Modular Cutting Tool Torque Transfer With Integral Central Pin
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cutting tools face challenges in achieving a compact torque transfer mechanism while allowing for multiple fastening positions and maintaining structural integrity during machining operations.
Innovation Solution
An elongated cutting tool with a monolithic, additively manufactured central pin and recess design, featuring alternating distances from the longitudinal axis to form crests and teeth, allowing for a compact torque transfer mechanism and multiple fastening positions without rotational movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a traditional torque transfer mechanism is used, then the structure is simple, but the mechanism size is large and cannot be compact
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the central pin and the recess into a single integrated component formed by additive manufacturing. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate torque transfer elements, achieving a compact mechanism while maintaining structural complexity only where functionally necessary for torque transmission and multi-position fastening
Solution Approach 2:
The design nests the torque transfer mechanism within the tool body structure itself. The central pin is positioned within the tool body, and the recess is formed within the tool holder, creating a nested arrangement that minimizes overall mechanism size while maintaining functional integrity
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple fastening positions are allowed, then the adaptability is improved, but the risk of rotational movement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The additive manufactured recess features asymmetric crests and valleys that correspond to asymmetric protrusions on the tool holder. This asymmetric geometry provides multiple discrete fastening positions while preventing rotational movement, as each position has a unique geometric match that locks the tool body in place
3Ease of manufacture
If an integral central pin design is used, then the manufacturing complexity is reduced, but the torque transfer capability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The additive manufacturing process enables complex geometric parameters to be directly realized in the integral central pin design. The pin incorporates optimized cross-sectional areas, varying diameters, and integrated cooling channels that maintain high torque transfer capability while being manufactured as a single piece, eliminating assembly complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A tool body having a longitudinal body axis has a central body recess recessed in a rear body surface thereof. The recess includes an inner recess surface, and a body recess peripheral surface extending between the inner recess surface and the rear body surface. An integral central pin extends rearwardly from the inner recess surface, and having an integral pin length measured along the longitudinal body axis from the inner recess surface to a rear pin surface thereof. In a circumferential direction about the longitudinal body axis, the body recess peripheral surface alternatingly increases and decreases in distance from the longitudinal body axis, thereby forming a plurality of angularly spaced apart longitudinal axis crests. A tool holder has a protrusion with complementary surfaces to engage the tool body. A fastening member, such as a lock nut, secures the tool body to the tool holder to form a cutting tool.