Machining Tool Shank With Curved Centering Surface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular tools for machining workpieces lack stability and are difficult to produce and maintain, especially when dealing with high transverse forces during cutting, and often require additional fastening elements that complicate insert exchange in restricted spaces.
Innovation Solution
A tool design featuring a shank with a slot and a cutting insert having a convexly curved centering surface that forms a conical section, allowing for secure centering and absorption of high forces without additional fastening elements, and incorporating a coolant/lubricant passage for improved stability and ease of insert exchange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If modular tools with interchangeable cutting inserts are used, then tool maintenance and cost are improved, but tool stability and ability to absorb machining forces deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The cutting insert features a convexly curved centering surface that cooperates with a concavely curved counter surface on the shank, creating a conical section geometry. This curved surface design provides automatic centering and stable positioning of the cutting insert in the slot, enabling the tool to reliably absorb transverse forces during machining while maintaining modular interchangeability
2Stability of the object's composition
If additional fastening elements like screws are used to secure the cutting insert, then tool stability is improved, but ease of operation and insert exchange deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The design extracts the fastening elements (screws, clips, or other securing mechanisms) from the system entirely. Instead, it relies on the geometric interlocking between the convexly curved centering surface of the cutting insert and the concavely curved counter surface in the shank slot, which provides stable positioning without requiring additional fastening components, thus enabling simple manual insertion and exchange
Solution Approach 2:
The cutting insert design includes integrated centering surfaces that automatically position and center the insert within the slot upon insertion. The convexly curved surface on the insert cooperates with the concavely curved counter surface to provide self-centering and stable positioning, eliminating the need for external fastening mechanisms and enabling tool-free insert exchange
3Strength
If conventional twist drills with solid cutting material are used, then tool strength is improved, but adaptability and cost-effectiveness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The tool is segmented into two distinct components: a reusable shank body and interchangeable cutting inserts. The shank contains a slot that accommodates multiple cutting inserts, allowing the cutting element to be replaced when worn or damaged while retaining the expensive shank component. This segmentation provides adaptability for different cutting applications while maintaining overall tool strength through the robust shank design
Solution Approach 2:
The shank design with the standardized slot and centering surfaces provides universal compatibility for multiple cutting inserts. The convexly curved centering surface and concavely curved counter surface create a universal interface that can accommodate various cutting insert types, enabling one shank to perform multiple cutting functions by simply changing the insert, thus improving adaptability without sacrificing strength
Data Source
AI summary
A tool for machining workpieces, having a shank and a cutting insert having a base body held in the shank. The shank has a slot accommodating the cutting insert. The body has a central section with a central axis. At least one convexly bowed centering surface running in the direction of the central section. At least one drive element originates from the central section. The slot in the shank has at least one interior surface region shaped to cooperate with the at least one centering surface.