Automated Tool Clamping with Torque Feedback for Precise Chucking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tool clamping devices lack automation, leading to inefficiencies, increased operator workload, and risks of incorrect operation during the clamping and unclamping processes, particularly with tools having form-fitting connections and non-positive clamping mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
An automated tool clamping device with a torque-absorbing mechanism, featuring a clamping element and torque sensor, allows for precise control and monitoring of torque during the clamping process, utilizing separate tensioning and torque-receiving elements for flexibility and precision, and includes a control unit for setting and regulating torque, enabling fully automated operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual operation is used for tool clamping and unclamping, then operator control is maintained, but automation level and productivity are low
Solution Approach 1:
The automated tool clamping device performs clamping and unclamping operations autonomously without continuous operator intervention. The system uses automated actuators to tighten and loosen the union nut, and automatically removes the tool chuck after unclamping, enabling the device to serve itself in the clamping cycle.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical operations are replaced with automated actuation systems. The patent employs automated actuators (such as motors or hydraulic/pneumatic devices) to replace manual wrenching and tightening actions, substituting human-operated mechanical systems with automated control mechanisms.
2Productivity
If automated clamping is implemented, then productivity increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated clamping device is divided into distinct functional modules: a clamping element for engaging the union nut, a torque absorbing element to manage tightening forces, an actuator for automated operation, and a control unit. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while simplifying the overall system architecture and maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated tool clamping device is designed to handle multiple tool types and clamping scenarios through a universal interface. The clamping element and torque absorbing element can accommodate different union nut configurations, and the device can perform both clamping and unclamping operations, reducing the need for multiple specialized devices.
3Manufacturing precision
If precise torque control is implemented, then manufacturing precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates a torque sensor that continuously monitors the tightening torque applied to the union nut. This feedback signal is transmitted to the control unit, which compares the measured torque against the target torque value and adjusts the actuator accordingly to achieve precise torque control, ensuring consistent clamping force.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit stores predetermined torque values for different tool types and applications. Before the clamping operation begins, the appropriate target torque is pre-set in the control system, allowing the automated device to execute precise torque control without real-time manual adjustment, thereby simplifying the control process.
4Reliability
If form-fitting connection is used for tool clamping, then clamping reliability improves, but ease of automated manipulation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping element serves as an intermediary between the automated actuator and the union nut. It features a connection mechanism that translates the linear or rotary motion of the actuator into the rotational tightening motion required for the form-fitting connection, enabling automated manipulation while maintaining clamping reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of directly gripping and rotating the union nut (which would be difficult for automated systems), the device inverts the approach by using a clamping element that engages with the union nut's existing geometric features and applies force through a mechanism that converts automated actuator motion into effective tightening action.
Data Source
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AI summary
An automated tool clamping device, in particular a fully automated tool clamping device, is proposed, which is designed to clamp at least one tool (10a-b) into the tool chuck (14a-b) by tightening a cap nut (12a-b) of a tool chuck (14a-b) and/or to unclamp the tool (10a-b) from the tool chuck (14a-b) by loosening the cap nut (12a-b), with a clamping element (16a-b) which is at least designed to establish a connection, in particular a clamping connection, with the cap nut (12a-b) of the tool chuck (14a-b) and with a torque receiving element (18a-b) which is at least designed to absorb at least a large part of a torque occurring during a tool clamping operation, in particular during a tool insertion and/or removal operation.