Tool Holder Clamping Layout for Compact Turret Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clamping devices for machine tools are not suitable for use in tool turrets due to their large axial extent, which limits their application when space is constrained.
Innovation Solution
A clamping device with a hydraulic actuator and motion transferring mechanism that allows for axial movement of the drawbar between releasing and locking positions without rotating parts, reducing stress on rotary bearings and enabling compact design for use in tool turrets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If a clamping device with a hydraulic actuator and motion transferring mechanism is used, then the axial extent is reduced making it suitable for tool turrets, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The motion transferring mechanism is arranged inside the housing and mounted to the spindle, with the hydraulic actuator integrated within the same housing. The piston member extends around the spindle and is slidably mounted to the cylinder housing, creating a nested configuration where multiple components occupy overlapping spatial volumes. This nesting allows the clamping device to achieve a compact axial extent while containing all necessary functional elements within a confined space.
Solution Approach 2:
The piston member extends around the spindle in a radial direction rather than purely axially, and is slidably mounted to the cylinder housing to move axially. This three-dimensional arrangement allows the hydraulic actuator to transfer motion efficiently while minimizing the axial footprint of the overall device, enabling compact design suitable for tool turret applications.
2Speed
If rotary seals are eliminated from the hydraulic actuator, then the rotational speed capability is improved, but the sealing reliability may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The rotary seals that would normally be required at the interface between the housing and spindle for rotating hydraulic components are completely removed from the design. The hydraulic actuator is configured with the piston member and cylinder housing arranged such that no rotary sealing interfaces are needed, eliminating the reliability issues associated with rotary seals while enabling high rotational speeds of the spindle.
Solution Approach 2:
The hydraulic actuator design replaces the need for rotary seals with a sliding seal arrangement where the piston member is slidably mounted to the cylinder housing. This mechanical substitution eliminates the rotary sealing interface that would limit rotational speed, allowing the spindle to rotate at high speeds without compromising the sealing function of the hydraulic system.
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
The solution allows for efficient automatic tool changing operations with reduced stress on rotary bearings, enabling the use of smaller bearings or extending their service life, and facilitates compact design suitable for tool turrets.
Implementation Method 1
a hydraulic actuator for moving the actuating member axially in relation to the spindle, the hydraulic actuator being arranged in the housing and comprising a cylinder housing and a piston member, wherein the piston member extends around the spindle and is slidably mounted to the cylinder housing so as to be hydraulically moveable axially in relation to the spindle
Data Source
AI summary
A clamping device for releasably holding a tool holder shank includes a spindle rotatably mounted inside a housing, a drawbar axially moveable in a bore in the housing between an advanced releasing position and a retracted locking position, engagement members moveable under the effect of the drawbar into locking engagement with the tool holder shank, an actuating member slidably mounted to the spindle, a motion transferring mechanism for transferring an axial movement of the actuating member into a movement of the drawbar, and a cylinder housing and an associated piston member for moving the actuating member in relation to the spindle. The cylinder housing is arranged in the housing in an axially floating manner. The actuating member is rotatable in relation to the cylinder housing and the piston member together with the spindle.