Multi-Sector Self-Centering Chuck for Variable Pipe Diameters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing self-centering chucks are inadequate for machining pipes with varying diameters, particularly when diameters are close together, as they require jaw changes to maintain a stable machining radius, leading to instability and potential slipping during machining, especially in pipes with thinner depths or larger diameters/lengths.
Innovation Solution
A self-centering chuck with multi-annulus-sector jaws and a motor-driven gear system allows for controlled radial movement of each jaw, using electronic signals from a CPU to position and grip pipes of different diameters, and includes a slidable push rod for diameters that cannot be freely positioned, ensuring a secure grip and preventing slipping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional self-centering chucks with fixed jaw configurations are used, then they can maintain stability for a specific pipe diameter, but they require jaw changes when machining pipes with different diameters, leading to loss of time and reduced productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the jaw configuration changeable during operation. The system transitions from static fixed jaw configurations to dynamic reconfigurable jaw positions. The driving device enables jaws to be moved radially and repositioned automatically based on the pipe diameter being machined, allowing the chuck to adapt to different diameters without manual jaw replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of jaw position radially to accommodate different pipe diameters. By varying the radial position of the jaws through the driving mechanism, the system can adjust to machine pipes with diameters ranging from 60 to 800 mm. This parameter change eliminates the need for physical jaw replacement while maintaining precise centering.
2Manufacturing precision
If jaw replacement is performed to machine pipes with different diameters, then machining precision can be maintained, but device complexity increases due to multiple jaw sets and replacement mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single jaw assembly that can perform multiple functions across different pipe diameters. Instead of requiring separate jaw sets for different diameter ranges, the universal jaw design with radial adjustment capability can accommodate the full range of 60-800 mm diameters, reducing the number of components needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic repositioning capability allows the same jaw assembly to adapt to different machining precision requirements for various diameters. The driving device enables real-time adjustment of jaw positions to maintain optimal gripping and centering for each specific pipe diameter, eliminating the need for multiple specialized jaw sets.
3Device complexity
If fixed jaw configurations are used for large diameter pipes, then the chuck structure remains simple, but pipe stability and gripping reliability deteriorate for pipes with diameters outside the optimized range
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic adjustment capability that allows the chuck to optimize its gripping configuration for each pipe diameter. The driving device enables the jaws to move radially to positions that provide optimal contact and stability for large diameter pipes, maintaining gripping reliability without requiring complex fixed structures for each diameter range.
Solution Approach 2:
By changing the radial position parameter of the jaws, the system can optimize the gripping configuration for different pipe diameters. For large diameter pipes, the jaws can be positioned to provide broader contact areas and improved stability, maintaining reliable gripping while keeping the overall chuck structure relatively simple.
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 machining of pipes with varying diameters without jaw changes, maintaining pipe stability and preventing slipping, even for thinner or larger pipes, by precisely positioning and gripping the pipe through motor-controlled jaw movements and push rod assistance.
Implementation Method 1
a motor (5) for moving each individual jaw by way of a first gear (6) suitable for transmitting a movement to second gears (7) for a radial and controlled movement of the jaw
Implementation Method 2
Every second gear moves its respective jaw in a controlled manner being it preferably a screw (8), not shown
Data Source
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AI summary
A chuck for machining a pipe, equipped with at least three multi-annulus-sector jaws. Each of said jaws is equipped with at least three annulus sectors (1) which are delimited by walls, wherein at least one of which features a discontinuous shape including a slidable push rod (3) in the discontinuous section. The jaws are radially moved by a driving device controlled by a CPU.