Clamp Device Using Cam Block and Screw Mechanism for Nonmagnetic Workpieces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing workpiece clamping devices are unable to effectively clamp nonmagnetic materials, as they rely on magnetic attraction which is not applicable to nonmagnetic materials.
Innovation Solution
A clamp device with clamp arms, a cam block, a driving shaft, and a motor that moves the clamp arms to press the workpiece against a base, using a screw-engaged mechanism to ensure secure clamping regardless of the material's magnetic properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a magnet is used to attract the workpiece, then the workpiece can be clamped, but nonmagnetic workpieces cannot be clamped
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the magnetic field-based clamping system with a mechanical clamping system. Instead of using a magnet to attract the workpiece, the invention uses a clamp arm that can mechanically press against the workpiece surface, thereby eliminating the limitation of nonmagnetic materials while maintaining effective clamping capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental clamping mechanism from magnetic attraction to mechanical contact pressure. By altering the physical parameter of the clamping force from electromagnetic field interaction to direct mechanical force application, the system becomes compatible with all material types including nonmagnetic materials
2Adaptability or versatility
If a mechanical clamping mechanism is used, then nonmagnetic workpieces can be clamped, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the clamping device into distinct functional modules: a clamp arm for applying force, a driving shaft for actuation, and a coupling mechanism for motion transmission. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while maintaining overall system simplicity and ease of manufacturing
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of having the workpiece passively held by a complex adaptive system, the patent inverts the approach by using a simple active mechanical arm that imposes clamping force directly. This inversion simplifies the device structure by eliminating the need for complex sensing and adaptive control mechanisms
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 secure clamping of nonmagnetic workpieces by using a mechanical mechanism that moves the clamp arms to press against the workpiece base, preventing interference with machining tools and ensuring accurate machining.
Implementation Method 1
a driving shaft that is a member formed into a rod shape, the driving shaft being configured to be screw-engaged, at a middle portion thereof, with a screw portion formed in the workpiece base
Implementation Method 2
a motor configured to rotate the driving shaft to thereby turn the cam block and move the driving shaft in an axial direction
Implementation Method 3
a cam block configured to turn the clamp arms by turning
Data Source
AI summary
A clamp device for clamping a workpiece includes: clamp arms configured to restrict movement of the workpiece by turning; a cam block configured to turn the clamp arms by turning; a workpiece base on which the workpiece is placed; a motor configured to rotate a driving shaft to thereby turn the cam block and move the driving shaft in an axial direction; and a coupling mechanism configured to couple the driving shaft and the clamp arms and to move the clamp arms toward the workpiece base as the driving shaft is moved in the axial direction.