Automated Tool Clamping With Torque Control for Precise Presetting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing manual tool clamping devices lack efficiency and precision in the clamping and declamping processes, leading to potential maloperation and increased operator workload, especially when dealing with tools requiring high true-running accuracy.
Innovation Solution
An automated tool clamping device with a clamp element generating a force-fit connection and a torque receiving element that absorbs torque during the clamping process, utilizing a torque sensor and control unit for precise torque control, and featuring interchangeable clamp elements for flexibility and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual tool clamping devices are used, then operator flexibility is maintained, but efficiency and precision deteriorate due to increased operator workload and risk of maloperation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with an automated torque generating unit that applies precise torque to the union nut through a torque receiving element. The clamp element with connection mechanism automatically engages the union nut and applies clamping force, eliminating the need for manual tightening operations while maintaining controlled precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated tool clamping device performs the clamping operation autonomously through its integrated components. The torque generating unit self-regulates the tightening process, the connection mechanism automatically engages and disengages, and the system completes the entire clamping cycle without continuous operator intervention, thereby reducing workload while improving efficiency.
2Manufacturing precision
If automated torque generation is implemented, then clamping precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into functionally independent modules: a clamp element with connection mechanism for engaging the union nut, a torque receiving element that interfaces with the clamp element, and a torque generating unit that provides controlled torque. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall system precision without excessive complexity.
3Manufacturing precision
If torque receiving element is added to receive torque, then clamping precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The torque receiving element is integrated with the clamp element assembly, forming a unified interface mechanism. The connection mechanism and torque receiving element work together as a coordinated system, sharing structural elements and mounting interfaces, which reduces the overall complexity increase while achieving precise torque transmission and clamping control.
4Productivity
If automated clamping device is used, then productivity is improved, but initial investment cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device employs a dynamic connection mechanism that can automatically engage and disengage from the union nut. The clamp element transitions between locked and released states through controlled mechanical movement, enabling rapid tool changes and repeated clamping cycles. This dynamic operation maximizes productivity while the modular design allows for cost-effective manufacturing and potential future upgrades.
Data Source
AI summary
An automated tool clamping device, in particular a fully automated tool clamping device is configured for a clamping-in of at least one tool in a tool chuck by a tightening of a union nut of the tool chuck and/or for a declamping of the tool out of the tool chuck by a release of the union nut, and comprises a clamp element, which is at least configured to generate a connection, in particular a clamp connection, with the union nut of the tool chuck, and comprises a torque receiving element, which is at least configured to receive at least a large portion of a torque occurring during a tool clamping process, in particular during a tool clamping-in process and/or a tool declamping process.