Spindle-Holder Differential Coupling for Fast Rotary Clamping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clamping systems for rotary machining require frequent changes and precise positioning, which can be cumbersome due to the need for threaded connections and bayonet segments, limiting the angle of rotation and increasing contamination risks.
Innovation Solution
A clamping system with a spindle and workpiece holder featuring a coupling device with differential threaded sections and a bayonet connection, allowing for axial displacement and rotation without the need for extensive threading on both components, enabling easy attachment and detachment with a larger rotational range and reduced contamination risk.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If threaded connections with bayonet segments are used for coupling the spindle and workpiece holder, then the connection can be secure and transmit high torques, but the angle of rotation is limited and the installation becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device is divided into two functional sections: a threaded section for secure axial connection and torque transmission, and a bayonet section for rotational coupling and positioning. This segmentation allows each section to perform its specialized function optimally without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines two different coupling mechanisms (threaded connection and bayonet connection) into a single integrated coupling device. The threaded section provides secure axial engagement while the bayonet section enables rotational positioning, merging the advantages of both connection types into one unified structure.
2Ease of manufacture
If both spindle and workpiece holder are threaded and connected to a differential thread sleeve, then the connection can be achieved, but it requires extensive threading on both components and complicates the design
Solution Approach 1:
The threading function is extracted from both the spindle and workpiece holder and consolidated into a single coupling device. Only the spindle requires threading, while the coupling device contains the threaded section that engages with the spindle threads, eliminating the need for extensive threading on the workpiece holder.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling device serves multiple functions: it provides the threaded connection to the spindle, contains the bayonet section for rotational coupling, and facilitates the differential thread sleeve operation. This multi-functionality reduces the overall system complexity compared to having separate threaded mechanisms on both components.
3Productivity
If frequent changes of workpiece holders are required, then productivity can be maintained, but precise positioning and secure attachment become more difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The bayonet section is designed to guide the workpiece holder into the correct rotational position during the coupling process. The asymmetric bayonet geometry automatically orients the workpiece holder precisely as it is being attached, ensuring accurate positioning is achieved as part of the attachment action itself rather than requiring separate positioning 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 allows for quick and precise attachment and detachment of workpiece holders, reducing contamination risks and enabling continuous thread usage, while allowing for a larger rotational angle during coupling, thus improving operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
The coupling device comprises a first threaded section that is axially fixed to a housing of the spindle or workpiece holder. It also features a second threaded section on the connecting section, with a thread pitch differing from that of the first threaded section.
Implementation Method 2
A differential thread sleeve, featuring a first mating thread and a second mating thread, engages with both threaded sections. Rotation of the differential thread sleeve relative to the spindle housing or workpiece holder, as well as relative to the connecting section, causes an axial displacement of the housing and the connecting section relative to each other.
Data Source
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AI summary
A clamping system comprising a spindle (10) and a workpiece holder (30) is known, particularly for the rotary machining of a workpiece clamped in the workpiece holder (30). The spindle (10) is designed for mounting the workpiece holder (30), with the spindle (10) and the workpiece holder (30) having mutually facing contact surfaces (14, 34) for this purpose. It is proposed that a coupling device (40) be provided, particularly on the spindle, which has an axially displaceable connecting section (42) for coupling to the workpiece holder (30). This coupling device (40) further comprises a first threaded section (60), which is axially fixed to a housing (12) of the spindle (10), and a second threaded section (62) with a thread pitch on the connecting section (42) that differs from that of the first threaded section.The coupling device (40) further comprises a differential thread sleeve (50) on which a first mating thread (64) and a second mating thread (66) are provided. These mating threads (64, 66) engage with the threaded sections (60, 62) on the housing (12) and on the connecting section (42).