Gear Lapping Spindle Layout With Swivel Axis for Precise Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current machines for measuring and lapping gear pairs, particularly spiral bevel gears, require complex and expensive designs to ensure accuracy and rigidity, necessitating a more efficient machine constellation that can handle both testing and lapping tasks effectively.
Innovation Solution
A device with two linear axes and at least one swivel axis, allowing for high rigidity and accuracy, along with a pivot axis that enables easy loading and unloading of gears, replaces the need for a third linear axis, enhancing the machine's ability to handle gear pairs with curved bevel gears.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If three linear axes are used to enable gear removal and positioning, then gear handling capability is improved, but machine complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional third linear axis (vertical movement) with a swivel axis that enables rotational movement of the second spindle group. This dimensional change from linear translation to rotational swiveling achieves the same gear removal and positioning functionality while reducing machine complexity. The swivel axis allows the second spindle group to rotate out of the working area for easy gear removal without requiring a complex vertical linear axis.
2Measurement precision
If five degrees of freedom with three linear axes are provided, then measurement and lapping accuracy is improved, but rigidity and cost are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes the third linear axis with a swivel axis, changing the motion dimension from linear to rotational. This maintains the five degrees of freedom needed for accurate measurement and lapping while improving machine rigidity. The swivel axis configuration creates a more rigid structural arrangement compared to a long vertical linear axis, reducing deflection and improving positioning accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The swivel axis serves multiple functions: it enables gear removal from the working area, allows positioning of the second spindle group, and maintains the necessary degrees of freedom for both measurement and lapping operations. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for a separate third linear axis, simplifying the machine structure while preserving measurement precision.
3Productivity
If a long travel path is provided for linear axes, then automatic feeding and gear removal capability is improved, but machine complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the long vertical travel path of the third linear axis with a rotational swivel motion of the second spindle group. This dimensional change from linear translation to rotational movement achieves the same gear removal capability with a simpler mechanical structure. The swivel axis allows the spindle group to rotate out of the working area, providing sufficient clearance for gear removal without requiring a long vertical travel path.
Data Source
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AI summary
Device (100) for lapping or testing gears (T, R), comprising: - a first spindle assembly (111) for clamping a first gear (T), wherein the first gear (T) is rotatably mounted on the first spindle assembly (111) about a first axis of rotation (TA), - a second spindle assembly (112) for clamping a second gear (R), wherein the second gear (R) is rotatably mounted on the second spindle assembly (112) about a second axis of rotation (RA), - a first linear axis (LA1) for performing a first linear displacement of the first spindle assembly (111) together with the first gear (T) relative to the second spindle assembly (112) together with the second gear (R), and - a second linear axis (LA2) for performing a second linear displacement of the first spindle assembly (111) together with the first gear (T) relative to the second spindle assembly (112) together with the second gear (R).wherein the device (100) further comprises: - a pivot axis (SA) for pivoting the first spindle group (111) together with the first gear (T) or the second spindle group (112) together with the second gear (R) about this pivot axis (SA).