Workpiece Centering Device with Multi-Axis Support Elements
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing workpiece centring devices for machine tools cannot adjust the orientation of the workpiece relative to the spindle axis simultaneously with parallel displacement and tilting, limiting precision and accuracy in machining processes.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising two support elements and a support body that allows independent linear displacement and rotational adjustment of the support elements, enabling the workpiece to be supported over a distance rather than at individual points, allowing for precise alignment and tilting relative to the spindle axis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a rest moves perpendicular to the spindle axis to compensate for workpiece offset, then parallel positioning is improved, but the ability to adjust orientation and tilting simultaneously is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The support device is divided into multiple independent support elements (at least two) that can be adjusted separately. Each support element can be independently positioned and oriented, allowing simultaneous compensation for offset and adjustment of workpiece orientation without interfering with each other's functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The support elements are arranged at different positions along the spindle axis (different z-coordinates) in addition to different radial positions. This three-dimensional arrangement enables independent adjustment of parallel positioning (x-y plane) and orientation (rotation around z-axis) simultaneously, adding a spatial dimension to the adjustment capability.
2Device complexity
If support elements are fixed at individual points, then device simplicity is maintained, but workpiece support stability and precision are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of a single fixed support point, the device uses multiple discrete support elements distributed at different locations. Each support element independently contacts the workpiece at a specific point, providing stable support while keeping each individual support element relatively simple in structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The support elements are made adjustable rather than fixed, allowing their positions and orientations to be dynamically modified. This enables the support structure to adapt to different workpiece requirements while maintaining simplicity through standardized adjustable mechanisms.
3Device complexity
If single-point support is used, then adjustment mechanism simplicity is preserved, but workpiece centring accuracy and repeat accuracy are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The centring function is distributed across multiple support elements rather than relying on a single complex adjustment mechanism. Each support element contributes to the overall centring accuracy through its individual adjustable position, achieving high precision through the combined effect of multiple simpler mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
Support elements are positioned at different axial locations along the spindle axis, creating a three-dimensional support configuration. This spatial distribution enables more accurate workpiece centring by constraining the workpiece at multiple points in space, improving precision without requiring overly complex single-point adjustment mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for centering a longitudinal workpiece fixed on a spindle includes a support body linearly displaced along a support body axis. The support body and support body axis are aligned substantially parallel to an axis of rotation of the spindle. A first support element movably arranged on the body supports the workpiece or a workpiece receiving part, and a second support element movably arranged on the body supports the workpiece or a workpiece receiving part. The first support element can be linearly displaced in a first direction and is rotatably arranged about a first axis of rotation on the support body and the second support element can be linearly displaced in a second direction different from the first direction and is rotatably arranged about a second axis of rotation on the support body.