Workpiece Adapter Clamping Layout for Precise Multi-Axis Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing holding and workpiece adapter apparatuses face challenges in achieving exact and reliable positioning and fixing of workpieces, particularly due to issues with thermal expansion and stability during machining processes.
Innovation Solution
A holding apparatus with cylindrical positioning elements and planar contact surfaces, combined with a fixing device featuring linearly displaceable clamping elements and hydraulic actuation, ensures precise positioning and fixing in multiple directions, minimizing thermal expansion and tipping risks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If cylindrical positioning elements are used for positioning in x and y directions, then positioning precision is improved, but thermal expansion affects stability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by optimizing the diameter of cylindrical positioning elements to a specific range (15-45 mm, preferably 20-40 mm, particularly 25-35 mm) to balance positioning precision with thermal expansion effects. This dimensional parameter optimization ensures sufficient stability while minimizing thermal expansion impact on positioning accuracy during machining operations.
2Measurement precision
If planar contact surfaces are used for positioning in z direction, then positioning accuracy is improved, but the workpiece adapter apparatus may tip
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the positioning function into three independent directional systems: two cylindrical positioning elements for x and y directions, and planar contact surfaces for z direction. This segmentation allows each positioning element to be optimized for its specific direction while working together as a unified system, preventing tipping through proper spatial distribution of positioning functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dimensional positioning by using cylindrical elements extending in the z direction for radial positioning in x-y plane, while planar contact surfaces provide axial positioning in z direction. This multi-dimensional approach ensures stable positioning without tipping by distributing contact points across different spatial dimensions.
3Device complexity
If swing clamps are used for fixing, then the fixing device is simple, but positioning exactness is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the fixing function into two independent systems: positioning elements (cylindrical and planar) that establish precise spatial coordinates, and clamping elements that apply securing force. This separation ensures that the simplicity of clamping mechanisms does not compromise positioning exactness, as positioning is achieved through geometric constraints rather than clamping force alone.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces positioning elements as intermediaries between the workpiece adapter apparatus and the holding apparatus. These cylindrical and planar positioning elements mediate the positioning function, establishing exact spatial relationships independent of the clamping mechanism, thereby maintaining positioning precision while keeping the clamping device simple.
4Stability of the object's composition
If multiple clamping elements displaceable in different directions are used, then tipping is prevented, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple clamping functions into a single integrated fixing device that incorporates multiple linearly displaceable clamping elements. These elements work together as a unified system, with each element responsible for preventing tipping in specific directions, thereby achieving stable workpiece securing without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses clamping elements that are linearly displaceable in different directions (x and y directions) to prevent tipping. By orienting clamping elements along different axes, the system prevents tipping in multiple directions simultaneously, achieving three-dimensional stability through two-dimensional clamping element arrangement.
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 enables exact, reliable, and stable positioning and fixing of workpieces across multiple axes, accommodating thermal expansions and maintaining high stability during machining, with improved ease of use and rapid clamping/unclamping capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
at least one linearly displaceable clamping element having a clamping surface. For positioning a workpiece adapter apparatus, the holding apparatus has two positioning elements, which are formed at least partially in a cylindrical manner
Implementation Method 2
The positioning elements have preferably a longitudinal center axis that extends parallel to the z direction. Preferably, the positioning elements are formed in a peg-like manner and have a cylindrical positioning portion and a frustoconical introduction portion
Data Source
AI summary
A holding apparatus/workpiece adapter apparatus arrangement includes a holding apparatus and a workpiece adapter apparatus. The workpiece adapter apparatus is positioned and fixed, with a workpiece fastened thereto, by the holding apparatus. The holding apparatus has partially cylindrical positioning elements, which engage in an associated cylindrical positioning recess and a positioning slot and position the workpiece adapter apparatus in an x and a y direction. The workpiece adapter apparatus bears by mating contact surfaces against contact surfaces of the holding apparatus and is clamped by linearly displaceable clamping elements and pressed against the contact surfaces, and thus positioned in a z direction. For clamping, clamping surfaces of the clamping elements bear against mating clamping surfaces of the workpiece adapter apparatus.