Machine Tool Clamping Device with Integrated Force Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Machine tools face inaccuracies and potential damage due to inaccuracies in clamping systems, which are not detectable by complex external optical measuring systems, leading to economic losses and safety risks.
Innovation Solution
A machine-tool unit equipped with at least two clamping force sensors that detect the clamping force and deformation of the rotor unit, allowing for precise alignment and detection of positional changes, enabling real-time monitoring and adjustment of the machining process without the need for external optical systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If complex external optical measuring systems are used to detect machining inaccuracies, then measurement capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the measurement function from external optical systems and integrates it directly into the clamping device itself. The clamping device incorporates sensors and evaluation units that directly measure clamping force and position, eliminating the need for separate external measurement systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping device is designed to perform multiple functions: it not only clamps the tool but also serves as the measurement system. The same structural components that provide clamping function also enable detection of clamping force and position, making the device universal and eliminating separate measurement equipment.
2Manufacturing precision
If traditional clamping systems are used without monitoring, then device simplicity is maintained, but machining accuracy and reliability deteriorate due to undetected positional modifications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring clamping force and position through integrated sensors and transmitting this information to an evaluation unit. The system compares measured values against reference values and provides feedback signals to maintain optimal clamping conditions, ensuring consistent machining accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping device performs self-monitoring and self-adjustment through integrated sensors and evaluation units. The system automatically detects deviations in clamping force or position and can trigger alarms or adjustments without external intervention, enabling the device to service itself.
3Reliability
If clamping force is increased to ensure reliable tool fixation, then tool security is improved, but deformation of the rotor unit increases affecting positioning accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by continuously monitoring clamping force and making real-time adjustments rather than using fixed static clamping. The system adapts the clamping force dynamically to maintain optimal values, preventing excessive force that would cause deformation while ensuring sufficient fixation security.
Solution Approach 2:
The system monitors and adjusts the clamping force parameter in real-time, comparing it against optimal reference values. By dynamically changing the clamping force parameter based on feedback, the system maintains the balance between sufficient fixation and minimal deformation, optimizing both reliability and precision.
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 solution enhances machining accuracy and reliability by directly monitoring and adjusting the clamping force and alignment during machining, preventing inaccuracies and potential damage, and signaling maintenance needs, thus reducing scrap and ensuring safety.
Implementation Method 1
at least two clamping force sensors (4) are configured as deformation sensors for detecting a deformation of at least part of the rotor unit (5) that is generated by the clamping force
Data Source
AI summary
A motor-driven machine-tool unit such as a multi-axis turning head or a motor spindle, having a stator unit and at least one rotor unit that is rotatable about a rotation axis, wherein the rotor unit comprises at least one tool receptacle unit having a tool clamping device that is adjustable in a longitudinal direction of the rotation axis and impingeable with a clamping force, for fixing and bracing a releasably fixable tool, wherein comparatively high requirements are met, in particular, in terms of the accuracy of the machining and/or the reliability in the machining. According to the present invention, this is achieved above all in that at least two clamping force sensors are provided for detecting the bracing of the tool clamping device, in particular the clamping force that is caused in the fixing and bracing.