Omni-Directional CNC Tool Head and Rotatable Clamps for Multi-Side Machining
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing CNC machine tools are cumbersome and expensive, with limited ability to work on all sides of a workpiece and handle workpieces of varying lengths without requiring extensive repositioning and increased machining costs.
Innovation Solution
A computer numerical control (CNC) machining apparatus featuring a tool head that can move and rotate independently in an omni-directional manner, combined with rotatable clamps that can hold, release, and translate a workpiece along with continuous 360° rotation around its Y-axis, allowing for precise machining on any side, length, and location of the workpiece without the need for reloading.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If prior-art CNC machine tools use fixed tool heads and perpendicular workpiece holding, then the structure is simple, but the machine cannot work on all sides of the workpiece and requires extensive repositioning
Solution Approach 1:
The tool head is made dynamically movable in multiple directions (X, Y, Z axes) and can rotate around the workpiece, transforming the fixed tool head configuration into a dynamic one that can adapt to any position on the workpiece surface, enabling machining on all sides without repositioning
Solution Approach 2:
The tool head assembly is designed with multi-functionality, capable of performing machining operations on all sides of the workpiece through omnidirectional movement and rotation, making a single machine structure able to replace multiple specialized configurations
2Length of moving object
If prior-art CNC machine tools hold workpiece perpendicular to base, then the clamping structure is simple, but the working head cannot reach distal ends of long workpieces
Solution Approach 1:
The working head gains the ability to move in multiple dimensions including rotational movement around the workpiece axis, allowing it to reach distal ends of long workpieces by approaching from different angular positions rather than being constrained to a single linear path
3Adaptability or versatility
If prior-art CNC machine tools require tool head to lower/rotate or workpiece to lift, then the basic machining function is achieved, but the machine becomes cumbersome and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple movement functions (translation along X, Y, Z axes and rotation around the workpiece) are merged into a single integrated tool head assembly, eliminating the need for separate mechanisms to lower/rotate tool heads or lift workpieces, thereby reducing overall system complexity
4Adaptability or versatility
If prior-art CNC machine tools use multiple spindle groups to work on different sides, then all sides of workpiece can be machined, but the machine becomes complex and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
A single tool head is designed with universal multi-functionality, capable of machining all sides of the workpiece through omnidirectional movement and rotation, replacing the need for multiple specialized spindle groups while maintaining the ability to work on all surfaces
Data Source
AI summary
A computer numerical control (CNC) machining apparatus and method are disclosed which comprise: a first base; a second base vertically perpendicular to the first base; a tool head support assembly having a tool head, connected to and move a tool head in an omni-directional; and a plurality of rotatable clamps configured to independently hold, release, and move a workpiece along the first base and independently rotate a workpiece 360° around itself.