Machine Tool Component 5: Adaptive Fixturing Device

The main idea is to align, clamp or damp different workpieces in a machining process using moveable rods to adapt the fixture to the shape of the workpiece. For the locking of the rods a magnetic field will be applied to block the magnetorheological fluid (MRF) inside the adaptive clamping device. An important advantage in comparison with former prototypes is the use of an electropermanent magnet system. Once magnetized, the magnets generate a permanent magnetic field so that the MR fluid behaves as a solid and blocks the rods during the machining process. This way, we do not need to apply any current in the coil during the machining process to block the rods, which is good for power saving. After machining, when we need to slide the rods, we apply a smaller current in the opposite direction to cancel the field generated by the magnets and the MR fluid goes back to the liquid state. A patent is under study