Spherical Clamp Re-Fixation for Stress-Relieved Workpieces
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clamping devices require time-consuming re-clamping and adjustment due to workpiece deformation from residual stresses during machining, especially when multiple clamping devices are used on different sections, altering their spatial orientation relative to each other and fixed reference points.
Innovation Solution
A ball clamp system with a fastening element that allows relative movement in the released state to replicate equalizing movements, ensuring the workpiece can deform freely and be re-fixed in a compensating position without manual intervention, using a ball socket and radial springs for secure clamping and guided movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the workpiece remains clamped after machining to prevent deformation, then manufacturing precision is maintained, but residual stresses cannot be relieved and the workpiece cannot assume its equalizing position
Solution Approach 1:
The ball clamp enables dynamic transition between clamped and released states. The spherical socket and ball clamp assembly allows the workpiece to move from a clamped position to an equalizing position, accommodating stress-induced deformations while maintaining precise positioning capability when clamped
2Reliability
If the clamping device is released to allow stress relief, then the workpiece can deform freely to relieve residual stresses, but the workpiece position changes and requires time-consuming re-clamping and adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The ball clamp creates a reproducible reference position through its spherical geometry. The spherical socket and ball clamp assembly can be returned to the same spatial orientation after stress relief, enabling quick re-clamping without time-consuming adjustments
Solution Approach 2:
The ball clamp pre-establishes a reference position and orientation before stress relief. This preliminary positioning allows the workpiece to deform freely while knowing the starting configuration, enabling rapid return to the correct position after stress relief
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple clamping devices are used on different sections of the workpiece, then manufacturing precision can be maintained across multiple sections, but the spatial orientation of clamping points changes due to deformation and requires complex adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The ball clamp serves multiple functions: it provides precise clamping, allows stress relief, maintains spatial orientation through spherical geometry, and works independently at different sections of the workpiece. Each ball clamp operates autonomously while contributing to overall workpiece precision
Solution Approach 2:
The ball clamp system divides the workpiece into multiple independently clamped sections. Each section can be clamped and released independently, allowing localized stress relief without affecting other sections, simplifying the overall clamping strategy
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
Facilitates automated and accelerated re-clamping by allowing compensatory movements of the workpiece, reducing manual effort and time required for re-clamping, while maintaining precise alignment and orientation.
Implementation Method 1
The ball clamp comprises at least one radial spring arranged around a housing axis within a housing and connectable to a ball socket with its inner circumference
Implementation Method 2
Relative movement between the ball socket, ball clamp, and shaft is then no longer possible due to the frictional force generated by the clamping force between the clamped components
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a spherical clamp fixable in a machine bed for releasably clamping workpieces, wherein a shaft guided in the spherical clamp remains connected to the workpiece via a fastening means, while a clamping joint formed with a spherical socket and a spherical fastener receiving the shaft can be selectively fixed or released in order to allow a relative movement of the workpiece in the released state and, by subsequent clamping, its fixation in the newly occupied position.