HSK Tool Gripping and Nested Storage for Fast Tool Change
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current tool change systems in woodworking processing machines are inefficient, requiring multiple tool magazines and converters, leading to high production costs and non-productive times due to the need for disk or chain changers, which are either space-intensive or costly.
Innovation Solution
A gripping device that allows for quick and easy tool exchange by creating a non-positive and positive connection with the HSK cone of a tool holder, enabling direct transfer between a tool magazine and machining spindle, and a compact storage system with multiple levels to reduce space and costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If disc changers are used for tool storage, then tool change capability is provided, but space consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested tool magazine structure where multiple tool levels are arranged concentrically around a central axis. The first tool level and second tool level are positioned at different radial distances, allowing tools to be stored in a compact nested configuration rather than requiring separate flat surfaces, thereby reducing the overall footprint area while maintaining multiple tool storage capacities.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from traditional two-dimensional flat tool magazine surfaces to a three-dimensional radial arrangement. Tools are distributed across multiple levels at different radial distances from the central axis, utilizing the third dimension (radial depth) to increase storage density without proportionally increasing the horizontal footprint area.
2Area of stationary object
If chain changers are used for tool storage, then space consumption is reduced, but manufacturing costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The tool magazine is segmented into multiple independent tool levels (first tool level, second tool level, etc.), each with its own tool holders arranged radially. This segmentation allows each level to be manufactured and assembled separately using simple structural components, avoiding the need for complex chain mechanisms while maintaining compact space utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The radial tool holder structure serves multiple functions: it provides compact radial storage, enables rotational access to tools, and allows parallel tool preparation. This universal structure replaces the need for separate chain changer mechanisms, reducing manufacturing complexity and costs while achieving both space efficiency and tool change capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple tool magazines and converters are used, then tool variety is increased, but device complexity and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The radial tool magazine structure with multiple levels provides a universal platform that can accommodate various tool types on different radial levels. The central rotational mechanism can access tools from any level, eliminating the need for separate specialized magazines for different tool types, thereby reducing system complexity while maintaining tool variety.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple tool storage levels and different tool types are merged into a single integrated radial magazine structure. Instead of using separate magazines and converters for different tool varieties, the invention combines all tool storage and retrieval functions into one unified radial system, reducing the number of separate components and overall system complexity.
4Productivity
If traditional tool change systems are used, then tool changing can be performed, but non-productive time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables preliminary tool preparation by storing multiple tools in advance on different radial levels of the tool magazine. The rotational mechanism can pre-position the required tool for the next machining operation while the current tool is still in use, allowing tool changes to occur during or between machining cycles, thereby reducing non-productive time.
Solution Approach 2:
The radial tool magazine structure allows continuous tool preparation and retrieval operations. While one tool is being used for machining, the rotational mechanism can simultaneously prepare the next tool on a different radial level, ensuring that tool changing operations do not interrupt the machining process and maintaining continuous productive action.
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 fast tool change cycles, reduces non-productive times, and allows for a cost-effective, space-efficient storage system that can integrate into processing machines, facilitating parallel preparation and machining.
Implementation Method 1
the gripping mechanism is configured to establish a frictional connection to the outer circumference of a tool holder
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention relates to a gripping system for receiving a processing tool, and to a storage system. These processing tools are used, for example, in processing machines or centres in the woodworking industry. The present invention also relates to a processing machine with the above-mentioned storage system. This processing machine is used, in particular, for processing elongate pieces of wood.