Abstract
This paper describes a tool-clamping/unclamping mechanism for application of a micro-spindle. The mechanism is based on one-way shape memory effect and interference-fit. The corresponding mathematical models and a few considerable design parameters are mentioned in this paper. Especially, necessary conditions for the clamping and unclamping operation are investigated through finite element analysis. The analysis results show that the differences between the diametral deformations of the tool holder in high temperature and that in low temperature are increased according to amounts of the interference. Thus the less interference between the tool-holder and the ring, the less tolerance to allow the clamping and unclamping operation because the inner diameter of the tool holder in high temperature should be smaller than the diameter of the tool shank, and that in low temperature should be larger than the diameter of the tool shank. In addition, the design for maximization of clamping force are investigated based on finite element analysis. The results show that the more amounts of the interference, the more clamping force. As the result, the interference should be considered as a important factor to maximize the tool clamping force.