Self-Centring Locking Head for Single-Station Part Machining
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for machining mechanical parts require two separate stations, leading to high costs, long lead times, limited precision, and additional operations due to the need for multiple gripping surfaces, resulting in inconvenient machine stops and potential inaccuracies.
Innovation Solution
A device utilizing a hydraulic cylinder with a first piston and self-centring locking elements allows for single-station machining by aligning the mechanical part's cavity with the machine tool's axis, enabling precise locking and machining without the need for additional gripping surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two separate work stations are used for machining mechanical parts, then the workpiece can be locked at different points, but the machining cost increases and lead time extends
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate work stations into a single integrated station that can perform both machining operations. The device uses a first restraint system for initial machining and a second restraint system for subsequent machining, both available at the same work station, eliminating the need to transfer workpieces between stations while maintaining reliable locking for both operations
Solution Approach 2:
The single work station is designed with universal functionality to perform multiple machining operations with different restraint configurations. The device can switch between the first restraint system (for operations away from the cavity) and the second restraint system (for operations at the cavity), making one station capable of replacing two specialized stations
2Reliability
If two separate work stations are used for machining mechanical parts, then different locking points can be utilized, but the machining precision is limited due to alignment issues
Solution Approach 1:
By merging both restraint systems into a single work station with a common reference system, the patent eliminates alignment errors that occur when transferring workpieces between stations. The first and second restraint systems are both positioned relative to the same station reference, ensuring consistent precision across all machining operations
Solution Approach 2:
The device establishes the workpiece position relative to the station reference system during the first restraint phase, and this position is maintained for subsequent machining operations. The preliminary positioning is preserved when switching between restraint systems, preventing cumulative alignment errors
3Ease of manufacture
If the workpiece is restrained at different points in the second station, then machining can be completed, but additional gripping surfaces are required increasing operations and tool wear
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of two restraint systems into a single device that can be positioned in two different configurations at the same work station. The first restraint system grips the workpiece for initial machining, and the second restraint system grips the same workpiece for subsequent machining at the cavity, eliminating the need for additional dedicated gripping surfaces on the workpiece
Solution Approach 2:
The device employs dynamic reconfiguration of the restraint system, switching between two operational modes: the first restraint configuration for machining away from the cavity and the second restraint configuration for machining at the cavity. This dynamic adaptation allows the same physical device to provide different gripping arrangements without adding permanent features to the workpiece
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
This solution reduces machining costs and time, improves precision, and eliminates unnecessary operations, allowing complete machining on a single machine tool without the limitations of dual stations.
Implementation Method 1
a first piston (9) movable inside the hydraulic cylinder (2) due to the effect of pressurised hydraulic fluid along a main line (B1) between a home configuration
Implementation Method 2
at least two self-centring locking elements (18) associated with the head (10) in a movable manner along sliding lines (B2) substantially transversal to the main line (B1) for abutting an inner surface (S) of the cavity (C) when the first piston (9) is in the operating configuration
Data Source
AI summary
The device (1) for restraining/locking mechanical parts on machines tools comprises:a hydraulic cylinder (2);a first piston (9) comprising a head (10) which projects from the hydraulic cylinder (2), the first piston (9) being slidable along a main line (B1);at least two self-centring locking elements (19) joined to the head (10) in such a way that they are movable along lines of sliding (B2) which are substantially transversal to the main line (B1); andmovement means (21, 22) for moving the self-centring locking elements (19) between a retracted position and an extracted position, wherein the movement means (21, 22) comprise:a hydraulic chamber (21) made in the first piston (9);a second piston (22) which is slidable along the main line (B1) between a starting position and an arrival position and which comprises an operating portion (23) joined to the self-centring locking elements (19).