Rotating Tool Junction Axial Release Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing joint systems for machine tools require radial force for clamping and releasing sub-elements, which can be inefficient due to combined conical and plane surface clamping mechanisms.

Innovation Solution

Incorporation of ejector portions with rotatably mounted rolling elements on the clamping elements, allowing axial force to be used for release without radial force, and utilizing a differential screw with contradirectional thread leads for force transfer, along with radial guides and stops to facilitate clamping and releasing operations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If combined conical surface and plane surface clamping is used, then clamping force is improved, but release requires excessive radial force

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveclamping forceVSAvoidrelease force
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces ejector portions as intermediary elements that transfer axial force from the actuating means to the tie bolt through rolling elements. This mediator mechanism converts the axial motion into radial ejection motion, enabling release without direct radial force application on the clamping elements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the direction parameter of the force application from radial to axial by using the ejector portions and rolling elements. The axial force parameter is utilized to achieve release, transforming the force application mode and eliminating the need for radial force during the release operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of operation

If radial actuation is used for clamping, then ease of operation is improved, but friction increases requiring radial force for release

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveactuationVSAvoidfriction
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the direct radial mechanical actuation system with an axial actuation system that uses rolling elements to convert motion. This substitution eliminates sliding friction between the actuating means and clamping elements, replacing it with rolling friction which is significantly lower, while maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs rolling elements (spherical or cylindrical) to replace sliding contact with rolling contact. This curvature-based approach reduces friction by converting the mechanical interaction from sliding to rolling, thereby reducing energy loss while preserving operational ease.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

3Device complexity

If common actuating means are used for both clamping and release, then device complexity is reduced, but functional versatility is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveactuating meansVSAvoidclamping and release functionality
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs the actuating means to perform multiple functions: it provides axial force for both clamping and release operations, and through the ejector portions, enables radial ejection motion. This multi-functional design allows a single actuating mechanism to handle both clamping and release, enhancing versatility without increasing complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the clamping and release functions into a single actuating means system. The actuating means is operatively connected to both clamping elements and ejector portions, combining what would traditionally require separate mechanisms into one integrated system, thereby reducing complexity while maintaining functional versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 radial clamping and release of sub-elements using common actuating means without radial force, improving efficiency and ease of operation by reducing the force required for clamping and releasing.

Implementation Method 1

the ejector portions on the clamping element side being able to be equipped with at least one rotatably mounted rolling element. The rolling elements ensure that the transfer of force can be effected without friction

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRolling: Roller

Implementation Method 2

which in a clamping position carry wedge surfaces which engage beneath a conical portion of the tie bolt

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectWedge: Wedge

Implementation Method 3

owing to the combined conical surface and plane surface clamping

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectConical surface clamping: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentUS8172490B2Junction between two components of a rotating tool system
Publication Date: 2012.05.08 KOMET GROUP GMBH
  • US8172490B2 patent drawing
  • US8172490B2 patent drawing
  • US8172490B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A junction between two components of a tool system, that rotates about an axis of rotation, includes a conical seat, on the first component, coaxial to the axis of rotation and which is defined by an annular front face. The second component carries a coupling having a conical surface complementary to the conical seat and an annular end face resting against the front face. A tie bolt axially projects beyond the free end of the coupling pin and engages, in a cavity adjacent to the seat. The junction also has tensioning elements that are actuated from the exterior for mutually bracing the components, which are radially guided in the first component, and which act upon the tie bolt and are functionally linked with joint actuating means for adjustment between detached and tensioned positions. The tensioning elements include ejection portions that can be fitted with a rotatably received rolling element.