Modular cutting tool holder and clamping mechanism therefor

A modular cutting tool holder portion for a metal-working machine includes a first engagement face configured for clamping engagement with a corresponding second engagement face of a complementary modular cutting tool holder portion. The first engagement face includes a base surface and interlocking elements in the form of exactly four projecting protrusions or exactly four recesses. Each interlocking element includes a non-contact surface spaced from the base surface. The non-contact surface includes two opposing edges between which it extends, and two abutment surfaces each extending from a respective one of the two opposing edges to the base surface and being configured for the clamping engagement.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The subject matter of the present application relates to modular cutting tool holders for metal-working machines, having head and body portions, and clamping mechanisms for securing the head portion to the body portion. The clamping mechanisms can be brought to a clamped position, wherein the head portion is secured to the body portion, and an unclamped position, wherein the head portion can be removed from the body portion.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Modular cutting tool holders comprise head and body portions which can be secured to each other in one position and detached from each other in another. The head portion is configured with at least one cutting element. When the at least one cutting element needs to be replaced, the head portion can be detached from the body portion and a new head portion with a different cutting element or elements can be secured thereto.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,873,682 discloses a modular cutting tool holder having a clamping mechanism.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with a first aspect of the subject matter of the present application, there is provided a modular cutting tool holder for a metal-working machine, the modular cutting tool holder being configured to hold at least one cutting element and comprising a body portion, a head portion and a clamping mechanism configured to be brought between a clamped position, wherein the head portion is secured to the body portion, and an unclamped position, wherein the head portion is removable from the body portion; the clamping mechanism comprising a follower formed with a through-bore and a cam shaft extending through the through-bore of the follower; the cam shaft comprising a curved section configured for, during rotational motion thereof, engagement with the follower through-bore; the engagement resulting in linear motion of the follower to thereby move the clamping mechanism into the clamped position or unclamped position.

According to a second aspect of the subject matter of the present application, there is provided a head portion for a modular cutting tool holder, the head portion being configured for holding a cutting element, and comprising an engagement face formed with interlocking elements, and a locking bore extending therein from the engagement face; a head portion axis extending through the head portion and coaxially with the locking bore; the locking bore being formed with a one or more grooves, or preferably a plurality of grooves parallel with each other and axially spaced relative to one another along the head portion axis.

According to a third aspect of the subject matter of the present application, there is provided a follower for a modular cutting tool holder, being elongated with a follower axis extending longitudinally through the center thereof, the follower comprising a follower body portion and a follower head portion extending therefrom; the follower head portion comprising one or more ribs, or preferably a plurality of ribs parallel to each other and axially spaced relative to one another along the follower axis.

According to a fourth aspect of the subject matter of the present application, there is provided a modular cutting tool holder comprising a head portion according to the second aspect, and a follower according to the third aspect.

According to a fifth aspect of the subject matter of the present application, there is provided a modular cutting tool holder portion for a metal-working machine, comprising a first engagement face configured for clamping engagement with a corresponding second engagement face of a complementary modular cutting tool holder portion; the first engagement face comprising a base surface and interlocking elements in the form of exactly four projecting protrusions or exactly four recesses; each interlocking element comprising a non-contact surface spaced from the base surface and having two opposing edges between which it extends, and two abutment surfaces each extending from a respective one of the two opposing edges to the base surface and being configured for the clamping engagement.

The portion can be a head portion or a body portion of a modular cutting tool holder.

According to a sixth aspect of the subject matter of the present application, there is provided a modular cutting tool holder for a metal-working machine comprising a body portion and a head portion, each of which having any of the features according to the fifth aspect or described hereinabove or below; wherein one of the body and head portions comprises the interlocking elements in the form of exactly four projecting protrusions and the other of the body and head portions comprises the interlocking elements in the form of exactly four corresponding recesses; and wherein the only contact between the body and head portions is via the abutment surfaces of the interlocking elements.

According to a seventh aspect of the subject matter of the present application, there is provided a tool holder body portion having a clamping mechanism opening for receiving a portion of a cam shaft therein, the clamping mechanism comprising: first and second spaced seating regions defining a constriction in the opening, a major peripheral edge extending from the first seating region to the second seating region and formed on a first side of the constriction, an additional peripheral edge extending from the first seating region to the second seating region and formed on a second side of the constriction distinct from the first side of the constriction.

According to an eighth aspect of the subject matter of the present application, there is provided a modular cutting tool holder for holding a tool holder head portion, comprising a cam shaft and a body portion having a clamping mechanism opening configured for receiving a first portion of a cam shaft therein; the clamping mechanism opening comprising first and second spaced seating regions defining a constriction in the opening, and a major peripheral edge extending from the first seating region to the second seating region and formed on a first side of the constriction; the first portion of the cam shaft, being located at least partially at the first side of a constriction; and a dimension of the constriction, being smaller than an external dimension of the cam shaft's first portion for restricting passage of the cam shaft therethrough.

It will be understood that the subject matter of the present application relates to a modular cutting tool holder and inventive aspects of elements thereof, including but not limited to body portions, head portions, followers, cam shafts, clamping mechanisms, clamping mechanism openings and interlocking arrangements thereof. While each aspect may be separately inventive, they could also be part of a single modular cutting tool holder as will be elaborated below.

It will also be understood that the above-said is a summary, and that any of the aspects above may further comprise any of the features described in connection with any of the other aspects or described hereinbelow. Specifically, the following features, either alone or in combination, may be applicable to any of the above aspects:A. A cam shaft and follower can be the only elements of a clamping mechanism. Preferably, the clamping mechanism can comprise a biasing member. Even more preferably, in embodiments comprising a tension spring, an additional element of the clamping mechanism can be a screw configured to anchor the biasing member. It will be understood that a small number of components can often result in a more reliable product. Accordingly, the clamping mechanism can comprise only two or three or four members, depending on the configuration above which is desired. In any case the clamping mechanism can comprise two to four elements.B. A cam shaft can be mounted to a body portion in an arrangement which only allows rotational motion of the cam shaft. Mounting of a cam shaft to a body portion can be at two opposing ends of a cam shaft. The two opposing ends can be located at two opposing sides of a body portion. It will be understood that such arrangements can provide stable operation.C. A cam shaft can be configured to extend through a follower through-bore in both the clamped and unclamped positions, and any transitional position therebetween. It will be understood that such configuration can assist in preventing undesired ejection of the follower from a body portion.D. A follower through-bore can comprise a planar section configured to engage a curved section of a cam shaft. Engagement of a cam shaft with a follower through-bore can be with a planar section of a follower through-bore only.E. A cam shaft can comprise a planar section configured to engage a planar section of a follower through-bore.F. A curved section of a cam shaft can comprise curved sub-sections each of which has a varying rate of curvature. The varying rate of curvature of each curved sub-section can form a spiral shape. Each curved sub-section can be symmetrical and can be disposed on opposing sides of a bisection plane intersecting the curved section. Each curved sub-section can be configured to engage a follower through-bore and the cam shaft can be configured to be rotated either clockwise or counterclockwise to bring a cutting tool holder to a clamped or unclamped position. Such arrangement can be advantageous when an operator wishes to change position by rotation in any direction (i.e. without having to remember a specific direction). A curvature of each curved sub-section can be configured to allow the tool holder to be brought to the clamped or unclamped position upon about a quarter turn of a cam shaft. Such configuration can allow a rapid change of position. Alternatively, a curved section of a cam shaft can have a single, yet varying, rate of curvature (i.e. not divided into sub-sections). The varying rate of curvature form a spiral shape, preferably an Archimedean spiral. Such arrangement can be advantageous when an operator wishes to have a single defined direction of rotation for each operation of releasing and securing head and body portions. Such configuration can allow a tool holder to be brought to the clamped or unclamped position upon about a half turn of the cam shaft. Preferably the curved section or sections form Archimedean spiral(s).G. A modular cutting tool holder can comprise a clamping mechanism including a cam shaft, and a clamping mechanism configured for causing the clamping engagement upon clockwise or counterclockwise rotation of the cam shaft. The clockwise or counterclockwise rotation can be a quarter turn of the cam shaft.H. A follower or cam shaft can be formed with a projecting mechanical stopper to halt motion relative to each other (for example, the mechanical stopper can be adjacent to an upper portion, i.e. in the position of the recess shown in the exemplary embodiment inFIG. 6C, and a second end section of a cam shaft can follow a growth pattern to engage the mechanical stopper).I. A cam shaft can comprise a tool receiving recess having a removal arrangement disposed thereat. The removal arrangement can comprise at least one laterally extending anchoring wall portion.J. A modular cutting tool holder, or more specifically a clamping mechanism thereof, can comprise a biasing member. The biasing member can be configured to provide a biasing force sufficient to space the body portion from the head portion, when the head portion is seated on the body portion and the body portion is held in a vertical orientation. Such configuration can be such that the two portions can be rotated relative to one another by application of rotational force only. Alternatively, the biasing member can be in the form of a tension spring. In such case the biasing member can be configured to provide a biasing force to draw together the body portion and a head portion, and align them in a static clamped position.K. A biasing member can be configured to apply a continuous biasing force on a follower in both clamped and unclamped positions, and any transitional position therebetween. Such continuous biasing force can possibly assist in preventing undesired ejection of a cam shaft from a body portion.L. A body portion and a head portion can be configured for clamping engagement with each other at four different rotated positions. A modular cutting tool holder can be configured to be brought to the four different rotated positions via successive quarter turns of the body portion or the head portion.M. A plurality of grooves can include a first set including two or more grooves formed at a first grooved sub-surface of a locking bore.N. A head portion can comprise a second set of grooves including two or more grooves formed at a second grooved sub-surface being distinct from the first grooved sub-surface.O. First and second grooved sub-surfaces can be separated from one another by non-grooved first and second sub-surfaces of a locking bore. The non-grooved sub-surfaces can be devoid of a radially inwardly projecting wall portion.P. Each sub-surface formed with grooves can comprise exactly three axially spaced grooves.Q. There can be exactly two sub-surfaces formed with grooves. Alternatively, there can be exactly four sub-surfaces formed with grooves.R. A plurality of ribs can extend from a first face of a follower head portion. The plurality of ribs can comprise a plurality of ribs extending from a second face of the follower head portion, the second face being distinct from the first face. The first and second faces can be separated from one another by third and fourth faces of the follower head portion, the third and fourth faces each being devoid of ribs. Each face formed with the plurality of ribs can comprise exactly three axially spaced ribs. There can be exactly two faces formed with the plurality of ribs. Alternatively, there can be exactly four sub-faces formed with the plurality of ribs.S. A follower can be formed with at least one recess disposed at a face thereof which is devoid of ribs.T. A first engagement face can be formed with a bore extending therein.U. A modular cutting tool holder portion can be a head portion configured for holding a cutting element. In such case it is preferred that the interlocking elements are exactly four projecting protrusions.V. A modular cutting tool holder portion can be a body portion configured for holding a head portion which in turn is configured for holding a cutting element. In such case it is preferred that the interlocking elements are exactly four recesses.W. The body portion can be made of a material having greater stiffness than a material of which the head portion is made.X. Each interlocking element can be disposed at a portion of a first engagement face which is distal to a centerpoint thereof. Stated differently, it is preferred that interlocking elements of an engagement face is located at a periphery of the engagement face.Y. Each interlocking element can have a tapered shape.Z. Each abutment surface can be planar.AA. All of the abutment surfaces of the head portion and all of the abutment surfaces of the body portion can be configured to contact each other simultaneously (i.e., each abutment surface of the body portion is configured to contact an associated abutment surface of the head portion). Such arrangement can prevent, for example, wobbling. It will be understood that even two abutment surfaces of the head portion which contact two respective abutment surfaces of the body portion can be sufficient to prevent relative rotation of the head and body portions in both the clockwise and counterclockwise directions (given that the abutment surfaces are oppositely slanted, e.g., as in the case of two contacting abutments surfaces belonging to a single interlocking element etc.). The further possible advantage of simultaneous contact of abutment surfaces at each side of engagement faces can contribute to prevention of wobbling. Such stabilization can be possibly further enhanced by positioning the interlocking elements at a periphery of the engagement faces.BB. A head portion and a body portion can be configured to rotate, relative to each other, in the clockwise and counterclockwise direction in an attached-unlocked or attached-locked position.CC. A modular cutting tool holder can be configured to be brought to both a clamped and an unclamped position with a cam shaft and a follower both still being held to a body portion thereof.DD. Interlocking elements can be evenly spaced along a periphery of each engagement face.EE. Each abutment surfaces can be slanted with respect to a base surface and/or a non-contact surface.FF. First and corresponding second engagement faces can be configured for clamping engagement with each other at four different positions.GG. A modular cutting tool holder can be configured to be brought to each of four different positions via successive quarter turns of one of the body portion and head portion, relative to the other.HH. A body portion can be configured such that a first seating region can have a first seating center point and a second seating region can have a second seating center point.II. A major peripheral edge can comprise two major edge ends, each major edge end being adjacent a corresponding one of the seating regions, the major peripheral edge having a major center point defined by a largest possible arc which can be inscribed within the major peripheral edge.JJ. An additional peripheral edge can comprise two additional edge ends, each additional edge end being adjacent a corresponding one of the seating regions on the second side, the additional peripheral edge having an additional center point defined by a largest possible arc which can be inscribed within the additional peripheral edge.KK. A major center point and an additional center point can be spaced from both the first and second seating center points.LL. First and second seating center points can be colocated at a common seating center point.MM. A major center point and an additional center point can be respectively located at one of the first and second sides of the constriction. The major center point and the additional center point can be disposed on an imaginary plane which passes between the first and second spaced seating regions and extends on both sides of the constriction. The major peripheral edge and/or the additional peripheral edge can have a concave shape.NN. At least one of the seating regions can have a concave shape, in a plan view of the clamping mechanism opening.OO. At least one of the seating regions can comprise a line segment, in a plan view of the clamping mechanism opening.PP. A clamping mechanism opening can comprise an additional peripheral edge which extends from the first seating region to the second seating region and is formed on a second side of a constriction distinct from the first side thereof, and wherein the constriction is sized to prevent passage of the cam shaft therethrough to the extent that it can contact the additional peripheral edge.QQ. A clamping mechanism opening can comprise an uppermost central point and a lowermost central point located further from a head portion than the uppermost central point.RR. Seating regions can be closer to the uppermost central point than to the lowermost central point.SS. A modular cutting tool holder can comprise an additional clamping mechanism opening having first and second spaced seating regions defining a constriction in the opening, and formed in a body portion and configured to receive a second portion of a cam shaft, distinct from a first portion of a cam shaft, therein.TT. Half of a magnitude of a maximum dimension of an end portion received in a clamping mechanism opening can be smaller than a magnitude of a radius of a major peripheral edge.UU. Seating regions can have a curvature corresponding to a curvature of an end portion received therein.VV. A clamping mechanism opening can have a non-circular shape.WW. A clamping mechanism opening can be configured for receiving a portion of a cam shaft therein. More precisely, a major peripheral edge thereof can be configured for receiving a portion of a cam shaft therein.XX. A first seating region can have a first seating center point and the second seating region can have a second seating center point.YY. A major peripheral edge can comprise two major edge ends. Each major edge end can be adjacent a corresponding one of the seating regions. The major peripheral edge can have a major center point defined by a largest possible arc which can be inscribed within the major peripheral edge.ZZ. An additional peripheral can comprise two additional edge ends. Each additional edge end can be adjacent a corresponding one of the seating regions on the second side. The additional peripheral edge having an additional center point defined by a largest possible arc which can be inscribed within the additional peripheral edge.AAA. A major centerpoint and an additional center point can be spaced from both first and second seating center points.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description, various aspects of the subject matter of the present application will be described. For purposes of explanation, specific configurations and details are set forth in sufficient detail to provide a thorough understanding of the subject matter of the present application. However, it will also be apparent to one skilled in the art that the subject matter of the present application can be practiced without the specific details presented herein.

Reference is now made toFIG. 1A, showing an elongated modular cutting tool holder10with a longitudinal axis AL1extending longitudinally through the center thereof, and comprising front and rear ends (12,14) defining forward and rearward directions (DF, DR) extending parallel with the longitudinal axis AL1.

The cutting tool holder10can be a rotary cutting tool holder. The cutting tool holder10comprises a body portion16and a head portion18.

The head portion18can comprise a cutting element20. The head portion18can be configured to hold only a single cutting element20or a plurality of cutting elements20. Each cutting element20can be a cutting insert. The head portion18can be formed with a pocket19for holding the cutting element20.

Referring now also toFIG. 1B, the head portion18is securable to the body portion16via a clamping mechanism22.

The clamping mechanism22comprises a cam shaft24and a follower26. The clamping mechanism22can also comprise a biasing member28, which in this non-limiting example is a spring. Elements which are considered to belong to a clamping mechanism are those which cause movement of a head portion into the clamped or unclamped positions.

The clamping mechanism22is configured to be brought between an unclamped position and a clamped position, via rotation of the cam shaft24which causes linear motion of the follower26along the longitudinal axis AL1through engagement therewith. Linear motion of the follower26can allow the head portion18to be clamped to, or unclamped from, the body portion16.

It will be appreciated that a possible advantage of the clamping mechanism22is the small number of elements which it utilizes. In this example, the clamping mechanism22can be configured for clamping or unclamping of the head portion18to the body portion16with only two elements, namely the cam shaft24and follower26. A third element, the biasing member28, may accelerate the change of positions and/or dispose the head portion18at an extended position from the body portion16, which may assist ease of removal of the head portion18, but is not essential for operation of the clamping mechanism22. In some preferred embodiments, the biasing member28could be a tension spring (not shown), as an alternative to the compression spring shown exemplified, which could provide an advantageous locating function (i.e. when securing a head portion to a body portion, the spring can assist in positioning the portions). Including the biasing member28, the clamping mechanism22can be configured for clamping or unclamping of the head portion18to the body portion16with only three elements (or four elements if an anchoring member is needed to hold the biasing member at one end thereof).

Drawing attention toFIGS. 2A to 2D, the head portion18will be described in further detail.

The head portion18can comprise a peripheral surface30extending between an engagement face32and an opposing top face34. The pocket19can be formed at an intersection of the peripheral surface30and top face34. The head portion18can be formed with a locking bore36extending therein from the engagement face32. A head portion axis AH(FIG. 2C) can extend through the head portion18and coaxially with the locking bore (36).

The peripheral surface30can comprise a plurality, for example four, sub-surfaces (38,40,42,44). However it will be appreciated that the peripheral surface30could instead be cylindrical, in which case there would only be one continuous surface. Alternatively, the peripheral surface30could be differently shape and have a corresponding number of sub-surfaces as required. Each pair of adjacent sub-surfaces (38,40,42,44) can meet at a common edge46. One or more of the common edges46can extend from the engagement face32to the top face34.

The engagement face32can comprise a base surface48and interlocking elements50. The interlocking elements50can be exactly four interlocking elements, each in the form of an outwardly projecting protrusion50. The interlocking elements50can have identical shapes, as is the case in the shown embodiment.

The base surface48can be planar. The base surface48can have a ring-shaped inner portion52thereof disposed between one of the protrusions50and the locking bore36. The base surface48can have a plurality of inner portions53, each being disposed between one of the protrusions50and the locking bore36. The base surface48can have an outer portion54thereof disposed between adjacent protrusions50. The base surface48can have a plurality of outer portions54, each of which being disposed between a different pair of adjacent protrusions50.

The protrusions50can be located at the periphery of the engagement face32. Stated differently, each protrusion50can have a first end56located at an intersection58of the engagement face32and the peripheral surface30(which can also be called an “external peripheral surface30”), and can extend from the first end56to a second end60disposed along the engagement face32and spaced from the peripheral surface30. Thus, as seen inFIG. 2A, the protrusions50extend from a first end50proximate to the external peripheral surface30, in an inward direction, to a second end60further from the external peripheral surface30than the first end50. In embodiments where the peripheral surface30comprises adjacent sub-surfaces (38,40,42,44), adjacent pairs meeting at a common edge46, the protrusion's first end56can be located at an intersection of the engagement face32and the peripheral surface30at the common edge46. The intersection can also extend to parts of the peripheral surface30adjacent to the common edge46. In the non-limiting example shown, intersections of the engagement face32and the common edges46constitute the most distal portions of the engagement face32from a centerpoint62thereof. The centerpoint62of the engagement face32, in this example, is also a centerpoint of the locking bore36. Each of the protrusions50can be disposed at portions of the engagement face32which are distal to the centerpoint62thereof. The inner portion52can be further defined as being possibly disposed between the second end60and the locking bore36.

An outermost surface or surfaces64of the first end56of each protrusion at the peripheral surface30can be planar. An outermost surface66of the second end60of each protrusion can be concave.

Each protrusion50comprises a non-contact surface68spaced from the base surface48and having two opposing edges (70,72) between which it extends, and two abutment surfaces (74,76) each extending from a respective edge (70,72) of the non-contact surface68to the base surface48.

The non-contact surface68can be planar. Each non-contact surface68can be coplanar with the other non-contact surfaces68. Each non-contact surface68can be coplanar with the base surface48. Each non-contact surface68can be spaced from the base surface48a common magnitude of distance DS1(FIG. 2C).

The abutment surfaces (74,76) can be planar. The abutment surfaces (74,76) can be slanted with respect to the base surface48and/or the non-contact surface68. The abutment surfaces (74,76) of each protrusion50can be a minor image of each other about the non-contact surface68. Stated differently, the abutment surfaces (74,76) of each protrusion50can be equally slanted with respect to the base surface48and/or the non-contact surface68, with one abutment surfaces (74,76) having a positive slant and the other having a negative slant.

Stated differently, the protrusions50can each have a tapered shape.

The locking bore36can comprise a bore edge78at the engagement face32, a bore internal surface80extending from the bore edge78inwardly into the head portion18, and a bore end surface82distal from the engagement face32.

The bore edge78can have opposing first and second sub-edges (84,86) and opposing third and fourth sub-edges (88,90) extending therebetween. Each sub-edge (84,86,88,90) can have a concave shape.

The bore edge78has an elongated shape. The elongation can be between the first and second sub-edges (84,86). Stated differently, a magnitude of distance between the first and second sub-edges (84,86) can be greater than a magnitude of distance between the third and fourth sub-edges (88,90).

Each portion of the bore internal surface80extending between the bore edge78and the end surface82can have a corresponding shape to that of an adjacent sub-edge of the bore edge78. Accordingly, the bore internal surface80can have first, second, third and fourth sub-surfaces (92,94,96,98), each of which can have a concave shape, and can be elongated between two of the sub-surfaces (92,94) which are opposite each other.

Each of the third and fourth sub-surfaces (96,98), can be formed with at least one groove100. Each groove100can be separated by a wall portion102. Each of the third and fourth sub-surfaces (96,98), can be formed with a plurality of grooves100. Consequently, the third and fourth sub-surfaces (96,98) can be considered grooved sub-surfaces. The grooves at each of the third and fourth sub-surfaces (96,98) can be formed with a set of grooves comprising two or more grooves. One or both of the third and fourth sub-surfaces (96,98), can be formed with exactly three grooves100. Each groove can have a curved shape. Within a set, each of the plurality of grooves100can be parallel with each other. Also within a set, each of the plurality of grooves100can be axially spaced, relative to the follower axis (AF). In the non-limiting embodiment shown, there are exactly two sub-surfaces, i.e. the third and fourth sub-surfaces (96,98) formed with a plurality of grooves100.

Each of the first and second sub-surfaces (92,94), can be spaced further from the centerpoint62than the wall portions102. Such spacing can allow insertion of the follower26into the locking bore36, as will be clarified hereinafter. Each of the first and second sub-surfaces (92,94) can be disposed between or can be separate sub-surfaces (96,98) formed with grooves100. Each of the first and second sub-surfaces (92,94) can be devoid of a radially inwardly projecting wall portion, i.e. such as the wall portions102. The first and second sub-surfaces (92,94), can be considered non-grooved sub-surfaces. The non-grooved sub-surfaces (92,94) can separate the third and fourth sub-surfaces (96,98).

Drawing attention toFIGS. 3A to 3Dthe body portion16will be described in further detail.

In some embodiments, the body portion16can be made of a material having greater stiffness than a material of which the head portion18is made. For example the body portion16can be made of tungsten carbide and the head portion18can be made of steel. The body portion16can comprise a peripheral wall104extending between a forward engagement face106and an opposing rear end face108(FIG. 1A). The body portion16is formed with a body portion bore110extending therein from the forward engagement face106, a cam recess112and a cam opening114.

The peripheral wall104can have opposing internal and external surfaces (116,118).

The external surface118(which can also be called an “external peripheral surface118”) can comprise a plurality of, for example four, sub-surfaces (120,122,124,126).

The internal surface116can comprise a plurality of sub-surfaces, which, with the exception of one sub-surface130(FIG. 3A), are not shown. The internal surface116can comprise exactly four sub-surfaces. Each internal sub-surface can extend parallel with an opposing external sub-surface. Alternatively, the internal surface116can be cylindrical.

The forward engagement face106can comprise a base surface132and interlocking elements134. The interlocking elements134can be exactly four interlocking elements, each in the form of a recess134. The interlocking elements134can have identical shapes, as is the case in the shown embodiment.

The base surface132can be planar. The base surface132can have an outer portion136thereof disposed between one of the recesses134and an adjacent recess134. There can be an outer portion136disposed between each pair of adjacent recesses134.

The recesses134can be located at the periphery of the forward engagement face106. Stated differently, and referring briefly toFIG. 3Aonly, each recess134can extend in a radially inward direction from a first end138at an intersection140of the forward engagement face106and the peripheral wall104, to a second end142disposed along the forward engagement face106and spaced from the peripheral wall104. Thus, as seen inFIG. 3A, the recesses134extend from a first end138proximate to the external peripheral surface118, in an inward direction, to a second end142further from the external peripheral surface118than the first end138. In embodiments where the peripheral wall104comprises adjacent sub-surfaces (120,122,124,126), with adjacent pairs meeting at a common edge128, the recesses' first end138can be located at an intersection of the engagement face32and the peripheral wall104at the common edge128. The intersection can also extend to parts of the peripheral wall104adjacent to the common edge128. In the non-limiting example shown, intersections of the forward engagement face106and the common edges128are the portions of the forward engagement face106which are most distal from a centerpoint144of the forward engagement face106.

The centerpoint144of the forward engagement face106, in this example, is also the centerpoint of the body portion bore110. Each of the recesses134can be disposed at portions of the forward engagement face106which are distal to the centerpoint144thereof.

An outermost surface146of the second end142of each recess134can be concave.

Referring toFIG. 3D, each recess134comprises a non-contact surface148spaced from the base surface132and having two opposing edges (150,152) between which it extends, and two abutment surfaces (154,156) each extending from a respective edge (150,152) of the non-contact surface148to the base surface132.

The non-contact surface148can be planar. Each non-contact surface148can be coplanar with the others. Each non-contact surface148can be parallel to the base surface132. Each non-contact surface148can be spaced from the base surface132an equal magnitude of distance DS2(FIG. 3B).

The abutment surfaces (154,156) can be slanted with respect to the base surface132and/or the non-contact surface148. The abutment surfaces (154,156) can be planar. The abutment surfaces (154,156) of a given recess134can be minor images of each other about the non-contact surface148. Stated differently, the abutment surfaces (154,156) of each recess134can be equally slanted with respect to the base surface132and/or the non-contact surface148, with one of the abutment surfaces (154,156) having a positive slant and the other having a negative slant.

Stated differently, the recesses134can each have a tapered shape.

The abutment surfaces (154,156) of the body portion16are configured to interlock with the abutment surfaces (74,76) of the head portion18.

As best seen inFIG. 3A, the body portion bore110can be defined between a bore edge158at the forward engagement face106, the internal surface116and an end surface160(FIG. 3D).

The bore edge158can be circular.

The cam recess112(FIG. 3A) can be formed in the internal sub-surface130, and can have a peripheral surface162which extends from the body portion bore110to an end wall portion164which is part of the peripheral wall104.

Referring now toFIG. 3B, the cam recess112can be coaxial with the cam opening114. The cam recess112can have a diameter DCR, which is the diameter of a largest possible circle which can be inscribed therein, which is smaller than a diameter DCOof the cam opening114, which is the diameter of a largest possible circle which can be inscribed therein.

The cam opening114can be in the form of an aperture having a continuous edge166. A possible advantage of the cam opening114having a continuous edge166is that the cam opening114can be surrounded by material, providing a reinforced construction. Notably, the cam opening114is non-circular.

Referring toFIG. 4A, further features of the non-circular cam opening114are shown in a front view thereof (or a side-view of the body portion16). While the further features are described with respect to the cam opening114, they can be applied to any clamping mechanism opening. For example, the cam recess112can have any of the features mentioned below with respect to the cam opening114or alternative cam opening114′ shown inFIG. 4C.

The cam opening114can be defined, in a plan view thereof, by two spaced seating regions (168,170), a major peripheral edge172and, in this non-limiting example, an additional peripheral edge174. The two spaced seating regions (168,170) define between them a constriction176within the cam opening114(the constriction being indicated inFIG. 4Aby the double-headed arrow). The major peripheral edge172is formed on a first side178of the constriction176and has two opposite major edge ends (180,182). Each major edge end (180,182) can be adjacent a corresponding one of the seating regions (168,170). The additional peripheral edge174can be formed on a second side184of the constriction (176) and seating regions (168,170), opposite from the major peripheral edge172. The second side184of the constriction176being distinct from the first side178thereof. The additional peripheral edge174can extend between two additional edge ends (186,188), each additional edge end being, in this non-limiting example, adjacent a corresponding one of the seating regions (168,170). A vertically extending imaginary plane PRof the cam opening114can pass between the two spaced seating regions (168,170) and extend on both sides of the constriction176.

The major peripheral edge172can have a concave shape. The major peripheral edge172can have a magnitude of radius RMPwhich is measured from a major center point CMof a largest possible circular arc which can be inscribed therein. The major peripheral edge172includes points (190,192) directly adjacent each edge end (180,182).

It is understood that the “largest possible circular arc which can be inscribed” in the major peripheral edge172corresponds to a circular arc having a magnitude of radius which is larger than that of the cam shaft24shown inFIG. 4B. This explanation also applies to other major peripheral edges in accordance with the subject matter of the present application and to inscribed circles and inscribed circular arcs mentioned in connection with seating regions and additional peripheral edges.

The seating regions (168,170) can each have a concave shape, in the plan view shown. The seating regions (168,170) can each have a magnitude of radius (RS1, RS2), each radius being measured from a corresponding center point CS1, CS2, which in this non-limiting example are colocated and thereby together comprise a common center point CS, of a largest possible circular arc which can be inscribed therein. The seating regions (168,170) are spaced from each other. The seating regions (168,170) can be closer to an uppermost central point194of the cam opening114, than to a lowermost central point196which is disposed opposite the uppermost central point194. In other words, an angle α formed between each seating region (168,170) and the vertically extending imaginary plane PR, which in this non-limiting example is a common angle, can be an acute angle. The plane PRcan extend parallel with the forward and rearward directions (DF, DR). Both the uppermost central point194and the lowermost central point196can lie in the plane PR.

In some instances, a given seating region, rather than having a concave shape in the plan view of the opening, may have a shape which can be characterized as a line segment. Such line segment can have a slope or average slope and a segment length. The center point for such a seating region may be defined as the point at which an imaginary line perpendicular to the midpoint of such a segment intersects the plane PR. In this manner, center points may be defined for a non-concave seating region which forms a portion of the contour of the cam opening114.

The additional peripheral edge174can have a concave shape. The additional peripheral edge174can have a magnitude of radius RAPwhich is measured from a center point CPof a largest possible circular arc which can be inscribed therein. The additional peripheral edge174can also comprise points (198,200) directly adjacent each edge end (180,182), which will be discussed hereinafter.

The major center point (CM) and the additional center point (CP) can be respectively located at one of the first and second sides (178,184) of the constriction (176,176′). More precisely in this example, the center points (CM, CS, CP) of the major peripheral edge172, seating regions (168,170) and additional peripheral edge174, can all be spaced from each other along the plane PR.

Referring toFIG. 4B, a portion218of the cam shaft24is shown disposed in the cam opening114and forced thereagainst in the forward direction DF.

Half of the magnitude of a maximum dimension MC1of the portion218, i.e. the magnitude of radius thereof, is smaller than the magnitude of the radius RMPof the major peripheral edge172. Therefore, the major peripheral edge172is sized to allow the cam shaft24to be inserted in and rotated within the cam opening114, when there is no force applied thereagainst in the forward direction DFcausing engagement with the seating regions (168,170). The size difference also forms a proximal space204, located between the cam shaft24and major peripheral edge172.

The magnitude of radius RS1, RS2of the seating regions (168,170) can be equal to half of the magnitude of the maximum dimension MC1of the first end218(FIG. 5B) of the cam shaft24. The seating regions (168,170) can have a curvature corresponding to the curvature of the first end218(FIG. 5B) of the cam shaft24.

Even when a force is applied to the cam shaft24in the forward direction DF, as shown, and the cam shaft24engages the seating regions (168,170), the constriction (176) and the additional peripheral edge174are sized to form a distal space114, the size being configured to restrict entry of the cam shaft24therein, i.e. within which the cam shaft24is not located. Stated differently, complete entry of the cam shaft24into the distal space206is restricted by engagement of the cam shaft24with the seating regions (168,170). Consequently, the constriction (176) and the additional peripheral edge174are sized to prevent contact of the cam shaft24with the uppermost central point194thereof. Stated differently, the constriction176is sized to prevent passage of the cam shaft24therethrough to the extent that it can contact the additional peripheral edge174.

The engagement of the cam shaft24with more than one seating regions (168,170) can be achieved by provision of the distal space206.

It will be appreciated that any one of the clamping features mentioned above can possibly assist in restricting rotational motion of the cam shaft24when a force is applied thereon in the forward direction DF:the curvature of the seating regions (168,170) corresponding to the curvature of the cam shaft24;engagement of the cam shaft24with more than one seating region (168,170); andeach of the seating regions (168,170) being disposed at an acute angle α from a point194towards which the motion of the cam shaft24is directed.

Drawing attention toFIG. 4C, it will be understood that for a recessed area to be provided, the seating regions (168,170) need not be elongated regions but can each be constituted by a single point (168′,170′) in the plan view of the opening shown. In such case, the center points of the two seating regions (168′,170′) merge into a common center point located where an imaginary line connecting the two seating regions (168′,170′) intersects the plane PR.

To elaborate, the non-limiting example of an alternative cam opening114′ inFIG. 4Chas elements corresponding to elements of the cam opening114inFIGS. 4A and 4B, which are designated with identical numerals suffixed with an apostrophe, the only difference being that the alternative seating regions (168′,170′) of alternative cam opening114′ are constituted by single points (168′,170′) in the view shown.

The alternative cam opening114′ can comprise a major peripheral edge172′ extending between alternative two edge ends (180′,182′) which constitute seating regions (168′,170′). The cam opening114′ can also comprise an additional peripheral edge174′ extending between, and engaging, the seating regions (168′,170′).

While the example shown inFIGS. 4A and 4Bis preferred due to possible additional advantages thereof, certain advantages are possibly attainable even by the example inFIG. 4C.

It will be understood that a clamping mechanism having an opening with any of the features above, that can provide any of the advantages above, can be advantageous. Some of the features are generalized below.

Such clamping mechanism opening can be defined as an opening provided with a major peripheral edge extending between two seating regions on one side of a constriction (176,176′) defined by the seating regions, and an additional peripheral edge extending between the two seating regions on a second, opposite side of the constriction (176,176′).

The constriction and the additional peripheral edge are sized to provide a space. The sizing can be configured to restrict entry of a cam shaft24into the space.

The seating regions can be defined as regions between the major peripheral edge and the additional peripheral edge. Portions of the major peripheral edge and the additional peripheral edge containing points (190,190′,192,192′,198,198′,200,200′) are adjacent to the associated major and additional edge ends and also to the seating regions, and have center points (CM, CP) spaced from a common center point CSor center point CS1, CS2of the seating regions (168,170).

Center points of each portion along either the major peripheral edge or the additional peripheral edge can be spaced from a center point of the seating regions.

Center points of portions of the major peripheral edge and additional peripheral edge (CM, CP) which are directly adjacent to the seating regions, can be located on opposing sides of a common center point CSor center point CS1, CS2of the seating regions (168,170).

As seen inFIG. 4C, the magnitude of a dimension DSmeasured between the seating regions in a cam opening is smaller than a maximum dimension MC1of an end portion of a cam shaft configured to be received in the cam opening. The maximum dimension MC1can be an external diameter of an end portion of the cam shaft. Such magnitude of a dimension DScan be configured to prevent the cam shaft portion to pass therethrough. Such prevention can enable engagement of two spaced seating regions. Stated differently, single-point engagement of the cam shaft with the additional peripheral edge can be avoided.

Drawing attention toFIGS. 5A to 5E, the cam shaft24is shown in more detail. The cam shaft24can have a unitary one-piece construction. The cam shaft24can be elongated with a central longitudinal axis AL2extending through the center thereof, and can comprise first and second cam ends (208,210) and a central cam portion212extending therebetween. The cam shaft24can have an external cam surface214extending radially with respect to the central longitudinal axis AL2along the periphery of the cam shaft24. The cam shaft24can include a removal arrangement216.

As seen best inFIG. 5B, a maximum dimension of the first end208, taken perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis AL2, is designated MC1. A maximum dimension of the second end210, taken perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis AL2, is designated MC2. As seen best inFIG. 5F, a first dimension of the central cam portion212, taken perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis AL2, is designated MC3, and a second dimension of the central cam portion212, taken perpendicular to both the central longitudinal axis AL2and the first dimension MC3, is designated MC4. The magnitude of the first dimension MC3can be smaller than the magnitude of the second dimension MC4.

The first cam end208can have a cylindrical shape comprising first and second end sections (218,220), both of which can have a common magnitude of maximum dimension MC1, and a central section222extending therebetween.

The first end208can be formed with tool receiving recess224(FIGS. 5D and 5E) which extends into the first end section218into the cam shaft24.

The removal arrangement216can be disposed at the tool receiving recess224and can extend therefrom. The removal arrangement216can comprise at least one laterally extending anchoring wall portion226. In the non-limiting example shown, the removal arrangement216can be a bore formed with threading226which constitutes the at least one laterally extending anchoring wall portion. The bore216can extend coaxially with the central longitudinal axis AL2, and can extend from the first cam end208into the central cam portion212.

The central section222can be formed with an external annular recess228. Consequently, the third end section222can have an external diameter smaller than external diameters of both the first and second end sections (218,220). The external annular recess228can be suitable for mounting of a fluid-tight seal thereto, for example an o-ring (not shown).

The central cam portion212can comprise a planar section230and a curved section232extending from corners (234,236) formed with the planar section230and the curved section232.

The curved section232can be symmetrical on opposing sides of a bisection plane PCwhich intersects a midpoint238of the planar section230and a midpoint240of the curved section232. Each symmetrical part of the curved section232can constitute a curved sub-section (242,244). Each curved sub-section (242,244) can have a varying rate of curvature. It will be understood that a varying rate of curvature is distinct from a constant rate of curvature which follows a circle path. The varying rate of curvature can form a spiral shape. The spiral shape can be an Archimedean spiral.

It will be understood that in accordance with some embodiments, a curved section of a cam shaft (not shown) could be, for example, a single Archimedean spiral extending between the two corners (234,236) instead of two Archimedean spirals of the two curved sub-sections (242,244) as shown.

The first dimension MC3can be measured between the midpoints (238,240) of the planar section230and the curved section232.

The second dimension MC4can be the largest dimension of the central cam portion212. The second dimension MC4can be measured between points of the curved section232which lie on a plane which is parallel with the planar section230. The second dimension MC4can be measured between points of the curved section232which are closer to the planar section230than to the point midpoint240of the curved section232.

A magnitude of length of the planar section230, measured along a dimension parallel with the central longitudinal axis AL2, is designated as LC(FIG. 5B).

The second cam end210can be cylindrical. The maximum dimension MC2of the second cam end210can be larger than the first dimension MC3of the central cam portion212.

The maximum dimension MC1of the first cam end208can be larger than the first dimension MC3of the central cam portion212.

The second cam end210can be sized to allow insertion thereof into the cam recess112.

Drawing attention toFIGS. 6A to 6D, the follower26is shown in more detail. The follower26can have a unitary one-piece construction. The follower26can comprise a follower body portion246formed with a follower through-bore248, and a follower head portion250extending from the body portion246. The follower26can further comprise a follower seating portion252having a cylindrical shape and extending from the follower body portion246on an opposing side thereof from the follower head portion250.

The follower26can have opposing front and rear major faces (254,256), first and second minor faces (258,260) extending perpendicular thereto, and top and bottom faces (262,264) perpendicular to each of the front and rear major faces and first and second minor faces (254,256,258,260). A central longitudinal plane PLcan extend through the center of the follower26and the first and second minor faces (258,260) and can be parallel to the front and rear major faces (254,256). A longitudinal follower axis AFcan extend through the center of the follower26and the top and bottom faces (262,264) thereof. The follower26can have a symmetrical shape on both sides of the central longitudinal plane PL. The follower26can be elongated between the top and bottom faces (262,264) thereof.

The follower body portion246can comprise, adjacent the follower head portion250, an annular lip266extending transversely relative to the longitudinal follower axis AF. The annular lip266can be formed with at least one coolant recess268configured to provide a coolant flow path.

The follower through-bore248can extend between and open out to the front and rear major faces (254,256). The follower through-bore248can comprise a planar section270and a U-shaped curved section272extending from corners (274,276) formed with the planar section270and the curved section272. A magnitude of width of the planar section270, measured perpendicular to the central longitudinal plane PL, is designated as WF(FIG. 6B). The follower through-bore248can have an irregular shape. For example, the through-bore has a non-cylindrical shape.

The follower head portion250can be cylindrical. The follower head portion250can comprise an upper portion278and a lower neck portion280disposed between the upper portion278and the annular lip266.

The upper portion278can comprise a plurality of ribs282. The plurality of ribs282can be formed at one or both of the distinct first and second minor faces (258,260) of the upper portion278. The upper portion278can be devoid of ribs at the front and rear major faces (254,256) thereof. Stated differently, the face or faces (258,260) can include a plurality of ribs282and can be separated by another face (254,256) of the follower26which is devoid of ribs282and/or has a planar surface284.

The upper portion278can have a planar surface284at the front and rear major faces (254,256) thereof. A possible advantage of the at least one recess268and planar shape being at a common face can be simplification of manufacture of the follower26.

Each of the plurality of ribs282can be outwardly extending. Each of the plurality of ribs282can extend transversely relative to the longitudinal follower axis AF. Each of the plurality of ribs282can extend perpendicular relative to the longitudinal follower axis AF. Each of the plurality of ribs282can have a flat outer surface286. Each outer surface286can be parallel with the longitudinal follower axis AF. Each of the plurality of ribs282can have side surfaces288slanted with respect to the longitudinal follower axis AFand extending from an edge290of the flat outer surface284in the direction of the longitudinal follower axis AF. Stated differently, each of the plurality of ribs282can have a tapered shape along a cross section thereof. Each of the plurality of ribs282can be parallel with all of the other ribs282. The plurality of ribs282includes ribs282axially spaced relative to the follower axis AF. The plurality of ribs282includes a plurality of ribs at extending from one or both of the first and second minor faces (258,260).

In this non-limiting example, each face (258,260) can be formed with exactly three axially spaced ribs282, or, stated differently, three layers of ribs282. It has been found that using a plurality of axially spaced ribs282ribs can provide sufficient structural strength to the follower, while maintaining an acceptable follower head portion250size. It is believed that a three-layer configuration can possibly provide an advantageous size-strength arrangement.

The lower neck portion280can be suitable for mounting of a fluid-tight seal thereto, for example an o-ring (not shown).

Drawing attention toFIGS. 7A to 7D, operation of the cutting tool holder10is shown.

In the cutting tool holder's10detached position, shown inFIG. 7A, the cam shaft24can be mounted in the cutting tool holder10with the first cam end208being disposed in the cam opening114(FIG. 3A), the second cam end210being disposed in the cam recess112(FIG. 3A), and the central cam portion212being disposed in the follower through-bore248.

The central cam portion212can be oriented such that the planar section230thereof engages the planar section270of the follower through-bore248. Such engagement is possible as the magnitude of length LCof the central cam portion212is greater than the magnitude of width WFof the follower26. The biasing member28can be at a maximum extension thereof and can bias the follower to protrude from the body portion16. The cam shaft24is configured for only rotational motion to bring the tool holder10to the clamped and unclamped positions. In the present example, the cam shaft24is mounted to the body portion16in an arrangement which only allows rotational motion thereof. Consequently, the cam shaft24extends through the follower through-bore248in both the clamped and unclamped positions, and any transitional position therebetween, thereby preventing undesired ejection of the follower26from the body portion16. The first and second minor faces (258,260) of the follower26, which have the plurality of ribs282, can be aligned with the flat first and second sub-surfaces (92,94) of the locking bore176.

The head portion18can be moved in the rearward direction DRand/or the body portion16can be moved in the forward direction DFto bring the cutting tool holder10to the attached-unlocked position inFIG. 7B. In such position the head portion18can be seated on the top face262of the follower26.

Notably, a biasing force of the biasing member28can be sufficient to space the body portion16and the head portion18when seated thereon and held in a vertical orientation. Such spacing provides a gap292between the base surface132of the body portion16and the base surface48of the head portion18. The gap292can be sufficiently wide to prevent contact of the body portion16and head portion18and provide clearance between the protrusions50of the head portion18and the base surface132of the body portion16.

The head portion18or body portion16can be rotated a quarter turn, clockwise or counter clockwise, to bring the cutting tool holder10to the attached-locked position inFIG. 7C. As the biasing force is sufficient to maintain the body portion16spaced apart from the head portion18in the protruded position shown, when the body portion16is held in a vertical orientation with the head portion18seated thereon, only a rotational force need be applied thereto to rotate the head portion18. Stated differently, the head portion18can be advantageously rotated without having to first be appropriately positioned by application of a lifting force thereon.

Such rotation can bring the plurality of ribs282into alignment with the grooves100of the head portion18. Interlocking of the plurality of ribs282and grooves100can prevent motion of the head portion18in the forward direction DFrelative to the body portion16. Such interlocking can possibly prevent undesired ejection of the head portion18from the body portion16.

The cam shaft24can then be rotated a quarter turn, clockwise or counter clockwise, to bring the cutting tool holder10to the clamped position inFIG. 7D, with the curved section232of the cam shaft24moving the planar section270of the follower26in the rearward direction DRwith respect to the body portion16. Stated differently, the planar section270is configured to engage the curved section232of the cam shaft24. As each curved sub-section (242,244) is configured for the engagement with the follower through-bore248the cam shaft24can be rotated either clockwise or counterclockwise to bring the cutting tool holder10to the clamped or unclamped position. Notably, the curvature of each curved sub-section is configured to allow the tool holder10to be brought to the clamped or unclamped position upon a quarter turn of the cam shaft24.

Such movement can compress the biasing member28, and can reduce the width of the gap292. Movement of the head portion18relative to the body portion16can be arrested by engagement of the abutment surfaces (74,76) of the head portion's protrusions50with the abutment surfaces (154,156) of the body portion's recesses134. Notably, the only contact between head portion18and the body portion16is via the abutment surfaces (74,76,154,156). It is further noticed that engagement of the cam shaft24with the follower through-bore248is with the planar section270of the follower through-bore248only. It will be understood that the biasing member28can be configured to apply a continuous biasing force on the follower26, in both the clamped and unclamped positions, and any transitional position therebetween. Such continuous application of force assists in preventing undesired ejection of the cam shaft24from the body portion16.

Preferably, the abutment surfaces are configured such that all of the abutment surfaces (74,76) of the head portion's protrusions50and all of the abutment surfaces (154,156) of the body portion's recesses134are in contact simultaneously. Such arrangement can prevent, for example, wobbling.

To remove the head portion18, the steps above are carried out in the reverse order. Notably, while rotating the cam shaft24, rapid engagement of corresponding planar sections (230,270) of the central cam portion212and follower through-bore248can allow the biasing member28to urge the head portion18in a direction away from the body portion16, so that the head portion18can be rotated immediately thereafter, due to the gap292, without undesired engagement therebetween.

To remove the cam shaft24from the body portion16, a force can be applied to the follower26in the rearward direction DR, thereby compressing the biasing member28. Then, a tool (not shown) formed with a laterally extending anchoring portion, such as an external threading, can be inserted into the removal arrangement216of the first cam end208and engaged with the laterally extending anchoring wall portion226, and subsequently withdrawn from the body portion16together with the cam shaft24.

Possible advantages of the construction above can include:provision of four spaced interlocking elements on each engagement face for stabilization of the head portion18in the clamped position (i.e. prevention of rocking or wobbling of a head portion on the body portion);provision of four evenly spaced interlocking elements along the periphery of each engagement face for stabilization of the head portion18in the clamped position;provision of four spaced interlocking elements on the head portion and body portion allows a head portion to be clamped to a body portion in up to four different positions on a body portion as will be further described below; stated differently, the engagement faces of the head portion and body portion can be configured for clamping engagement with each other at four different positions;the modular cutting tool holder10can be configured to be brought to the four different positions via four successive quarter turns of the body portion16or the head portion32, as will be further described below;restraint of the head portion18to rotation in both the clockwise and counter-clockwise directions due to engagement of oppositely slanted abutment surfaces (74,76,154,156);resistance of the head portion18to rotation due to positioning of the interlocking elements (50,134), and specifically the abutment surfaces (74,76,154,156), spaced from the centerpoint of the engagement face62thereof; stated differently each interlocking element (50,134) is disposed at portion of the engagement face32distal to the centerpoint62thereof, thereby increasing magnitude of moment required to rotate the head portion10with respect to the body portion16;ease of assembly and variability of positioning, due to the ability to rotate the head in either direction to bring it to the attached-locked position from the attached-unlocked position;ease of assembly with the cutting tool holder10being configured to be brought to both the clamped and unclamped positions with the cam shaft24and follower26both still being held to the body portion16;speed of assembly, due to the head and/or cam shaft24requiring no more than a quarter turn rotation;ease of manufacture, due to the recesses134being formed with a component of possibly stiffer material;reduced width due to the use of multiple ribs;perpendicular orientation of the plurality of ribs282has been found to be less prone to undesired jamming during assembly, than ribs with slanted orientation;mounting of the cam shaft24to the body portion16is at two opposing ends thereof (208,210) permitting only rotational motion of the cam shaft24and/or application of force on the follower26in the direction of clamping (i.e. along a single axis, for example only in the forward and rearward directions, without having part of the force applied in a direction tangential thereto); anda varying curvature, in particular one forming a spiral shape, of the curved sub-sections (242,244) or, a continuous curve (not shown), can prevent unintentional reverting rotation of the cam shaft from the clamped position.

The alternative follower296can have any of the features of the follower26described above, with the only significant difference being that, at the follower head portion297thereof, an alternative plurality of outwardly extending ribs298are formed at intersections300of the front and rear major faces (254,256) and first and second minor faces (258,260). The follower head portion297is devoid of ribs between the intersections300. Thus, the follower head portion300can have four faces302devoid of ribs298, extending between four sets of adjacent ribs298.

The intersections300can constitute sub-faces of the alternative follower296. Accordingly, in the non-limiting embodiment shown, there are exactly four sub-faces300, i.e. the intersections, formed with a plurality of ribs298.

A possible advantage of such construction can be that an alternative head portion303(FIGS. 9A and 9B) formed with alternative grooves304at sub-surfaces306and planar or rib free alternative sub-surfaces308, configured to interlock with the ribs298of the alternative follower296, can be brought to four different positions on a body portion, and not only two as described above. This can allow additional tool configuration variability.

The intersections can constitute sub-surfaces of the alternative head portion118. Accordingly, in the non-limiting embodiment shown, there are exactly four sub-surfaces306, i.e. the intersections, formed with a plurality of grooves304.

It will be understood that the above-examples relate to head and body portions having four planar walls, however if the head and body portions are, for example, cylindrical, there could conceivably be different numbers of sets of ribs, as desired. Such number can allow a corresponding number of positions of a head portion with respect to a body portion. To generalize a follower in accordance with the subject matter of the present application can be brought to a plurality of positions on a body portion, as desired. It will also be understood that according to some embodiments, a follower and corresponding head portion can be configured for one or more ribs (i.e. located in a single plane), and need not have the number of ribs or sets of ribs exemplified in the drawings.

It will be understood that while there may be advantages in some embodiments for the protrusions (50) to be formed on the head portion (18) and the recesses (134) to be formed on the body portion (16), there may be other embodiments where such advantages are not present. Accordingly, it is feasible that protrusions, having any of the features described above, can be formed on a body portion of a modular cutting tool holder and recesses, having any of the features described above, can be formed on a head portion of a modular cutting tool holder.