Compact Chuck Locking Device with Integrated Fluid Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking devices for machine tools are bulky due to externally mounted control systems, making them unsuitable for compact machine tool configurations with limited space.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an axially fixed component with inlet and outlet for control fluid under pressure, connected through annular chambers, and using flow detection and pressure detection means to determine the relative position of the axially movable member, allowing for a compact locking device with integrated control system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the control system is mounted externally on the locking device, then the control system can be easily installed and maintained, but the locking device becomes bulky and unsuitable for compact machine tool configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control system with the locking device by integrating the flow detection means and pressure detection means directly into the locking device structure. The control fluid ducts are incorporated within the locking device body, allowing the control system to know the relative position of the axially movable member without requiring external mounting. This integration eliminates the need for separate external control system installation while maintaining compact dimensions suitable for space-constrained machine tools.
2Volume of moving object
If the control system is integrated within the locking device, then the locking device becomes compact and suitable for limited space, but the installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device structure is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously. The body of the locking device houses both the mechanical locking mechanism and the control system components (flow detection means, pressure detection means, and fluid ducts). This multi-functional design allows the same structural elements to fulfill both mechanical and control system functions, reducing overall complexity despite the integration.
3Measurement precision
If flow detection means and pressure detection means are mounted locally in the locking device, then real-time position detection is achieved, but the components occupy valuable space in compact machines
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device uses the control fluid already present in its operational ducts for detection purposes. The flow detection means detects the flow of control fluid through the ducts, and the pressure detection means detects the pressure of the same control fluid, to determine the relative position of the axially movable member. This self-service approach eliminates the need for separate detection systems or additional fluids, using the existing control fluid to provide both actuation and detection functions, thereby minimizing space occupation while maintaining real-time position detection accuracy.
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
Enables a compact locking device that can be mounted on machines with limited space, allowing for automated and safe tool mounting and operation, while also enabling remote placement of flow detection and pressure feeding components.
Implementation Method 1
an axially fixed component comprising a first axially fixed member (12), substantially cylindrical-shaped... an axially movable member (14), also substantially cylindrical-shaped, can slide in a substantially telescopic and/or coaxial manner between the axially fixed members (12, 13)... an actuation fluid under pressure can be pumped into the actuation chamber (15) so as to translate the axially movable member (14)
Implementation Method 2
Resilient locking means, in particular a helical spring, urge the axially movable member (14) toward the axially fixed component (12, 13) along an axial direction (A)
Data Source
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AI summary
Locking device (10) for tools, which comprises an axially movable member (14) slidable in an axially fixed component (12, 13) comprising at least one first axially fixed member (12) and a second axially fixed member (13) fastened to at least one head (11), the movement of the axially movable member (14) in the axially fixed component (12, 13) determining the locking or the unlocking of a tool in the device (10), wherein at least one inlet (16) and one outlet (17) for a control fluid under pressure are made in said axially fixed component (12, 13) and can be connected to each other in at least one position of the axially movable member (14) in the axially fixed component (12, 13), through at least one first chamber (18) and/or a second chamber (19) made on said axially movable member (14).