Differential Case Machining With Rotary Shuttle and Dual Slides
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machining apparatuses for differential cases cannot perform whole sphere machining due to limited rotational speed and are not versatile enough to handle various machining operations like end surface and flange hole machining without requiring multiple dedicated devices.
Innovation Solution
A machining apparatus with a shuttle unit that rotates and moves the differential case in multiple directions, paired with slide mechanisms for uniaxial sliding, enabling whole sphere, end surface, and flange hole machining, while maintaining a simple structure and versatility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a dedicated device is used for whole sphere machining, then machining precision is improved, but device complexity and lack of versatility worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The machining apparatus is designed to perform multiple machining operations including whole sphere machining, end surface machining, and flange hole machining using a single integrated device. The shuttle unit can hold and rotate the differential case for whole sphere machining, while also enabling positioning for end surface and flange hole machining operations, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated devices.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a machining apparatus with multiple functions is created, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple machining functions into a single integrated apparatus. The shuttle unit integrates workpiece holding, rotation capability for whole sphere machining, and positioning mechanisms for end surface and flange hole machining. By merging these functions into one device rather than using separate dedicated machines, versatility is improved while avoiding the complexity of coordinating multiple independent systems.
3Device complexity
If the shuttle unit is rotated merely for positioning, then device complexity is reduced, but capability for whole sphere machining is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The shuttle unit is designed with dynamic rotation capability that enables both positioning and high-speed rotation for whole sphere machining. Rather than being a static positioning device, the shuttle unit can rotate the differential case at high speeds during whole sphere machining operations, transforming a potentially simple positioning mechanism into a multi-functional dynamic system that maintains relative simplicity while gaining enhanced capability.
4Manufacturing precision
If multiple dedicated devices are used for different machining operations, then machining precision for each operation is improved, but loss of time for transferring workpieces worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple machining operations into a single apparatus, allowing the differential case to be machined for whole sphere, end surface, and flange hole operations without being transferred between different dedicated devices. The shuttle unit and machining units work together in one integrated system, eliminating transfer time while maintaining machining precision through dedicated machining units for each operation type.
Data Source
AI summary
A machining apparatus includes: a shuttle unit (3) that holds a differential case (10) and rotates the differential case (10); a pair of opposed right and left machining units (4); and a tool support (6) that supports a tool (40) for machining the differential case (10), in which the pair of right and left machining units (4) each include a slide mechanism dedicated for uniaxial sliding in right and left directions, the shuttle unit (3) is movable in up and down directions and front and back directions, a tool attached to each of the pair of right and left machining units (4) enables machining an end portion of an inner surface of the differential case (10) and a flange hole of the differential case (10), the end portion surrounding a through hole, and a cutting edge of the tool (40) supported by the tool support (6) enables spherically cutting the inner surface of the differential case (10) held and rotated by the shuttle unit (3).