Rolling End-Stop Support for Tailstock-Free Workpiece Machining
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machining processes require separate machines for turning and axial machining operations, necessitating time-consuming workpiece transfer and complicating the machining process, especially when workpieces cannot be connected to a self-centering device.
Innovation Solution
A support device and assembly that allows axial support of a workpiece during machining, enabling both axial and radial operations without a tailstock, using a pin and rolling member to engage with machine tool equipment, and optionally a jig for enhanced stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a tailstock is used to axially support the workpiece during turning operations, then the workpiece stability is improved, but the device complexity increases and axial machining operations cannot be performed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the tailstock from the machining system and replaces it with a support device consisting of a pin and rolling member that can be integrated into the lathe structure. This extraction of the tailstock function allows axial machining operations to be performed while maintaining workpiece stability through the alternative support mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The support device with pin and rolling member serves multiple functions: it provides axial support during turning operations, enables axial machining operations, and can be integrated into the existing lathe structure. This multi-functionality replaces the need for separate tailstock and machining center operations.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the workpiece is clamped between tailstock and puller for turning operations, then the workpiece cannot move axially, but it becomes impossible to face the second end or perform axial machining operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the workpiece from the tailstock-puller clamping arrangement and replaces it with a support device using a pin and rolling member. This allows the workpiece to remain stable during turning while enabling axial machining operations on both ends of the workpiece.
Solution Approach 2:
The support device allows dynamic adjustment and movement. The rolling member can move along the pin, and the workpiece can be positioned and supported without fixed clamping, enabling both turning and axial machining operations on a single machine tool.
3Ease of manufacture
If the workpiece is moved from lathe to machining centre for axial operations, then complete machining can be performed, but the production time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the capabilities of turning operations and axial machining operations into a single lathe by integrating the support device with pin and rolling member. This eliminates the need to transfer the workpiece to a separate machining center, reducing production time and complexity while maintaining complete machining capability.
4Force
If a tailstock is used for axial support, then the workpiece remains compressed against the puller, but the tailstock cannot be removed for subsequent axial operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the tailstock and replaces it with a support device using a pin and rolling member that can provide axial support without preventing subsequent axial machining operations. The workpiece remains properly supported and compressed during turning, yet the system remains flexible for additional operations.
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 complete machining on a single machine tool, reducing man-hours and machine-hours by allowing direct axial and radial operations on a lathe without the need for a tailstock, thus simplifying and accelerating the production process.
Implementation Method 1
The rolling member (5) is engaged with the tooling portion (43) and acts as an axial end stop for the workpiece (2)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~2b
Figure 3~3b
AI summary
The present invention relates to a support device (1) for axially supporting a workpiece (2) during a machining operation. Said device (1) is adapted to be engaged with a piece of machine tool equipment (3) and comprises a pin (4) and a rolling member (5). The pin (4) has a main extension along a pin axis (P) and comprises, in axial sequence: a coupling portion (41), a protruding portion (42), and a tooling portion (43). The coupling portion (41) is adapted to be inserted into a housing (30) obtained in the machine tool equipment (3). The protruding portion (42) has a greater radial size than the coupling portion (41). The tooling portion (43) has a smaller radial size as compared with the protruding portion (42). The rolling member (5) is engaged with the tooling portion (43) and acts as an axial end stop for the workpiece (2), so as to allow the execution of the axial and/or radial machining operation on the workpiece (2) without the use of a tailstock (31).