Cutting Tool Holder Cage Mechanism for Insert Positioning
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing metal cutting tool clamping methods face challenges in achieving precise orientation and position repeatability of cutting inserts, leading to potential surface finish issues, and are often time-consuming and prone to plastic deformation due to asymmetric force application and torque limitations.
Innovation Solution
A cutting tool holder with a clamping sleeve and cage mechanism that allows for accurate positioning of a cutting insert through a rotatable clamping sleeve, using a load member housing with specific abutment surfaces and sections to apply force evenly and prevent torque-induced deformation, enabling quick and precise insertion and replacement of cutting inserts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a conical collet and sleeve with thread rotation is used to clamp the cutting insert shank, then the clamping force is applied, but the repeatability of the cutting insert orientation is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The cage structure with load members automatically positions the cutting insert in the correct orientation through its geometric constraints during insertion, eliminating the need for manual alignment operations. The insert self-positions within the cage before clamping occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the threaded mechanical adjustment system with a geometric constraint system using the cage and load members. Instead of using thread rotation to achieve positioning, the system uses the fixed geometry of the cage to automatically establish precise orientation.
2Productivity
If a clamp screw is used to press against the shank portion within the recess, then the cutting insert is clamped, but asymmetric force application causes potential deformation and the process is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping function is segmented from the positioning function. The cage provides geometric constraints for positioning, while the load members provide symmetric clamping forces. This separation allows each function to be optimized independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping action is achieved through the rotation of the clamping sleeve which engages the load members to apply sufficient clamping force. The system uses a simple rotational motion that can be completed quickly without requiring multiple adjustment steps.
3Strength
If a clamp screw is used to apply force to the shank, then the cutting insert is secured, but torque limitations cause plastic deformation in the threads
Solution Approach 1:
The load members act as intermediaries between the clamping sleeve and the cutting insert shank. They distribute the clamping force symmetrically and prevent direct thread engagement that would be subject to torque limitations and plastic deformation.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping mechanism uses a dynamic rotational motion of the clamping sleeve to engage and secure the cutting insert. This rotational engagement allows the load members to be progressively loaded into position, distributing the force application over time and reducing peak stresses.
4Ease of operation
If traditional screw clamping methods are used, then the cutting insert is secured, but the process requires multiple tool changes and is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning and clamping operations are merged into a single integrated process. As the cutting insert is inserted into the cage, the geometric constraints automatically position it, and the subsequent clamping sleeve rotation simultaneously secures it, eliminating separate positioning and clamping steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The cage structure with its geometric constraints self-positions the cutting insert during insertion, eliminating the need for external positioning tools or manual alignment operations. The system performs the positioning function automatically through its design.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A cutting tool (10) has a cutting insert (12) and a holder (12). The cutting insert (14) has a cutting portion (16) and an insert shank (16) with a cylindrical portion and a non-cylindrical portion(30). The holder(12) has a clamping portion which has a clamping sleeve (42) and a cage (40) located therein. The cage includes a load member housing(48) with a load member(62). The cage has a major abutment wall connected to a minor abutment wall. The clamping sleeve (42) has first and second inner sections defined by points Pl and P2. A point P3 divides the second inner section into first and second portions. The clamping sleeve (42) is rotatable between a secured and a released position of the cutting tool. In the secured position, the non-cylindrical portion abuts the major abutment wall, the cylindrical portion buts both the minor abutment wall and the load member, and the load member abuts the first portion.