CNC Picture Frame Clamp With Self-Centering Vices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current clamping methods for machining, particularly in picture frame machining, face challenges in securely holding non-prismatic workpieces while allowing access to both sides without introducing inaccuracies or requiring cumbersome workpiece rotation.
Innovation Solution
A clamp with a frame and opposing vices, featuring self-centering and optional floating vices, allows for stable clamping and adjustable positioning, enabling secure holding and unobstructed access to both sides of a workpiece without the need for repositioning or rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional clamping methods are used to securely hold workpieces, then clamping force and stability are improved, but access to both sides of the workpiece is obstructed requiring unclamping and reclamping
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp is divided into two separate arms (first arm and second arm) that can independently position and clamp opposite edges of the workpiece. This segmentation allows each arm to provide full clamping force while both arms simultaneously allow access to both sides of the workpiece, eliminating the need to unclamp and reclamp.
2Ease of operation
If edge-clamping is used to allow access to the workpiece, then access is improved, but the workpiece may flex or bend during machining
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp applies clamping force at multiple discrete locations along the edges of the workpiece rather than distributing force uniformly. The first and second arms provide localized clamping at opposite edges, preventing flexing while maintaining access to the workpiece surface.
3Strength
If picture frame machining is used to maintain a prismatic frame around the workpiece, then clamping stability is improved, but machining accuracy between opposite sides deteriorates due to workpiece rotation
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp is designed with self-centering vices that automatically center the workpiece between the first and second arms before machining begins. This preliminary centering action ensures that when the workpiece is later rotated to machine opposite sides, the rotational axis remains precisely aligned, maintaining machining accuracy while preserving clamping stability.
4Strength
If heavy workpieces are used in picture frame machining, then structural integrity is improved, but lifting and turning the workpiece becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The self-centering vices automatically adjust and center heavy workpieces without requiring manual positioning or handling. The workpiece simply needs to be placed between the arms, and the self-centering mechanism takes over, eliminating the need for difficult manual lifting and turning operations while maintaining structural integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a clamp for holding a workpiece that is particularly suitable for use in CNC machining. The clamp is particularly useful for use in picture-frame machining techniques as it allows a workpiece to be held in a position wherein a machine can have substantially unencumbered access to both sides of the workpiece without the need to remove the workpiece from the clamp. The clamp comprises a frame comprising a base, a first arm, and a second arm, the first arm and the second arm each mounted to the base at an inner end such that they are parallel with one another.