Tool Attachment Coupling Device with Dynamic Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current automated systems for coupling and decoupling tool attachments from tool drive means in manufacturing, particularly in vehicle assembly, face challenges with secure attachment and efficient tool changeovers, leading to potential detachment issues and interruptions in production.
Innovation Solution
A device with a resiliently mounted locking element and actuating element, combined with detachable and lockable holding means, allows for secure axial movement of the tool drive means relative to the tool attachment for coupling and decoupling, ensuring the tool attachment remains securely attached during high-torque operations and enables easy tool changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a resiliently mounted ball is used to provide holding force for the tool attachment, then the tool attachment can be attached and removed by axial movement, but the holding force depends on spring force which may be insufficient for high-torque operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic locking mechanism where the locking element can transition between locked and unlocked states, allowing the system to adapt between easy coupling operation and secure high-torque holding. The locking element engages with the fixing element to provide positive mechanical locking when needed, while allowing spring-based easy coupling when unlocked.
2Extent of automation
If a locking element with spring force is used to hold the tool attachment, then automated coupling is enabled, but unintentional detachment may occur under high torque
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is designed to automatically engage with the fixing element when the tool attachment is inserted, providing self-locking functionality. The spring force automatically pushes the locking element into engagement with the fixing element, ensuring secure attachment without requiring additional actuation, while still allowing automated coupling through controlled movement of the actuating element.
3Reliability
If the tool attachment is securely locked during high-torque operations, then detachment is prevented, but tool changeover time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is extracted as a separate, independently controllable feature from the coupling mechanism. The locking element can be engaged or disengaged independently from the coupling/descoupling action, allowing the tool attachment to be quickly coupled and locked, or quickly uncoupled and unlocked without requiring complex coordinated movements, thus reducing tool changeover time while maintaining security during operation.
4Reliability
If a fixing element and locking element system is used, then positive locking is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is integrated into the actuating element structure, merging two functions (actuation and locking) into a single component. This reduces the overall number of separate parts and simplifies the mechanism while maintaining the positive locking capability through the interaction between the locking element and fixing element.
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 solution provides secure attachment of tool attachments to tool drive means, preventing unintentional detachment and enabling efficient automated tool changes, thereby reducing production interruptions and improving assembly efficiency in vehicle manufacturing.
Implementation Method 1
The locking element is held by the spring force in the position in which the fixing element is positively locked in the fixed position
Implementation Method 2
the actuating element is moved against the spring force in relation to the tool drive means, so that the locking element changes into the position in which the fixing element is released
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a device for the automated coupling and decoupling of a tool attachment from a tool drive means. The tool attachment and the tool drive means are configured for actuating a connecting means for the connection of at least two workpieces. The connecting means can be a screw or also a bolt. The tool attachment can be coupled to a tool drive means, and also released therefrom, by the placement of the tool attachment onto the tool drive means. According to the present invention, a magazine is provided, having at least one tool attachment receiving space as well as holding means for the tool attachment in the tool attachment receiving space. The tool drive means can be moved in the axial direction relative to the tool attachment in order to couple as well as to release the tool attachment relative to the tool drive means. The tool attachment is interlockingly held on the tool drive means. Coupling and decoupling is carried out in an automated manner.