Auto Changer Spindle Mounting Assembly with Sealed Fluid Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
CNC machining systems require manual intervention and downtime for tool changes, limiting flexibility and efficiency, especially when switching between different types of tools.
Innovation Solution
An auto changer spindle mounting assembly with a collar body, collar sleeve, and lock ring, integrated with a gas or air supply system, allowing for automatic tool exchange and rotation, enabling seamless connection and disconnection of various tool spindles without manual power linkage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual tool installation is used, then power connections can be established with the tool, but the machine must be stopped and manual intervention is required
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automatic tool changing where the tool itself is served by the automated mechanism. The quick-connect interface automatically establishes power and pneumatic connections when the tool is inserted, eliminating the need for manual intervention. The tool magazine automatically presents tools to the spindle position, and the spindle automatically retracts and connects to the new tool.
Solution Approach 2:
Tools are pre-positioned in the tool magazine with their power and pneumatic connections already prepared and connected to the magazine. This preliminary preparation allows the tool to be quickly transferred to the spindle without requiring connection establishment during the change process. The power and air lines are pre-routed to the magazine position before the tool change occurs.
2Extent of automation
If automatic tool changer is used, then tool exchange is automated, but flexibility to use various types of tools is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The quick-connect interface is designed as a universal connection system that can accommodate multiple tool types (drills, mills, end mills, reamers, countersinks) through a single standardized interface. The mounting collar and lock ring mechanism provides a universal mounting solution that adapts to different tool shank types and sizes, while maintaining automated changing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool holding system is segmented into separate functional components: the tool itself, the mounting collar, the lock ring, and the quick-connect interface. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall system versatility. The mounting collar can be independently selected to match different tool types, providing flexibility without compromising automation.
3Ease of operation
If tools are pre-connected to pneumatic source, then power connection is established, but manual engagement with CNC machine is required
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges the pneumatic connection and mechanical mounting functions into a single integrated quick-connect interface. The pneumatic lines are routed through the mounting collar, so that when the tool is mechanically engaged with the spindle, the pneumatic connection is simultaneously established. This combination eliminates the need for separate manual operations for both power connection and tool engagement.
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
Facilitates continuous machining with reduced downtime, allowing for the use of diverse tools by automating the tool exchange process through fluid communication and sealing, enhancing operational flexibility and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a gas or air supply line...integrated with a gas or air supply system, allowing for automatic tool exchange and rotation
Implementation Method 2
the collar outlet is selectively in fluid communication with the spindle and sealed by the sealing element
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus and method for machining is provided. A mounting assembly for use with a spindle, a CNC machine, an auto changer device and an air supply line, can include a mounting collar and a mounting block. The mounting collar can have a collar body and a collar arm, where the collar body defines a collar opening and one or more grooves circumscribing the collar opening, where the one or more grooves each have a sealing element positioned therein, and wherein the collar arm has a collar inlet, a collar outlet and a collar channel to provide fluid communication between the collar inlet and the collar outlet. The mounting block can be connected to the CNC machine and can have a block inlet connected to the air supply line, a block outlet, and a block channel to provide fluid communication between the block inlet and the block outlet. The spindle can be selectively positioned through the collar opening and connected to the mounting collar. The collar outlet can be selectively placed in fluid communication with the spindle and sealed by the sealing element. The collar inlet can be selectively placed in fluid communication with the block outlet by the auto changer device. The spindle can be selectively rotated in the collar opening.