Inclined Multi-Edge Turning Tool for Fast CNC Indexing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional turning tools on CNC-lathes require time-consuming turret rotation for indexing, leading to downtime and inefficiency in machining complex shapes.
Innovation Solution
A turning tool design featuring intersecting cutting elements with an inclination angle, allowing for quick indexing through linear motion, which can be used on a wide range of CNC-lathes without the need for turret rotation, reducing downtime and enabling more complex shape machining.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If turret rotation is used for indexing between turning tools, then multiple cutting operations can be performed, but downtime increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The turning tool is divided into multiple cutting elements (first and second cutting elements) that can be independently positioned. Each cutting element has its own cutting edge configured for specific cutting operations, allowing selective use without requiring rotation of the entire tool holder.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of rotating the tool around a vertical axis (turret rotation), the invention uses linear movement along the coupling axis to switch between cutting elements. The cutting elements are arranged at different positions along the longitudinal axis, enabling tool change through axial movement rather than rotational indexing.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple turning tools with different geometries are used for complex shapes, then machining versatility is improved, but tool change time increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple cutting elements with different geometries and orientations are combined into a single turning tool body. The first cutting element has a first cutting edge while the second cutting element has a second cutting edge with different geometry, allowing both to be used on the same tool without changing tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The turning tool is designed as a multi-functional tool that can perform multiple cutting operations with different geometries. By integrating multiple cutting elements with varying configurations into one tool, it replaces the need for multiple specialized tools, enabling the same tool to handle diverse machining requirements.
3Device complexity
If conventional turning tools with single cutting elements are used, then tool structure is simple, but machining of complex shapes requires multiple tool changes
Solution Approach 1:
The tool design allows dynamic selection between different cutting elements through linear movement along the coupling axis. The cutting elements are positioned such that they can be brought into or out of the working position by moving the tool body axially, enabling flexible switching without complex mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A turning tool includes a coupling portion, which extends along a coupling axis defining a longitudinal axis of the turning tool, and a first and a second cutting element. The first cutting element has a first cutting edge and the second cutting element has a second cutting edge, which separates and connects a second forward cutting edge and a second rearward cutting edge. The first cutting element has a first top surface and the second cutting element has a second top surface. The first and second cutting elements intersect an imaginary circle or cylinder having a center axis thereof parallel to or coinciding with the coupling axis. The first cutting element is inclined in relation to the second cutting element by an inclination angle, which is measured around the center axis of the imaginary circle. The first top surface faces in a direction which is perpendicular to the coupling axis.