Dual Plunger Cam Mounting for Balanced Pull-Down Stud Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mounting systems require multiple parts and complex machining operations, leading to increased costs and machining variations due to the need for individual locking shanks and excessive camming angles, which affect the performance and efficiency of the system.
Innovation Solution
A dual cam system is introduced, where each plunger's cams engage separate pull-down studs, allowing for self-alignment and balanced forces, reducing the need for tight tolerance machining and minimizing the number of parts required, thereby improving performance and reducing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If individual locking shanks are used in mounting systems, then each shank can be secured individually, but the number of parts increases and machining operations become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple locking functions into a single integrated plunger assembly that simultaneously engages multiple positioning pins. The plunger body incorporates multiple cam mechanisms that work together to secure the fixture plate to the subplate, eliminating the need for separate locking shanks for each pin while maintaining individual securing capability through the unified cam action.
2Reliability
If excessive camming angles are used, then the locking action is achieved, but machining variations increase due to tight tolerance requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the camming angle parameter to a specific range that provides sufficient locking action while avoiding excessive angles that would require tight tolerances. The cam surfaces are designed with controlled angle parameters that balance the locking force generation with manufacturability, reducing sensitivity to machining variations while maintaining reliable locking performance.
3Reliability
If multiple individual locking shanks are used, then each position can be locked, but the cost of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple locking functions into a single plunger assembly that performs the work of multiple individual locking shanks. This integration reduces the total number of parts that need to be manufactured, inventoried, and assembled, thereby lowering system cost while maintaining the capability to secure the fixture plate at multiple positions simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The plunger assembly is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously provides locking action for multiple positioning pins, actuation through a single control mechanism, and self-alignment capabilities. This universal design eliminates the need for multiple specialized locking shanks, reducing overall system complexity and cost while maintaining comprehensive locking capability.
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
The dual cam system effectively secures workholding devices with maximum hold-down force while minimizing manufacturing costs and machining variations, providing a more efficient and cost-effective quick-change mounting system.
Implementation Method 1
Each plunger includes two cam surfaces that are self alignable relative to one another and engageable with two axially spaced pull down studs
Data Source
AI summary
A mounting system having a dual plunger arrangement wherein the side of each plunger has a pull down cam to provide a desired pull down action in relation to at least two studs, the cams moving relative to one another and axially aligning relative to one another relative to the two axially spaced pull down studs to allow the plungers to provide a maximum hold down force for the two pull down studs, balance the hold down forces thereby maximizing performance and reducing unlocking forces.