Machine Tool Positioning Inserts With Pneumatic Clearance Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current positioning devices for machine tools and machining centers lack a reliable and precise method to indicate the opening of locking inserts, leading to potential damage and safety risks during loading and unloading operations, especially when automated systems attempt to lift pallets with closed inserts.
Innovation Solution
A positioning device with a pneumatically sealed annular chamber and valve means that generates a clearance signal by using a calibrated hole and pressure sensor to detect the open position of locking inserts, minimizing energy consumption and allowing easy calibration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automated loading and unloading operations are performed without checking the opening status of locking inserts, then operational speed and productivity are improved, but damage to positioning device mechanisms and safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism through a sensor system that detects the opening status of locking inserts and provides a clearance signal to the automated loading/unloading system. This allows the system to automatically verify the status of locking inserts before operations, preventing damage while maintaining high productivity through automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs preliminary action by checking the opening status of locking inserts before automated loading and unloading operations commence. The clearance signal is generated in advance to confirm that locking inserts are properly opened, preventing potential damage before it occurs while enabling smooth automated operations.
2Reliability
If a clearance signal system is implemented to detect locking insert opening status, then safety and reliability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by integrating the clearance signal generation function into the existing positioning device structure. The sensor system serves multiple purposes: detecting locking insert status, generating clearance signals, and providing feedback to the control system, thereby minimizing additional complexity while maximizing reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing a sensor system that acts as a mediator between the locking inserts and the automated loading/unloading system. This intermediary component provides accurate status detection without requiring direct complex integration between the locking mechanism and the automated system.
3Ease of operation
If pneumatic means are used to actuate locking inserts, then ease of operation is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by using pneumatic means only when needed to actuate the locking inserts, rather than maintaining continuous pneumatic pressure. The pneumatic system operates intermittently to open locking inserts before loading/unloading operations, reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies self-service through spring-loaded locking inserts that automatically close and lock into position after being opened by pneumatic means. The springs provide the closing force without requiring additional energy input, allowing the system to maintain ease of operation while minimizing energy consumption during the locking phase.
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 provides a highly reliable and precise clearance signal for the opening of locking inserts, ensuring safe operation with reduced energy expenditure and easy implementation in existing systems.
Implementation Method 1
valve means (52) for the detection and indication of the open position of the locking inserts (32)... a calibrated hole (60) and pressure sensor
Implementation Method 2
The locking inserts are actuated for closure by preloaded springs in order to grip a respective locking pin stably
Implementation Method 3
can be actuated to be opened by pneumatic means
Data Source
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Figure 3
AI summary
Multiple locking inserts (32) can slide sealingly in respective guiding seats (36) of a body (12) in order to translate between a locking position and a loading/unloading position. Valve means (52) comprise a valve body (54), which is inserted sealingly in a guiding seat (36) and has a front surface (56) which faces an end surface (58) of the respective locking insert (32) which is opposite to a grip end (37), and a calibrated hole (60) which extends from the front surface (56) to the atmosphere. A pneumatic circuit (64, 66, C, P) supplies pressurized air into the guiding seat (36) between the valve body (54) and the locking insert (32). With the locking insert (32) in the loading/unloading position, the end surface (58) abuts frontally against the front surface (56), so as to obstruct the outflow of air through the calibrated hole (60). Sensing means (S) detect the consequent increase in pressure and generate a corresponding clearance signal (A).