Turret Punch Multi-Tool With Selectable Taps for Threading

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Solution Overview

Problem

Punching devices, particularly turret punching presses, are limited in their functionality as they primarily perform punching operations and lack the capability to efficiently cut or form threads, restricting their versatility.

Innovation Solution

A multiple tool system is designed for punching devices that includes a thread cutter drive mechanism, a link guide for selecting active thread cutters, and a lubrication system, allowing for the expansion of functionality to include thread cutting or forming, with features like a quickly removable tool head, automated selection, and a drive device that specifies the number of rotations via a selectable transmission ratio.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a punching device is equipped with traditional single-function tools, then the device structure remains simple, but the functionality is limited and cannot perform thread cutting or forming operations

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The punching device is equipped with a multi-tool that can perform multiple functions including punching, thread cutting, and thread forming operations. The multi-tool comprises multiple thread cutters with different thread diameters and types, allowing a single device to handle various fastening operations without requiring separate specialized tools for each function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The multi-tool is divided into multiple independent thread cutter units, each capable of performing specific threading operations. This segmentation allows the device to handle different thread specifications (M6, M8, M10, etc.) and types (metric, unified, pipe threads) through individual selectable cutters, while maintaining a unified tool holder structure that integrates with the punching device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple thread cutters are integrated into a single multi-tool, then thread cutting capability is enhanced, but the device complexity increases due to additional selection and drive mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvethread cutting capabilityVSAvoidselection and drive mechanisms
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple thread cutters are combined into a single tool holder assembly, sharing common drive and selection mechanisms. The multi-tool integrates several thread cutter units (first, second, third thread cutters) with different thread specifications into one compact structure, reducing the need for multiple separate tools while minimizing additional complexity through shared components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The multi-tool incorporates a rotatable tool holder that can dynamically switch between different thread cutter positions. The selection mechanism allows rotation to bring the desired thread cutter into the active working position, enabling flexible adaptation to different threading requirements without requiring complex individual control mechanisms for each cutter.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Productivity

If automated selection mechanism is implemented, then operational efficiency is improved, but the device complexity and initial cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational efficiencyVSAvoidselection mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The multi-tool incorporates an automated selection mechanism that can be actuated by the punching device's existing ram or actuator system. The tool holder rotates automatically to position the required thread cutter based on pre-programmed sequences or simple mechanical indexing, eliminating the need for manual intervention while utilizing the punching device's existing motion cycles for selection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

4Adaptability or versatility

If thread forming operation is added to punching device, then application possibilities are expanded, but the device complexity and operational time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveapplication possibilitiesVSAvoidoperational time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The multi-tool is designed to perform thread forming operations continuously within the existing punching device cycle. The thread formers can engage and form threads during the same operational cycle as punching operations, eliminating separate threading steps and maintaining continuous productive action without significant additional time requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

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 reliable thread cutting or forming operations, enhancing the versatility of punching devices by allowing for the use of multiple thread diameters and reducing wear through preloading springs and magnetic holders, thus extending the tool's lifespan and improving operational efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

The magnetic holder (67) holds the thread cutter (20) in the insert sleeve (12)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic attraction: Magnetism

Implementation Method 2

reducing wear through preloading springs

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic force: Spring

Data Source

PatentEP3180139B1Multiple-use tool
Publication Date: 2023.10.11 PASS STANZTECHN
  • EP3180139B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3180139B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3180139B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

The invention relates to a multiple-use tool (5) for a punching device, in particular for a turret punch press, having a housing and a tool head (9) that interacts with the punching device. The tool head is connected to a tap magazine (10) having a plurality of screw taps (11). A selection device (22) is used for selecting an active tap (11A) that interacts with a workpiece (8) for tapping. A tap drive device (27) is used for driving the active tap (11A). The result is a multiple-use tool, which expands the fields of application of a punching device.