Rapid Clamping System for Machine Tool Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional clamping systems for connecting machine tools to robots are complex and expensive, making them unsuitable for precise and efficient quick-clamping applications in robotic surface processing, where precise control of process force is necessary.
Innovation Solution
A quick-clamping system comprising a chuck with a base plate, a tool holder with a mounting plate, pins for alignment, and an elastic element, such as a rubber disk, that generates a prestressing force between the base plate and the mounting plate to secure the tool holder, allowing for precise and easy attachment and detachment of machine tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional clamping systems are used to connect machine tools to robots, then reliable connection is achieved, but the system becomes complex and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping system is divided into separate functional components: a chuck with base plate that attaches to the robot, a tool holder with mounting plate that attaches to the machine tool, and discrete pins for alignment. This segmentation allows each component to be simple and inexpensive while maintaining reliable connection when assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic element (rubber disk) automatically generates prestressing force when compressed between the base plate and mounting plate, creating self-locking clamping action without requiring additional actuators or complex mechanisms. The system serves itself by converting compression directly into clamping force.
2Device complexity
If simple manual tool changing is used, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision and positioning accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The pins are pre-positioned on the base plate at precise locations that define the correct orientation and position of the mounting plate. When the tool holder is attached, the pins automatically align the mounting plate to the base plate, ensuring precise positioning before the elastic element applies clamping force.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces complex mechanical positioning mechanisms with a simple pin-based alignment system. The pins provide precise geometric constraints that define the relationship between base plate and mounting plate, achieving high positioning accuracy through basic mechanical geometry rather than complex adjustment mechanisms.
3Manufacturing precision
If precise force control is implemented, then process quality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic element changes its compression parameter to generate the required prestressing force. By selecting appropriate elastic material and geometry, the system provides controlled force without requiring active control mechanisms. The force control is achieved through passive elastic deformation rather than active mechanical or electronic systems.
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 system provides a simple, precise, and cost-effective means to connect machine tools to robots, enabling accurate force control and compensating for inaccuracies in workpiece positioning and trajectory, while preventing unintended movement or tilting.
Implementation Method 1
at least one elastic element, in particular a rubber disk (20), which is arranged between the base plate and mounting plate
Data Source
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AI summary
A rapid clamping system for mounting a tool or a machine tool on a manipulator is described. According to an exemplary embodiment, the rapid clamping system comprises the following: a clamping chuck with a base plate which is designed to be mounted on a flange which can be positioned by a manipulator; a tool holder which is designed for mounting on a machine tool, wherein the tool holder has a mounting plate which, in a locked state, lies against the base plate of the clamping chuck; two or more pins which are designed, in a mounted state, to align the mounting plate on the base plate and to prevent a movement of the mounting plate relative to the base plate in a plane parallel to the base plate; at least one elastic element; and a toggle-type fastener which is designed to lock the tool holder on the base plate of the clamping chuck, wherein, in the locked state, the elastic element is deformed and brings about a pretensioning force between the base plate and the mounting plate.