Modulating Tool Holder Spindle for Machining
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tool holder assemblies for machining operations face challenges in easily integrating linear and rotational movements, particularly in automated systems, requiring modifications to existing machines and complicating tool changing processes due to electrical power transmission across rotating systems.
Innovation Solution
A modulating tool holder assembly that includes a rotatable spindle with a central fluid passageway and a linear actuator, allowing simultaneous rotational and oscillating linear movement, using pre-loaded linear ball-spline and rotary ball-spline bearing assemblies to superimpose linear motion on rotary motion without machine modifications, and enabling power transfer across a stationary interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a stationary system for modulation is used that involves rotation of the workpiece, then ease of installation is improved, but device complexity increases when integrating linear and rotational movements in automated systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional approach by making the tool holder rotatable instead of the workpiece. The modulating tool holder assembly includes a rotatable tool holder with a workpiece holder that can rotate, while the linear actuator remains stationary. This inversion simplifies integration into automated machining systems and reduces device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a stationary interface as an intermediary between the linear actuator and the rotatable tool holder. This stationary interface mediates the transfer of motion and power, allowing the linear actuator to drive rotational motion without requiring direct mechanical connection, thereby reducing complexity in automated systems.
2Ease of operation
If electrical power is transmitted across rotating systems, then tool holder rotation is enabled, but automated tool changing processes become complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a stationary interface as an intermediary that eliminates the need for electrical power transmission across rotating systems. The stationary interface allows power and control signals to be transmitted without rotation, while mechanical rotation is achieved through the rotatable tool holder mechanism. This separation simplifies automated tool changing processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the tool holder assembly into stationary and rotatable components. The stationary interface handles electrical power and control, while the rotatable tool holder handles mechanical rotation. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each subsystem, reducing overall complexity.
3Productivity
If linear and rotational movements are integrated in existing machines, then modulated cutting velocity is achieved, but machine modifications are required
Solution Approach 1:
The modulating tool holder assembly is designed as a universal device that can be attached to existing machine tools without modification. The rotatable tool holder with integrated linear actuator provides both linear and rotational movements, making the entire assembly self-contained and compatible with standard machine interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the linear actuator, rotatable tool holder, and workpiece holder into a single integrated assembly. This combination allows the device to perform both linear oscillation and rotation functions within one unit, eliminating the need for separate machine modifications while achieving modulated cutting velocity.
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
Enables improved machining performance by controlling undeformed chip thickness and adapting to both rotating and non-rotating systems without machine modifications, enhancing machining efficiency and ease of installation.
Implementation Method 1
A linear actuator is disposed radially exteriorly of the rotating spindle shaft member, and is functionally coupled to the clamp for imparting an oscillating linear movement to the clamp
Implementation Method 2
A rotatable spindle member extends generally axially in the tool holder and is functionally coupled to the clamp for imparting a rotational to the movement of the clamp
Implementation Method 3
using pre-loaded linear ball-spline and rotary ball-spline bearing assemblies to superimpose linear motion on rotary motion
Data Source
AI summary
A modulating tool holder includes a tool holder first end and a tool holder second end, and a central axis extending between the tool holder first end and the tool holder second end. The tool holder first end has a coupler for coupling the tool holder to a drive member of a machining device and the second end includes a clamp for releasably holding either a tool or a workpiece. A rotatable spindle member extends axially in the tool holder and imparts a rotational movement to the clamp. A central fluid passageway extends between first and second ends of the rotatable spindle member for conveying a fluid. A linear actuator is configured to impart an oscillating movement to the clamp. The linear actuator is functionally decoupled from the torsional load of the rotatable spindle member.