Rotation Tool with Internal Fixing Device for Precision Machining

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Solution Overview

Problem

Machining accuracy is compromised when using numerically controlled machine tools for cutting inner and end surfaces of workpieces due to interference from fixing devices and difficulty in securely fixing workpieces with non-symmetric shapes, leading to challenges in achieving high precision similar to lathe-turning processes.

Innovation Solution

A rotation tool with a cutter holding portion and a fixing device that includes a movable pressing mechanism, utilizing a working fluid or spring to securely fix the workpiece to a support member, allowing for stable cutting of inner and end surfaces without changing the workpiece's position, using a tool holder and spindle to maintain constant pressure for precise machining.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple fixing devices are disposed on the table to machine multiple parts, then the ability to machine multiple parts is improved, but the machining accuracy deteriorates due to position and posture changes when switching fixing devices

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to machine multiple partsVSAvoidmachining accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the fixing device and cutting tool into a single integrated rotation tool assembly. The fixing device is disposed inside the tool holder along with the cutting tool, allowing both functions to be performed by one tool rather than requiring separate fixing devices on the table. This integration eliminates the need to switch between multiple fixing devices, thereby maintaining machining accuracy while enabling machining of multiple parts including inner surfaces and end surfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The fixing device is nested within the tool holder structure, with the pressing portion positioned inside the tool holder to press the workpiece from the inner circumferential surface. This nested arrangement allows the fixing device to be contained within the tool assembly without interfering with the cutting operation, enabling simultaneous fixing and cutting functions while maintaining precise positioning.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Reliability

If a fixing device presses the workpiece in the radial direction from outside, then the workpiece can be fixed, but fixing becomes difficult for workpieces with non-symmetric outer shapes or inclined outer surfaces

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveworkpiece fixing capabilityVSAvoidapplicability to different workpiece shapes
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of pressing the workpiece from the outer circumferential surface in the radial direction, the invention inverts the pressing direction by applying force from the inner circumferential surface in the axial direction. The pressing portion is disposed inside the tool holder and presses the workpiece along the axial direction from the inner circumferential surface, which enables reliable fixing for workpieces with various outer shapes including non-symmetric and inclined surfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

3Ease of manufacture

If the tool is pressed against the workpiece surface for cutting, then cutting can be performed, but the fixing device interferes with the tool when machining multiple parts

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecutting capabilityVSAvoidinterference between tool and fixing device
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention merges the fixing device and cutting tool into a single integrated assembly where both components work together without interference. The fixing device is positioned inside the tool holder with the pressing portion oriented to press from the inner circumferential surface, while the cutting tool is positioned to cut the workpiece. This integrated design eliminates interference between the fixing and cutting operations, enabling machining of multiple parts including inner surfaces and end surfaces.

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 high-accuracy machining of multiple parts without altering the workpiece's position, effectively addressing the challenges of fixing non-symmetric shapes and maintaining precision, while allowing for adjustable pressure to suit different machining methods and workpiece types.

Implementation Method 1

a pressing device which presses the movement portion to a side toward the workpiece

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHydraulic pressure: Hydraulic Press

Implementation Method 2

a pressing device which presses the movement portion to a side toward the workpiece

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic force: Spring

Data Source

PatentUS10363611B2Rotation tool having function of fixing workpiece
Publication Date: 2019.07.30 FANUC LTD
  • US10363611B2 patent drawing
  • US10363611B2 patent drawing
  • US10363611B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A rotation tool is mounted to a spindle of a machine tool. The rotation tool comprises a cutter holding portion to which blade portion is fixed and a fixing device which fixes a workpiece. The blade portion is disposed at a tip end of the cutter holding portion. The fixing device includes a movement portion formed to be movable in the interior of the cutter holding portion and a pressing device which presses the movement portion to a side toward the workpiece. The fixing device includes a shaft portion rotatably supported relative to the movement portion and a pressing portion which presses the workpiece.