Self-Centering Gripping Assembly for Machine Tool Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine tool locking systems, especially in the automotive sector, face challenges in stabilizing lightweight materials like aluminum during high-speed machining, as three gripping points are insufficient, leading to deformation and internal tension when additional points are used, affecting machining quality.
Innovation Solution
A device with a self-centering gripping assembly and hydraulic locking mechanism that inserts into a cavity of the piece to be machined, allowing stable locking without deformation by providing additional gripping points while managing internal tension through precise alignment and hydraulic pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If additional fixing systems are used to define extra gripping points, then the stability of the piece during machining is improved, but the piece is subjected to states of internal tension which may determine its deformation during clamping
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing system is designed to be adjustable and adaptable rather than rigid and fixed. The fixing elements can be positioned at different locations along the support structure, allowing the system to adapt to the specific geometry and requirements of different pieces, thereby maintaining stability without creating excessive internal tensions
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows for variation in the positioning parameters of the fixing elements. By adjusting the location and orientation of fixing points along the support structure, the system can optimize the distribution of clamping forces to prevent deformation while maintaining stability during machining
2Measurement precision
If the fixing systems are positioned with extreme precision in a predetermined position, then the alignment accuracy is improved, but it is virtually impossible to predict at what exact point of the piece the fixing system will come into contact due to rough surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is prepared in advance with predefined positions and guide elements that facilitate accurate positioning. The fixing elements are designed with features that enable them to locate and align with the piece at the correct positions before actual clamping occurs, compensating for surface roughness and making contact points predictable
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure acts as an intermediary between the fixing system and the piece. It provides reference surfaces and positioning features that mediate the interaction, ensuring accurate alignment even when the piece has rough surfaces. The intermediary translates the predetermined positions into reliable contact points
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
The device enables stable locking of pieces on machine tools without inducing tension or deformation, improving machining quality and stability, particularly for lightweight materials, by using a hydraulic locking system that aligns and secures the piece effectively.
Implementation Method 1
a hydraulic locking mechanism that inserts into a cavity of the piece to be machined
Data Source
AI summary
The device (1) for the locking of pieces on machine tools comprises: —a base body (2, 3, 4) fixable to a machine tool (M); —a gripping assembly (5, 6, 7) for gripping a piece (P) to be machined having a cavity (C) with a cavity axis (A1), the gripping assembly (5, 6, 7) comprising: —a main head (5) having a main axis (A3) and associated with the base body (2, 3, 4) with a lateral play adapted to allow the shift of the main head (5) along a plane of alignment (B) substantially orthogonal to the main axis (A3); —at least two self-centering locking elements (6) associated with the main head (5) in a movable way; and —movement means (7) of the self-centering locking elements (6); —removable locking means (18) adapted to temporarily lock the main head (5).