Tool Holder Operating Key With Tactile Locking Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tool holders are prone to damage due to incorrect operation, especially in confined spaces with limited visibility, as machine operators may not fully insert the operating key, leading to excessive surface pressure and potential tool holder damage.
Innovation Solution
A drive and locking unit with first and second locking means that provide tactile feedback, ensuring proper insertion and secure engagement of the operating key with the tool holder, preventing damage by ensuring full engagement before torque transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional operating key is used in confined spaces, then the operator can access the tool holder, but the limited visibility makes it difficult to ensure proper insertion depth, leading to potential damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements tactile feedback through a two-stage locking mechanism with distinct engagement positions. The first locking means engages at a first position providing initial feedback, and the second locking means engages at a second position providing final feedback. This allows the operator to feel when proper insertion depth is achieved without needing visual confirmation, resolving the contradiction between accessibility in confined spaces and reliability against damage.
2Productivity
If the operating key is inserted without proper depth control, then the operation can be performed quickly, but excessive surface pressure may damage the tool holder
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a preliminary action principle through its two-stage locking mechanism. Before full torque transmission begins, the first locking means engages to establish proper alignment and depth. This preliminary engagement ensures that subsequent torque application occurs at the correct insertion depth, preventing excessive surface pressure while maintaining operational speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The tactile feedback from sequential engagement of the first and second locking means provides real-time information to the operator about insertion depth. This feedback mechanism ensures that torque is only transmitted after proper depth is achieved, preventing excessive surface pressure while maintaining productivity through quick, intuitive operation.
3Device complexity
If a simple operating key design is used, then the device complexity is low, but it cannot provide reliable indication of proper insertion depth
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses tactile feedback through mechanically engaged locking means rather than complex electronic or optical measurement systems. The first locking means provides feedback at a first position and the second locking means provides feedback at a second position, giving the operator precise information about insertion depth through feel alone. This maintains mechanical simplicity while achieving high measurement precision for insertion depth indication.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a device and method for a tool change in a driven or stationary tool holder using at least one industrial robot. A drive device for clamping and releasing the tool in a tool holding fixture of the tool holder prevents incorrect operation and can be operated manually or by the handling robot and can be actively locked to the tool holder.