Collet Assembly Locking Mechanism for Precise Rotational Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
The assembly and positioning of collets in machinery can be complex and time-consuming, particularly when requiring precise rotational accuracy and positioning to facilitate tool or work piece engagement, as existing systems lack efficient mechanisms for front assembly and predetermined positioning.
Innovation Solution
A collet assembly with a locking mechanism that includes an inner ring, biasing ring, detent member, and set-key, allowing for rotational fixation and precise positioning through a system of notches and radial movement, enabling the collet to be assembled from the front and securely positioned relative to a collet adapter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional collet assembly is used, then the collet can be held in a clamping device connected to a shaft, but the assembly and positioning process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is pre-configured with notches on the inner ring and corresponding detent positions on the biasing ring, allowing the collet to be quickly locked into predetermined positions without complex assembly steps. The set-key is designed to engage these pre-positioned features, enabling rapid setup.
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing ring automatically applies radial force to the detent member, maintaining the locked position without requiring additional actuators or complex mechanisms. The spring-loaded nature of the biasing ring provides self-sustaining positioning once engaged.
2Manufacturing precision
If rotational accuracy and positioning are required for tool or work piece engagement, then the collet needs to be securely fixed, but the setup process becomes more complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning mechanism is segmented into discrete notches on the inner ring and corresponding detent positions on the biasing ring. This segmentation allows for predetermined angular positions to be easily defined and engaged, simplifying the achievement of rotational accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The detent member acts as an intermediary between the inner ring and the biasing ring, transferring the locking force and enabling precise angular positioning. The set-key serves as an intermediary tool to manually engage or disengage the locking mechanism.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the collet is made rotatable for tool or work piece rotation, then engagement with work piece is facilitated, but the positioning and alignment becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism allows the collet to be dynamically switched between locked (fixed position) and unlocked (rotatable) states. The set-key enables quick transition between these states, allowing the operator to rotate the collet for alignment when needed and lock it when positioning is required.
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
This solution simplifies the assembly and positioning process by allowing for predetermined rotational positioning and secure fixation of the collet, reducing setup time and improving operational efficiency by enabling precise alignment and engagement of tools or work pieces.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing ring (40) positioned around the inner ring (10) thereby defining a generally annular cavity (15) therebetween
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 2C~2D
AI summary
A locking mechanism (100) includes a biasing ring (30) having a first area (33) having a first radial thickness (33T) and a first radially inward facing surface (33S) and a second area (34) having a second radial thickness (34T) and a second radially inward facing surface (34S). The locking mechanism (100) includes an inner ring (10) having an activation tab (11) extending therefrom and defining a radially outward facing surface (1A). The biasing ring (30) is positioned around the inner ring (10) thereby defining a cavity (15) between the biasing ring (30) and the inner ring (10). The locking mechanism (100) includes a detent member (20) positioned in the cavity (15)and selectively engageable with at least one of the first radially inward facing surface (33S), the second inwardly facing surface (34S) and the radially outward facing surface (10A). A collet assembly (14; figure 2) including such a locking assembly is also claimed.