Adjustable Jaw Clamping Assembly for Variable Workpiece Sizes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clamping systems have a limited clamping range, making it necessary to maintain multiple systems of different sizes or use a system that is too large for smaller workpieces.
Innovation Solution
A clamping system comprising a machine table and a clamping device formed by a fixed jaw assembly and an adjustable jaw assembly, allowing for an infinitely adjustable clamping range without the need for multiple systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the base body length is increased to expand the clamping range, then the clamping range is improved, but the device complexity and handling difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping device is divided into two independent assemblies: a fixed jaw assembly and an adjustable jaw assembly. The adjustable jaw assembly can be positioned at different locations along the base body, creating a modular system that provides infinite clamping range adjustment without requiring a single large complex structure. This segmentation allows each assembly to remain relatively simple while achieving overall system versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a larger clamping system is used to accommodate bigger workpieces, then the clamping range is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to reduced accessibility
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the clamping function into independent fixed and adjustable jaw assemblies, the system maintains a compact footprint while providing extended clamping range. The adjustable assembly can be positioned to optimize accessibility for different workpiece sizes, allowing operators to access workpieces easily even when using larger clamping capacities.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable jaw assembly can be repositioned along the base body to adapt to different workpiece geometries and sizes. This dynamic positioning capability allows the system to maintain optimal accessibility for each specific application, rather than being fixed in a single configuration that compromises accessibility for larger workpieces.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple clamping systems of different sizes are maintained to cover all workpiece sizes, then the adaptability is improved, but the quantity of devices and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping device is designed as a universal system where the adjustable jaw assembly can be repositioned to accommodate various workpiece sizes and geometries. A single base body with multiple positioning locations allows one device to perform the function of multiple differently-sized clamping systems, eliminating the need to maintain separate devices for different workpiece categories.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static, fixed-size clamping devices to a dynamic, reconfigurable system. The adjustable jaw assembly can be moved to different positions along the base body and secured at various locations, allowing one device to adapt to infinitely many clamping scenarios that would otherwise require multiple dedicated devices.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables flexible adaptation to workpieces of different sizes and geometries, improving handling and accessibility, and eliminating the need for adapter or zero-point clamping plates.
Implementation Method 1
a spindle (31) of the adjustable jaw assembly (7), wherein the spindle (31) is assigned a rotation axis (S)
Implementation Method 2
a rail system with a linear guide rail (35) and a carriage (37)... a first group of rolling elements (W), which is arranged on a first side of the linear guide rail (35)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a clamping system for a workpiece with a machine table (3) and a clamping device, wherein the clamping device is connected to the machine table (3), and wherein the clamping device is formed by a fixed jaw assembly (5) and by an adjustable jaw assembly (7) separate from the fixed jaw assembly (5).