Low-Profile Self-Centering Vise With Double Wedge Clamping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vises for machining centers and CNC machines have excessive vertical size, limiting machine tool design and providing insufficient clamping force, especially for self-centering models with reduced height.
Innovation Solution
A self-centering vise design with a compact height of less than 10 cm, utilizing a double inverted wedge configuration with inclined guides and thrust elements, and incorporating roller bearings for enhanced clamping force, allowing simultaneous actuation of jaws to ensure precise centering and high clamping capacity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If the vise height is reduced to minimize overall dimensions, then the vertical size is improved, but the clamping force decreases and self-centering capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the actuator thrust elements to move on a plane parallel to the jaw lying plane, rather than vertically. This dimensional change allows the thrust elements to engage with inclined guides on the jaws, creating a wedge mechanism that generates horizontal clamping force from vertical actuator movement, thereby achieving high clamping force in a compact vertical space
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple functions into the thrust elements: they serve as both the actuator output elements and the wedge mechanism simultaneously. The inclined walls of the thrust elements engage with the inclined guides of two jaws at once, merging the actuation and self-centering functions into a single integrated component, maximizing clamping force generation within limited height
2Length of stationary object
If the vise height is reduced, then the vertical size is improved, but the self-centering capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses symmetrical inclined guides on opposing jaws with matching inclined walls on the thrust elements. This symmetry ensures that both jaws experience identical mechanical constraints and forces, forcing them to move synchronously along their respective guides. The geometric symmetry of the wedge engagement guarantees jaw synchronization and self-centering capability independent of actuator positioning precision
Solution Approach 2:
By moving the thrust elements on a plane parallel to the jaw lying plane rather than vertically, the patent creates a wedge mechanism where the inclined surfaces convert vertical motion into synchronized horizontal jaw movement. This dimensional change ensures that both jaws are constrained to move equally along their guides, achieving self-centering without requiring precise actuator alignment
3Force
If conventional hydraulic vises are used with standard dimensions, then the clamping force is sufficient, but the vertical size becomes excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses hydraulic actuators with thrust elements that move on a plane parallel to the jaw lying plane. The hydraulic pressure drives the pistons, which move the thrust elements horizontally to engage the inclined guides of the jaws. This configuration allows the generation of high clamping force (over 2000 kg) in a compact vertical space by converting hydraulic linear motion into wedge-based mechanical advantage
Solution Approach 2:
The patent repositions the hydraulic actuator thrust elements to operate on a plane parallel to the jaw lying plane, creating a wedge mechanism that generates horizontal clamping force from vertical actuator displacement. This dimensional reconfiguration enables high clamping force generation without requiring excessive vertical space, reducing vise height to under 10 cm while maintaining clamping force over 2000 kg
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 solution achieves a significant reduction in vise height while providing a clamping force of over 2000 kg, exceeding market standards, and ensures synchronous jaw movement for precise workpiece alignment.
Implementation Method 1
stresses imparted by a fluid fed to the vise, such as compressed air if the vise is a pneumatic one or pressurized oil if the vise is hydraulic
Implementation Method 2
The thrust element of each actuator comprises two walls inclined and symmetrical with respect to the displacement direction of the same thrust element, so that they are divergent. Practically, the inclined walls define a wedge element.
Implementation Method 3
incorporating roller bearings for enhanced clamping force
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a self-centering vise having reduced vertical size, in particular for applications on machining centers and CNC numerical-control machines, which is however capable of exerting on the workpieces a high force exceeding 2000 kg. The vise comprises a body, two or more jaws constrained to the body and actuators of the jaws. The jaws can be moved close to and away from a workpiece gripping axis, in response to the stresses imparted by said actuators. Each actuator comprises a thrust element susceptible to displacements in response to the stresses imparted by a pressurized fluid fed to the vise. Each jaw comprises two guides inclined and symmetrical with respect to the displacement direction of the same jaw, and the thrust element of each actuator comprises two walls inclined and symmetrical with respect to the displacement direction of the same thrust element. Each actuator exerts its thrust simultaneously on two jaws, by slidingly engaging the guides of two jaws with its own inclined walls, according to a configuration that can be defined double inverted wedge configuration. This feature makes the vise self-centering and effective.