Integrated Clamping Device for Connecting Rods
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current clamping devices for machining connecting rods are complex and inefficient, particularly in introducing embossed structures for guiding oil or inserting bearing sleeves, as they require separate steps for centering and embossing, which complicates the machining process.
Innovation Solution
A clamping device that integrates centering and embossing functions, allowing for simultaneous centering and embossing of connecting rods, with adjustable clamping bodies and positioning means to accurately position embossed contours on specific angular segments, enabling targeted embossing during machining.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If separate steps are used for centering and embossing, then each function can be performed independently, but the machining process becomes complex and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the centering function and embossing function into a single integrated clamping device. The clamping body includes both a centering portion that engages with the bearing opening to center the connecting rod, and an embossing portion with embossed contours that stamp oil guide structures into the bearing opening simultaneously during the clamping operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping device is designed as a multi-functional tool that performs multiple operations in one setup: centering the workpiece, clamping it securely, and embossing the oil guide structures. This universal device eliminates the need for separate centering devices and embossing tools, streamlining the machining process.
2Productivity
If embossed structures are introduced separately after clamping, then clamping can be optimized for holding, but the machining process requires additional steps
Solution Approach 1:
The embossed contours are pre-formed on the clamping body surface, allowing the embossing action to occur automatically when the clamping body engages with the bearing opening. This preliminary preparation of the embossing tooling enables simultaneous centering and embossing in one operation, eliminating subsequent embossing steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping and embossing operations are performed continuously in a single motion sequence. As the clamping device is positioned and engaged with the bearing opening, the centering and embossing actions occur simultaneously without interruption, maximizing productivity and eliminating idle time between operations.
3Manufacturing precision
If clamping surfaces are fixed, then the device structure is simple, but accurate positioning on specific angular segments is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping body is divided into functional segments: a centering portion with a centering contour that engages the bearing opening, and an embossing portion with embossed contours arranged at specific angular positions. This segmentation allows each portion to perform its specific function while maintaining overall structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The embossed contours are positioned at specific local angular segments on the clamping body surface, allowing precise targeting of oil guide structure locations. Different regions of the clamping body have different functional properties: the centering portion provides radial positioning, while the embossing portions provide localized deformation at predetermined angular positions.
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
This integrated approach simplifies the machining process by allowing for precise and efficient introduction of embossed structures during centering, improving the hold and functionality of bearing sleeves while reducing complexity and increasing accuracy in machining operations.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one clamping surface, i.e. for example the clamping body on which the clamping surface with the embossed contour is arranged, is adjusted radially, for example, by the clamping drive so that it rests against the inner circumference of the bearing opening
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 5
AI summary
The clamping device (10) has a clamping body (13,14), particularly a clamping jaw or a clamping mandrel (18,19), and a clamping drive for adjusting a clamping surface (31) of the clamping body for attachment to an inner circumferential surface (87,97) of a bearing opening (82,92) in a clamping position. An embossing contour is arranged on the clamping surface, which embosses an embossing structure into the bearing opening during adjustment of the clamping body in the clamping position. An independent claim is included for a method for clamping a motor component, particularly a connection rod.