Base Block Shank Access and Retention Design
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing base blocks in road milling, mining, and trenching equipment lack sufficient access for removing bits or bit holders, leading to reduced retention force and operational efficiency due to the design of quick change tooling systems.
Innovation Solution
A modified base block design with a shortened shank length and angled bit holder receiving portion, providing additional access and retention force through a semi-cylindrical angular slot and reduced radius extensions, allowing for the use of both short and standard-length bit holders.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the base block design uses a standard-length shank (approximately 2 3/8 inches), then the retention force between the bit holder and base block is sufficient, but the access for removing bits or bit holders is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The shank is segmented into two distinct length variations: a short shank (approximately 1 1/2 inches) and a standard-length shank (approximately 2 3/8 inches). The short shank design provides improved access for removal operations, while the standard-length shank maintains sufficient retention force. This segmentation allows the system to offer both design options to address the conflicting requirements of accessibility and retention.
2Ease of operation
If the shank length is shortened to improve access, then the retention force may be reduced, but the short shank design maintains retention force between 5,000 and 30,000 pounds
Solution Approach 1:
The shank length parameter is changed from the standard 2 3/8 inches to a shortened 1 1/2 inch length. Despite this parameter change, the retention force remains within the acceptable range of 5,000 to 30,000 pounds due to the optimized quick change tooling system design, including the diametrically compressed slotted portion that concentrates retention force radially near the top of the slot.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the base block design accommodates both short and standard shank lengths, then the versatility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The base block and quick change tooling system are designed with universal compatibility to accommodate both short shank (1 1/2 inch) and standard-length shank (2 3/8 inch) bit holders. The bore and retaining mechanism are configured to work effectively with both shank length variations, allowing a single base block design to serve multiple functions and accommodate different tooling requirements without requiring separate specialized components.
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
Enhances access for tool removal and maintains retention force between 5,000 and 30,000 pounds, extending the life of bits and holders in extreme cutting conditions by accommodating both short and standard shank lengths.
Implementation Method 1
the retaining force between the diametrically compressed slotted portion of the shank in a quick change system and the base block bore is radially located near the top of the slotted portion of the shank
Implementation Method 2
an elastic material that is configured to be inserted into an opening in a base block and that is configured to deform when a load is applied to the elastic material in a first direction, and return to an original shape when the load is removed
Data Source
AI summary
An improved base block is disclosed for use mainly in road milling equipment, but also capable of use in trenching equipment and mining equipment. The base mounting portion is shortened in length from such prior art base blocks and has a reduced length device receiving portion extending therefrom that includes a bore therethrough. Rearwardly of the device receiving portion, the base mounting portion includes a reduced diameter semi-bore or curved wall capable of engaging a portion of the shank side wall of a standard length bit/holder shank. Additionally, an angled slot adjacent the rear of the device receiving bore increases access to the rear to aid removal of a bit/holder therefrom.