Sensor-Activated Clamping Device for Single-Operator Tool Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clamping devices for tool units in material processing machines are cumbersome to operate, especially when handling heavy tools, as they require manual operation of the clamping element and simultaneous positioning, which is difficult for a single operator, especially when the tool's longitudinal axis needs to be introduced horizontally.
Innovation Solution
A clamping device equipped with a sensor that generates an activation signal when the tool unit reaches a specific position, allowing the clamping element to lock the tool unit automatically, enabling single-operator operation even when both hands are needed to carry the tool, with options for proximity, inductive, capacitive, or optical sensors, and a gripper or vacuum mechanism for secure clamping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operation of the clamping element is used, then the clamping device can be operated with simple structure, but a single operator cannot position and clamp heavy tool units simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping device automatically activates the clamping element when the tool unit reaches the correct position, eliminating the need for manual operation. The system serves itself by using the tool unit's own positioning to trigger the clamping action, enabling single-operator capability without significantly increasing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with an automated sensing and actuation system. Sensors detect the tool unit's position and automatically trigger the clamping element, substituting human mechanical action with an automated control system that simplifies the operator's task
2Measurement precision
If the tool unit is carried with both hands for positioning, then accurate positioning is possible, but manual operation of the clamping element cannot be performed
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically detects when the tool unit is correctly positioned and triggers the clamping action without requiring manual intervention. The tool unit's own position serves as the trigger signal, allowing the operator to focus solely on accurate positioning with both hands
3Productivity
If automatic clamping is implemented, then single-operator operation is enabled, but additional sensors and control systems are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a sensor-based detection system that automatically identifies when the tool unit is correctly positioned and triggers the clamping element. This substitution of manual detection with automated sensing improves productivity while keeping the added complexity manageable through straightforward sensor-actuator coupling
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 secure, single-operator clamping of heavy tool units without manual operation of the clamping element, ensuring accurate positioning and preventing accidental release by automatically reactivating the clamping mechanism if the tool unit remains unclamped for an extended period.
Implementation Method 1
the sensor is designed as a proximity sensor that generates the activation signal when the distance between the tool unit and the sensor falls below a predetermined value
Implementation Method 2
the sensor can be in the form of an inductive sensor
Implementation Method 3
the sensor can be in the form of an inductive sensor, a capacitive sensor or an optical sensor
Implementation Method 4
the tensioning element comprises means for generating a negative pressure in the opening of the receptacle. In this case, the tool unit is not gripped mechanically, but is instead sucked into the opening or onto the flange area that may be present on the receptacle through vacuum connections or the like
Data Source
Figure 1~3
AI summary
A clamping device (10) has a work tool holder (18) provided with an aperture (20) for one end of the work tool unit (12) and a clamping element (28) positioned in the opening (20) for locking the work tool unit (12) in the holder (18). A sensor (34) generates a signal when attaining a given position of work tool unit in or on the holder (18) which activates the clamping element (28) for locking the work-tool unit (12).