Output Device Cam Groove Mechanism for Compact Clamping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing output devices for positioning clamps have complex structures, leading to high production costs and large size.
Innovation Solution
A simplified output device design featuring a first guide hole, a second guide hole, a first rod for output, and a second rod for driving, with an accommodation groove and cam groove mechanism for reduced size and cost, utilizing a drive transmission to move the rods axially and engage with a guide member for clamping and unclamping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a complex structure with multiple wedges and inclined surfaces is used, then the clamping function is achieved, but the device complexity and production cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple wedge components into a single integrated output rod with cam grooves. Instead of using separate left and right wedges with inclined surfaces, the invention integrates the clamping and releasing functions into one rod that interacts with a single guide member, thereby reducing the number of parts while maintaining the clamping function
Solution Approach 2:
The output rod serves multiple functions: it acts as both the driving element and the clamping element. The cam grooves on the output rod engage with the guide member to simultaneously achieve both clamping and releasing actions, eliminating the need for separate dedicated components for each function
2Reliability
If multiple separate components are used to achieve clamping, then the clamping function is reliable, but the device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple components into a compact integrated structure. The output rod with cam grooves and the guide member with accommodation groove form a compact assembly that replaces the larger arrangement of separate wedges, reducing the overall device volume while maintaining functional reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The guide member is nested within the housing structure, and the output rod moves within the guide member's accommodation groove. This nested arrangement allows the components to be tightly integrated, minimizing the device's external dimensions while preserving the clamping mechanism's functionality
3Ease of manufacture
If a simple structure is used, then production cost is reduced, but the clamping function may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the clamping and releasing functions into a single output rod mechanism, the patent reduces the total number of parts that need to be manufactured and assembled. This simplification lowers production costs while the cam groove design ensures reliable engagement and disengagement for consistent clamping performance
Solution Approach 2:
The cam grooves are designed with specific geometric parameters that control the engagement and disengagement forces. By optimizing the cam groove geometry, the invention achieves reliable clamping function with a simpler structure, maintaining performance while reducing manufacturing complexity
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 solution results in a more cost-effective and compact output device with a simpler structure, enabling reduced production costs and downsizing while maintaining effective clamping and unclamping functionality.
Implementation Method 1
A cam groove 38 is provided in the second rod 22 so as to be directly or indirectly make an engagement with the guide member 35. The cam groove 38 has a driving groove portion 40 extending so that the distance from the axis of the second rod 22 increases toward one of both axial ends of the second rod 22.
Data Source
AI summary
A first rod (21) is inserted into a first guide hole (11) so as to be movable in a vertical direction. A second rod (22) is inserted into a second guide hole (12), which crosses the first guide hole (11), so as to be movable in a horizontal direction. An accommodation groove (31) is disposed in a lower half portion of the first rod (21). The second rod (22) is provided with an insertion portion (32) to be fitted in the accommodation groove (31). A cam groove (38) provided in the insertion portion (32) is fitted over a pin (35) provided in the lower half portion of the first rod (21). A drive transmission (D) connected to the second rod (22) moves the second rod (22) in the horizontal direction.