Radial Interference Clamping for Plastic Component Machining
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Solution Overview
Problem
In machining processes like turning and grinding, plastic components are often deformed due to high clamping forces required for friction fit clamping, and using multiple clamping jaw sets is material- and space-intensive.
Innovation Solution
A system with a plastic component featuring a clamping auxiliary structure and a clamping element that uses an interference fit with counter-clamping auxiliary structures on the clamping jaws to secure the component axially, reducing the need for high clamping forces and minimizing deformation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If friction fit clamping is used to secure the component axially, then the component can be held in the clamping chuck, but high clamping forces are required which may deform the plastic component
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transitions from axial friction fit clamping to radial interference fit clamping. The clamping auxiliary structure on the component engages with counter-clamping auxiliary structures on the clamping jaws through radial interference, converting the clamping mechanism from one-dimensional axial friction to multi-dimensional radial interference engagement. This dimensional change allows secure clamping with lower forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the clamping mechanism from friction-based to interference-fit-based. By introducing clamping auxiliary structures with specific geometric parameters (protrusions, recesses, hooks) that create interference fit, the clamping mode changes fundamentally. This parameter change in the clamping mechanism enables reliable axial securing without requiring high clamping forces that would deform the plastic component.
2Reliability
If multiple clamping jaw sets are used to prevent deformation, then the component can be securely clamped, but material and space requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping auxiliary structure on the component is designed to engage with counter-clamping auxiliary structures on clamping jaws through radial interference fit. This universal interference fit mechanism can accommodate various component diameters and geometries, allowing a single set of clamping jaws to securely clamp different components without requiring multiple specialized jaw sets for different diameter ranges.
Solution Approach 2:
By transitioning to radial interference fit clamping with engagement structures, the system achieves secure clamping with fewer jaws. The multi-dimensional engagement (radial interference combined with axial positioning) replaces the need for numerous jaws that would be required for friction-based clamping of various sizes.
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
This approach allows for secure clamping with fewer clamping jaws and lower forces, preventing deformation and reducing material and space requirements, while enabling machining of various plastic components across different diameters with fewer clamping jaw sets.
Implementation Method 1
The counter-clamping auxiliary structure (7) is configured to engage the clamping auxiliary structure (4) and fix the component (2) by interference fit in the axial direction with respect to the clamping element (5)
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a component to be machined, the component having a plastic base body having an outer diameter and a longitudinal axis and at least one clamping auxiliary structure, and a clamping element configured to clamp the component using the clamping auxiliary structure. The clamping element includes at least one clamping jaw having at least one counter-clamping auxiliary structure that is configured to engage the clamping auxiliary structure and to fix the component in an interference-fit manner in the axial direction with respect to the clamping element. Also a machining method using the system.