Flat Tool Holder Layout for Faster, More Rigid Tool Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tool positioning devices for machine tools, such as automatic lathes, suffer from slow positioning times and reduced precision due to the series arrangement of linear guides and motors, leading to significant inertia and less rigid structures, which limit machining speed and accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A tool positioning system with parallel arrangements of straight and inclined linear guides, where drive motors are fixed, allowing tools to be positioned quickly and accurately by minimizing the mass moved during positioning, and incorporating sensors for precise control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If linear guides are arranged in series with motors, then tools can be positioned in multiple directions, but the mass and inertia increase significantly, reducing positioning speed and precision
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning system is divided into two independent parallel linear guides instead of series arrangement. Each guide operates independently with its own motor, allowing tools to be positioned in multiple directions without the motors needing to move. This segmentation reduces the moving mass significantly while maintaining full positioning capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a series arrangement (one-dimensional dependency) to a parallel arrangement (two-dimensional independence). By positioning the two linear guides in parallel, the system achieves multi-directional tool positioning without the cumulative mass penalty of series arrangement, effectively adding a dimensional aspect to the mechanical architecture.
2Adaptability or versatility
If motors are moved during tool positioning, then multi-directional positioning is achieved, but positioning time increases due to the mass that must be accelerated
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the positioning system into two independent parallel linear guides, each with its own stationary motor, the patent eliminates the need to accelerate motor mass during positioning. The motors remain fixed while only the lighter tool carriage moves, dramatically reducing positioning time while maintaining full multi-directional capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If series arrangement of linear guides is used, then tool positioning in any direction is possible, but the structure becomes less rigid, reducing machining precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the positioning system into two independent parallel linear guides rather than connecting them in series. This parallel segmentation creates two separate load paths that both connect to the stationary structure, significantly increasing structural rigidity while maintaining the ability to position tools in any direction within the working envelope.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a clamping block for machine tools (100) comprising a tool holder (102), the tool holder (102) comprising first tool attachment means (105) for attaching tools (101), characterized in that the tool holder (102) has a substantially flat shape which at least partially surrounds a machining zone in which a workpiece is able to be machined. The present invention also relates to a tool positioning system (200), to a rotary tool drive device (300) and to a machine tool (1).