Pivoting Key Clamp Structure for Accurate Blank Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional key duplication machines often fail to securely hold key blanks during the machining process, leading to incorrect duplication due to the key blank being pushed out of the machine before it is properly sandwiched, resulting in failed duplication processes.
Innovation Solution
A key making machine with a clamp system featuring a pivoting gate and anvil configuration, where a T-shaped recess and guide channels ensure secure engagement and positioning of the key blank, and a piston mechanism that biases the key blank further into the machine for precise cutting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional door and anvil clamp is used to hold the key blank, then the structure is simple, but the key blank may be pushed out of the machine before securely sandwiched, causing machining errors
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp is divided into multiple functional components: a door assembly with guide channels for lateral constraint, a pivoting gate for forward positioning, and an anvil for support. Each segment performs a specific function to collectively secure the key blank, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The gate is designed to pivot and push the key blank forward into the machine before the door fully closes to sandwich the blank. This preliminary positioning action ensures the key blank is correctly positioned before clamping force is applied, preventing machining errors.
2Force
If the door forces toward the anvil to sandwich the key blank, then clamping force is applied, but the key blank may move laterally or be pushed out before secure engagement
Solution Approach 1:
Different parts of the clamp system apply force in different directions and at different stages: the gate applies forward pushing force to position the key blank, while the door applies lateral clamping force to secure it. This localized force application ensures both positioning accuracy and secure holding.
Solution Approach 2:
The gate acts as an intermediary component between the door and the key blank. It translates the door's closing motion into a forward pushing action on the key blank, ensuring proper positioning before the door fully engages to sandwich the blank, thereby maintaining positioning accuracy while applying clamping force.
Data Source
AI summary
A clamp is disclosed for a key making machine. The clamp may have an anvil, and a door movable toward the anvil to sandwich a key blank therebetween. The clamp may also have a gate pivotally connected to the door and configured to engage the key blank.