Friction Stir Welding Tool Exchange Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing processing apparatuses, such as friction stir welding systems, face complexity in automatically replacing processing members due to the need for precise alignment and multiple movable components, leading to a cumbersome configuration.
Innovation Solution
A processing apparatus with a replacement device featuring a gripping device with fixed and movable support members, and a holding device with aligned holding portions, allows for continuous high-precision alignment and replacement of processing members with a reduced number of components, utilizing a ratchet mechanism and elastic support for secure gripping and alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking protruding portion and locking recessed portion are used to engage the tool magazine with the collet chuck, then the processing member can be securely held, but the configuration becomes complicated and requires precise alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex locking protruding portion and locking recessed portion mechanism from the tool magazine and replaces it with a simplified holding notch structure. The holder is simply lowered into the holding notch to secure the processing member, eliminating the need for precise alignment between multiple components while maintaining secure holding capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using active locking mechanisms that require precise engagement, the patent inverts the approach by using a passive holding notch structure that naturally guides and secures the holder through gravity and geometric constraint alone, reversing the traditional locking mechanism paradigm.
2Reliability
If multiple locking protruding portions are provided for each holding notch, then secure engagement is achieved, but the device complexity increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The holding notch structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it guides the holder into position, secures the processing member through geometric constraint, and eliminates the need for separate locking mechanisms. This multi-functional design reduces component count while maintaining engagement reliability.
3Extent of automation
If many movable members are used in the tool exchanger, then the tool can be exchanged automatically, but high-precision alignment is required and the configuration becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The holder automatically engages with the tool magazine through its own weight and geometric shape when lowered into the holding notch. The processing member is secured without requiring external locking mechanisms or complex alignment systems, allowing automatic exchange with minimal movable members and reduced precision requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A replacement device of a processing apparatus includes a gripping device having a single first support member positionally fixed, a first gripping portion provided on the first support member to grip a holder not to rotate in a releasing direction when the processing member is removed from the holder, and a second gripping portion provided on the first support member apart from the first gripping portion to grip the holder not to rotate in a restricting direction when the processing member is attached to the holder, and a holding device having a single movable second support member, plural first holding portions provided on the second support member to respectively accommodate the processing member removed from the holder, and plural second holding portions provided on the second support member apart from the first holding portions to respectively accommodate the processing member that is to be attached to the holder.