Bi-directional Quick Change Collet Chuck Lever Wedge Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rotary-style power tools require additional tools and time for accessory changes due to the need for manual wrenches and inadequate automatic tightening mechanisms, especially at low RPMs, which compromises holding power and precision.
Innovation Solution
A bi-directional quick change tool-less lever and wedge actuated collet chuck system that allows for automatic and manual tightening and loosening of the collet without additional tools, using a spring-actuated wedge mechanism to maintain symmetrical pressure on the collet before, during, and after tool operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual wrenches are used to tighten the collet, then accessory changes can be accomplished, but additional tools are required and the process is time consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The collet chuck system performs tightening and loosening operations automatically through centrifugal force generated during tool operation, eliminating the need for manual wrench operations. The system serves itself by using its own rotational energy to secure or release the accessory.
Solution Approach 2:
The collet tightening mechanism transitions from static manual wrench operation to dynamic automatic operation driven by rotational motion. The centrifugal force generated during tool operation dynamically actuates the collet to tighten or loosen based on rotation direction.
2Ease of operation
If automatic tightening mechanisms are used, then tool-less operation is achieved, but holding power is inadequate at low RPMs
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses bidirectional centrifugal force generated during rotation to dynamically control collet tightening. During normal operation (high RPM), centrifugal force provides strong automatic tightening. During accessory change (zero RPM), reverse rotation manually actuates the collet to loosen, creating a dynamic system that adapts to operational conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The collet tightening and loosening occurs periodically based on tool operation cycles. Automatic tightening occurs during operation, and manual loosening occurs during accessory changes, creating a periodic alternation between the two states.
3Extent of automation
If centrifugal force is used for automatic tightening, then tool-less operation is achieved, but the mechanism does not provide symmetrical pressure on the collet
Solution Approach 1:
The lever mechanism uses asymmetric positioning of fulcrums and contact points to convert the asymmetric centrifugal force into symmetric radial pressure on the collet. The geometric asymmetry of the lever arms compensates for the asymmetric input force to produce symmetric output force.
Solution Approach 2:
The lever mechanism acts as an intermediary between the centrifugal force source and the collet. It transforms the asymmetric centrifugal force applied at one point into symmetric radial pressure distributed evenly around the collet through mechanical advantage and geometric arrangement.
4Measurement precision
If additional tools are required for accessory changes, then precise control is achieved, but the process requires locating and using separate tools
Solution Approach 1:
The accessory change function is merged with the tool operation mechanism itself. The same rotational mechanism used for tool operation also performs accessory tightening and loosening, eliminating the need for separate tools and reducing change time.
Solution Approach 2:
The collet chuck mechanism serves multiple functions: it secures the accessory during operation through automatic centrifugal tightening, and it releases the accessory during changes through manual reverse rotation loosening. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated tools for each operation.
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 rapid and secure accessory changes with consistent holding pressure in both directions, maintaining tool bit centricity and accuracy across varying RPMs, including low-speed operations, without the need for additional tools or wrenches.
Implementation Method 1
a spring positioned adjacent to the wedge wherein the spring actuates the wedge towards the collet between the main body and the effort arm of the first lever
Implementation Method 2
a wedge positioned around the main body wherein the wedge is slidable with respect to a central axis of the main body
Implementation Method 3
a first lever positioned within the lever slot wherein the first lever has a fulcrum point positioned between an effort arm of the first lever and a resistance arm of the first lever wherein articulation of the effort arm away from the main body increases the holding pressure
Implementation Method 4
The collets are tightened to exert pressure along a length of the shank of the accessory for rotary-centered operation of the accessory
Data Source
AI summary
A bi-directional quick change tool-less lever and wedge actuated collet chuck, a system and/or a method provide symmetrical tool bit shank holding pressure before, during and after operation of a rotary-style power tool. The collet chuck is attached to and/or is integrated with high speed, variable speed and/or low speed rotary-style power tools, such as, for example, electrically driven rotary-style power tools and/or pneumatically-driven rotary-style power tools. The collet chuck provides tool-less automatic and/or tool-less manual tightening of the collet around a shank of an accessory for the rotary-style power tool. The collet chuck, the system and/or the method provide tool-less manual loosening of the collet for accessory replacement.