Prerequisites for using the system-morphological approach and fractal theory in the creation of vices for complex shape objects

Background. On metal-cutting machines, in mechanical assembly production and everyday life, vices of various designs are widely used, which, as a rule, have a constant structure and one kinematic chain from the engine (or manual drive) to the clamping elements – jaws. The vast majority of them are adapted for clamping cylindrical objects (parts) and objects with plane-parallel sides. At the same time, in mechanical assembly production, as well as during repair work, it often becomes necessary to clamp spherical, wedge-shaped, conical, and irregularly shaped objects. Objective. The purpose of the paper is to propose a morphological set of universal vices taking into account the achievements in the theory of fractals and alternatives to new features of the state, type of execution and mobility of clamping elements, and to come up with morphological formulae of vices. Methods. A morphological model of the vices is being developed, which takes into account the achievements of the fractal theory and makes it possible to predict new technical solutions for universal vices at the level of inventions. Results. The morphological formulae of universal vices from the morphological set which contains alternatives of new signs of a condition, a type of execution and mobility of clamping elements, and also prerequisites for using the fractal theory for clamping process modelling of complex shape details are offered. Conclusions. Using the proposed approach, it is possible to predict new technical solutions of universal vices at the level of inven- tions for the manufacture, research and subsequent commercialization