ATC Electro-Spindle Sleeve Sealing for Fluid-Contained Tool Changes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electro-spindles of the ATC type fail to effectively control the dispersion of operating fluids like water and oil during tool-changing operations, leading to potential breakages and malfunctions due to high pressures and rotation speeds.
Innovation Solution
The electro-spindle design includes a hollow tie rod with a movable inner sleeve and outer sleeve, connected by a gasket, which is actuated by a pneumatic cylinder to control fluid flow, ensuring the operating fluid is contained during tool changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If prior art mechanical joints (front sealed joints, disposable joints) are used to allow fluid passage during tool rotation, then the tool can be supplied with operating fluid for lubrication-cooling, but the operating fluid disperses inside the electro-spindle during tool changing operations causing breakages and malfunctions
Solution Approach 1:
The joining element is divided into two distinct parts: a first part that rotates with the tie rod during operation, and a second part that remains stationary during tool changing. This segmentation allows the rotating part to supply fluid during machining while the stationary part maintains fluid containment during tool changes, preventing fluid dispersion.
Solution Approach 2:
The joining element transitions from a static connection to a dynamic system where the first part can rotate relative to the second part. During tool changing, the first part is retracted into the second part, and during operation, the first part rotates to supply fluid. This dynamic behavior allows the system to adapt to different operational states and prevent fluid leakage.
2Reliability
If high pressures are used for the operating fluid to ensure correct tool operation, then the tool can be properly cooled and lubricated, but the operating fluid is more likely to disperse during tool changing operations
Solution Approach 1:
The system takes preliminary action by retracting the first part of the joining element into the second part before tool changing begins. This preliminary positioning creates a sealed configuration that prevents high-pressure fluid from escaping during the tool changing operation, countering the harmful effect before it can occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The second part of the joining element acts as an intermediary structure that receives and contains the first part during tool changing. This intermediary configuration provides a sealed pathway that allows the high-pressure fluid system to remain intact even when the tie rod is retracted, preventing fluid escape while maintaining operational pressure.
3Productivity
If high rotation speeds are used for the electro-spindle to perform planned machining, then the machining efficiency is improved, but the operating fluid disperses more easily during tool changing operations
Solution Approach 1:
The joining element is segmented into rotating and stationary parts that can be independently positioned. During high-speed machining, the first part rotates with the tie rod to maintain fluid supply. During tool changing, the first part is retracted into the second part, creating a sealed configuration that prevents fluid dispersion even when the spindle is stationary or at low speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the configuration of the joining element based on operational state. During high-speed machining, the first part is extended and rotating. During tool changing, the first part is retracted into the second part. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the system to maintain productivity during machining while preventing fluid dispersion during tool changes.
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
The design prevents the escape of operating fluids during tool changes, enhancing reliability and efficiency by maintaining fluid containment and enabling seamless tool exchanges.
Implementation Method 1
a pneumatic cylinder positioned facing the second end of the tie rod and configured to cause the translation movement of the outer sleeve
Implementation Method 2
a gasket fitted around the inner sleeve and configured for sliding along the inner sleeve when the outer sleeve is moved by translation
Data Source
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AI summary
Described is an electro-spindle (E) of the ATC (Automatic Tool Changer) type comprising a tie rod (200) movable between a retaining position, wherein the tie rod (200) is configured to retain a tool, and a release position, wherein it is configured to release the tool, and a joining element (300) coupled to the tie rod (200). The electro-spindle (E) also comprises an inner sleeve (400) fitted on the joining element (300) and configured to slide on the joining element (300) between a rest position, wherein it is moved away from the tie rod (200), and an operating position, wherein it is in contact with the tie rod (200) to cause a passage from the retaining position to the release position. The electro-spindle (E) also comprises an outer sleeve (500) fitted around the inner sleeve (400) and movable by translation between an inactive position, wherein it is moved away from the tie rod (200), and an active position, wherein it is in contact with the tie rod (200) to cause a passage from the retaining position to the release position. The electro-spindle (E) also comprises a gasket (700) fitted around the inner sleeve (400) and configured to slide along the inner sleeve (400) when the outer sleeve (500) is moved from the inactive position to the active position.