Design, build, and evaluate a Smart Tool Holder
Problem statement
Picture a scenario where you need to maximize the life of a cutting insert by keeping it under a certain temperature when making a cut, but you have no way of measuring the temperature. The inability to know the temperature during a cut on a lathe can negatively affect the efficiency, cost, and tool life of an insert [1]. One solution to this problem is by attaching a thermocouple onto the insert and relaying that data to an output system which can be read by our client. The concept of a “smart tool” which is able to send feedback of data, such as vibration, has been executed by some companies such as Schunk [2], but there are currently no smart tools that measure temperature. We are looking to give our client temperature measurements from an insert with an embedded thermocouple by creating a tool holder which securely holds the insert and is able to accurately transmit the data to a computer without interference. [1] P. Wang and R. Gao, “Stochastic Tool Wear Prediction for Sustainable Manufacturing,” Procedia CIRP, vol. 48, pp. 236-241, Jan. 2016. [2] “Smart iTENDO, the intelligent toolholder from SCHUNK.” [Online]. Available: https://www.industry40today.com/smart-itendo-the-intelligent-toolholder-from-schunk/. [Accessed: 15-Sep-2019].
Team members
Stephen Quakkelaar – leader
Nick Reiels – communicator
Spencer Cook – accountant
Michael Russell – admin