Tool Swivel Assembly With Fixed Gauge Support for Multi-Wheel Grinding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Machine tools require multiple grinding wheels for complex operations, leading to increased costs and complexity due to the need for dedicated gauges and tools for each wheel, especially in processes involving sidewall and journal features.
Innovation Solution
A tool swivel assembly with a fixed support structure and rotatable tool support, equipped with a bearing assembly and brake system, allows for the use of a single set of precision tools and gauges with multiple grinding wheels, reducing the need for dedicated equipment and simplifying the machine design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple grinding wheels are used for complex operations, then manufacturing capability and versatility are improved, but device complexity and cost increase due to the need for dedicated gauges and tools for each wheel
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal gauge support structure that can accommodate multiple grinding wheels with a single set of gauges and tools. The support structure is designed to hold the gauge in a fixed position relative to the workpiece, allowing the same gauge to be used with different grinding wheels mounted on the rotatable tool support. This eliminates the need for dedicated gauges for each wheel, reducing device complexity while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple grinding wheels and a single gauge support system into one integrated tool swivel assembly. The rotatable tool support allows multiple wheels to be mounted on a single rotating mechanism, while the fixed gauge support structure serves all wheels simultaneously. This merging of functions reduces the overall number of components and simplifies the machine design.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple grinding wheels are used for complex operations, then manufacturing capability is improved, but cost increases due to the need for dedicated precision tools and gauges for each wheel
Solution Approach 1:
The universal gauge support structure allows a single set of expensive precision gauges and tools to serve multiple grinding wheels. Instead of purchasing and maintaining separate dedicated gauges for each wheel, the same gauge can be used with any wheel mounted on the rotatable tool support, significantly reducing the quantity of precision instruments needed and lowering overall equipment cost.
3Device complexity
If a fixed gauge support structure is used with a rotatable tool support, then the need for dedicated tools for each wheel is reduced, but the structural design becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The tool swivel assembly is divided into distinct functional segments: a fixed gauge support structure, a rotatable tool support structure, and a bearing assembly connecting them. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured and assembled independently, simplifying the overall construction process despite the complex functional requirements. The modular design makes the assembly more manageable and easier to manufacture.
4Speed
If the rotatable tool support uses a lighter construction, then dynamic behavior and responsiveness are improved, but structural strength may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable tool support structure employs composite construction combining lightweight materials with high-strength components. The bearing assembly uses precision engineered materials that provide both light weight for improved dynamic response and sufficient strength to support the grinding wheels during operation. This composite approach allows the structure to be lighter while maintaining the necessary structural integrity.
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
This configuration reduces costs by allowing shared use of expensive tools and gauges, improves dynamic behavior, and simplifies the construction of the tool swivel assembly, enabling efficient and precise material removal processes.
Implementation Method 1
a bearing assembly, wherein the rotatable tool support is rotatably mounted on the bearing support surface via the bearing assembly
Implementation Method 2
The brake assembly may comprise a brake calliper carried by the support structure and a plate carried by the rotatable tool support, and the brake calliper is arranged to selectively clamp against the plate to hold the rotatable tool support in position
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A
Figure 2B
AI summary
A tool swivel assembly for a machine tool comprises: a base (34) for mounting on a machine tool; a support shaft (6) in a fixed position and orientation relative to the base, the support shaft having a longitudinal reference axis (24); a rotatable tool support (4) which is rotatable relative to the support shaft about the longitudinal reference axis; and a fixed tool support (22) which is fixed relative to and carried by the support shaft. In such a configuration, the position of a tool or gauge mounted on the fixed tool support does not change with any change in the rotational position of the rotatable tool support. Thus the tool or gauge on the fixed tool support can be used in combination with any of the material removal tools carried on the rotatable tool support. This avoids the need to provide a dedicated tool or gauge in association with any of the material removal tools carried on the rotatable tool support.