Foldable Tool Changer Gripper With Single-Drive Arm Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Standard automatic tool changers require significant space due to the complex construction and large dimensions of their gripper units, which is a challenge in compact machine tools where space between the tool magazine and spindle nose is limited.
Innovation Solution
A compact gripping device with a simple design, utilizing a first rotatable arm, a driving unit, and a transmission mechanism to rotate and lift a second foldable arm, which reduces the overall device size by eliminating the need for additional driving units and optimizing movement through a toothed belt transmission mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a standard gripper unit is used to load tools from the magazine into the spindle nose, then the tool changing function is achieved, but the device occupies large space which is not suitable for compact machine tools
Solution Approach 1:
The gripper unit is divided into two separate arms (first arm and second arm) that can move independently. The first arm rotates about a first rotation axis while the second arm rotates about a second rotation axis. This segmentation allows each arm to be compact yet functional, reducing the overall volume while maintaining tool loading capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The second arm is designed to be foldable and can be positioned within the space occupied by the first arm when not in use. The arms can be nested or folded together to minimize the volume occupied by the gripper unit, making it suitable for compact machine tools with limited space between the tool magazine and spindle nose.
2Ease of operation
If multiple driving units are used to directly drive both arms, then the movement control is improved, but the device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single driving unit is designed to perform multiple functions: it drives the first arm through direct connection and simultaneously drives the second arm through a transmission mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the number of driving units from two to one, simplifying the device while maintaining control over both arms.
Solution Approach 2:
A transmission mechanism acts as an intermediary between the single driving unit and the second arm. The transmission mechanism transmits the rotational movement from the driving unit to the second arm, enabling indirect control of the second arm while using only one driving unit. This intermediary component allows one driving unit to control both arms effectively.
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 solution enables a space-saving and cost-effective design that effectively positions the gripper unit for tool exchange within the limited space of compact machine tools, improving production efficiency and reducing machining time.
Implementation Method 1
A transmission mechanism is coupled to the first arm and the additional arm, in particular the second arm for transmitting the movement of the first arm to the additional arm, in particular the second arm
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
The present invention is related to a gripping device for an automatic tool changer, in particular for gripping a machining tool mounted in a machine tool comprising: a first arm being rotatable about a first rotation axis R1, a driving unit operationally connected by a first shaft to the first arm for rotating the first arm, a second arm being rotatable about a second rotation axis R2, which is in parallel to the first rotation axis R1, a gripper unit fixedly mounted on one end of the second arm for grasping the machining tool; and a transmission mechanism coupled to the first arm and the second arm and configured to enable the movement of the second arm by transmitting the movement of the first arm to the second arm.