Differential Screw Tool Holder Adapter Precision Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tool holder adapters lack precision in setting mechanisms, which limits the accuracy of aligning the tool holder adapter's center axis with the receiver's center axis during precision machining.
Innovation Solution
A differential screw mechanism with two thread portions of differing pitches but identical direction of hand, combined with an anti-rotation mechanism using O-rings, allows for precise adjustment of the tool holder adapter by 'stepping down' the advance per rotation, enabling more precise alignment without the need for external screw heads or new thread cutting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a standard screw mechanism is used for setting the tool holder adapter, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the setting precision is insufficient for high accuracy machining
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by using a differential screw mechanism where two threads with different pitches (e.g., 1.5mm and 1.0mm) work together. When the screw rotates one full turn, the pressure piece advances by the difference in pitches (0.5mm), providing fine adjustment capability. This transforms the standard screw advance parameter into a differential advance parameter, achieving higher setting precision while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical structure.
2Manufacturing precision
If the pressure piece is allowed to rotate freely during adjustment, then the mechanism is simpler, but precise axial positioning cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the rotational and axial movement functions by introducing an anti-rotation mechanism (such as a keyway or spline) between the differential screw and the pressure piece. This separation allows the screw to rotate for adjustment while the pressure piece moves only axially without rotating, achieving precise positioning. The anti-rotation feature is implemented as a separate constraint element, dividing the complex motion control into independent rotational and axial components.
3Volume of moving object
If external screw heads are used for the differential screw, then the structure is simpler to manufacture, but the overall adapter size increases and compactness is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the differential screw with the existing collar structure by integrating the screw directly into the collar body, eliminating the need for separate external screw heads. The screw is positioned such that its adjustment function is achieved through the collar's existing geometry and access points, combining multiple functions (support, adjustment, and structural integrity) into a single integrated component. This reduces the overall adapter volume while maintaining manufacturability through conventional machining processes.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution allows for a significant improvement in precision alignment of the tool holder adapter's center axis with the receiver's axis, achieving a more accurate and compact structure that can be retrofitted into existing adapters with minimal modifications.
Implementation Method 1
a differential screw (30) having two thread portions (34, 38) of differing pitch but identical direction of hand
Implementation Method 2
The anti-rotation mechanism prevents the pressure piece of the differential screw from rotating concomitantly
Data Source
AI summary
A setting mechanism for a settable tool holder adapter includes a differential screw having two thread portions of differing pitch but identical direction of hand and a pressure piece having a pressure piece thread. One of the thread portions of the differential screw is screwed into the thread of the pressure piece.