Double Enveloping Worm Shaft Machining With Synchronized Multi-Axis Motion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional worm gears, particularly those with an hourglass shape, face challenges in machining due to reduced contact area, localized pressure, and inefficiencies in torque and durability, with existing technologies struggling to perform precise machining of the worm shaft.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method for machining a worm shaft of a double enveloping worm gear, utilizing X-axis, Y-axis, Z-axis, A-axis, and B-axis movements, along with C-axis rotation, to facilitate precise machining, burr removal, and lead angle formation on the worm shaft.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional worm gear with hourglass shape is used, then torque capacity and durability are improved, but machining precision and operational convenience deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the worm shaft rotatable during the machining process. The worm shaft is rotated while the cutting tool machines the threads, enabling precise machining of the hourglass shape and lead angles. This dynamic approach allows the complex curved surface to be accurately formed while maintaining torque capacity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent integrates multiple machining functions into a single apparatus. The machine can perform external threading, internal threading, and lead angle formation simultaneously or sequentially on the same worm shaft. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by providing precise machining capability for the complex hourglass geometry while maintaining the structural integrity needed for torque capacity
2Strength
If conventional worm gear with hourglass shape is used, then torque capacity and durability are improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The worm shaft is made rotatable during machining operations, transforming a static machining process into a dynamic one. This allows the complex hourglass geometry to be precisely formed while the workpiece rotates, making the machining operation more convenient and controllable
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a rotating mechanism as an intermediary between the cutting tool and the worm shaft. This intermediary enables precise control of the worm shaft during machining, making the operation more convenient while maintaining the structural integrity needed for high torque capacity
3Device complexity
If conventional machining apparatus is used, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a machining apparatus that performs multiple functions: external threading, internal threading, and lead angle formation. By integrating these functions into one machine with a rotatable worm shaft capability, the apparatus maintains relative simplicity while achieving high machining precision for the complex hourglass geometry
Solution Approach 2:
The addition of rotational capability to the machining apparatus enables precise machining of the hourglass shape and lead angles without requiring multiple complex specialized machines. The dynamic rotation during machining simplifies the overall device architecture while improving manufacturing precision
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an apparatus and a method for machining a worm shaft of a double enveloping worm gear composed of a double enveloping worm shaft and a worm wheel, and enables X-axis movement of the worm shaft, Y-axis and Z-axis movements of a worm machining cutter, A-axis rotation of the worm shaft, C-axis rotation of the cutter, and B-axis tilting of a saddle on which the cutter is provided, and thus can facilitate worm shaft machining.