Hydraulic Chuck Manifold Layout for Fast Inner-Outer Grip Switching
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing workpiece gripping devices face technical difficulties and increased costs in switching between outer and inner diameter gripping chucks due to the need for pre-made cylinder case components with different pressure oil paths, requiring time and resource for component replacement.
Innovation Solution
A workpiece gripping device with a manifold block that can be easily attached and fixed to a cylinder case in different positions, allowing for the switching of fluid paths between outer and inner diameter gripping chucks without replacing cylinder case components, by altering the communication between supply and discharge ports and chambers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sealed ports are added to enable switching between inner diameter gripping chuck and outer diameter gripping chuck, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold block is designed to be movable along the axial direction, allowing it to switch between a first position for outer diameter gripping chuck and a second position for inner diameter gripping chuck. This dynamic repositioning enables a single hydraulic cylinder to adapt to different chuck types without adding multiple sealed ports, thus improving adaptability while avoiding increased device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The single hydraulic cylinder with a movable manifold block serves multiple functions by supporting both outer diameter gripping chuck and inner diameter gripping chuck operations. The manifold block's ability to reposition allows one cylinder to perform what would traditionally require two separate cylinders with different port configurations, achieving multi-functionality without increasing complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If pre-made cylinder case components with different pressure oil paths are used, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of manufacturing different cylinder case components for different chuck types, the invention uses a single cylinder case with a movable manifold block that can be repositioned along the axial direction. This eliminates the need for costly pre-made components with different pressure oil paths, reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining adaptability through the dynamic repositioning capability
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the operational parameter of the manifold block's axial position to switch between different pressure oil paths. By moving the manifold block between first and second positions, the system achieves different functional configurations without requiring different physical components, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining adaptability
3Adaptability or versatility
If cylinder case components are replaced, then adaptability is improved, but time for replacement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The movable manifold block allows for quick repositioning between first and second positions along the axial direction, enabling rapid switching between outer diameter and inner diameter gripping chuck configurations. This eliminates the time-consuming process of replacing entire cylinder case components, achieving quick adaptation without time loss
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold block is pre-configured with supply and discharge paths that can be activated by simply repositioning it to the appropriate axial position. This preliminary configuration allows for instant switching between different chuck types without requiring time for component replacement or reconfiguration, as the paths are already in place and only need to be engaged
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 easy and cost-effective switching between fluid paths for different types of chucks, reducing the need for component replacement and simplifying the process of adapting to various workpiece diameters.
Implementation Method 1
a fluid pressure cylinder including a cylinder case coaxially arranged on a rear side of the chuck and a piston fitted in an internal space of the cylinder case
Data Source
AI summary
A cylinder case includes a first main path communicating first port with an end surface, a second main path communicating a second port with the end surface, first and second front chamber paths respectively communicating a front chamber with the end surface, and first and second rear chamber paths respectively communicating a rear chamber with the end surface. A manifold block includes a first intermediate path communicating first and second manifold holes opened in an abutting surface with each other and a second intermediate path communicating third and fourth manifold holes opened in the abutting surface. The manifold block configured to be attached and fixed to the cylinder case such that the abutting surface is abutted against the end surface and a relative position of the abutting surface with respect to the end surface portion is capable of being selected from a first position and a second position.