External Fluid Coupling for CNC Spindle Grippers Without Through-Spindle Air
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Solution Overview
Problem
CNC machines lacking through spindle air or coolant functionality cannot operate conventional pneumatic or hydraulic spindle grippers or vacuum-based devices, limiting their ability to handle thin or irregularly shaped workpieces.
Innovation Solution
A selectively-engageable fluid connection system that allows CNC spindle-mounted fluid-actuated gripping devices to operate without through spindle air or coolant, using a bypass block, spindle gripper assembly, and fluid connection that engages and disengages with the spindle, enabling actuation via compressed air, liquid coolant, or vacuum.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If conventional pneumatic or hydraulic spindle grippers are used, then automated workpiece handling is enabled, but the CNC machine requires through spindle air or coolant functionality which increases cost and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary fluid connection system that mediates between the external fluid source and the spindle-mounted gripper. This includes external fluid lines, couplings, and manifolds that provide fluid actuation without requiring through-spindle fluid pathways, thereby enabling automated gripping while avoiding the complexity and cost of modifying the CNC machine's spindle.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments the fluid delivery function from the spindle assembly itself. The fluid connection components (couplings, manifolds, valves) are separated as independent external elements rather than being integrated into the spindle, allowing the gripper to be fluid-actuated without the spindle requiring through-fluid capability.
2Reliability
If vacuum-based gripping devices are used for thin or irregularly shaped workpieces, then secure gripping capability is improved, but the system requires vacuum generation equipment which adds complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs self-service vacuum generation by utilizing the CNC machine's existing spindle air compressor as the vacuum source. The system includes vacuum generation equipment that can be powered by the machine's own air supply, and a control system that automatically manages vacuum generation and delivery to the gripper, eliminating the need for separate external vacuum pumps while maintaining reliable vacuum gripping capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If through spindle coolant functionality is added to enable hydraulic gripper operation, then fluid actuation capability is improved, but manufacturing cost and system complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of modifying the spindle to provide fluid pathways (the conventional approach), the patent inverts the approach by bringing the fluid delivery system from the outside. Fluid lines and couplings connect to the gripper assembly externally, allowing hydraulic or pneumatic actuation without any modifications to the spindle's internal fluid pathways, thereby avoiding the high manufacturing cost and complexity.
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
Enables cost-effective automated workpiece handling on CNC machines without through-spindle fluid functionality, allowing for secure gripping of thin or irregularly shaped parts using vacuum-based systems.
Implementation Method 1
The spindle gripper assembly may include a two-way fluid actuator powered by fluid flow through the connection. A solenoid valve can control fluid flow from a supply connected to the bypass block. The fluid may be compressed air or liquid coolant.
Implementation Method 2
The selective-engageable fluid connection may enable the actuation via vacuum (negative pressure), rather than positive pressure.
Implementation Method 3
The spindle-mounted gripping device may further incorporate a suction cup for part handling. In some embodiments, this vacuum is powered by an integrated venturi generator that itself is powered by positive pneumatic pressure.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention pertains to a selectively-engageable fluid-connection system designed for CNC spindle-mounted fluid-actuated gripping devices. The system features a bypass block affixed to the CNC machine, allowing for reliable and efficient coupling/decoupling with the spindle. A specialized fluid connection engages and disengages as the gripper assembly interacts with the spindle. This innovation comprises a tapered cone fluid tube or hemispherical configuration for optimal fluid flow.