Modular Tool Holder Y-Axis Alignment Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional machine tool turrets face challenges in accurately aligning and adjusting tool holders along the y-axis, which affects the precision and efficiency of machining operations, particularly when dealing with different spindle configurations and tool types.
Innovation Solution
A modular tool holder system with adjustable y-axis alignment structures and interchangeable tool mounts, allowing for precise positioning and rotation of tool holders to accommodate various tools and spindle configurations, including live and dead tool holders with distinct orientations for main and back spindles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional tool holders are used with fixed alignment, then the structure is simple, but the machining precision and tool positioning accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The tool holder incorporates adjustable alignment structures that allow dynamic repositioning of the tool holder relative to the turret in the y-axis direction, enabling precise tool positioning while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure through selective adjustment rather than complete redesign
Solution Approach 2:
The tool holder is divided into separable components including the body, tool mounting structures, and adjustable alignment elements, allowing independent adjustment of alignment features without replacing the entire tool holder assembly
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple tool types are accommodated with dedicated holders, then each tool is optimized, but the number of tool holders and complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tool holder is designed with universal adaptability to accommodate multiple tool types including live tools, dead tools, drill bits, and indexable insert tools through interchangeable tool mounting structures, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated tool holders for different tool types
Solution Approach 2:
The tool holder allows dynamic reconfiguration of tool mounting orientations, enabling the same holder to be adapted for different tool types and spindle configurations (main spindle or back spindle) through adjustable alignment and tool mounting mechanisms
3Measurement precision
If shims are used to adjust y-axis position, then alignment can be modified, but the adjustment precision and stability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment structure replaces static shim-based adjustment with a dynamic mechanical adjustment mechanism that provides precise, repeatable, and stable y-axis positioning through controlled movement and locking mechanisms, eliminating the instability and imprecision inherent in shim-based systems
Data Source
AI summary
A combination live/dead tool holder for use on an indexing tool turret of a machine tool includes a live tool holder as well as a dead tool holder mount. The dead tool holder mount is configured to interchangeably mount to a variety of different dead tool holders. The tool holder includes a y-axis adjustment mechanism that facilitates adjustment of the position of the tool holder relative to the turret along the y axis (i.e., along a circumferential direction of the turret).