Clamping Module Height Adjustment via Nested Intermediate Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Clamping modules with pneumatic or hydraulic drives often require additional adapter plates and pressure lines, leading to complexity and potential disruption when used, especially when the clamping receptacle height does not match the clamping element, resulting in unnecessary line layout issues.
Innovation Solution
The clamping module incorporates multiple intermediate modules with integrated bushings between the clamping housing and base housing, allowing for adjustable height configurations without external lines, using complementary interfaces and locking elements for secure connection, and sealing grommets for airtight seals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If adapter plates or intermediate modules are arranged below the clamping housing to adjust height, then the clamping receptacle height can be matched to the clamping element, but pressure lines must be laid from the clamping element to the clamping housing which becomes disruptive
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediate modules are nested between the clamping element and the clamping housing, with each module containing integrated bushings that house the pressure lines internally. This nesting approach allows height adjustment while keeping the pressure lines contained within the module structure rather than externally routed, eliminating the disruptive line layout issue.
Solution Approach 2:
The intermediate modules serve as intermediary components between the clamping element and the clamping housing. These modules contain integrated bushings that act as mediators for the pressure lines, allowing the pressure medium to be transmitted through the intermediate modules themselves rather than requiring separate external pressure lines to span the entire distance.
2Adaptability or versatility
If intermediate modules are provided between the base housing and clamping housing for height adjustment, then different distances can be realized, but the structure becomes more complex with multiple interfaces and connections
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediate modules are designed as universal components that can be used in different configurations to achieve various height adjustments. Each module has standardized interfaces that allow them to be stacked or combined in series, meaning the same basic module design serves multiple height adjustment needs, reducing the variety of different components required.
Solution Approach 2:
The height adjustment function is segmented into multiple discrete intermediate modules that can be individually selected and combined. Rather than requiring a completely different structure for each height configuration, the system divides the adjustment range into modular segments that can be assembled in different numbers and combinations to achieve the desired overall height.
Data Source
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AI summary
Clamping module (10), in particular zero-point clamping module, for positionally precise clamping of a clamping body, with a clamping housing (12) which has a clamping receptacle (14) for axially inserting a clamping bolt (16) provided on the clamping body (12) and clamping means (18) actuated via a drive (20) for drawing in and locking the clamping bolt (16) in the clamping receptacle (14), characterized in that a base housing (26) with connections (28) which can be attached to a clamping element is provided and that at least one intermediate module (30, 32) with integrated feedthroughs (34, 36) for connecting the connections (28) to the drive (20) is provided between the clamping housing (12) and the base housing (26).