Tool Holder Wedge Mechanism for Resharpenable Insert Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tool holders do not efficiently and accurately reinsert resharpened cutting tool inserts, requiring repositioning of the tool holder and complicating the sharpening process.
Innovation Solution
A tool holder design with a recess and wedge member system, where the wedge member is secured by a locking screw with opposite threading hands, allowing for easy removal and reinsertion of the cutting tool insert while maintaining the cutting edge profile's relative position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional tool holders are used for resharpened inserts, then the insert can be removed and resharpened, but the insert cannot be accurately reinserted without repositioning the tool holder
Solution Approach 1:
The recess is pre-configured with specific geometric features (top planar surface, bottom surface at an angle, rear portion providing locating surface) that establish the correct positioning of the insert before the wedge member is inserted. This preliminary positioning structure ensures that when the insert is reinserted after sharpening, it automatically returns to its original cutting edge alignment without requiring tool holder repositioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The wedge member acts as an intermediary element between the insert and the tool holder body. It provides a precise mating interface through its top surface that engages with the bottom surface of the insert, and its rear surface that positions against the rear portion of the recess. This intermediary structure transfers the positioning accuracy from the recess geometry to the insert, ensuring consistent reinsertion alignment.
2Reliability
If the wedge member is securely locked to maintain insert position, then the insert is firmly held, but removal and reinsertion becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The locking screw creates a dynamic clamping system where the wedge member can be easily inserted and removed when the screw is loose, but is firmly secured when tightened. The angled bottom surface of the recess works with the wedge geometry to provide progressive engagement - initial loose fit for easy insertion, then increasing clamp force as the screw tightens, achieving both ease of operation and secure holding.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping force parameter is controlled by the locking screw, which can be adjusted between a loose state (easy removal) and a tight state (secure holding). The threaded connection converts rotational motion into linear clamping force, allowing the operator to change the holding parameter dynamically based on whether insertion/removal or secure holding is the current operational requirement.
Data Source
AI summary
A tool holder for a resharpenable cutting tool insert has a body portion which includes a recess. A wedge member is positioned in the recess. A locking screw locks the wedge member such that the top surface of the wedge member is in engagement with the bottom surface of the insert and the locking screw is threadably connected to the body portion and to the wedge member so that the cutting tool insert may be removed for sharpening and re-inserted at the same location relative to the tool holder.