Barrel Cam Indexing Clamp Structure for Compact Output Table Locking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing indexing devices face challenges in achieving a compact and inexpensive clamp device configuration, either requiring larger devices to accommodate the clamp or increasing costs with smaller parts.
Innovation Solution
A barrel cam device with a compact and inexpensive clamp device design, featuring a barrel cam, output table with cam followers, and a clamp mechanism that includes a plate member and pressing member within a housing, utilizing a simple structure and shared bolts for fixation, and a piston member for enhanced clamping force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the indexing device is made large to accommodate a clamp device, then the clamp device can be integrated, but the overall device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp device is nested within the indexing device structure, with the plate member positioned inside the housing and the pressing member integrated into the existing mechanical components. This allows the clamp function to be incorporated without increasing the overall device volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The pressing member serves dual functions: it acts as both a clamping mechanism and a positioning element for the output table. The plate member with opposing portion provides both clamping surface and structural support, reducing the need for separate components.
2Volume of stationary object
If the clamp device is configured with small parts to fit in, then the device size is reduced, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The plate member and pressing member are designed as simple, easily manufacturable components that can be produced using standard machining processes. The plate member includes a fixed portion and opposing portion that can be manufactured as a single piece, reducing assembly complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp device uses localized clamping force applied only at the opposing portion of the plate member, rather than requiring complex mechanisms throughout the entire device. This allows for simplified manufacturing of the overall structure while maintaining effective clamping function.
3Ease of manufacture
If a simple clamp structure is used, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but clamping force and reliability decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The plate member is pre-positioned with the opposing portion facing the supporting portion, and the pressing member is designed to apply force in a predetermined direction. This preliminary configuration ensures that when clamping is activated, the force is applied optimally without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The opposing portion of the plate member acts as an intermediary between the pressing member and the supporting portion, distributing the clamping force evenly across the contact surface. This intermediary structure enhances clamping reliability while maintaining simplicity in the overall design.
Data Source
AI summary
A barrel cam device includes a barrel cam, an output table that includes a plurality of cam followers that engage with the barrel cam, and that rotates by rotation of the barrel cam, and a clamp device that clamps the output table when the output table is stopping.