Compensating Shim Coding for Tool Die Regrinding
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for compensating for the regrinding length of tool dies using shims are inefficient due to the small thickness differences, making it difficult to visually distinguish between shims, leading to incorrect selection and increased time in the assembly process, and often requiring measurement to ensure accurate stacking.
Innovation Solution
A tool arrangement using shims of different thicknesses with a profiling coding system, where the thickness is encoded through notches or holes along the outer or inner edge, allowing for visual recognition of the shim thickness even when stacked, ensuring accurate selection and assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If shims with small thickness differences (1/10 mm) are used to compensate for regrinding length, then the compensation precision is improved, but the visual recognizability of shim thickness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from detecting thickness in one dimension (vertical measurement) to detecting information in another dimension (lateral visual inspection of the edge surface). By placing recognition features on the edge surface that is visible from the side, users can identify shim thickness without picking up the shim or measuring it, thus resolving the contradiction between precise thickness differentiation and visual detectability.
Solution Approach 2:
The recognition features (such as color coatings, markings, or textured patterns) are applied as surface treatments that are inexpensive to apply and do not add significant cost to the shim. These features serve as disposable visual indicators that can be easily applied to shims of different thicknesses, allowing for quick identification without requiring expensive measurement equipment or complex identification systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If shims are stored in different stacks according to thickness, then the organization is improved, but the time required to identify and select the correct shim increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs color coding or visual markings on the shim edge surfaces to indicate different thicknesses. This allows operators to quickly identify the correct shim thickness by visual inspection alone, eliminating the need to pick up and measure each shim. The color or marking pattern serves as an immediate visual cue, dramatically reducing selection time while maintaining organized storage systems.
3Manufacturing precision
If measurement is performed to ensure accurate stacking of shims, then the assembly accuracy is improved, but the assembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The recognition features (color codes, markings, or textured patterns) are applied to the shims during manufacturing, before the assembly process. This preliminary identification system allows operators to select the correct shim thickness by visual inspection alone, eliminating the need for measurement during assembly. The information is prepared in advance on the shim itself, enabling quick and accurate selection without adding time to the assembly process.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~4c
AI summary
The invention relates to a compensating shim (30a-c) for compensating the regrinding length of a tool die or a tool ram. Said compensating shim (30a-c) comprises a coding (31) in which the shim thickness (d1 - d3) of the compensating shim (30a-c) is coded. The invention also relates to a tool arrangement having at least one of said compensating shims (30a-c) and to a machine tool comprising said type of tool arrangement.