Machine Tool Coupling Element for Automatic Clamping Lubrication
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Manual lubrication of machine tool clamping devices is non-reproducible, time-consuming, and often neglected, leading to reduced tool life and machining inaccuracies due to inconsistent and inadequate lubrication.
Innovation Solution
A coupling element for machine tool attachments that allows for automatic delivery of media, such as lubricants, to machine tool parts, featuring a movable actuating means between dispensing and closed positions, enabling controlled release of media when inserted into the tool interface, and a container for media that can be stored and swapped like regular tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual lubrication is performed by worker, then lubrication can be applied to clamping device, but lubrication result is not reproducible and quantity varies
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automatic lubrication delivery where the machine tool attachment serves itself by detecting tool presence and automatically dispensing medium without worker intervention, eliminating variability in lubrication quantity and timing
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses sensors to detect when a tool is present in the tool interface and automatically triggers medium delivery, creating a closed-loop system that ensures lubrication occurs at the correct time with consistent quantity
2Reliability
If manual lubrication is performed by worker, then clamping device can be lubricated, but process is very time-consuming and reduces productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The automatic medium delivery system operates continuously without interrupting the machining process, delivering lubricant on-demand as tools are exchanged, eliminating the need to stop production for manual lubrication
Solution Approach 2:
The system prepares and delivers medium in advance during tool exchange operations, ensuring lubrication is applied before the tool is used, preventing wear before it occurs
3Reliability
If manual lubrication is performed by worker, then medium can be applied to clamping device, but lubrication is often forgotten or delayed
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically detects tool presence and triggers medium delivery without relying on worker memory or manual scheduling, ensuring lubrication occurs at the correct time every time
Solution Approach 2:
Sensors provide real-time feedback on tool presence and position, automatically triggering the medium delivery mechanism to ensure lubrication occurs at the optimal moment
4Productivity
If machine tool attachment with medium delivery is used, then automatic lubrication is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling element serves multiple functions: it acts as both a tool holder and a medium delivery device, while the tool interface performs both machining operations and triggers lubrication delivery, reducing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system combines the tool interface, sensors, and medium delivery mechanism into an integrated attachment unit that functions as a single coordinated system rather than separate components
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling element for a machine tool attachment, having a coupling section for detachable mounting on a tool interface of a machine tool and having a connection for attaching a container for media that has an outlet and holds a medium. In addition, a machine tool attachment, a machine tool, and a method for delivering a medium to a part of a machine tool is provided.