Magnetic Tool Coupling Alignment for Faster Machine Tool Changes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine tools require manual alignment of machining tools during changes, leading to high labor costs and downtime, and existing automated systems are complex and require maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A coupling device with drive-side and output-side coupling elements that utilize magnetic force fields for alignment and a torque-locking connection, enabling rapid and simple tool changes through automated alignment and coupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual alignment is used for tool changes, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity decreases and labor costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling elements are equipped with magnetic alignment features that automatically guide and align them during the coupling process without requiring external alignment devices or manual intervention. The magnetic field self-aligns the coupling elements as they approach each other, enabling rapid tool changes while maintaining system simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
Traditional mechanical alignment mechanisms (such as alignment pins, guides, or sensors) are replaced by a magnetic field-based alignment system. The magnetic coupling elements generate attractive forces that automatically align the coupling surfaces, eliminating complex mechanical alignment hardware while enabling rapid automated tool changes
2Productivity
If automated tool changing systems are implemented, then productivity increases, but device complexity and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic coupling elements automatically align themselves through magnetic attraction forces during the coupling process, eliminating the need for complex external alignment devices, sensors, or control systems. This self-aligning mechanism enables automated tool changing while keeping the overall system simple and maintenance-free
Solution Approach 2:
Complex mechanical alignment systems (including alignment sensors, actuators, and control electronics) are replaced by a passive magnetic field system. The magnetic coupling elements inherently guide each other into proper alignment through magnetic forces, achieving automated tool changing without complex mechanical infrastructure
3Adaptability or versatility
If frequent tool changes are performed, then productivity decreases due to downtime, but adaptability increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic coupling system replaces complex mechanical coupling and alignment mechanisms with a magnetic field-based system. This enables rapid attachment and detachment of tools with automatic alignment, significantly reducing tool change downtime while supporting frequent tool changes and high adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic coupling elements self-align and self-couple during tool changes, eliminating the need for manual alignment operations or complex automated alignment sequences. This self-aligning capability enables extremely rapid tool changes, reducing downtime while supporting frequent tool changes for diverse machining operations
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
Facilitates quick and efficient tool changes with reduced labor costs and minimal downtime, while maintaining a simple design and minimizing maintenance needs.
Implementation Method 1
the alignment device has at least one drive-side magnetic element and at least one output-side magnetic element, wherein the magnetic elements form attractive or repulsive force fields which effect the alignment movement of the drive-side coupling element and/or the output-side coupling element
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a coupling device (10) for a machining tool (11), in particular for coupling a machining tool (11) with a machining machine, comprising a drive-side coupling element (14) and an output-side coupling element (15) which can be detachably coupled to each other, and an alignment device (22) which forms at least one force field for aligning the drive-side coupling element (14) and/or the output-side coupling element (15), as well as a machining machine and a method for coupling at least one machining tool (11) with a machining machine.