Clutched Tool Holder for Fast Switching Between Linear and Rotary Modes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current robotic arms and machine tools require complex mechanical designs to switch tools quickly, leading to increased time, energy, and production costs due to manual and slow tool switching mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A tool holder with a motor, transmission module, clutches, linear and rotational motion modules, and positioning pins allows for quick switching between different motion modes by detachable engagement of the tool end, enabling efficient tool changes through automated control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If complex mechanical designs are used to accommodate different tools simultaneously, then tool switching capability is improved, but device complexity and switching time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The tool holder is divided into separate functional modules: a holder body, a tool end with multiple tool positions, and independent actuation mechanisms. Each tool position can be independently accessed and switched without requiring complex overall mechanical redesign, allowing versatile tool switching while maintaining manageable device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The tool holder is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate multiple different tool types simultaneously through standardized tool positions and a single actuation system. The holder can switch between various tools (drills, mills, taps, etc.) using the same basic mechanism, improving adaptability without proportionally increasing complexity
2Productivity
If manual tool switching methods are used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity and switching speed decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical tool switching with an automated actuation system that uses a single motor-driven mechanism to control tool changes. This substitution of manual operation with automated control significantly improves switching speed and productivity while keeping the mechanical structure relatively simple through the use of clutches and basic transmission elements
Solution Approach 2:
The tool holder incorporates an automated actuation system that performs tool switching without manual intervention. The single actuator automatically engages disengages clutches and positions tools through programmed control, enabling rapid tool changes that improve productivity while maintaining straightforward mechanical design
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention discloses a tool holder. Specifically, the tool holder comprises an executing end and a tool end. The executing end comprises a linear motion module and a rotating motion module. Furthermore, a first clutch and a second clutch are used for switching the operating mode therebetween the linear motion module and the rotating motion module. Hence, the present invention can provide different operating modes in a single executing end to the tool end.