Tool Holder Rear Locking Mechanism for Efficient Magazine Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tool magazine locking mechanisms complicate the loading and unloading of tools due to engagement with the gripper groove, making tool changes more difficult and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A rear locking mechanism with a movable tightening element that can be easily actuated by an external unlocking device, allowing for efficient locking and unlocking of tool tapers without engaging on the gripper groove, utilizing a T-shaped or L-shaped profile for axial movement and positive non-detachable engagement with a separate unlocking device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking mechanism engages on the gripper groove at the front of the tool holder, then the tool taper is securely locked, but the loading and unloading of the tool magazine is complicated and delayed
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into two independent parts: a locking gripping portion that locks the tool taper on the gripper groove, and a separate tightening element with a tightening portion that projects axially from the rear side. This segmentation allows the locking function to remain intact while enabling independent actuation for unlocking without interfering with the gripper groove engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The tightening portion projecting from the rear side acts as an intermediary element that provides an access point for an external unlocking device. This intermediary structure allows the unlocking operation to be performed from the rear without disturbing the front-side gripper groove engagement, thus resolving the conflict between secure locking and efficient unloading.
2Reliability
If a locking mechanism is provided on the front side of the tool holder, then the tool taper can be locked, but the unlocking operation becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of providing the unlocking interface on the front side where the locking occurs, the invention inverts the approach by providing the tightening portion on the rear side of the tool holder. This allows the unlocking device to access and actuate the locking mechanism from the opposite direction, making the unlocking operation simpler and faster without compromising the locking reliability on the front side.
3Ease of operation
If a separate unlocking device is introduced, then the unlocking operation is simplified, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tightening element serves multiple functions: it is part of the locking mechanism structure, provides the axial projection for external actuation, and enables both locking and unlocking operations. By making the tightening element multi-functional, the invention avoids adding a completely separate complex unlocking device while still achieving simplified unlocking operation through external actuation of the existing structure.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a tool holder to receive and lock a tool taper on a tool magazine, an unlocking device to unlock a tool taper that is received and is locked in a tool holder of this type, and a tool magazine for a machine tool comprising one or more tool holders of this type and an unlocking device of this type.