Multi-Chamber Tool Mounting for Stiff, Repeatable Clamping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tool mounting assemblies for machine tools lack sufficient stiffness and repeatability for handling high process forces and operating in challenging conditions, with existing clamping systems experiencing instability due to fluid migration in annular chambers.
Innovation Solution
A tool mounting assembly with at least three independently expandable chambers within the mount, allowing for individual pressure adjustment of a flowable material to achieve high stiffness and stability, and an end plate for additional tool retention, preventing separation under high loads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single annular chamber is used for clamping, then the structure is simple, but fluid migration causes instability and inadequate stiffness
Solution Approach 1:
The single annular chamber is divided into multiple independent chambers (at least three) that are radially offset from each other. Each chamber can be pressurized independently, preventing fluid migration and providing stable, controllable clamping forces. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by maintaining structural simplicity while eliminating the instability caused by fluid migration in a single chamber.
2Device complexity
If existing clamping systems are used, then the structure is simple, but positional accuracy repeatability is inadequate for high precision requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping system uses dynamically adjustable pressure in each chamber to achieve precise tool positioning. By independently controlling the pressure in each chamber, the system can compensate for variations and achieve micron-level repeatability. This dynamic control resolves the contradiction between simple structure and high precision positioning requirements.
3Device complexity
If conventional clamping assemblies are used, then the design is simple, but stiffness is inadequate for handling high process forces
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement surface is divided into multiple local contact points, each controlled by a separate chamber. This allows localized adjustment of clamping forces at different positions, optimizing the distribution of process forces and increasing overall interface stiffness. The local quality principle resolves the contradiction by enabling precise force distribution without requiring a fundamentally complex assembly design.
4Force
If high clamping forces are applied to ensure tool retention, then tool security is improved, but positional accuracy and repeatability deteriorate due to deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping force is segmented into multiple independent chambers that can be pressurized individually. This allows the total clamping force to be distributed across multiple contact points, preventing localized deformation that would compromise positional accuracy. The segmentation principle enables high clamping forces to be applied while maintaining precision through balanced force distribution.
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
The assembly provides micron-level repeatability and high stiffness, enabling the transmission of large process forces while maintaining tool stability and safety, even under high-speed and high-pressure conditions.
Implementation Method 1
an increase in the pressure within the chamber above a predetermined threshold expands the chamber, which causes the coupled portion of the engagement surface to move in a radial direction
Data Source
Figure 1~2
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AI summary
A tool mounting assembly (4) for coupling a tool (2) to a rotary drive of a machine tool. The assembly comprises a mount (6) having a longitudinal axis (10) and defining an engagement surface (22) for engaging with a tool to be rotated about the longitudinal axis, and at least three independently expandable chambers (20) within the mount for receiving a flowable material. Each chamber is mechanically coupled to a respective portion of the engagement surface, such that an increase in the pressure within the chamber above a predetermined threshold expands the chamber, which causes the coupled portion of the engagement surface to move in a radial direction relative to the longitudinal axis.