Opposed-Thread Clamp Mount for Rigid Machining Platform Fixturing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mounting systems for workpiece holders in milling machines are limited by their strength and rigidity, requiring significant setup time and specialized skills, and are not suitable for quick and accurate fixture installation.
Innovation Solution
A mount system with a body, first and second clamps movable relative to the body, and a drive screw, featuring threaded engagements and opposite-thread orientations to facilitate quick and rigid clamping of workpiece holders, allowing for high rigidity and ease of installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If existing mounting systems are used for workpiece holders, then the setup process is complex requiring specialized skills, but the strength and rigidity are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into modular components: a base with threaded openings, separate clamps with corresponding threads, and workpiece holders. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall system strength and simplicity of installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The base includes multiple threaded openings and the clamps can be positioned at different locations, creating a universal mounting system that can accommodate various workpiece holder sizes and configurations. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for specialized mounting systems for different fixture types.
2Force
If existing mounting systems are used, then specialized skills are required for installation, but the clamping force is insufficient for larger fixtures
Solution Approach 1:
The clamps feature self-aligning threaded connections that automatically position themselves during installation. The workpiece holders have corresponding threaded openings that guide the clamps into proper alignment, eliminating the need for specialized installation skills while enabling high clamping force through direct threading.
3Manufacturing precision
If traditional mounting methods are used, then setup time is significant, but the rigidity required for accurate machining is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The base is pre-equipped with threaded openings at predetermined locations, and the clamps are pre-threaded to match. This preliminary preparation of threading eliminates the need for on-site drilling or complex alignment procedures, enabling rapid fixture installation while maintaining precise positioning for accurate machining.
4Adaptability or versatility
If existing mounting systems are used, then the system lacks adaptability for different fixture sizes, but the structural simplicity is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The base includes threaded openings arranged in asymmetric patterns at multiple locations and orientations. This asymmetric configuration allows clamps to be positioned optimally for different workpiece sizes and shapes, providing high adaptability while maintaining relatively simple structural elements.
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 system enables quick, accurate, and secure mounting of workpiece holders with high clamping force, suitable for larger fixtures, reducing setup time and enhancing rigidity on machining platforms.
Implementation Method 1
The drive screw comprises a first external threaded length threadably engaged with the first internal threaded length of the first clamp. The drive screw further comprises a second external threaded length threadably engaged with the second internal threaded length of the second clamp.
Data Source
AI summary
A mount for a machining platform is disclosed. The mount can comprise a body, a first clamp, a second clamp, and a drive screw rotatably mounted to the body. The first clamp and the second clamp can both comprise a clamp body and a protrusion comprising a shoulder. The drive screw can comprise a first external threaded length threadably engaged with a first internal threaded length of the first clamp. The first external threaded length comprises first threads. The drive screw can further comprise a second external threaded length threadably engaged with a second internal threaded length of the second clamp. The second external threaded length comprises second threads oriented in the opposite direction of the first threads. The shoulders move away from each other upon a rotation of the drive screw.