Tiltable Tool Carriage Assembly with Independent Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tool carriage arrangements for machine tools face challenges in achieving precise alignment of the feed axis, particularly in mutually perpendicular directions x and y, due to difficult access and lack of independent adjustment.
Innovation Solution
A tool carriage arrangement with a bearing allowing pivoting and tilting movements, combined with an eccentric adjustment device and spindle adjustment mechanism, enables independent and precise adjustments in both directions, facilitated by accessible components for easy tool engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If adjusting screws are used for alignment in two mutually perpendicular directions, then adjustment capability is provided, but adjustment precision and ease of operation deteriorate due to difficult access and interdependence of directions
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanism is segmented into two independent parts: a first adjustment device for adjusting in the first direction and a second adjustment device for adjusting in the second direction. This segmentation allows each direction to be adjusted independently without interfering with the other, improving both accessibility and precision. The first adjustment device includes a first adjusting screw with a first adjustment element, while the second adjustment device includes a second adjusting screw with a second adjustment element, each accessible from different sides of the base plate.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment mechanism transitions from a planar two-dimensional adjustment system to a three-dimensional system by allowing access from both the first side and the second side of the base plate. The first adjustment element is accessible from the first side while the second adjustment element is accessible from the second side, creating spatial separation in the adjustment process. This dimensional change enables operators to access and adjust both directions simultaneously or independently without interference.
2Productivity
If adjusting screws are used for alignment, then adjustment capability is provided, but adjustment time increases due to difficulty of access and interdependence
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanism is divided into two independent adjustment devices, each with its own adjusting screw and adjustment element. This segmentation allows operators to adjust the first direction and second direction independently and simultaneously, eliminating the time loss associated with sequential adjustment or repositioning required by interdependent systems.
Solution Approach 2:
By providing access to adjustment elements from both sides of the base plate, the system enables parallel adjustment operations. The first adjustment element can be accessed from the first side while the second adjustment element is accessed from the second side, allowing operators to work on both adjustments simultaneously, thereby reducing total adjustment time.
3Adaptability or versatility
If pivot bearings are provided for pivoting movements, then movement capability is provided, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The first pivot bearing and second pivot bearing are merged into a single common support structure. Both bearings are integrated into the same support, allowing the carrier to perform both pivoting movements (first pivoting movement and second pivoting movement) around a shared support point. This merging reduces the number of separate bearing components and simplifies the overall device structure while maintaining full movement capability.
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 allows for simple and precise alignment of the feed axis, ensuring adjustments are largely free of play and accessible, enhancing the machining process by allowing fine and large adjustments as needed.
Implementation Method 1
The bearing, which allows the pivoting movement and the tilting movement, is arranged with a bearing pin between the base plate and the support, the bearing pin being firmly inserted in the base plate and connected to the support with the interposition of a spring assembly. The interposition of the spring assembly ensures sufficient mobility of the bearing for the tilting movement, with play-free movement of the bearing being ensured at the same time during an adjustment movement due to the spring force.
Implementation Method 2
an Eccentric adjustment device is provided as adjustment means for the tilt movement, which comprises an adjustment eccentric mounted in the carrier or in the base plate and a spring-loaded clamping device connecting the carrier to the base plate. The adjustment eccentric rotates against the spring force of the clamping device, so that an adjustment that is largely free of play is ensured.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~6
AI summary
Tool carriage arrangement comprises a support (2) connected to a base plate (1) by a bearing to pivot the support about a pivoting axis orthogonal to the carriage axis and to tilt orthogonal to the pivoting movement. A cam adjusting unit (6) is provided as an adjusting device for the tilting movement and comprises an adjusting cam positioned in the support or in the base plate and a clamping device for connecting the support with the base plate. Preferred Features: A spindle adjusting device (16) is used as an adjusting device for the pivoting movement of the support.