Torque-Motor Turntable Workstation for Precise CNC Clamping
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Solution Overview
Problem
CNC workstations with circular machining trajectories face challenges in precision due to bending of cantilevered clamping arms, which complicates installation and alignment, and requires over-dimensioning to mitigate bending, increasing complexity and potential deviations.
Innovation Solution
A workstation design featuring a torque motor-driven turntable with integral clamping assemblies and bearings for precise alignment, eliminating the need for cantilevered arms by ensuring correct positioning and alignment through a central post and external support system, allowing for easy installation and high precision machining.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If cantilevered clamping assemblies with long supporting arms are used, then the workpiece can be positioned for machining, but the arms are subject to bending which negatively affects machining precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the problematic cantilevered supporting arms from the system entirely. Instead, clamping assemblies are mounted directly on the rotating carousel, eliminating the long arms that caused bending and precision loss while maintaining the ability to position and clamp workpieces effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
Rather than having clamping assemblies mounted on long arms extending from the carousel, the patent inverts the mounting approach by attaching clamping assemblies directly to the carousel structure itself, reversing the traditional configuration to eliminate the bending-prone arms.
2Manufacturing precision
If the supporting arms are over-dimensioned to prevent bending, then machining precision is maintained, but the movement and positioning become more complex and burdensome due to increased inertia
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the need for over-dimensioned arms by removing the arm structure entirely. Clamping assemblies are mounted directly on the carousel, achieving precision without the complexity and inertia issues associated with large, rigid supporting structures.
3Productivity
If fixed machining stations are placed outside the carousel, then machining operations can be performed, but the installation and adjustment of the workstation becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the machining stations with the carousel structure itself, integrating them into a unified system. This merging eliminates the need for separate external mounting structures and complex alignment procedures, making installation simpler while maintaining full machining capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The carousel structure serves multiple functions: it provides the rotating platform for workpiece positioning and simultaneously supports the machining stations. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components and simplifies installation while maintaining productivity.
4Area of stationary object
If a circular trajectory is used for workpiece movement, then space occupation is reduced, but the workstation requires complex fixed machining stations or cantilevered clamping assemblies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the clamping assemblies with the circular carousel structure, allowing the compact circular layout to be maintained without requiring complex external support structures. The clamping assemblies are integrated into the carousel itself, preserving space efficiency while reducing complexity.
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
The solution provides a compact, easily installed, and precise CNC workstation with high productivity and ergonomic design, ensuring accurate alignment and positioning of workpieces, reducing the complexity of installation and maintaining high machining precision.
Implementation Method 1
the motor unit is formed by a torque motor (7a)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
A workstation (1) which comprises at least one machining station (2) with a fixed base provided with at least one tool, and at least one clamping assembly (3), for at least one workpiece to be machined, which can move between at least one configuration of alignment with a machining station (2) and at least one configuration that is misaligned with respect to that station (2). The center (1) comprises a fixed footing (4), which is provided with a substantially central post (5) for supporting a supporting surface (6) for supporting the at least one machining station (2), a motor drive unit (7a, 7b) being coupled to the post (5). The rotating portion (8) of the motor drive unit (7a, 7b) is coupled to a turntable (9) which is arranged so as to face and be proximate and parallel to the supporting surface (6). The at least one clamping assembly (3) is integral with the turntable (9).