Interchangeable Die Shank Structure for Automated Tool Changing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing interchangeable dies for joining tools face challenges in automated changing due to large transverse bores, which weaken the die receiving section and complicate robotic insertion and removal, leading to issues like jamming and micromovements during joining processes.
Innovation Solution
The die shank and receiving section are divided into sections with different diameters, reducing the guiding length and allowing for a plug-and-turn connection, enabling easier automated insertion and removal while maintaining structural integrity, and incorporating a pretensioning spring arrangement to prevent micromovements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a transverse bore is provided in the die receiving section for securing the die, then the die can be fastened to the joining tool, but the die receiving section is weakened in terms of its strength and automated changing requires large effort
Solution Approach 1:
The die shank is divided into multiple axial sections (first axial shank section with larger diameter, second axial shank section with smaller diameter) with different diameters. The first section provides structural strength while the second section enables automated manipulation and plug-and-turn connection, resolving the contradiction between fastening capability and structural integrity.
2Force
If a transverse bore is provided for die fastening, then the die can be secured, but automated changing of the die becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The die shank features a dynamic two-section design where the first axial shank section maintains structural integrity and the second axial shank section with smaller diameter and fastening contour enables automated plug-and-turn connection. This dynamic structural differentiation allows automated manipulation while maintaining secure fastening.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a long guiding length is provided between the interchangeable die and die receiving section, then the die can be properly guided, but automated insertion and removal by robot becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The die shank is segmented into a first axial shank section for structural support and a second axial shank section with smaller diameter for automated manipulation. This segmentation reduces the effective guiding length required for automated robotic operations while maintaining stability through the larger-diameter first section.
4Ease of manufacture
If the die shank has uniform diameter, then manufacturing is simpler, but automated manipulation and plug-and-turn connection are difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The die shank is divided into two axial sections with different diameters: the first axial shank section with larger diameter maintains manufacturing simplicity for the main structural portion, while the second axial shank section with smaller diameter is optimized for automated manipulation and plug-and-turn connection functionality.
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
This configuration facilitates efficient, automated exchange of interchangeable dies, reduces jamming risks, and enhances the structural strength of the die receiving section, ensuring precise and stable joining operations.
Implementation Method 1
incorporating a pretensioning spring arrangement to prevent micromovements
Data Source
AI summary
An interchangeable die comprises a die head, on which a die feature is formed, and a die shank extending in an axial direction from the die head. The die shank includes a first axial shank section, which is adjacent to the die head, and a second axial shank section, which is arranged on the opposite axial side of the first axial shank section from the die head. The first axial shank section has a first diameter and the second axial shank section has a second diameter smaller than the first diameter. The die shank is introducible into a shank receptacle of a die receiving section of a joining tool. A fastening contour for fastening the interchangeable die to the joining tool is formed on the interchangeable die. The fastening contour is configured such that a plug-and-turn connection is establishable between the interchangeable die and the joining tool.