Machine Tool Spindle Chuck with Displacement Following Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Machine tools that directly fix tools to the spindle without holders face issues with axial misalignment during tool exchange, leading to vibration and reduced holding accuracy, and require additional support structures that occupy space and restrict machining, while automatic tool exchangers are unusable, prolonging operation suspended times.
Innovation Solution
A machine tool design featuring a chuck unit with a cylindrical collet member and a support mechanism that includes a displacement following mechanism to address axial misalignment, allowing the tool holder to move intersecting the axis direction, and a tool stocker and handler to facilitate efficient tool exchange without interfering with spindle movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the tool is directly fixed to the spindle without using a holder, then the axis alignment accuracy between the tool and spindle is improved, but additional support structures are required that occupy space and restrict machining
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the rotation support function and rotation transfer function into a single integrated structure at the spindle tip. The rotation support bearing is positioned to support the tool shaft directly, while the rotation transfer mechanism transfers rotational motion from the spindle to the tool, eliminating the need for separate support structures that would occupy additional space and restrict machining operations.
2Extent of automation
If a typical automatic tool exchanger is used to grip the standardized holder, then tool exchange is automated, but the operation suspended time is prolonged when the holder is not used
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a tool exchange mechanism where the tool itself is gripped and exchanged directly without requiring a standardized holder. The gripper unit directly engages with the tool shaft, allowing the tool to serve its own function of being exchanged, thereby eliminating the need for additional holder components and reducing the time required for tool exchange operations.
3Reliability
If the rotation support structure is added to the spindle tip, then the tool rotation is supported, but the space occupation increases and machining is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the rotation support bearing dynamically within the spindle structure, allowing it to provide necessary support while minimizing its projection into the machining space. The bearing is integrated into the spindle body in a manner that provides rotation support without creating protruding structures that would interfere with tool access or workpiece machining.
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 reduces deviated slide movement and improves holding accuracy, shortens tool exchange times, and simplifies the spindle structure by eliminating protruding mechanisms, enabling high-speed, high-accuracy machining without compromising operation efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
an air bearing is used for supporting the spindle to achieve a high speed rotation reaching several tens of thousands to several hundreds of thousands of rotation per minute
Implementation Method 2
a squeeze mechanism having a tapered surface extending from an opening of the chuck hole toward an innermost side and approaching a center axis of the spindle
Data Source
AI summary
A machine tool includes: a spindle head; a spindle rotatably supported on the spindle head; a chuck unit configured to chuck a tool inserted in an axis direction of the spindle; a tool holder configured to hold the tool attached to the chuck unit; and a rotary arm configured to move the tool holder to a reachable position of the spindle. The tool holder is supported on the rotary arm by a support mechanism, and the support mechanism includes a displacement following mechanism configured to support the tool holder on the rotary arm in a manner to be capable of displacing the tool holder in a direction intersecting an axis of the tool.