Cutting Insert Clamp With Integrated Coolant Flow Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cutting tools with coolant supply mechanisms lack a robust and efficient mechanism for securing the cutting insert and effectively distributing coolant, leading to reduced tool life and machined surface accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A cutting tool design featuring a holder, cutting insert, clamp member, and flow path with a double clamp mechanism and pipe connection, which securely fixes the insert and optimizes coolant flow through a network of flow paths, ensuring strong constraining force and efficient coolant distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a simple clamp mechanism is used to fix the cutting insert, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of insert fixation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp member is divided into two separate clamps (first clamp and second clamp) that independently secure the cutting insert from different directions. This segmentation allows each clamp to focus on specific fixation requirements, improving overall reliability without requiring an overly complex integrated mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The flow path is integrated within the clamp member structure, merging the fixation function and coolant delivery function into a single component. This reduces overall device complexity by eliminating separate coolant delivery mechanisms while maintaining reliable insert fixation through the dual-clamp design
2Productivity
If coolant flow path is integrated in the clamp member, then the coolant distribution efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flow path is integrated directly into the clamp member structure, combining the coolant delivery function with the fixation function. This merging approach improves coolant distribution efficiency by positioning the flow path in direct contact with the cutting insert and clamp interface, while avoiding the need for separate external coolant delivery mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The flow path is strategically positioned within the clamp member at locations that maximize coolant delivery to critical areas of the cutting insert. This local optimization ensures efficient coolant distribution precisely where needed, rather than requiring a complex system-wide coolant delivery network
3Reliability
If a robust clamp mechanism is used to secure the cutting insert, then the reliability of insert fixation is improved, but the constraining force on the insert increases causing higher stress
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation force is divided between two separate clamps that apply constraining force from different directions. This segmentation distributes the total constraining force across multiple contact points, reducing peak stress on any single area of the insert while maintaining overall fixation reliability
Solution Approach 2:
Each clamp is designed to apply constraining force at specific localized areas of the cutting insert that are optimized for force distribution. This local optimization ensures that the insert is securely fixed while minimizing concentrated stress that could lead to insert damage
Data Source
AI summary
A cutting tool may include a holder including a pocket, a cutting insert located at the pocket, a clamp member configured to fix the cutting insert to the pocket, and a flow path including an inflow port and an outflow port. The clamp member may include a screw and a clamp. The flow path may further include a first flow path located in the holder, a second flow path located in the clamp, and a third flow path that is a pipe connecting the first flow path and the second flow path and including a first end part located in the first flow path and a second end part located in the second flow path.