Contouring Head Radial Adjustment Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing contouring systems for machining internal diameters of metallic parts lack precise control over the longitudinal and radial positions of cutting tools, leading to inefficiencies in contouring operations.

Innovation Solution

A contouring apparatus with a sleeve and spindle system that allows controlled bi-directional movement along the longitudinal axis, featuring a slide plate with recirculating roller bearings and a pivotal yoke for converting longitudinal to radial motion, enabling precise adjustment of the cutting tool's radius and position within the part.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a conventional contouring system is used, then the basic contouring function is provided, but precise control over longitudinal and radial positions of the cutting tool is lacking

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol precisionVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The contouring head is divided into distinct functional modules: a rotation mechanism for longitudinal position control, a slide mechanism for radial position control, and a tool holder. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized independently for precision while maintaining overall system manageability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system employs dynamic adjustment mechanisms including a rotatable slide plate with indexed positions for longitudinal control, and a movable slide with adjustable positioning for radial control. These dynamic elements enable precise positioning without requiring complex continuous control systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Manufacturing precision

If the cutting tool position is made adjustable for precise contouring, then manufacturing precision is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontouring accuracyVSAvoidmechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The slide plate can be rotated to different angular positions to adjust the longitudinal position of the tool, while the slide can be moved along the slide track to adjust radial position. These simple dynamic adjustments provide precise contouring control without complex mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The slide acts as an intermediary element that converts rotational movement of the slide plate into longitudinal tool position adjustment. This mechanical intermediary simplifies the control mechanism while achieving precise positioning.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If recirculating roller bearings are used in the slide, then movement precision and durability are improved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebearing durabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The recirculating roller bearings are designed to automatically recirculate the rollers through internal races, providing continuous lubrication and self-adjusting contact surfaces. This self-service mechanism improves durability and precision without requiring complex external adjustment systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS10569341B2Contouring head
Publication Date: 2020.02.25 RETEC INC
  • US10569341B2 patent drawing
  • US10569341B2 patent drawing
  • US10569341B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A contouring head includes a sleeve and coaxially mounted spindle connected by means of a yoke to a slide mounted by first and second sets of roller bearings to and between a slide track and a pair of keeper plates which hold the slide to the slide plate and within a slide track formed therein. A yoke interconnects the spindle to the slide to convert axial motion of the spindle into radial motion of the slide. A tool mount in the form of a pot is connected to the slide to control the radial position of a single edged cutting tool. A cover is mounted on the keeper plates and slide plate.