Spindle-Mounted Chip Removal Using Speed-Actuated Fluid Valves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual removal of chips from part surfaces in machine tools interrupts operations and introduces inefficiencies, particularly during inspection and machining processes, leading to increased production costs.
Innovation Solution
A machine tool chip removal device that utilizes a spindle coupling interface, main fluid channel, and fluid delivery channels to direct pressurized fluid for automated chip removal, with valves actuated by fluid pressure and rotational speed to target and remove chips effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual chip removal is performed, then chips are removed from part surfaces, but operator intervention interrupts operations and increases production time
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service chip removal by utilizing the machine tool's own fluid supply system and spindle motion to automatically blow chips from the workpiece surface, eliminating the need for manual operator intervention and continuous operation interruptions
Solution Approach 2:
The invention applies pneumatic principles by using pressurized fluid (air or coolant) delivered through fluid delivery channels to blow chips off the workpiece surface, replacing manual removal methods with automated pneumatic chip ejection
2Extent of automation
If automated chip removal is implemented, then operator intervention is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The chip removal device utilizes the machine tool's existing fluid supply system and spindle motion, making the system multi-functional by serving both machining and chip removal purposes without requiring completely separate automated systems
Solution Approach 2:
The fluid (air or coolant) acts as an intermediary medium that transfers energy from the machine tool's fluid supply system to the chips, enabling automated chip removal through a simple fluid delivery mechanism rather than complex mechanical removal devices
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple fluid delivery channels are used, then chip removal coverage is improved, but fluid control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically controls fluid delivery by varying spindle rotational speed to actuate valves, allowing different fluid delivery channels to be activated at different rotation speeds, providing adaptable chip removal coverage without complex static valve mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the operational parameter of spindle rotational speed to control valve actuation and fluid delivery direction, replacing complex mechanical valve control systems with simple speed-based parameter control that leverages the existing CNC spindle control
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 enables efficient and automated chip removal, reducing operator intervention and process inefficiencies, thereby enhancing manufacturing efficiency and reducing production costs by using the machine tool's fluid supply for targeted chip clearance.
Implementation Method 1
the valve comprises a valve body, a valve plug movable between a first position and a second position within the valve body, and a spring positioned within the valve body and bearing on the valve plug. The valve directs fluid from the fluid delivery channel in a first direction when rotating at a first rotational speed and directs fluid from the fluid delivery channel in a second direction when rotating at a second rotational speed
Implementation Method 2
a spring positioned within the valve body and bearing on the valve plug
Implementation Method 3
a first fluid delivery channel and a second fluid delivery channel to direct fluid in different directions, each fluid delivery channel in fluid communication with the main fluid channel
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A machine tool chip removal device including a coupling interface to couple with a rotatable spindle of a machine tool to facilitate rotation of the machine tool chip removal device about an axis at a rotational speed. The chip removal device can also include a main fluid channel with an opening to receive pressurized fluid from the machine tool. The chip removal device can further include a first fluid delivery channel and a second fluid delivery channel to direct fluid in different directions. Each fluid delivery channel can be in fluid communication with the main fluid channel. In addition, the chip removal device can include one or more valves associated with the first and second fluid delivery channels to selectively allow fluid passage from the main fluid channel to the fluid delivery channels. The one or more valves can be actuated by varying fluid pressure and/or rotational speed.