Turret Tool Gripper Angle Detection for Correct Tool Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
In machine tools with turret-type tool magazines, operators lack a reliable method to verify if tools are correctly positioned, leading to potential tool or workpiece damage due to incorrect placement.
Innovation Solution
A gripping device with a pair of arms that pinch the tool or tool holder, supported by a main body allowing arm swing, and an angle detector to determine the correct positioning based on physical quantities like strain gauge measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If visual or tactile checking by skilled workers is used to verify tool positioning, then the operator can detect incorrect placement, but the process requires skilled workers and cannot provide automated detection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical human checking process (visual or tactile inspection by skilled workers) with an automated sensor-based detection system. The sensor detects the presence or absence of a tool in the magazine, providing automated measurement without requiring skilled human operators to perform manual checking.
2Device complexity
If no detection method is provided, then the device complexity is reduced, but tool drops and damage may occur due to undetected incorrect positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary detection of tool positioning before the tool is fully secured in the magazine. The sensor detects incorrect placement in advance, allowing the system to prevent tool drops before they occur by identifying positioning errors during the loading process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a feedback mechanism where sensor detection results are provided back to the operator or control system. When incorrect tool positioning is detected, the system generates feedback (such as visual or audible alerts) to notify the operator of the error, enabling corrective action to prevent tool drops.
3Measurement precision
If automated detection systems are added to detect tool positioning, then tool placement accuracy can be verified, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the detection function as a separate, modular sensor component integrated into the magazine structure. Rather than complicating the entire gripping device, the detection system is implemented as a distinct sensing element (such as a presence sensor or position sensor) that can be independently positioned and maintained within the magazine assembly.
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
Enables accurate detection of correct tool or tool holder positioning, preventing tool drops and damage by providing an alarm for incorrect placement, even for inexperienced operators.
Implementation Method 1
an angle detector configured to detect a physical quantity indicating the swing angle of the arm
Data Source
AI summary
A gripping device is provided in a turret-type tool magazine of a machine tool and grips a tool or a tool holder that holds the tool. The gripping device includes: a pair of arms configured to grip the tool or the tool holder by pinching the tool or the tool holder between the arms, a main body part configured to support the pair of arms so that each of the paired arms swings in the pinching directions to pinch the tool or the tool holder between the arms; and an angle detector configured to detect a physical quantity indicating a swing angle of the arm.