Canted Coil Spring Tool Holder for Universal Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tool holders require precise machining and multiple components to securely hold various tool shapes and sizes, leading to increased costs and potential contamination risks, especially in precision applications like robotics and surgical settings.
Innovation Solution
A tool holder design utilizing one or more canted, or slanted, coil springs that can adapt to different tool shapes and sizes, reducing the need for precise machining and multiple components, and incorporating a collar and compression spring for radial and axial stabilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple components and precise machining are used to securely hold various tool shapes and sizes, then holding precision is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs elastic peripheral members that can deform and adapt to different tool geometries. By changing the physical state from rigid to elastic, the system achieves universal compatibility with various tool shapes (square, hex, round, etc.) without requiring precision machining for each specific tool type, thus resolving the contradiction between holding precision and device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic peripheral members serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide radial engagement for different tool shapes, accommodate size variations, and maintain secure holding through elastic deformation. This single component replaces what would traditionally require multiple precisely machined components for different tool types, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining versatility
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple components and precise machining are used to securely hold various tool shapes and sizes, then holding precision is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By transitioning from rigid precisely-machined components to elastic deformable members, the manufacturing process becomes less demanding. The elastic members can be produced through simpler forming processes rather than expensive precision machining, significantly reducing manufacturing cost while maintaining the ability to securely hold various tool types
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic peripheral members are designed as simpler, potentially replaceable components that can be manufactured at lower cost. Rather than investing in expensive precision-machined tool holders, the system uses more economical elastic elements that achieve the same functional result through deformation rather than precision geometry
3Ease of operation
If clearance is provided between tool and tool holder for easy insertion and removal, then ease of operation is improved, but holding stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic peripheral members dynamically adapt to the tool during operation. During insertion, the elastic members deform to accommodate the tool with clearance, allowing easy insertion. Once engaged, the elastic deformation creates radial engagement forces that stabilize the tool, thus achieving both ease of operation and holding stability through dynamic elastic behavior
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the physical state of the peripheral members from rigid to elastic, allowing them to deform and conform to different tool shapes. This elastic deformation maintains clearance for easy insertion while simultaneously creating stable radial engagement, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and holding stability
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
The tool holder effectively secures a wide variety of tool shapes and sizes with fewer components and less demanding manufacturing requirements, reducing costs and minimizing the risk of contamination, while allowing for easy tool insertion and removal.
Implementation Method 1
one or more elastic and/or deformable peripheral member(s)
Implementation Method 2
incorporating a collar and compression spring for radial and axial stabilization
Data Source
AI summary
Devices, systems and methods for holding devices, including tool holders and/or associated apparatus, that can be attached to various driving mechanisms. Various embodiments can include one or more canted, or slanted, coil springs that are capable of forming to various shapes by the application of a controlled force.