Fluid Pressure Vise Actuator With Gear Drive for Multi-Vise Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vise operation systems in CNC manufacturing are inefficient and costly due to manual operation, and existing automation solutions are not compatible with various vise fixtures and robotic systems, leading to high startup and replacement costs, as well as risks of workpiece damage from pressure failures.
Innovation Solution
A fluid pressure vise actuator system that includes a housing with a piston and gear mechanism, allowing for efficient opening and closing of vise jaws using pressurized fluid, which is compatible with multiple vise types and sizes, and maintains clamping force even in pressure failures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operation of vise is used, then ease of operation is maintained, but productivity is reduced and human error increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with an automated fluid pressure system. A piston driven by pressurized fluid (pneumatic or hydraulic) connects to the vise lead screw through a gear mechanism, automatically opening and closing the vise jaws without manual intervention. This substitution eliminates repetitive manual labor while maintaining operational control, directly resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and productivity.
2Productivity
If conventional fluid pressure systems are used to automate vise operation, then productivity is improved, but compatibility with various vise fixtures is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the actuator system with universal compatibility features. The housing includes adjustable clamping blocks that can adapt to different vise jaw configurations and sizes. The gear-piston connection mechanism can accommodate various lead screw types through adjustable mounting arrangements. This multi-functional design allows a single automated actuator system to work with multiple vise fixture types, resolving the contradiction between productivity improvement and compatibility.
3Productivity
If conventional fluid pressure systems directly apply clamping force, then productivity is improved, but reliability is reduced due to pressure failure risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a gear mechanism as an intermediary between the fluid pressure piston and the vise lead screw. Instead of the piston directly applying force to the lead screw, the gear transmits and controls the force transmission. This intermediary provides mechanical advantage, ensures controlled engagement, and maintains reliability even if fluid pressure fluctuates. The gear mechanism acts as a buffer and control element that enhances system reliability while maintaining automated productivity.
4Productivity
If automated vise operation is implemented, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs pneumatic or hydraulic principles to achieve automated vise operation with relatively simple components. A single piston driven by pressurized fluid provides the automated actuation force, eliminating the need for complex electric motors, actuators, or control systems. The fluid pressure system naturally provides controlled force application and easy reversibility. This approach achieves automated productivity improvement while keeping the device complexity low through the use of well-understood pneumatic/hydraulic components.
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 system reduces human error and costs by automating vise operation, ensuring consistent clamping force, and is compatible with diverse vise fixtures and robotic systems, minimizing workpiece damage and operational disruptions.
Implementation Method 1
A piston is disposed in the housing that is configured to actuate based on a pressure increase in ports of the housing
Implementation Method 2
A gear is also disposed in the inner bore of the housing, and a portion of the gear is adjacent to the piston such that the actuation of the piston is configured to rotate the gear
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid pressure vise actuator includes a housing and an inner bore of the housing. A piston is disposed in the housing, and the piston is configured to actuate based on a pressure increase in ports of the housing. A gear is also disposed in the inner bore of the housing, and a portion of the gear is adjacent to the piston such that an actuation of the piston is configured to rotate the gear. The gear includes a socket configured to interface with a vise and operate the vise based on a rotation of the gear. The housing also includes adjustable clamping blocks configured to engage with the vise to provide support for the housing during operation. An adjustment of the clamping blocks enables the fluid pressure vise actuator to interface with multiple types of existing vises.