Pivoting Reaming Insert for Multi-Size Thread Milling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Thread milling systems face challenges in efficiently accommodating different product sizes and managing waste during the threading process, as the milling cutter needs to be adjusted frequently and waste management can be cumbersome.

Innovation Solution

A combination tool for thread milling systems is introduced, featuring a body with a securing pocket and a reaming insert, which is secured to the spindle of the thread milling machine, allowing for secure attachment and efficient threading or reaming of products, with the reaming inserts being pivotable to accommodate various dimensions and the spindle being rotatable for precise cutting.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a milling cutter is used to thread different sized products, then threading capability is achieved, but frequent adjustment is required and waste management becomes cumbersome

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvethreading capability for different product sizesVSAvoidtime for frequent cutter adjustment
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The reaming insert is made pivotable relative to the body, allowing it to dynamically adjust its position and orientation to accommodate different product sizes and threading requirements. This dynamic adjustment mechanism eliminates the need for frequent complete tool changes or complex cutter reconfigurations, thereby reducing adjustment time while maintaining versatility across different product dimensions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If a milling cutter is used to thread different sized products, then threading capability is achieved, but frequent adjustment is required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvethreading capability for different product sizesVSAvoidefficiency of threading process
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The combination tool integrates multiple functions within a single device: the body can hold either a reaming insert or a threading insert, and the reaming insert itself can pivot to perform both reaming and threading operations. This multi-functionality allows one tool to replace what would traditionally require multiple specialized tools, thereby maintaining adaptability for different product sizes while significantly improving productivity by eliminating tool changes and adjustments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If reaming inserts are made pivotable to accommodate various dimensions, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to fit different dimensionsVSAvoidcomplexity of combination tool structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The combination tool is segmented into distinct modular components: a body, a pivotable reaming insert, and optional threading inserts. Each component has a specific function and can be independently configured or replaced. The pivotable reaming insert is divided into a body portion and a cutting portion that can rotate relative to each other. This segmentation allows the complex adaptability function to be achieved through simple, well-defined mechanical movements rather than a monolithic complex structure, making the overall device more manageable and easier to operate despite its versatile capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS10898962B2Cleanline threader
Publication Date: 2021.01.26 ASC ENGINEERED SOLUTIONS LLC
  • US10898962B2 patent drawing
  • US10898962B2 patent drawing
  • US10898962B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A thread milling system includes a thread milling machine having a spindle; and a combination tool having a body and a reaming insert, the body having a first end and a second end, the body defining a securing pocket, the reaming insert secured proximate to the second end of the body and within the securing pocket, the second end of the body attached to the spindle.