Synchronized Thread Machining Feed for Accurate Tapping

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional thread machining methods, such as manual tapping and CNC lathe-based methods, suffer from low efficiency, high cost, and low machining accuracy, with CNC lathes requiring large space and high customization, and manual tapping being labor-intensive and inaccurate.

Innovation Solution

A thread machining apparatus comprising a spindle motor and a feeding device, where the moving speed is proportional to the rotational speed, enabling synchronized feed and tapping, with a servo motor and transmission device converting rotation into linear movement for precise control, and a positioning mechanism for accurate alignment, potentially using a 6-axis industrial robot for increased efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If manual tapping is used for thread machining, then the equipment cost is low, but the machining accuracy and efficiency are low

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvethread machining accuracyVSAvoidmachining efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical tapping operations with an automated system comprising a spindle motor for rotation, a feeding device for linear movement, and a controller for synchronization. This substitution of manual mechanical operations with automated electromechanical systems simultaneously improves both machining accuracy through precise control and productivity through automation, resolving the contradiction between low accuracy/efficiency and equipment complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements precise control of motion parameters (rotational speed of spindle motor, linear feeding speed, and their synchronization ratio) to achieve high machining accuracy. By dynamically adjusting and coordinating these parameters through the controller, the system maintains optimal cutting conditions that improve thread machining accuracy while the automated parameter control enhances productivity compared to manual operations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Manufacturing precision

If CNC lathe is used for thread machining, then the machining accuracy is high, but the cost and floor space requirements are high

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvethread machining accuracyVSAvoidequipment cost and space
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the complex CNC lathe system into focused, independent functional modules: a spindle motor unit for rotation, a feeding device for linear movement, and a control unit for synchronization. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized independently and reduces the overall system complexity and space requirements while maintaining high machining accuracy through coordinated operation of the specialized modules

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a multi-functional integrated system where the spindle motor performs both rotation and positioning functions, the feeding device handles both feed movement and speed control, and the controller manages both synchronization and parameter adjustment. This universality of functions within compact modules reduces equipment complexity and space requirements compared to traditional CNC lathes that require separate specialized components for each function

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Manufacturing precision

If synchronized feed and tapping is implemented, then the machining accuracy is improved, but the control complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvethread machining accuracyVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback control mechanism where the controller receives information about the actual rotational speed of the spindle motor and the actual linear position of the feeding device, then adjusts the motion parameters to maintain the correct synchronization ratio. This feedback loop ensures accurate thread machining by continuously correcting deviations from the ideal synchronized motion, resolving the contradiction between improved accuracy and control complexity through intelligent control algorithms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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

This solution improves machining accuracy and efficiency by ensuring synchronized feed and tapping, reducing costs, and enhancing the stability of thread machining processes, while addressing the rigidity and synchronization issues of traditional methods.

Implementation Method 1

a ball screw movably coupled with a gear in the gear box; a ball nut arranged on the ball screw, and configured to move along an axial direction of the ball screw with the rotation of the ball screw

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectScrew: Screw

Data Source

PatentUS20240342815A1Thread machining apparatus, method and system
Publication Date: 2024.10.17 ABB (SCHWEIZ) AG
  • US20240342815A1 patent drawing
  • US20240342815A1 patent drawing
  • US20240342815A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Embodiments of present disclosure relate to thread machining apparatus (300), method and system. The thread machining apparatus (300) comprises: a spindle motor (310) adapted to drive a thread tool (200) coupled to an output shaft of the spindle motor (310) to rotate at a rotational speed; and a feeding device (320) movably coupled to the spindle motor (310), and configured to drive the spindle motor (310) to move along an axial direction (X) of the spindle motor (310) at a moving speed; wherein during thread machining, the moving speed is proportional to the rotational speed. The solutions of the embodiments of present disclosure have significantly improved the efficiency, stability and accuracy of thread machining.