Centering Elements for Machine Tool Positioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing devices for positioning tools or workpieces on machine tools require complex and expensive precise alignment, often consuming excessive space and resources.

Innovation Solution

The use of separate centering elements that can move initially and are then permanently fixed using holding means like adhesives or bracing, allowing for precise alignment on a holder before being glued in place, reducing space requirements and simplifying the application process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If traditional precise alignment methods are used to position tools or workpieces on machine tools, then positioning precision is improved, but device complexity and installation space increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning precisionVSAvoidalignment complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The positioning system is divided into separate centering elements that can be independently positioned and adjusted on the tool or workpiece, rather than requiring complex integrated alignment mechanisms. Each centering element can be individually adjusted to achieve precise positioning.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Centering elements serve as intermediary components between the tool/workpiece and the holder, enabling precise positioning through a simplified intermediate step rather than direct complex alignment between the main components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Manufacturing precision

If traditional precise alignment methods are used to position tools or workpieces on machine tools, then positioning precision is improved, but installation space increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning precisionVSAvoidinstallation space
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The positioning function is segmented into multiple small centering elements distributed on the tool or workpiece surface, replacing a single large complex alignment mechanism, thereby reducing overall space requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The centering elements are arranged in specific geometric patterns (e.g., circular patterns around a central axis) to achieve precise positioning in multiple dimensions through a compact two-dimensional layout, reducing the need for extensive three-dimensional alignment space.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Manufacturing precision

If centering elements are permanently fixed before positioning, then positioning precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning precisionVSAvoidadjustment ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The centering elements are pre-installed on the tool or workpiece in a movable state, allowing for easy adjustment and positioning. After the precise position is achieved, they are then permanently fixed, combining the benefits of ease of adjustment with final positioning precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The centering elements transition from a movable state during positioning to a fixed state after positioning is complete, allowing the system to adapt its properties based on the operational phase - mobile during adjustment, stationary during operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP2101948B1Device and method for positioning a tool or workpiece on a machine tool
Publication Date: 2014.05.14 HIRSCHMANN GMBH
  • EP2101948B1 patent drawingFigure 1~3
  • EP2101948B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

The invention relates to a device for positioning a tool or workpiece on a machine tool, in which essentially centring elements (30) are fitted in the tool or workpiece (10) with the aid of an adhesive, wherein the centring elements (30) are aligned exactly on a reference holder (20) as long as the adhesive has not cured.Advantages: low overall height, and consequently further insertion of the tool or workpiece possible; simple production; - no high-precision bores required in the tool or workpiece.