Rocking Support Block Centering Magnet Chuck Workpiece
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine tools face challenges in accurately centering workpieces due to bulky constructions and variations in centering accuracy, particularly when handling circular parts, as they require complex mechanisms and precise setup for various workpiece sizes and shapes.
Innovation Solution
A centering apparatus and process utilizing a support block with action pads that rock on a fulcrum to align the workpiece with the chuck's rotational axis, allowing for simple installation and efficient centering across diverse workpiece sizes and shapes, using magnetic or vacuum attraction for secure holding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a three-jaw chuck is used to hold the workpiece, then the workpiece can be gripped securely, but the workpiece deforms and centering accuracy varies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical three-jaw chuck gripping system with a magnetic chuck that uses magnetic fields to hold the workpiece. This substitution eliminates mechanical deformation caused by jaw pressure while maintaining secure gripping, thereby improving centering accuracy without sacrificing reliability
2Measurement precision
If radially retractable driver units and inspection units are used for automatic centering, then centering accuracy can be detected and adjusted, but the machine tool becomes bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the centering function from the main machine tool structure by using a separate, movable centering tool that can be positioned near the workpiece. This externalization removes the need for bulky integrated driver units and inspection units within the machine tool, achieving accurate centering detection while maintaining a compact overall structure
3Manufacturing precision
If stoppers are placed close together for centering circular plates, then centering can be achieved, but the device lacks universality for various workpiece sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a movable centering tool that can dynamically adjust its position and the spacing of its action pads based on the workpiece size. This dynamic adjustability allows the same device to accurately center various sized workpieces by modifying the pad configuration, achieving both precision and versatility
4Manufacturing precision
If multiple driver units are activated separately for centering, then centering can be performed, but the operation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple centering functions into a single integrated centering tool with multiple action pads that work simultaneously. By merging the separate driver unit operations into one coordinated tool that applies centering force at multiple points at once, the patent achieves accurate centering while significantly reducing operation time
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
Enables rapid and accurate centering of workpieces, improving processing efficiency by simplifying the centering operation and accommodating a wide range of workpiece sizes and shapes without the need for bulky machine tool constructions.
Implementation Method 1
a magnet chuck (5) mounted on a lengthwise end of the machine spindle (6) in a way revolving coaxially with the machine spindle (6)
Data Source
AI summary
A process and apparatus for centering accurately and speedy a workpiece on a magnet chuck mounted on a work spindle. A pair of action pads spaced away from one another comes into engagement with the workpiece attracted to the work spindle, thereby performing the centering operation. The action pads are mounted on a support plate that can freely turn on a fulcrum. As the fulcrum makes head towards a rotational center of the magnet chuck, the action pads comes into abutment in a rocking manner against the workpiece that is held at off-center relation in the chuck, thereby compensating the off-center relation to keep a center of the workpiece in alignment with the rotational center of the chuck.