Tapered Securement Member for Precise Multi-Plate Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current compound tooling systems require multiple screw threads and dowels for aligning die holder and punch holder plates, leading to inaccuracies and inefficiencies in securing and aligning components in punch press machines.
Innovation Solution
An elongated securement member with tapered and threaded configurations is used to securely join die holder and punch holder plates, allowing for quick and precise alignment without the need for separate dowels and screws, featuring a combination of tapered, cylindrical, and threaded portions with strain relief channels for snug engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If multiple screw threads and dowels are used to join die holder and punch holder plates, then the plates can be securely connected, but the alignment accuracy deteriorates and the assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the alignment function (dowels) and the securement function (screw threads) into a single integrated securement member. This member features a tapered portion for precise alignment and a threaded portion for securement, eliminating the need for separate components and resolving the contradiction between securement strength and alignment accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The securement member serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides alignment through its tapered geometry, structural connection through its cylindrical portion, and securement through its threaded portion. This multi-functional design achieves both accurate alignment and strong securement without requiring multiple separate components.
2Strength
If multiple screw threads and dowels are used to join plates, then the connection is secure, but the assembly time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate components (dowels and screw threads) into a single integrated securement member with tapered, cylindrical, and threaded portions. This reduction in component count directly decreases assembly complexity while maintaining secure connection strength.
Solution Approach 2:
While reducing overall complexity, the securement member is segmented into functional portions (tapered for alignment, cylindrical for connection, threaded for securement). This segmentation allows each portion to perform its specific function optimally while simplifying the overall assembly process compared to using multiple separate components.
3Strength
If traditional clamping screws are used, then plates can be held together, but the alignment precision and concentricity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The securement member employs asymmetric geometry with a tapered portion that provides self-aligning capability. The taper angle creates a mechanical guidance system that naturally centers the member during insertion, ensuring concentricity and alignment precision while maintaining clamping capability through the threaded portion.
Data Source
AI summary
An elongated securement member for enabling the accurate alignment and securement of a first plate and a second plate together through a configured bore arranged therebetween, the elongated securement member having a first for securement member upper end and a second or securement member lower end. The first or securement member having a longitudinal axis, the upper end of which also having a tapered or wedge inducing non-cylindrical portion, the second or securement member lower end having a threaded portion of a diameter D1 and a middle cylindrical portion of a diameter D2, and an annularly arranged channel formed at a juncture of the tapered or wedge inducing non-cylindrical portion of the securement member upper end and the middle cylindrical portion of diameter D1 of the securement member.