Machine Tool Spindle Coupling with Spring Clamp Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing reduction accessories for machine tools with ISO 60 cone attachments are unreliable, often disconnecting due to accidental knocks, tool changes, or vibrations during machining operations, leading to inconsistent tool engagement.
Innovation Solution
A coupling system featuring a reduction accessory with a ISO 50 cone attachment and a novel attachment device that includes a coupling element with a pin and Belleville washers, ensuring secure engagement and preventing disconnection, utilizing a spring clamp and collet mechanism for reliable tool retention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional attachment device is used for coupling a reduction accessory with a spindle, then the device structure is simple, but the reliability is poor and the accessory disconnects easily during machining operations
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment device is divided into multiple functional components: a retention member with retention elements that engage with corresponding elements on the accessory, and a actuation member that controls the retention mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function reliably while maintaining overall system manageability.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention member acts as an intermediary element between the spindle and the reduction accessory. It provides a mechanical interface that securely couples the two components through engagement of retention elements, preventing direct connection and ensuring reliable attachment during machining operations.
2Reliability
If a secure coupling mechanism is implemented to prevent disconnection, then the reliability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retention mechanism is designed to automatically engage and lock the reduction accessory to the spindle through the interaction of retention elements and corresponding engagement features. The system self-regulates to maintain secure coupling without requiring external monitoring or adjustment, ensuring reliability while keeping the control mechanism simple.
3Manufacturing precision
If a simple attachment device is used, then the ease of operation is good, but the manufacturing precision and tool position consistency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The retention elements are pre-configured on the retention member to automatically align with and engage corresponding features on the reduction accessory during the attachment process. This preliminary positioning ensures precise tool placement and consistent repeatability without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms or multiple operational steps.
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 system provides a reliable, repeatable, and rigid coupling that maintains tool position consistency, enhancing precision and reducing the likelihood of accidental disconnection during machining operations.
Implementation Method 1
a coupling element (92) with a pin (94) and Belleville washers (98)... utilizing a spring clamp and collet mechanism for reliable tool retention
Implementation Method 2
a spring clamp and collet mechanism for reliable tool retention
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 2a
AI summary
A reduction accessory (60) for a spindle (12) of a machine tool (1) comprising at least a pair of attachment devices (90) for the releasable coupling to the spindle (12). Each attachment device (90) comprises a yielding coupling element (92) in the form of a spring clamp which can be inserted into an engagement seat (44) of the spindle and then activated to engage a protrusion (48) of the engagement seat (44).