DESC:4. DESCRIPTION

Technical Field of the invention

The present invention relates to an Electro Permanent Magnetic work holding apparatus. More specifically, the invention relates to an Electro Permanent Magnetic (EPM) clamping apparatus used to clamp and orient a component in any direction.

Background of the invention

Clamping ferrous components using magnetic chucks has been a common practice for a long time. Using a grinding/milling machine, the job can be machined once clamped. An operation is performed horizontally or vertically by clamping the work piece to a magnetic chuck that has a flat surface. It is difficult to perform an operation such as grinding or milling at an angle.

Magnetic sine tables can be used to clamp components at angles. As shown in Fig.1, a horizontal magnetic chuck is clamped on a pivotal point (116) so that the magnet can rotate on one axis. It will orient at a known angle if a spacer is placed between the front roller (112) and the hardened plate (118).

It has a limitation in that it can only be oriented in one direction. We can make similar sine table for having two angles. This device has the limitation of only being able to adjust the angle in one or two directions. There is a lot of time involved in changing orientations.

The prior art patent document ‘201941031272’ describes the radial pole magnetic chuck having greater holding power made of radial chuck (100) comprises top (102) and bottom plates (108) with hollow area (116) at their centers mounted in parallel relationship and separated by layers of various magnetic frames (106), a plurality of magnetizable sections (103) separated by a strip of non-magnetizable material (105) in said top (1002) and bottom plates (108) being oriented in uniform parallel relationship, an outer ring (104) made of non magnetizable material (105) mounted between the said top (102) and bottom (108) plates, a plurality of magnets (106) stacked one above another in different layers, a magnetizing means to initiate/power ON the radial chuck (100) and a handle (114) to operate the radial chuck (100) while equipping work pieces. The limitation related to machining at different angles. The fixed configuration of the magnetic apparatus, with the integrated pole pieces and collectors, suggests a constraint in adapting to various machining angles.

The prior art patent document ‘DK2653262T3’ describes a magnetic apparatus designed for the clamping of ferrous elements. The apparatus consists of a support structure with pole pieces, featuring a first side for clamping one type of ferrous element and a second side for another. The pole pieces are integrated into the thickness of the support structure, and each side includes pole piece collectors. The magnetic flux generated on the first side exits to form a second clamping surface on the opposite side. The apparatus incorporates recesses for magnetic cores and coils, emphasizing a monolithic design for efficient ferrous element clamping.

The limitation related to machining at different angles. The fixed configuration of the magnetic apparatus, with the integrated pole pieces and collectors, suggests a constraint in adapting to various machining angles.

Therefore, there is a clear objective of inventor to develop a work holding apparatus to clamp and orient the component in any direction.

Brief Summary of the invention

The following presents a simplified summary of the disclosure in order to provide a basic understanding to the reader. This summary is not an extensive overview of the disclosure and it does not identify key/critical elements of the invention or delineate the scope of the invention. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts disclosed herein in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

It is a primary object of the invention to construct an apparatus to clamp the work piece and orient it in any direction.

It is yet another object of the invention to switch easily between clamping angles with little change over time.

It is yet another object of the invention to construct magnetic hollow hemispherical female part in which a steel semi-spherical male part be placed to orient the same, a handle connected to the steel semi-spherical male part.

It is yet another object of the invention to operate the magnetic base of hollow hemispherical female contact face grooved for gripping of steel semi spherical male part.

According to an aspect of the present invention, an Electro Permanent Magnetic (EPM) apparatus for clamping and orientating work pieces is disclosed. The apparatus comprises of a magnetic base of hollow hemisphere female contact face, a semi-spherical steel male part, a handle and a magnetic chuck.

In accordance with the aspect of the present invention, the grooves present on the magnetic base of hollow hemispherical female contact face are used to grip the said semi-spherical solid steel ball in a specified position.

In accordance with the aspect of the present invention, the magnetic chuck is clamped to act as top plate of spherical sphere for holding work piece.

In accordance with the aspect of the present invention, semi-spherical solid ferrous steel ball is provided with the handle for orientation of work piece in different positions. The location of sphere is locked in position after activating magnetic chuck.

In accordance with the aspect of the present invention, the magnetic base is activated by passing electricity after fixing the location.

In accordance with the aspect of the present invention, a work piece is allowed to orient in different specific positions using handle of the semi sphere for machining operations.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the base of hollow hemispherical female contact face is made of steel connecting semi spherical solid ferrous steel ball provided with the handle is made of magnet activated by passing electricity.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the top plate of sphere is also built of magnet activated by passing electricity. The top chuck and bottom sphere are not simultaneously magnetized.

Further objects, features, and advantages of the invention will be readily apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiments thereof, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The invention will be further understood from the following detailed description of a preferred embodiment taken in conjunction with an appended drawing, in which:

Fig. 1 illustrates a prior art magnetic sine table used to clamp components at angles;

Fig. 2 illustrates an electro permanent Magnetic (EPM) apparatus base of hollow hemisphere female contact face having grooves, according to the exemplary embodiment of present invention;

Fig. 3 illustrates a clamping apparatus with semispherical solid steel ball provided with the handle, according to the exemplary embodiment of present invention;

Fig. 4 illustrates an Electro Permanent Magnetic (EPM) apparatus with clamping and orientating work piece, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed Description of the invention

It is essential to understand that the present disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The present disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or carried out in various ways. Additionally, the phraseology and terminology used herein are for descriptive purposes and should not be regarded as limiting.

The use of terms like "including," "comprising," or "having" and their variations herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents, as well as additional items. The terms "a" and "an" herein do not denote a limitation of quantity but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced items. Furthermore, terms like "first," "second," "third," and the like, are used to distinguish one element from another and do not denote any order, quantity, or importance.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, an Electro Permanent Magnetic (EPM) apparatus is disclosed. The EPM apparatus is designed for clamping and orienting workpieces and comprises a magnetic base of a hollow hemisphere female contact face, a semi-spherical steel male part, a handle, and a clamping apparatus like a magnetic chuck. The magnetic base of the hollow hemispherical female contact face includes grooves utilized to grip the semi-spherical solid steel ball in a specified position.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the magnetic chuck is clamped to act as the top plate of the spherical sphere for holding the workpiece.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the semi-spherical solid steel ball is provided with a handle for the orientation of the workpiece in different positions.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the magnetic base is activated by passing electricity after fixing the location.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the workpiece is allowed to orient in different specific positions using the handle of the semi-sphere for machining operations.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the magnetic hollow hemispherical female part (the base) is used to connect with a steel semi-spherical male part attached with the handle.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the magnetic base of the hollow hemispherical female contact face is grooved for gripping the solid sphere.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, we can also have the top magnetic chuck and bottom sphere of the apparatus to be simultaneously magnetized by passing electricity.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the workpiece is allowed to orient in different specific positions using the handle of the semi-sphere for machining operations.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a method of using the Electro Permanent Magnetic (EPM) apparatus is disclosed. The method comprises the steps of:
a. clamping the top plate of the magnetic chuck with the semi-spherical solid steel ball on the magnetic base,
b. clamping the workpiece on the second clamping apparatus like a magnetic chuck,
c. orienting the apparatus to a desired angle using the handle of the semi-sphere,
d. fixing the desired angle,
e. activating the magnetic base,
f. clamping the workpiece on the clamping apparatus like the magnetic chuck mounted on the sphere oriented in the direction of the semi-spherical ball.

Now referring to drawings,
Fig’s. 2-4, discloses an Electro Permanent Magnetic (EPM) apparatus (100) engineered to efficiently clamp and orient workpieces. The apparatus comprises a magnetic base (102) with a hollow hemisphere female contact face, a semi-spherical steel male part (104), a purposefully designed handle (106), and a job clamping apparatus like a magnetic chuck (108). Integral to its design are grooves (110) on the magnetic base's hollow hemispherical female contact face (102), strategically placed to grip the semi-spherical solid steel ball (104) in a precise position.

An optional feature of clamping can be that the clamping location of the job, is a magnetic chuck (108), which can be activated along with the bottom female magnet to securely holding the workpiece. The semi-spherical solid steel ball (104) is equipped with a handle (106), allowing convenient orientation of the workpiece in various positions. Activation of the magnetic base (102) occurs by passing electricity after fixing the location, ensuring stable and controlled clamping.

The apparatus excels in facilitating machining operations, enabling the workpiece to be oriented in different positions using the handle (106) of the semi-sphere, enhancing versatility and precision. Additional features defined in the claims include a connection mechanism (Claim 2) where the base, identified as a magnetic hollow hemispherical female part (102), efficiently connects with a steel semi-spherical male part (104) attached with the handle (106). Moreover, grooves (110) on the magnetic base (102) enhance the grip for the solid sphere (104), ensuring stability and accuracy during machining operations.

An innovative aspect involves the simultaneous magnetization of the top chuck (108) and bottom sphere (104) of the apparatus, activated by passing electricity (Claim 4). The magnetic chuck (108) can be selectively activated by passing electricity (Claim 5), providing control over the clamping process. Additionally, a method of using the Electro Permanent Magnetic (EPM) apparatus is described in Claim 8, encompassing steps such as clamping the top plate of the magnetic chuck (108) with the semi-spherical solid steel ball (104), orienting the apparatus to a desired angle, fixing the angle, and activating the magnetic base (102) for secure workpiece clamping.

The Electro Permanent Magnetic (EPM) apparatus, with its distinctive features and integrated functionalities, addresses the challenges in workpiece clamping and orientation, offering a comprehensive solution for machining operations across various industries.

Advantages of the Present Invention:
The EPM apparatus offers several notable advantages in the field of workpiece clamping and orientation. One key advantage is its versatility in workpiece orientation, allowing components to be positioned in any direction. This flexibility is particularly beneficial in machining operations where the ability to approach workpieces from different angles is essential for achieving optimal results.

Another significant advantage is the apparatus is its capability for quick angle adjustments. Traditional setups often require time-consuming changes to accommodate different angles, whereas the EPM apparatus (100) facilitates rapid and efficient switching between clamping angles. This feature contributes to a reduction in changeover time, enhancing overall operational efficiency.

The precise positioning facilitated by the grooves (110) on the magnetic base (102) is another noteworthy advantage. These grooves enable accurate placement of the semi-spherical solid steel ball (104), ensuring meticulous control over the orientation of the workpiece. This precision is critical for applications that demand a high degree of accuracy in machining.

Efficient clamping is achieved through the magnetic chuck (108), which, when activated, provides a secure grip on the workpiece. This feature prevents unintended movement during machining operations, contributing to enhanced stability and quality in the manufacturing process.

Time and cost savings are inherent in the design of the apparatus. The ability to perform operations at various angles without the need for complex setups or extended adjustment times leads to significant time and cost savings in manufacturing processes.

The improved machining flexibility offered by the EPM apparatus is valuable across a spectrum of applications. Whether in aerospace, automotive, or tool manufacturing, the apparatus caters to industries where versatile machining capabilities are essential for meeting diverse requirements.

Reduced setup time is a practical advantage in day-to-day operations. Minimizing the time required to change orientations enhances operational efficiency, making the apparatus a valuable tool in settings where quick adjustments are crucial.

Applications of the Present Invention:
The applications of the Electro Permanent Magnetic apparatus span various manufacturing domains. In inspection location where speed of orientation in different angles is paramount, the present invention is very versatile. Also, in precision machining, where accuracy is paramount, the apparatus finds utility. It is equally well-suited for mold and die manufacturing, accommodating the need for complex shapes and angles in the production process.

Metal fabrication processes, including milling, grinding, and drilling, benefit from the apparatus's ability to securely hold workpieces at different orientations. The integration of the apparatus into automated manufacturing systems enhances the versatility of robotic machining operations, contributing to the advancement of automated production processes.

In prototype development, the apparatus facilitates quick testing and modification of designs at different angles, supporting iterative design processes. The research and development sector can also leverage the apparatus for experimentation with various machining orientations, aiding in the exploration of innovative manufacturing techniques.

The general manufacturing landscape stands to benefit from the Electro Permanent Magnetic apparatus (100), offering a versatile solution for clamping and orienting components during a diverse array of machining processes. Whether in traditional manufacturing or cutting-edge industries, the apparatus's applications are broad, positioning it as a valuable tool in the advancement of manufacturing capabilities.
,CLAIMS:CLAIMS
I/We Claim:
1. An Electro Permanent Magnetic (EPM) apparatus (100) for clamping and orientating work pieces, comprising:
a magnetic base of hollow hemisphere female contact face (102),
a semi-spherical steel male part (104),
a handle (106),
a magnetic chuck (108);
the grooves (110) present on the magnetic base of hollow hemispherical female contact face (102) are used to grip the said semi-spherical solid steel ball (104) in a specified position;
said clamping apparatus like a magnetic chuck (108) is clamped to act as the top plate of a spherical sphere for holding the workpiece;
said semi-spherical solid steel ball (104) is provided with the handle (106) for orientation of the workpiece in different positions;
the said magnetic base (102) is activated by passing electricity after fixing the location;
said workpiece is allowed to orient in different specific positions using the handle (106) of the semi-sphere for machining operations.

2. The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the base is a magnetic hollow hemispherical female part (102) used to connect with a steel semi-spherical male part (104) attached with the handle (106).

3. The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the magnetic base of hollow hemispherical female contact face (102) is grooved (110) for gripping of the solid sphere (104).

4. The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the top magnetic chuck (108) and bottom sphere (104) of the apparatus are simultaneously magnetized by passing electricity.

5. The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the magnetic chuck (108) is activated by passing electricity independently from the bottom part (102) .

6. The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the workpiece is allowed to orient in different specific positions using the handle (106) of the semi-sphere for machining operations.

7. The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the magnetic base (102) is activated by passing electricity after fixing the location.

8. The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the top clamping face (108) is a mechanical clamping table like a base with Tee slots/ base with Tapping at regular intervals or such similar mechanical clamping arrangement.

9. A method of using the Electro Permanent Magnetic (EPM) apparatus (100) as claimed in any of claims 1, comprising the steps of:
a. clamping the top plate of the magnetic chuck (108) with the semi-spherical solid steel ball (104) on the magnetic base (102),
b. clamping the workpiece on the second magnetic chuck (108),
c. orienting the apparatus to a desired angle using the handle (106) of the semi-sphere,
d. fixing the desired angle,
e. activating the magnetic base (102),
f. clamping the workpiece on the magnetic chuck (108) mounted on the sphere oriented in the direction of the semi-spherical ball (104).

6. DATE AND SIGNATURE

Dated this 16th day of November 2023