Swivel Insert Clamping Unit for Stress Relief
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mechanical overdetermination and stress issues arise in zero-point clamping systems due to manufacturing tolerances, thermal expansion, and internal stresses when clamping larger workpieces, leading to positional inaccuracies and mechanical stresses.
Innovation Solution
A clamping unit with a swivel insert that allows position compensation about a pivot axis and radial gauge compensation, enabling the clamping module to be swiveled and fixed, reducing mechanical stresses and maintaining precise locking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple clamping modules are used to clamp larger workpieces, then clamping capacity is improved, but mechanical overdetermination and stress occur due to manufacturing tolerances and thermal expansion
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping module incorporates a swivel insert that enables angular adjustment (parameter change) to compensate for positional deviations caused by manufacturing tolerances and thermal expansion. This allows the clamping element to adapt its position within a range of a few degrees, eliminating mechanical overdetermination while maintaining secure clamping of multiple workpieces
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a rigid fixed-position clamping mechanism to a dynamic adjustable system. The swivel insert can be pivoted about a pivot axis to change the angular position of the clamping element, and the fixing means can be shifted between fixed and adjustable states, providing adaptability to accommodate dimensional changes in workpieces
2Manufacturing precision
If clamping modules are made rigid for precise positioning, then positioning accuracy is improved, but adaptability to thermal expansion and tolerances deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping module combines rigid structural elements with a dynamic swivel insert mechanism. The insert can be adjusted angularly about a pivot axis to accommodate dimensional changes, while the fixing means provides a mechanism to lock the adjusted position, thus maintaining both adaptability and positioning accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows parameter changes in the angular position of the clamping element through the swivel insert. This enables the rigid clamping structure to adapt to thermal expansion and manufacturing tolerances by adjusting its orientation rather than its fundamental positioning
3Adaptability or versatility
If compensation adapters are added to enable height and radial adjustment, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the swivel insert with the clamping module housing as a unified component. The swivel insert is rotationally movable within the housing and includes integrated fixing means, eliminating the need for separate compensation adapters and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining position compensation capability
Solution Approach 2:
The swivel insert serves multiple functions: it enables angular adjustment for position compensation, provides a mechanism for fixing the adjusted position, and maintains the clamping function. This multi-functionality replaces what would otherwise require separate compensation devices
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
Clamping unit (10) with a clamping module (12), wherein the clamping module (12) has a clamping receptacle (16) and clamping means that can be moved into a locking position, wherein a clamping element cooperating with the clamping receptacle (16) is drawn into the clamping receptacle (16) by the clamping means in the locking position and locked there, wherein a compensating unit (14) is provided with a base housing (18), a pivot receptacle (20) and a pivot insert (22), wherein the clamping module (12) can be arranged on the pivot insert (22) or forms the pivot insert (22), wherein the pivot insert (22) is arranged to be pivotable relative to the pivot receptacle (20) about a pivot axis extending transversely to the central axis (28) of the base housing (18), and wherein locking means (30) are provided which can be moved into a locking position in which the pivot insert (22) is locked on the base housing (18).