Tool Clamping Locking Mechanism for Faster Machine Tool Changes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fastening devices for processing tools on machine tools, such as press devices, are time-consuming for loading and unloading, affecting the economic operation of the machines.
Innovation Solution
A fastening device with a clamping unit that applies a clamping force at an angle to the processing tool, allowing for independent provision and orientation of the clamping force, enabling efficient and secure fastening without requiring the overcoming of clamping force during connection, and featuring a locking connection that can be easily engaged and disengaged for quick tool changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a clamping unit is screwed to the counter clamping body to transmit clamping force, then the processing tool can be clamped securely, but the loading and unloading of the processing tool becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening device is divided into functionally independent segments: a clamping unit for applying clamping force and a locking connection for securing the clamping unit to the counter clamping body. This segmentation allows the clamping force to be applied and locked independently, enabling quick tool changes without unscrewing the entire clamping unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking connection is designed to be pre-positioned and automatically engage with the clamping unit. The locking elements are preliminarily arranged in the locking body, and when the clamping unit is inserted, the locking connection automatically secures it without requiring additional time-consuming operations.
2Manufacturing precision
If the clamping force is applied to fasten the processing tool, then precise fastening without play is achieved, but force must be overcome during connection of the clamping unit
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening function is segmented into clamping force application and locking connection. The locking connection is designed to engage independently of the clamping force, allowing the clamping unit to be connected without overcoming the clamping force. This is achieved by having the locking elements engage with features on the clamping unit before the clamping force is fully applied.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking connection acts as an intermediary mechanism that secures the clamping unit to the counter clamping body without requiring direct force opposition. The locking elements and locking engagement features serve as intermediaries that transfer and secure the connection independently of the clamping force magnitude.
3Loss of time
If a locking connection is added to enable quick tool changes, then the time for loading and unloading is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking connection is segmented into discrete locking elements and locking engagement features that can be independently designed and manufactured. This modular segmentation allows for simple, standardized components rather than a complex integrated locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking connection is designed to automatically engage and disengage through the relative movement of the clamping unit and counter clamping body. The locking elements automatically interact with the locking engagement features during the tool change process, eliminating the need for additional actuators or complex control mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A fastening device for fastening a processing tool to a machine tool, in particular to a press device, comprises at least one locating body, against which the processing tool can be clamped, a clamping unit for the releasable clamping of the processing tool to the at least one counter clamping body, and a locking connection for the releasable connection of the clamping unit to the at least one counter clamping body.