Tool Clamping Device with Adjustable T-Nuts for CNC Turning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tool clamping devices in CNC turning centers face challenges in achieving quick and precise tool changes due to limitations in spatial constraints and positioning accuracy, particularly when using central clamping bolts or systems that do not allow for precise adjustment of tool holders on turret plates.
Innovation Solution
A tool clamping device with adjustable T-nuts on the tool holder that fit into receiving grooves on the tool carrier, allowing for precise angular and axial adjustments, combined with anchoring rods that exert axial clamping forces without transverse forces, enabling easy tool changes and maintaining positional accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If threaded bolts with radial clearance are used to fasten the tool holder, then the tool holder can be securely fastened to the tool carrier, but transverse forces are not exerted onto the tool holder which could impair the pre-setting of the adjustment elements
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening function is separated from the positioning function. Threaded bolts are used solely for fastening with radial clearance to avoid transverse forces, while separate adjustment elements (T-nuts with bearing points) are responsible for precise positioning. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function without interfering with the other.
Solution Approach 2:
Adjustment elements act as intermediaries between the tool holder and tool carrier for positioning purposes. These T-nuts with bearing points establish precise geometric relationships without transmitting clamping forces, thereby mediating the positioning requirement independently from the fastening mechanism.
2Manufacturing precision
If adjustment elements are used for precise positioning of the tool holder, then high positional accuracy and repeat accuracy are achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment elements (T-nuts) serve multiple functions: they provide precise positioning through bearing points on receiving groove walls, enable repeatable repositioning by fitting into the same groove locations, and work together with the receiving grooves as an integrated positioning system. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate positioning mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment elements automatically self-align and self-position when the tool holder is inserted into the socket. The T-nuts are guided without clearance on the tool holder and bear against the receiving groove walls, creating self-centering and self-positioning effects that reduce the need for complex external positioning mechanisms.
3Productivity
If a central clamping bolt is used to reduce tooling time, then quick tool changes are enabled, but the spatial constraints of CNC turning centers and the need for precise adjustment are not accommodated
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping mechanism is segmented into multiple distributed threaded bolts rather than a single central bolt. These bolts are arranged around the axis of the tool holder and act independently, allowing quick fastening while preserving the positioning accuracy established by the separate adjustment elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment elements serve as intermediaries that maintain positioning accuracy during the quick-change operation. When the tool holder is rapidly inserted and clamped, the T-nuts with bearing points ensure that the positioning relationship is established and maintained independently from the speed of the clamping operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A tool clamping device having a tool holder holding a tool, said tool holder being designed for insertion into a socket of a tool carrier, in particular a lathe, has a tool quick-change system.