Tool-Holding Lock Unit for One-Handed Tool Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tool-holding devices for work machines, such as cable processing machines, require multiple handles for tool attachment and detachment, leading to inefficient and error-prone tool changes, which can cause user fatigue and safety concerns during prolonged industrial processes.
Innovation Solution
A tool-holding device with a retaining unit and a lock unit that can be easily transferred between receiving and fixing positions, allowing for one-handed tool positioning and secure, self-locking holding without direct visual alignment, featuring a pre-tensioning section and unlocking mechanism for ergonomic and safe operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a quick lock with two locking parts is used for tool attachment, then tool changing speed is improved, but the number of handles required increases and operation becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into a retaining unit (fixed to machine) and a lock unit (movable), where the lock unit integrates both locking and tool-holding functions. This segmentation allows the lock unit to be manipulated as a single assembly rather than requiring separate handles for each locking part.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock unit combines multiple functions into a single component: it houses the locking mechanism, provides tool positioning, and holds the tool during operation. By merging these functions, the device eliminates the need for multiple separate handles while maintaining quick tool changing capability.
2Productivity
If a quick lock with two locking parts is used for tool attachment, then tool changing speed is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lock unit integrates the locking mechanism, tool positioning features, and tool holding capability into a single movable assembly. This merging reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the overall device structure while maintaining fast tool changing performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock unit serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a locking mechanism, a positioning device, and a tool holder. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated components for each function, thereby reducing device complexity.
3Manufacturing precision
If manual holding of the tool is required during positioning, then positioning accuracy is improved, but user fatigue increases and operation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lock unit is pre-configured with a receiving section that automatically guides and positions the tool when the lock unit is in the receiving position. This preliminary positioning action eliminates the need for manual tool holding and alignment, allowing operators to simply insert the tool without requiring continuous manual support.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool-holding section provides self-positioning and self-holding capabilities through its geometric design and pre-tensioning mechanism. The tool automatically finds its correct position and is secured without requiring the operator to manually hold or adjust it, enabling one-handed operation.
4Reliability
If the lock unit is designed for secure tool holding, then tool security is improved, but ease of tool removal deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The lock unit is designed to be movable between a receiving position (for easy tool insertion) and a fixing position (for secure tool holding). This dynamic positioning allows the device to provide both easy tool removal and secure tool holding at different stages of the operation cycle.
Solution Approach 2:
Before securing the tool, the lock unit is positioned in the receiving position where the tool can be easily inserted and pre-positioned. Only after the tool is correctly placed does the lock unit move to the fixing position to engage the locking mechanism, ensuring both ease of insertion and secure holding.
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 quick, error-free, and ergonomic tool changes on work machines, reducing user fatigue and improving operational safety by allowing tools to be held securely without manual restraint, even during prolonged industrial processes.
Implementation Method 1
The pre-tensioning element (39) is arranged in the pre-tensioning section (37) and is designed to position the lock unit (30) in the receiving position (4) in a pre-tensioned manner
Data Source
AI summary
A tool-holding device (11) for holding a tool (13) on a work machine with a retaining unit (20) and with a lock unit (30). The lock unit (30) can be transferred from a receiving position into a fixing position, and the retaining unit (20) comprises a receiving section (21) for holding the lock unit (30) at least in sections. The lock unit (30) comprises a tool-holding section (33) for holding a tool (13) in a pre-positioned manner. A work machine with this tool-holding device and a method for positioning a tool (13) on a work machine are also disclosed.