively slidable along the directional feature to provide adjustment. At least one insert is releasably affixed in an insert pocket provided in the cartridge. In further examples, the adjustable drill may have a central cutting system in combination with the adjustable cartridge type system, wherein the central cutting system may be modular. There may also be provided a modular type of holder arrangement to provide flexibility to adapt the system for various applications.