Axial Thread Rolling Head With Partial Clutch Disengagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing axial thread rolling processes require manual manipulation and auxiliary locking systems to re-lock the clutch after thread formation, which can lead to thread damage and inefficiencies in the thread rolling process.
Innovation Solution
An axial thread rolling process utilizing a thread rolling head with a shank and an adjustment housing unit, where the clutch is designed to partially separate but never fully disengage, allowing the thread rolling head to reverse direction and return to the engaged position automatically, eliminating the need for manual re-locking and reducing thread damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the clutch is fully disengaged after thread formation to remove the workpiece, then the workpiece can be removed from the thread rolling head, but the clutch must be manually re-locked before the next operation causing loss of time and reduced productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch mechanism is designed to automatically re-engage after workpiece removal without requiring manual intervention. The spring-loaded movable clutch portion returns to the engaged position with the fixed clutch portion, enabling continuous operation and eliminating downtime between thread rolling cycles.
2Extent of automation
If manual manipulation is used to re-lock the clutch after thread formation, then the clutch can be re-engaged for the next operation, but this manual intervention increases the complexity of the operation and reduces automation
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch mechanism automatically returns to the engaged position through spring force after the workpiece is removed, eliminating the need for manual re-locking operations and increasing automation level.
3Reliability
If the clutch is fully disengaged to allow workpiece removal, then the workpiece can escape the thread rolling head, but this full disengagement may cause thread damage or inconsistent thread quality
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch is designed to partially disengage rather than fully separate, allowing the workpiece to be removed while maintaining sufficient engagement to preserve thread quality and prevent damage during the removal process.
4Reliability
If the clutch remains fully engaged during workpiece removal, then thread quality is maintained, but the workpiece cannot be removed from the thread rolling head
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch mechanism provides controlled partial disengagement that is sufficient for workpiece removal while maintaining enough engagement to protect thread quality, achieving both goals simultaneously.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to an axial thread rolling process that utilizes a thread rolling head that includes a clutch, that prevents full disengagement of the clutch during thread rolling, and that reverses the direction of rotation used for thread rolling to escape a threaded workpiece from the thread rolling head.