Manufacturing systems and equipment for cutting processes

Abstract

A manufacturing system (120) for machining has at least one machine tool (10) and an operating mechanism (124) designed in a particularly compact manner. The machine tool (10) is designed for multi-axis machining and is provided with a tool holder (44) and a workpiece holder (60) that are movable relative to each other on at least three axes. The operating mechanism (124) has a first interface (170) leading to the machine tool (10), a second interface (210) for transfer purposes, an operating unit (150) in particular in the form of an operating robot, and at least one buffer (164, 166). The first interface is laterally connected to a workspace (144), wherein the operating unit (150) is designed for automated workpiece changing. A device (250) for machining has at least one such manufacturing system (120) and a combined transfer and storage device (252).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to precision mechanical manufacturing using machine tools. According to a particular design, this disclosure relates to a manufacturing system for cutting operations. According to another exemplary design, this disclosure relates to a combined conveying and storage device for cutting operations. Furthermore, this disclosure relates to an apparatus for cutting operations having a combined conveying and storage device and a manufacturing system. Background Technology

[0002] Depending on the specific design, this disclosure relates to compactly designed machine tools and their integration into manufacturing systems and equipment used for cutting operations. For example, a compactly designed machine tool is one with a workspace of less than 250 mm × 250 mm × 250 mm.

[0003] In the exemplary configuration, the machine tool's workspace is less than 200mm × 200mm × 200mm. In the exemplary configuration, the machine tool's workspace is less than 150mm × 150mm × 150mm. In the exemplary configuration, the machine tool's workspace is less than 100mm × 100mm × 100mm. In the exemplary configuration, the machine tool's workspace is less than 75mm × 75mm × 75mm. This information specifically relates to the possible feed (travel) along the X, Y, and Z axes. The workspace can be designed in the form of a cube. However, a cuboid-shaped mounting space is also conceivable, where the travel along the X, Y, and Z axes is unequal.

[0004] For example, machine tools designed in this way for precision machining, such as those used in the manufacture of watches and jewelry. Needless to say, other applications are also conceivable. For instance, workpieces could be blanks for watches and similar precision mechanical products. Examples include watch face plates, base plates, gears, dials, bridges, cocks, case backs, and similar flat components.

[0005] Machine tools and equipment for cutting operations are known. A manufacturing apparatus is known from US2019 / 0084102A1, which has a plurality of compactly designed machine tools arranged sequentially and adjacent to each other, the plurality of machine tools being arranged in a common housing, wherein a robot for changing tools and / or changing workpieces is also provided, the robot being arranged horizontally on a vertically movable crossbar.

[0006] A mobile robot unit with a housing is known from EP2227349B1, which, if necessary, can be placed in front of an opening in the workspace of a machining center so that workpieces can be loaded by the robot.

[0007] A processing apparatus for a workpiece is known from EP2036664A1. The processing apparatus has at least one processing machine, a protective housing including at least one shelving unit, and a loading device arranged inside the protective housing for loading and unloading the processing machine. The loading device includes a slide movable along a guide, the slide having an adjustable cantilever carrying at least one operating unit for a part to be operated. The guide for the slide is arranged in a top region, and the cantilever of the loading device, hinged to the underside of the slide, has two arms connected to each other, the two arms being pivotable relative to each other.

[0008] DE3543209A1 discloses a manufacturing system for flexibly manufacturing workpieces, the manufacturing system having multiple machine tools, a workpiece transfer system connecting the machine tools, and a loading device for each machine tool, the loading device being arranged between the machine tool and the transfer system and designed for loading and unloading the machine tool.

[0009] DE102014114258A1 discloses an apparatus comprising a single-station cutting machine and a robot unit, wherein the robot unit can be connected to the cutting machine for loading and unloading, the cutting machine has a machine room and the robot unit has a robot unit room, and in the connected state of the robot unit, the machine room and the robot unit room form a common processing room.

[0010] It has been shown, for example, that compactly designed machine tools can manufacture the required components with high precision and efficiency, even if the machine tool's external dimensions are relatively small.

[0011] However, it has also been shown that with machine tools featuring compact designs, specific boundary conditions must be considered for automation. On the one hand, transfer systems, operating units, etc., cannot be manufactured to be arbitrarily compact. Even if this is technically feasible, in practice, transfer systems, operating units, robots, fixtures, etc., usually have certain minimum dimensions.

[0012] This may mean that the actual machine tool (or its workspace) is very small relative to automation technology (operation technology, transmission system, etc.).

[0013] In addition, automation technologies (such as robots with grippers, etc.) must interact with the machine tool in the machine tool's installation space (which may be the workspace) in order to be able to transfer workpieces and, if necessary, tools.

[0014] It also indicates that even with compactly designed machine tools, the option of direct operator visual monitoring is often required. Similar to machine tools with larger structures, access panels (doors) with panes are typically needed. In automated equipment, this means that this area (the "front" of the machine tool) is not suitable for automation technologies.

[0015] Furthermore, it has been shown that compact machine tools are typically designed to be smaller relative to standard automation technologies. This places unique demands on the automation of compact machine tools. In addition, new possibilities for automation and linkage emerge, which might be impossible with conventional machine tools. Summary of the Invention

[0016] The object of this invention is to provide a solution for machining, particularly precision machining, using a compactly designed machine tool. In certain configurations, this involves the automation of the process, such as the operating mechanism, to account for special conditions of the compactly designed machine tool. Generally, the manufacturing system should be able to achieve partially or even highly automated manufacturing, even with very little installation space. This refers, for example, to workpiece changeover. In certain configurations, this relates to tool changeover. According to another aspect, a combined transfer and storage device will be proposed within the scope of this disclosure, which can be combined with at least one manufacturing system including a machine tool. In this way, efficient and at least partially autonomous manufacturing of medium and large series should be possible.

[0017] Finally, within the scope of this disclosure, a manufacturing apparatus is proposed that advantageously links a manufacturing system equipped with operating mechanisms to a combined transfer and storage device. Methods for linking and automating machine tools for compact designs will also be described within the scope of this disclosure.

[0018] According to one aspect, this disclosure relates to a manufacturing system for cutting processes, particularly a manufacturing system for manufacturing precision mechanical workpieces, the manufacturing system having the following components:

[0019] At least one machine tool, particularly compact in design, is designed for multi-axis machining and has tool holders and workpiece holders that can move relative to each other on at least three axes.

[0020] The tool holder and workpiece holder are located at the rear of the machine tool's workspace.

[0021] The operating mechanism includes the following components:

[0022] The first interface connecting to the workspace on the side and leading to the machine tool.

[0023] The second interface is used for transmitting the destination.

[0024] Operating units, especially operating units in the form of operating robots, and

[0025] At least one cache

[0026] The operating unit is designed for automated workpiece replacement.

[0027] In this way, the machine tool can operate at least partially automatically. This includes, for example, the ability to change workpieces semi-automatically or fully automatically.

[0028] The operating mechanism is adjacent to the machine tool's workspace, for example, positioned at a small distance from its side. The operating mechanism is associated with the operating unit rather than the machine tool itself. This means that for machine tools with only a relatively small workspace, complex interventions and adjustments are unnecessary.

[0029] The front side of the workspace is therefore free or open, at least in the exemplary configuration, and can be viewed and accessed by the operator. The front side can also be referred to as the operator side. The front side is arranged opposite to the rear side. The lateral sides of the workspace can be used for processing (workpiece change, tool change). In this way, a compact structure is taken into account.

[0030] The operating unit can reach the workpiece holder and the pallet that may already be placed there for workpiece replacement (loading and unloading). This also affects the removal of remaining parts (scrap).

[0031] In one exemplary design, the tool holder is designed as a tool spindle and has a vertically oriented axis. The workpiece holder, for example, is associated with a machine tool's pivot axis or pivot table.

[0032] The first interface can also be called the feed interface. The second interface can also be called the transmission interface.

[0033] The operating mechanism, and therefore the manufacturing system, can be connected to a conveying device or a combined conveying and storage device via a second interface. In other words, the operating unit can work with other operating / conveying technologies to feed workpieces into or retrieve workpieces from the operating mechanism's buffer. This occurs, for example, in groups of discs, etc.

[0034] The operating mechanism can serve as a locking mechanism between the machine tool (or its workspace) and the transmission system. In exemplary designs, the basic structure of the machine tool, particularly its mechanical structure, remains largely or completely unaffected when the machine tool is connected to the operating mechanism. This allows the machine tool to be used in equipment and systems with varying degrees of automation. The operating mechanism can also be referred to as a processing module.

[0035] In the exemplary design, the machine's workspace is primarily, at least primarily, and possibly even exclusively used for processing. In other words, according to the exemplary design, at least during processing, operating techniques, etc., do not require a workspace. This also takes into account limited installation space.

[0036] It has been shown that compact machine tools, even with limited installation space, are suitable for the precise manufacture of specific delicate mechanical components, such as dials. For example, the required precision can be ensured by using very limited travel and design elements (such as protrusions) with very small dimensions. Overall, despite the compact design, there is less tendency for deformation, resulting in high precision. However, compact design must be considered when automating applications.

[0037] According to an exemplary design of the manufacturing system, the operating unit provides a primary function and at least one secondary function, the primary function including workpiece change and the secondary function including tool change.

[0038] In other words, at least in the exemplary configuration, the operating mechanism can also be used for tool changing. However, at least according to the exemplary design, this is only a secondary function, i.e., a function subordinate to workpiece changing. Nevertheless, providing both primary and secondary functions expands the application scope of the operating mechanism.

[0039] According to another exemplary design of the manufacturing system, the manipulator is designed as an articulated robot, particularly a suspended articulated robot, whose range of motion includes a first interface, a workpiece transfer position with a workpiece holder, and preferably a second interface. In other words, the manipulator can be designed as an industrial robot, for example, an industrial robot arranged in a suspended manner.

[0040] According to the exemplary design, the operating unit is arranged in a suspended manner. In this way, the bottom area of ​​the operating mechanism can be used for other purposes.

[0041] According to another design of the manufacturing system, the operating unit has a dual clamping fixture, which is designed to hold at least the workpiece. In this way, workpiece changes can be performed efficiently within the machine tool, which can be combined with the removal of the previous workpiece without any significant time delay. Using a dual clamping fixture reduces workpiece changeover time.

[0042] The machine tool is, for example, arranged in a machining mechanism adjacent to the operating mechanism. In an exemplary design, the range of motion of the operating unit at least partially overlaps with the workspace of the machine tool, thereby enabling loading and, if necessary, unloading processes. In this way, a workpiece can be transferred to a workpiece holder. This may include transferring the workpiece to a tray or clamping device arranged on or designed as part of the workpiece holder.

[0043] In other exemplary designs, the dual clamps are also designed to hold the workpiece being machined. In one exemplary design, this includes a workpiece separated from the surrounding remaining parts of the blank. In another design, this includes a machined workpiece that remains attached to the remaining parts of the blank.

[0044] In other exemplary designs, the double clamps are designed to hold the remaining parts that occur after the workpiece has been separated from the blank. These remaining parts are, for example, referred to as scrap. The workpiece is designed in, for example, circular, disc-shaped, elliptical, or square shapes, and is made from small segments of the blank, possibly with remaining scrap.

[0045] Depending on whether the workpiece is completely separated from the remaining parts of the blank, the operating unit can take over and remove workpieces without remaining parts, workpieces still attached to the remaining parts, or remaining parts separated from the workpiece. If a double clamp is provided, a new blank can be placed on the workpiece holder without much delay.

[0046] According to another exemplary design of the manufacturing system, the buffer includes at least one placement portion for a workpiece carrier having multiple storage spaces designed to accommodate at least blanks. The workpiece carrier is, for example, designed as a pallet or workpiece tray for accommodating multiple workpieces or blanks. In the exemplary design, the workpiece carrier is also designed to accommodate processed workpieces or remaining parts.

[0047] The workpiece carrier can also be designed as a disk. The workpiece carrier can be provided via a second interface. This can be accomplished, for example, using a conveyor system. However, manual loading is also conceivable, with machine assistance if necessary.

[0048] Relatively delicate workpieces can be efficiently handled and transferred by providing a workpiece carrier capable of accommodating multiple or large quantities of workpieces (or blanks and / or surplus parts). For example, transfer can occur between the storage plane of a combined transfer and storage device and the machine tool, where transfer is performed via an operating mechanism. This allows for the efficient transfer of a large number of parts held by the workpiece carrier. If such (global) transfer is performed using a workpiece carrier, individual workpieces can be moved quickly and safely. Furthermore, storage or intermediate storage is simplified, and if necessary, this can also be done directly within the (transferable) workpiece carrier. When operating the workpiece carrier, the precision and care expected of handling workpieces are not required.

[0049] The operating mechanism then allows for the separation of the workpiece. This (partial) transfer is possible considering the workpiece's precision requirements and potential fragility. For this purpose, the operating mechanism can also have a reference component, for example, one with a defined stop for the workpiece blank. This allows the workpiece to be specifically aligned with the reference component. In this way, the requirements for workpiece alignment accuracy within the workpiece carrier are reduced.

[0050] According to another exemplary design of the manufacturing system, at least one first workpiece carrier for preparing blanks and a second workpiece carrier for accommodating processed workpieces or remaining parts are provided. The first and second workpiece carriers can be housed together in an operating mechanism. In this way, the operating mechanism itself can provide a buffer. For at least a certain number of workpieces, the operating mechanism can operate autonomously or semi-autonomously without additional transfer via a transfer interface.

[0051] In this design, the workpiece carrier is arranged within the operating mechanism of the moving area of ​​the operating unit. For example, two pallets or two workpiece trays can be used, where a first workpiece carrier is provided for a blank component, and a second workpiece carrier is provided for a machined component. The operating mechanism can have a corresponding mounting section for the workpiece carrier.

[0052] According to another exemplary design, the manufacturing system also has at least one auxiliary storage unit, which is specifically designed for storing random samples. The auxiliary storage unit can also be designed as an isolated storage unit.

[0053] For example, auxiliary storage can be used to temporarily store workpieces for measurement or similar quality control measures. In a similar manner, auxiliary storage can also serve as a buffer for potentially defective parts that may be released as good parts after testing. Temporarily stored parts can be handled within the operating mechanism.

[0054] According to another exemplary design of the manufacturing system, the operating unit has a suction fixture, which is specifically designed to accommodate a machined workpiece. For example, the operating unit is designed to switch between a mechanical fixture (with clamping fingers or clamping elements) and a suction fixture (fluid fixture). In the case of a dual-fixture system, a combination of a mechanical fixture and a suction fixture is also largely conceivable.

[0055] Pick-up fixtures allow for the handling of fragile workpieces. In this way, for example, workpieces that have been completely separated from the remaining parts of the blank can be easily removed from the workspace.

[0056] According to another exemplary design of the manufacturing system, the operating mechanism also includes a monitoring station, such as an optical monitoring station. This allows for manufacturing-related monitoring. The advantage of this is that the workpiece can be inspected before being returned to the (global) transport and storage device. The monitoring station in the operating mechanism can be combined with an auxiliary storage unit within the operating mechanism.

[0057] According to another exemplary design, the manufacturing system also has at least one reference component for aligning workpieces, particularly for centering. In this way, for example, the blank can be centered. This allows for the use of loading aids with reduced positioning accuracy requirements.

[0058] In other words, for example, the operating unit can first pick up a blank from the workpiece carrier (e.g., a pallet), then place it on a reference component to align the blank and center it if necessary. This reduces positioning errors during machine tool loading and unloading.

[0059] According to another exemplary design of the manufacturing system, at least the first interface between the machine tool and the operating mechanism can be closed with a door, particularly a sliding door. For example, the door is designed in the manner of a cutting machine, i.e., as a vertically movable sliding door. Other locking devices are conceivable.

[0060] The door allows for a sealed separation between the workspace and the operating mechanism during machining. This is also possible because the operating unit of the operating mechanism does not occupy the machine tool's workspace during machining, but is only introduced when needed to change workpieces. In one exemplary design, the operating unit of the operating mechanism is completely removed from the machining mechanism during processing.

[0061] The design as a vertically movable door allows access to the operating mechanism and its corresponding front side (operator side). For example, when the door is open, it can be moved to an area (above or below the interface) that is not otherwise used and does not obstruct the operator's freedom or open view. The second interface may also be equipped with such a sliding door or otherwise have a locking device.

[0062] According to other exemplary designs, the manufacturing system also includes an equipment mechanism with an operating manipulator, particularly in the form of a robot. The equipment mechanism and the operating mechanism are connected to the machine tool's workspace on opposite sides. The equipment mechanism can also be referred to as an adjustment module.

[0063] According to this design, the machine tool has an interface to the operating mechanism on a first side and another interface to the equipment mechanism on a second side, particularly opposite to the first side. In other words, in the exemplary configuration, the machine tool or machining mechanism is arranged between the equipment mechanism and the operating mechanism.

[0064] In this way, the front remains open and visible. The interface between the machine tool and the equipment mechanism can also be equipped with a door, such as a sliding door, especially in the form of a vertically movable door (cutting machine). If the interface is accessible, the operating robot can access the tool holder (tool spindle). At least the operating robot can be used to change tools.

[0065] According to the exemplary design, the machining mechanism of the machine tool is arranged between the equipment mechanism and the operating mechanism.

[0066] According to the exemplary design, the processing mechanism, the equipment mechanism, and the operating mechanism each have their own support structure (frame, rack, etc.). According to the exemplary design, at least the operating mechanism has a housing separate from the housing of the processing mechanism. In the exemplary design, the equipment mechanism and the processing mechanism share a common (external) housing. However, it is conceivable that the processing mechanism, equipment mechanism, and operating mechanism are arranged on a single, identical base (basic frame).

[0067] According to another exemplary design of the manufacturing system, the operating robot provides a primary function and at least one secondary function, wherein the primary function includes tool changing and the secondary function includes workpiece changing.

[0068] In other words, the robotic arm of the equipment mechanism can be used in situations such as one-off manufacturing or small-batch manufacturing for workpiece changeover. This allows direct access to individual workpieces. (Global) transfer and storage devices are not necessarily required.

[0069] Tool changes are typically performed using a dual-gripper mechanism, allowing for rapid tool swapping between the tool to be changed and the tool already in place. In the example design, a parking position is provided within the dual-gripper's mounting mechanism. In this way, the dual-gripper can be lowered when the robotic arm is used for other functions.

[0070] According to another exemplary design of the manufacturing system, the manipulator provides at least one additional secondary function, which includes an assembly block with a tool set. For example, this includes conveying a tool holder that positions multiple tools. The tool holder is, for example, designed as a disc-shaped or rotary carrier with multiple storage spaces for tools, these storage spaces being distributed circularly around a center. For example, the manipulator can deploy a double gripper to then hold the tool carrier and, if necessary, transfer the tool carrier between the equipment and the environment.

[0071] In this way, multiple tools can be provided quickly. Depending on the number of tools held in the tool holder, individual tools can be selectively replaced in the machine tool's tool holder (tool spindle).

[0072] According to another exemplary design of the manufacturing system, the manipulator is designed as a SCARA robot and has two or more mutually parallel pivots. The SCARA robot preferably moves linearly along axes parallel to the pivot orientations. For example, a SCARA robot is a horizontal articulated arm robot with multiple horizontally oriented pivots.

[0073] In an exemplary design, the manipulator of the equipment mechanism is positioned with its base on a vertically oriented guide within the equipment mechanism. In this way, the manipulator can move vertically as a whole. Therefore, this degree of freedom of movement does not necessarily have to be provided by the manipulator's pivot hinge. Tool changing typically involves placing a gripper on a horizontal surface to grasp the tool to be replaced or replaced, and moving it vertically to detach from its base and remove / engage it at the new target location.

[0074] According to another exemplary design of the manufacturing system, the machine tool has the following components:

[0075] Rack modules,

[0076] The Y-axis slide is arranged on the Y-axis guide on the lower side of the rack assembly and can move horizontally relative to the rack assembly.

[0077] An X-axis slide, arranged on an X-axis guide on the inclined side of the frame assembly, is horizontally movable relative to the frame assembly. The frame assembly is designed as a slant bed frame assembly. The X-axis slide can move along an X-axis perpendicular to the Y-axis, and the Y-axis slide can move along the Y-axis.

[0078] The Z-axis slide can move vertically on the Z-axis guide on the front side of the X-axis slide, and

[0079] A rotary drive is directly or indirectly housed on a Y-axis slide, which carries a worktable with a workpiece holder.

[0080] This approach allows for the creation of machine tools that are compact in design, small in size, and highly rigid.

[0081] According to another exemplary design of the manufacturing system, the machine tool belongs to a machining mechanism that is separated from the operating mechanism, and particularly from the equipment mechanism. For example, the machining mechanism is arranged between the operating mechanism and the equipment mechanism. This separation primarily refers to spatial separation. An interface is provided for transfer between the machining mechanism and the operating mechanism. Another interface is provided for transfer between the machining mechanism and the equipment mechanism.

[0082] In other words, the machining mechanism with machine tools can be supplemented by an operating mechanism and, if necessary, an equipment mechanism to collectively form a manufacturing system that is at least partially automated. This manufacturing system allows for at least partially automated workpiece changeover. In an exemplary configuration, the manufacturing system also allows for at least partially automated tool changeover.

[0083] The compact design of the machine tool allows for a cabinet-style design, providing a lower structure that houses control technology devices, fluid technology devices, auxiliary units, etc. This applies at least to exemplary configurations. In these configurations, an upper structure is arranged on top of a lower structure, which includes the actual machine tool. The suspension arrangement of the Y-axis slide on the frame block ensures that machining forces and reaction forces are borne by the compact core of the machine tool. For example, the design of the cabinet-style lower structure has little or no impact on the static stiffness of the machine tool.

[0084] For example, a design consisting of a lower cabinet and an upper cabinet is adapted to the typical body size of an operator, making the components in the upper cabinet clearly visible and easily accessible. Similarly, the operating unit can also be designed as a cabinet, with the operating mechanism located in the upper cabinet above the lower cabinet. Likewise, the equipment mechanism can be designed as a cabinet, with the operating robot located in the upper cabinet above the lower cabinet. For example, the manufacturing system has a height of 1.50m to 2.50m, subdivided into lower and upper cabinets.

[0085] This disclosure also relates to an apparatus for machining, having a manufacturing system with at least one configuration according to the present document, and having a combined conveying and storage device, the apparatus comprising the following components:

[0086] The storage plane includes two or more storage spaces spaced apart in the longitudinal direction for workpiece carriers, which are used to hold blanks or machined workpieces.

[0087] A conveying device extending in the longitudinal direction, particularly including a bottom-side guide and a moving column that supports the operating device.

[0088] At least one machining interface is arranged next to or between the storage devices for direct or indirect connection to the machine tool.

[0089] At least one feed interface, particularly at the end of the device, is accessible to the unmanned transport vehicle.

[0090] The conveying device enables workpiece transfer between the feed interface, the storage plane, and at least one processing interface.

[0091] Workpiece transfer between the device and the machine tool is carried out indirectly by using the operating unit of the operating mechanism.

[0092] The operating mechanism is arranged between the machining mechanism with the machine tool and the combined transfer and storage device. The transfer and storage device is suitable for storing and transferring a large number of workpieces, which are arranged in workpiece carriers with a large number of receiving positions. Individual workpieces can then be separated and processed in the operating mechanism.

[0093] The equipment can have multiple manufacturing systems, each connected to a machining interface. In this way, interconnected machining steps can be performed by linked machine tools, with workpiece transfer partially or highly automated. The equipment also has at least a limited storage capacity. This allows for partially or highly automated operation, such as at night or on weekends. In this manner, a bus topology that expands with storage capacity can be created, where combined transfer and storage devices connect multiple manufacturing systems to each other.

[0094] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a combined conveying and storage device for cutting operations, particularly for producing precision mechanical workpieces, the combined conveying and storage device comprising the following components:

[0095] The storage plane includes two or more storage spaces spaced apart in the longitudinal direction for workpiece carriers, which are used to hold blanks or machined workpieces.

[0096] A conveying device extending in the longitudinal direction, particularly including a bottom-side guide and a moving column that supports the operating device.

[0097] At least one machining interface is arranged next to or between the storage devices for direct or indirect connection to the machine tool.

[0098] At least one feed interface, particularly at the end of the device, is accessible to the unmanned transport vehicle.

[0099] The conveying device enables workpiece transfer between the feed interface, the storage plane, and at least one processing interface.

[0100] This device is suitable for processing delicate mechanical workpieces with limited dimensions, such as parts for watches and jewelry. Such workpieces are typically small enough that the space required for storage / temporary storage in the storage plane is not too large compared to the installation space required for conveying devices and connecting to machine tools via machining interfaces.

[0101] For example, a combined transfer and storage device can have a channel with a bottom-side (or top-side) guide in the middle of the channel, and storage units and processing interfaces can be located on the left and right sides. If the transfer device can transfer workpiece carriers through at least one processing interface, they can also be placed in or removed from the storage unit. Thus, an identical transfer device can serve the storage plane and be used for exchange via the processing interface. In an exemplary design, the same transfer device can also be used for exchange via a feed interface.

[0102] The workpiece carrier can be designed as a pallet, tray, or workpiece tray. The workpiece carrier can be designed to accommodate multiple workpieces, blanks, semi-finished products, surplus parts, blanks, etc. The operating device arranged on the conveying device can also be called the workpiece carrier operating device.

[0103] At least in the exemplary configuration, the feed interface is used, on the one hand, to load new workpieces, which may be in the form of blanks, for example. At least in the exemplary configuration, the feed interface is also used to remove processed workpieces and / or remaining parts. Workpieces can enter and exit through the same feed interface. It is also conceivable that a first feed interface is provided at a first end of the device and a second feed interface is provided at a second end.

[0104] According to an exemplary design of the device, at least one storage unit is designed as a storage shelf. In this way, multiple storage spaces for workpiece carriers can be provided, arranged stacked on top of each other. For example, if a human-height conveyor is provided, a large number of workpieces can be stored in workpiece carriers arranged vertically and retrieved when needed. It is also important here to design standard precision mechanical workpieces compactly, at least in terms of standard conveying and handling techniques. In other words, a large number of storage spaces can be provided without significantly increasing the device's footprint.

[0105] According to another exemplary design of the device, the conveying device is designed to convey a workpiece carrier as needed in both longitudinal and transverse directions, particularly in the horizontal plane. In this way, the workpiece carrier can move longitudinally along the guide. Exchange with the storage device or through the processing interface typically involves lateral movement in the transverse direction.

[0106] According to another exemplary design of the device, the conveying device has a moving column and a longitudinal drive, the longitudinal drive moving the moving column in a longitudinal direction. For example, it relates to a longitudinal drive with a bottom guide, the guide being, for example, in the form of a guide. For example, a slide carrying the moving column (moving rod) is arranged on the guide.

[0107] According to another exemplary design of the device, the operating device has a movable linear actuator that moves the workpiece carrier linearly in a horizontal plane, and the linear actuator is preferably vertically movable. In other words, in addition to longitudinal drive, linear drive is also provided. The linear actuator provides lateral movement in the transverse direction. For example, the linear actuator includes a support that can be vertically moved by a vertical actuator (linear actuator). For example, the support can be vertically movably supported on a vertical guide of a moving column. The vertical movement (lifting movement) can be used to pick up and lower the workpiece carrier.

[0108] According to another exemplary design of the device, the linear actuator is designed as a telescopic linear actuator. In other words, the linear actuator makes good use of available space. For example, this involves lateral movement in the transverse direction. For a channel of a given width extending in the longitudinal direction, only a small amount of space is left in the transverse direction. This is well-suited for the telescopic design of the linear actuator. In other words, the linear actuator can have a limited range of extension and still provide a considerable amount of travel.

[0109] According to another exemplary design of the device, the linear actuator has a telescopic guide with two guide sections arranged parallel to each other. The first guide section is assigned to the base guide, and the second guide section is assigned to the carrier for the workpiece. This allows, ideally, nearly twice the travel distance for a single-weighted guide.

[0110] According to another exemplary design of the device, the carrier includes two receiving positions for the workpiece carrier, wherein, preferably, a rotary actuator is provided for the receiving positions. These two receiving positions are, for example, offset from each other by 180° and arranged opposite each other.

[0111] In this way, two workpiece carriers can be replaced efficiently. In at least one exemplary design, only a 180° rotation is required to provide either position. In other words, the workpiece carrier can be replaced without significant (global) movement of the conveyor.

[0112] In one exemplary design, the receiving positions are each inclined relative to a horizontal plane or relative to the extension of the guide segment of the telescopic guide. In this exemplary design, this also applies to the receiving positions in the storage space of the storage plane (global storage) and the receiving positions in the operating mechanism (buffered storage). This simplifies the gripping and picking up of workpiece carriers via the operating mechanism of the conveying device.

[0113] Since the workpiece is not directly transferred through the operating device, the requirements for the motion accuracy of the transfer and operating devices are reduced. The workpiece carrier, which is supported and moved by the operating device, is designed to be sufficiently stable, thereby enabling high transfer speeds.

[0114] According to another exemplary design of the device, the operating device also includes a rotary drive that rotates the orientation of the linear drive in the horizontal plane. In this way, the linear drive can, for example, have a longitudinal or lateral orientation. Depending on the configuration, rightward and leftward lateral orientations are also possible. In this way, the provided stroke can be fully utilized.

[0115] According to another exemplary design of the device, the rotary drive is designed to pivot the linear drive between 0°, 90°, and 180° positions. Therefore, a transfer device or an operating device held thereby can be used on both the right and left longitudinal sides of the device. In this way, a storage device, a processing interface, and a possible transfer interface can be provided on both the right and left longitudinal sides.

[0116] According to another exemplary design of the device, at least one storage and / or machining interface for connecting machine tools is arranged on a first side and a second side relative to the longitudinal direction. In other words, the transfer device can extend and move along a channel between a first (e.g., left) vertical plane and a second vertical plane, allowing the workpiece carrier to be transferred to the right and left within the channel. In this way, the given installation space is well utilized. Multiple storage spaces can be provided. Furthermore, machine tools can be connected on both sides. A bus topology with expanded storage capacity can be generated, in which multiple machine tools are connected to a combined transfer and storage device, which provides a bus for transfer and storage capacity.

[0117] For example, the device extends longitudinally, with multiple storage devices and at least one machining interface on the left and right sides extending longitudinally. A machine tool can be directly or indirectly connected to the machining interface. For example, a feed interface is formed on at least one of the two end sides of the device, designed for the exchange of workpiece carrier information with the environment.

[0118] According to another exemplary design of the device, the conveying device extends longitudinally between a first end and a second end, wherein a feed interface is arranged on at least one of the first or second end. A transport vehicle, such as an unmanned transport vehicle, can be connected to the device there. In the exemplary design, the feed interface is provided with a vertically opening door, such as a roller shutter, a swing gate, or a segmented gate.

[0119] In one exemplary design, the longitudinal extension of the device is greater than its height. In this way, sufficient space is available to move the door into the device. Advantageously, in this exemplary design, the feed interface, which is only temporarily connected to the vehicle, is closed when not connected.

[0120] According to another exemplary design of the device, only one feed interface is provided on one end side, and the conveying device can move back and forth in the longitudinal direction to pick up blank components at the feed interface and convey machined workpieces and / or remaining parts. Therefore, the conveying device can both load the device itself and ensure the transfer of workpieces between connected machine tools (possibly between corresponding operating mechanisms).

[0121] According to another exemplary design of the device, the feed interface is provided with a door that can move between a closed position and an open position. In the open position, the door is guided at least partially on the upper side of the device. The advantage of this is that the door typically does not occupy side mounting space when open and closed. Therefore, this area can be used for storage and / or processing interfaces. In the open state, the door can be positioned at least partially horizontally below the top of the device. In the closed state, the door is vertically oriented. The door is designed as a split gate or a segmented gate.

[0122] According to another exemplary design of the device, at least one machining interface is connected to a machine tool, which has the following components:

[0123] Rack modules,

[0124] The Y-axis slide is arranged on the Y-axis guide on the lower side of the rack assembly and can move horizontally relative to the rack assembly.

[0125] An X-axis slide, arranged on an X-axis guide on the inclined side of the frame assembly, is horizontally movable relative to the frame assembly. The frame assembly is designed as a slant bed frame assembly. The X-axis slide can move along an X-axis perpendicular to the Y-axis, and the Y-axis slide can move along the Y-axis.

[0126] The Z-axis slide can move vertically on the Z-axis guide on the front side of the X-axis slide, and

[0127] A rotary drive is directly or indirectly housed on a Y-axis slide, which carries a worktable with a workpiece holder.

[0128] In this way, the machine tool can work autonomously for a certain period of time, and can provide and store a large number of workpieces after processing. Multiple machine tools can be linked together using this device.

[0129] According to another exemplary design of the device, the operating mechanism is arranged between at least one machining interface and the machine tool, and the operating mechanism has the following components:

[0130] The first interface leading to the machine tool connects laterally to the machine tool's workspace.

[0131] A second interface used for transmitting data to the processing interface.

[0132] Operating units, especially those in the form of operating robots, and

[0133] At least one buffer, specifically for accommodating at least one workpiece carrier,

[0134] The operating unit is designed for automated workpiece replacement.

[0135] According to this design, the workpiece is transferred between the device's storage plane and the machine tool's workspace using the device's own conveying mechanism and the operating unit of the operating mechanism. The workpiece is separated from and removed from the workpiece carrier within the operating mechanism. The operations in the combined conveying and storage device are performed within the workpiece carrier in a packaged state.

[0136] This disclosure also relates to an apparatus for cutting operations, the apparatus having a combined transfer and storage device according to at least one configuration described herein, and having at least one manufacturing system having at least one machine tool and an operating mechanism arranged between the processing interface of the transfer and storage device and the machine tool, wherein workpiece transfer between the transfer and storage device and the machine tool is performed indirectly through the operating unit of the operating mechanism.

[0137] In this way, the conveying and storage devices can be integrated with the manufacturing system to provide equipment that can operate in a semi-automated or highly automated manner.

[0138] It goes without saying that, without departing from the scope of the invention, the above features and the features to be explained below can be used not only in the separately specified combinations, but also in other combinations or individually. Attached Figure Description

[0139] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description and explanation of several exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. Wherein:

[0140] Figure 1 A perspective view of a machine tool with a workpiece holder is shown;

[0141] Figure 2 Another view of the machine tool is shown, in which the details are omitted. Figure 1 The components shown in the image;

[0142] Figure 3 A view showing a flat blank, upon which a workpiece is formed;

[0143] Figure 4 A perspective view of a manufacturing system having machine tools, operating mechanisms, and equipment mechanisms is shown.

[0144] Figure 5 Showing based on Figure 4 An enlarged partial perspective view of the diagram is provided to illustrate the operating mechanism;

[0145] Figure 6 Showing based on Figure 5 The diagram is an enlarged partial perspective view to illustrate the equipment mechanism;

[0146] Figure 7A simplified schematic diagram of a manufacturing system having a machining mechanism, an operating mechanism, and an equipment mechanism, shown from the front orientation;

[0147] Figure 8 A partial perspective view of a manufacturing facility with combined conveying and storage devices is shown;

[0148] Figure 9 Showing based on Figure 8 An enlarged partial perspective view of the device illustrated in the diagram, used to illustrate the conveying device;

[0149] Figure 10 Showing according to Figure 8 and 9 A partial view of the end side of the device; and

[0150] Figure 11 A schematic top view of a manufacturing facility with combined conveying and storage devices and a connected manufacturing system is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0151] Figure 1 An exemplary configuration of machine tool 10 suitable for producing compact, precision mechanical components is illustrated using perspective views. Figure 2 The corresponding diagram is shown to illustrate the core machine 12 of the machine tool 10.

[0152] Machine tool 10 includes a support frame 14, which in this embodiment is supported on a base 16. Core machine 12 includes a frame block 18, which is supported on the support frame 14 via support points 20. Four such support points 20 are provided as an example. Core machine 12 is designed such that the shift drive of machine tool 10 is supported directly or indirectly on the compact frame block 18. This allows for the advantageous introduction of forces. In other words, according to... Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the embodiments, the support frame 14 and base 16 typically only need to bear gravity, and not the reaction forces generated during processing. The compact frame module 18 allows for a space-saving design of the core machine 12 and the entire machine tool 10, at least in reference... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The illustrated implementation is as follows.

[0153] For the sake of explanation, Figure 1 and Figure 2 The diagram also shows a Cartesian coordinate system XYZ. The axis assignment follows conventional conventions in the machine tool industry. The X-axis typically represents the lateral extension range. The Y-axis typically represents the depth extension range. The Z-axis typically represents the height extension range (vertical direction). The X and Y axes are typically horizontally oriented. The XYZ axes are typically perpendicular to each other.

[0154] The so-called A-axis typically describes rotational motion about the X-axis. The B-axis typically describes rotational motion about the Y-axis. The C-axis typically describes rotational motion about the Z-axis. This allocation usually changes if one rotational axis (or pivot) in the kinematic chain is held directly or indirectly by another rotational axis (or pivot) and is rotatable. This is known to those skilled in the art.

[0155] according to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The machine tool 10 is designed as a so-called five-axis machine tool, which has three translational axes (X, Y, Z) and two rotary axes (e.g., B-axis and C-axis). In principle, it can also be considered to be designed as a four-axis machine, in which case typically only one rotary axis (e.g., B-axis) is provided. In the machine tool field, the term "axis" generally includes an assembly having two parts that can move relative to each other, corresponding guide / support devices, and associated drives. It goes without saying that those skilled in the art are aware of other axis assignments and that they can be changed if necessary.

[0156] The core machine 12 includes an X-axis slide 22, which is supported on the rack assembly 18 in a manner that allows it to move linearly in the X direction. See also... Figure 2 The double arrow marked 50 indicates that the drive 24 is used to move the X-axis slide 22. According to... Figure 1 and Figure 2 In this embodiment, the X-axis slide 22 is guided on the inclined side 26 of the frame assembly 18. In other words, the frame assembly 18 provides an inclined bed for the X-axis slide 22. For example, the inclined side 26 is inclined at 30° to 60° relative to a vertical plane defined by the X-axis and Z-axis.

[0157] A Y-axis slide 28 is also provided, which is supported on the frame assembly 18 in a manner that allows it to move linearly in the Y direction. See [reference needed] Figure 2 The double arrow marked 52 indicates that the Y-axis slide 28 is suspended on the lower side 34 of the frame assembly 18. This results in the required compact design of the frame assembly 18. The reaction forces generated during machining are transmitted over a short stroke through the frame assembly 18. The support frame 14 and base 16 primarily serve as the base frame for the frame assembly 18. The rigidity of the machine tool 10 depends primarily on the rigidity of the core machine 12, and especially on the rigidity of the frame assembly 18.

[0158] The core machine 12 also includes a Z-axis slide 32, which is supported on the rack assembly 18 in a manner that allows it to move linearly in the Z direction. See also... Figure 2 The double arrow marked 54 indicates that the driver 36 is used to move the Z-axis slide 32.

[0159] A rotary drive 40, also referred to as a B-axis drive or B-axis drive, is also assigned to the Y-axis slide. In an embodiment, the rotary drive 40 carries another rotary drive 42, also referred to as a C-axis drive or C-axis drive. The rotary drives 40 and 42 can be rotary drives, such as rotary drives or pivot drives. The feasible pivoting movement of the rotary drive 40 is achieved by... Figure 2 The curved double arrow 56 in the diagram indicates the possible pivoting motion of the rotary actuator 42. Figure 2 The curved double arrow 58 in the image represents this.

[0160] Figure 2 Arrows 50, 52, 54, 56, and 58 indicate a total of five motion axes. In this embodiment, axes 50 and 54 are tool axes for moving the tool. Conversely, axes 52, 56, and 58 are workpiece axes for moving the workpiece. A control device for the machine tool 10 is also included. Figure 1 The number 48 is used to indicate this. Machine tool 10 typically has an NC controller or a CNC controller.

[0161] In this embodiment, the Z-axis slide 32 carries a tool holder 44, on which a machining tool 46 is housed. The machining tool 46 is, for example, a milling cutter, a drill bit, etc. It is understood that the tool can be changed during machining. The tool holder 44 is a tool spindle (…). Figure 1 and Figure 2 (Not explicitly shown) As a component, the tool spindle has a drive for machining tool 46. In this way, machining tool 46 can rotate about its longitudinal axis (the vertical axis in this embodiment). Other configurations are conceivable.

[0162] The workpiece holder 60 is fixed to the rotary drive 42 (e.g., the C-axis). The workpiece housed in the workpiece holder can be moved via axes 52, 56, and 58. The workpiece holder 60 may also be referred to as a tray or workpiece pallet or be connected to it. It is also conceivable to integrate or include clamping devices on the workpiece holder 60. Depending on the specific design and control scheme, the B-axis (arrow 56) and / or the C-axis (arrow 58) can be used to rotate the workpiece holder 60 by 180°. In other words, the workpiece holder 60 can thus be flipped along with the workpiece to enable machining of the workpiece from at least both sides.

[0163] According to Figure 1 and Figure 2 In an implementation design of a machine tool 10 with five driven axes 50, 52, 54, 56, and 58, the rotary drive 42 (C-axis 58) can be eliminated, and the workpiece holder 62 can be directly fixed to the rotary drive 40 (B-axis 56).

[0164] The workpiece holder 60 may be part of the support device 70, which also includes a support unit 62. If necessary, the support unit 62 can be used to temporarily support the workpiece to be processed when the workpiece holder 60 is already in a specific position (e.g., a neutral position). Advantageously, this allows for the production of thin, lightweight workpieces with high precision.

[0165] The workpiece holder 60 and the support unit 62 can be implemented independently of each other. In certain embodiments and for certain applications, the workpiece holder 60 and the support unit 62 are combined with each other. In this way, a support device 70 having the support unit 62 and the workpiece holder 60 can be produced.

[0166] exist Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the support unit 62 includes a housing 64 and a cover 66, the cover closing the housing 64 in the direction toward the workpiece holder 60. The cover 66 can be opened as needed to allow the components of the support unit 62 to move toward the workpiece holder 60. In the closed state, the cover 66 prevents the ingress of chips and the like.

[0167] The support unit 62 includes a base 74 that is fixed to the machine tool 10 in a manner that is fixed to the frame. The base 74 carries a carrier 76 that can be moved by the drive 80, participating in... Figure 2 The double arrow 82 is shown. In this embodiment, the carrier 76 can move vertically. This should not be construed as limiting. Horizontal movement of the carrier 76 is also conceivable if the workpiece holder 60 is oriented accordingly.

[0168] The support plate 78 is housed on the carrier 76. In the extended state of the support unit 62, the support plate 78 enters and cooperates with the workpiece holder 60 to support the workpiece. For example, the support plate 78 has a shape-fitting element 84 that matches the contour of the workpiece. The support plate 78 is suitable for workpiece designs (e.g., circular, elliptical, or angular). In this way, even thin workpieces can be machined with high precision when supported by the support plate 78. Furthermore, the support plate 78 can be used to hold workpieces that have been separated from the remaining parts, for example, when the workpiece holder 60 is unloaded and a new blank is supplied.

[0169] Figure 3 The flat side of workpiece 100 is shown in top view. Workpiece 100 is manufactured based on a flat blank 102. For example, the thin blank 102 is sawn off as a disc from a semi-finished product (bar). The blank 102 is made of metal materials such as brass, steel, aluminum, and titanium.

[0170] According to Figure 3In this embodiment, the workpiece 100 has a circular configuration, see circular blank 104. The workpiece 100 is designed to be circular or approximately circular. Different designs (elliptical, convex, or even angular) are also conceivable.

[0171] Workpiece 100 is produced by machining blank 102. An edge (residue) 106 is left after machining. In other words, in this embodiment, workpiece 100 is ultimately cut off from blank 102 or separated from edge 106. For example, blank 102 is provided with at least one positioning aid 108. At least one positioning aid 108 allows for accurate and precise positioning of blank 102 for machining.

[0172] During the manufacturing process, design elements 110 (e.g., blind holes, through holes, openings, grooves, etc.) are typically formed in the workpiece 100. In one embodiment, the machining for generating design elements 110 occurs on the flat side. In a certain embodiment, the machining occurs on two (opposite) planes. Therefore, it is advantageous that the workpiece holder 60 enables the blank 102 to enter the area of ​​the workpiece 100 to be produced on both flat sides.

[0173] The separation of the workpiece 100 from the circumferential edge 106 of the blank 102 is performed, for example, by a gap created by cutting or an annular gap 112. In one embodiment, the annular gap 112 is not initially created continuously; instead, a tab 114 connecting the workpiece 100 (or the circular blank 104) to the circumferential edge 106 is retained. Near the end of machining, the tab 114 is removed to separate the workpiece 100 from the edge 106. Machining of the workpiece 100 may include machining steps in a (single) machine tool 10 or machining steps in multiple machine tools 10.

[0174] Figure 3 The cut 116 also indicates the need to supply tools laterally or from the front (see section 116). Figure 1 and Figure 2 Lateral machining of the machining tool 46). It is advantageous that the blank 102 is not placed on the mounting portion here, as long as the cut 116 or similar lateral design element is to be produced.

[0175] refer to Figures 4 to 7 The diagram shows a manufacturing system 120, which includes a machine tool 10 designed to be at least similar to a reference design. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The embodiments described herein. The machine tool 10 has an extremely compact design, which is particularly evident in the compact design of the core machine 12 within the compactly designed frame block 18.

[0176] refer to Figures 8 to 11The invention introduces a manufacturing system 250, which is specifically designed as equipment for cutting operations. The manufacturing system includes a combined transfer and storage device that can be coupled to at least one machine tool 10 or at least one manufacturing system 120 to enable the supply and removal of workpieces 100 in an automated (partially automated or fully automated) manner.

[0177] Figure 4 A perspective front view of an embodiment of the manufacturing system, indicated by 120, is shown. In this embodiment, the manufacturing system 120 has a modular structure. The manufacturing system 120 has at least one processing mechanism 122, which is equipped with a machine tool 10; see also [reference needed]. Figure 1 and Figure 2 An exemplary description of the machine tool 10.

[0178] In this embodiment, the manufacturing system 120 further includes an operating mechanism 124 and an equipment mechanism 126. The operating mechanism 124 is primarily used for transferring the workpiece 100 (or its blank 102), i.e., changing the workpiece. The equipment mechanism 126 is primarily used for changing tools.

[0179] Machine tool 10 is arranged between operating mechanism 124 and equipment mechanism 126. In an embodiment, manufacturing system 120 has a common base 130 for machining mechanism 122, operating mechanism 124, and equipment mechanism 126. Furthermore, a housing 132 is provided, which is designed to be approximately cabinet-shaped. In an embodiment, housing 132 is provided with a lower structure 134 and an upper structure 136. This applies to machining mechanism 122, operating mechanism 124, and equipment mechanism 126 in each case.

[0180] This section illustrates a compact design for machine tool 10. For example, the manufacturing system 120, with housing 132, is designed to be approximately equal to human height. In the illustrated embodiment, human height means that a standing operator can easily reach the corresponding upper structure 136. The corresponding lower structure 134 is used, for example, to house auxiliary assemblies, auxiliary components, power supplies, control technology devices, etc. In this embodiment, the lower structure 134 is designed to be approximately equal to the height of a table. The upper structure 136 (considering the lower structure 134) is designed to be approximately equal to the height of a cabinet.

[0181] In other words, the manufacturing system 120 has a cabinet-like layout with a lower structure 134 and an upper structure 136, and the machine tool 10 and its travel axis define a workspace 144 located within the upper structure 136. In the embodiment, the structural components of the machine tool 10, particularly see... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The frame assembly 18 and slides 22, 28, and 32 are also arranged in the upper structure 136, that is, in the upper section of the cabinet-shaped shell 132.

[0182] This design is feasible due to the compactness of the machine tool 10. However, this compactness, which limits the small workspace 144, requires specific boundary conditions for automated operations (workpiece change, tool change).

[0183] In the workspace 144, the machining tool 46 held on the machine tool 10 and the workpiece holder 60 for accommodating the workpiece 100 can move relative to each other to machine the workpiece 100. According to... Figure 4 In this embodiment, the workpiece holder 60 is arranged on the worktable 146. For example, the worktable 146 is associated with the C-axis, but this should not be construed as limiting.

[0184] Figure 4 A perspective view of the front side of the manufacturing system 120 is shown. The manufacturing system 120 is designed such that relevant parts of the machining mechanism 122, the operating mechanism 124, and the equipment mechanism 126 are easily accessible and observable by an operator standing in front of the housing 132. This is achieved through corresponding observation windows in the respective (above) superstructures 136 of the machining mechanism 122, the operating mechanism 124, and the equipment mechanism 126.

[0185] Furthermore, the control device, denoted by 48, is designed here as a control panel, touch screen, etc. The machining mechanism 122, operating mechanism 124, and equipment mechanism 122 can all be accessed through doors 138, 140, and 142 in the superstructure 136. The machining mechanism 122, operating mechanism 124, and equipment mechanism 122 can also be referred to as modules of the manufacturing system 120.

[0186] Figure 4 and Figure 5 The operating mechanism 124 is briefly described. The operating mechanism 124 includes an operating unit 150, which is designed as a robot 152 in this embodiment. For example, the robot 152 is designed as an articulated arm robot 152. The robot 152 is suspended and supported on an upper base 154. The robot 152 has different degrees of freedom of movement to move the workpiece 100.

[0187] The operating unit 150 is equipped with a double clamp 156. In this way, workpiece changeover is accelerated when the completed workpiece 100 can be removed from the machine tool 10 using the clamp and a new workpiece 100 can be changed using the other clamp.

[0188] Figure 5 A workpiece carrier 162 is shown, configured as a disk or shelf with different storage spaces for the blank 102 and the workpiece 100. The operating unit 150 of the operating mechanism 124 can remove the workpiece from the workpiece carrier 162 and transfer it to the machine tool 10. The operating mechanism 124 can be designed to accommodate one or more workpiece carriers 162, see also... Figure 7 .

[0189] Figure 5 An interface, indicated by 170, between the operating mechanism 124 and the processing mechanism 122 is also shown. Interface 170 includes a door 172 equipped with a actuator 174. In an embodiment, the door 172 is designed as a vertically movable sliding door, similar to a cutting machine. The door 172 is movable between a closed position and an open position. In an embodiment, the closed position is the upper position and the open position is the lower position. For workpiece changes, the operating unit 150 can move at least partially through the open door 172 in a direction toward the workspace 144 of the machine tool 10 within the processing mechanism 122.

[0190] Furthermore, as an example, in Figure 5 The unloading device 176 is shown in the figure. The unloading device 176 is designed as a chute for discharging the remaining part 106 (also referred to as scrap). For example, the unloading device 176 can be used when the workpiece 100 in the machine tool 10 is finally separated from the peripheral edge (remaining part 106) of the blank 102. For example, the operating unit 150 can be used to mechanically (e.g., annularly) clamp the remaining part 106 and transfer it to the unloading device 176. For example, the operating unit 150 can be used to clamp the workpiece 100 separated from the remaining part 106 by means of a pick-up jig or mechanically clamping (e.g., according to...). Figure 3 The circular part 104 is placed in the free space / base of the workpiece carrier 162.

[0191] Figure 4 and Figure 6 The equipment mechanism 126 is briefly described. Equipment mechanism 126 includes an operating manipulator 180, which in this embodiment is designed as a so-called SCARA robot 182. The SCARA robot 182 is an articulated arm robot with multiple horizontally oriented pivots 186, see also [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 7 The manipulator 180 can be moved along the vertical guide 178 within the equipment mechanism 126 via a linear actuator. The working end of the manipulator 180 is provided with an interface 184. The interface 184 is used, for example, to connect a double gripper 188, such as... Figure 6 As shown, the dual clamps are positioned away from interface 184.

[0192] The robotic arm 180, operated by a dual-gripper 188, can change machining tools 46 between the equipment mechanism 126 and the machine tool 10. Figure 6 In the text, 190 and 192 represent different storage spaces for the machining tool 46, which can accommodate the machining tool 46 individually or in groups.

[0193] Figure 6An interface, indicated by 200, between the equipment mechanism 126 and the processing mechanism 122 is also shown. Interface 200 includes a door 202 provided with a actuator 204. In an embodiment, door 202 is designed as a vertically movable sliding door, similar to a cutting machine. Door 202 can move between a closed position and an open position. In an embodiment, the closed position is the lower position, and the open position is the upper position.

[0194] Figure 7 It has been shown that references have been made. Figures 4 to 6 A schematic front view of a manufacturing system 120 with modularly designed units 122, 124, and 126 is shown. The machining mechanism 122, and in particular the workspace 144 of the machine tool 10, is smaller in size compared to the operating mechanism 124. This also applies at least in part to the comparison of the dimensions of the machining mechanism 122 and the workspace 144 with the equipment mechanism 126.

[0195] An interface 170 with a door 172 is arranged between the machining mechanism 122 and the operating mechanism 124. An interface 200 with a door 202 is arranged between the machining mechanism 122 and the equipment mechanism 126. The operating mechanism 124 also has an additional interface 210 with a door 212. Interface 210 can also be referred to as a transfer interface. Interface 210 is used, for example, for transferring a workpiece carrier 162 equipped with multiple or a large number of workpieces 100.

[0196] To accommodate one or more workpiece carriers 162, the operating mechanism 124 in this embodiment has buffers 164, 166, each buffer having a placement portion 168 for accommodating the workpiece carrier 162. The operating unit 150 can use a double clamp 156 to remove a workpiece 100 from one of the workpiece carriers 162 and perform a workpiece change on the workpiece holder 60 of the machine tool 10, after which the machined workpiece 100 can be placed in one of the workpiece carriers 162. Workpiece change is performed via interface 170.

[0197] To improve positioning accuracy, in this embodiment, a reference component 218 is arranged in the operating mechanism 124. The reference component 218 serves, for example, as a reference stop for aligning and centering the workpiece 100 before machining. In other words, even though its orientation is relatively imprecise, the operating unit 150 with the double clamps 156 can remove the workpiece 100 from the workpiece carrier 162 and align it with high precision on the reference component 218 before transferring it to the machine tool 10. This improves positioning accuracy despite the relatively imprecise orientation of the multiple / large number of workpieces 100 in the workpiece carrier 162.

[0198] exist Figure 7The diagram also shows an auxiliary storage unit, indicated by 214, within the operating mechanism 124. The auxiliary storage unit 214 can also be referred to as an isolated storage unit. The auxiliary storage unit 214 is used, for example, to temporarily hold a certain number of workpieces 100. This can be done, for example, for the purpose of ensuring quality.

[0199] In addition, according to Figure 7 In this embodiment, a monitoring station 216 is provided in the operating mechanism 124. For example, the monitoring station 216 is designed as an optical monitoring station. This should not be construed as limiting. The monitoring station 216 allows for inspection of the workpiece 100 near completion before it is discharged through the transfer interface 210. If the workpiece 100 to be inspected is stored in the auxiliary storage 214, a functional association between the monitoring station 216 and the auxiliary storage 214 is feasible.

[0200] It is also conceivable to replace the double clamps 156 with a suction clamp 158, or to equip the double clamps 156 with at least one suction clamp 158. For example, the suction clamp 158 is suitable for handling the machined workpiece 100. The machined workpiece 100 can be held fluidly by the suction clamp 158. This is particularly beneficial for protecting the material. For example, the suction clamp 158 is suitable when the workpiece 100 is completely separated from its edge (residual part 106).

[0201] exist Figure 7 In the diagram, the arrow marked 234 indicates the primary function of the operating unit 150 of the operating mechanism 124. The primary function 234 is workpiece change. However, it is also conceivable to provide at least one secondary function 238. For example, an auxiliary fixture 230 may be provided, which can be used by the operating unit 150 as needed. Using the auxiliary fixture 230, the operating unit 150 can change the machining tool 46 instead of the workpiece 100.

[0202] The operating mechanism 124 and the equipment mechanism 126 are connected to the processing mechanism 122 on opposite sides of each other. Figure 7 In the configuration shown, this allows for frontal access to the machine tool 10, and particularly its workspace 144. Good visibility, or rather, easy access, is particularly helpful in situations with a relatively small workspace 144.

[0203] Equipment mechanism 126 is equipped with an operating manipulator 180. In an embodiment, the operating manipulator has a pivot 186, which is parallel to the [unclear text - possibly a specific component or structure]. Figure 7 Orientation of the observation plane. A clamp, such as a double clamp 188, can be fixed to the interface 184 of the manipulator. For illustrative purposes, the double clamp 188 is... Figure 7 It is shown in two views (side view and top view).

[0204] Using the double clamp 188, the machining tool 46 can be exchanged between the machine tool 10 in the assembly mechanism 126 and the machining mechanism 122. Different storage spaces 190 and 192 are provided for the machining tool 46 in the assembly mechanism 126. For illustrative purposes, the storage spaces 190 and 192 are... Figure 7 It is shown in two views (side view and top view).

[0205] Storage compartment 190 has multiple individual compartments, each of which is used to accommodate a different processing tool 46. Figure 7 Four machining tools 46 are housed in storage space 190. For example, the machining tool 46 has a standardized tapered shank.

[0206] Storage compartment 192 has a disc-shaped or turret-shaped tool set 196, which has multiple individual receptacles 198 for machining tools 46. In other words, the machining tools 46 in tool set 196 can be transferred in modules. For this purpose, for example, the interface 184 of the operating robot 180 can directly grip and hold the tool set 196. In this way, the operating robot 180 can be used for modular equipment. This includes, for example, transferring the loaded or unloaded tool set 196 through interface 220 provided with door 222.

[0207] exist Figure 7 In the diagram, the arrow marked 236 indicates the primary function of the manipulator 180 operating the equipment mechanism 126. The primary function 236 is tool changing. However, it is also conceivable to provide at least one secondary function 240, 242. For example, secondary function 240 relates to modular equipment, i.e., changing the entire tool set 196. Another secondary function 242 relates to workpiece changing, for example, performed by the manipulator 180 operating the equipment mechanism 126. For this purpose, for example, an auxiliary fixture 232 is provided in the equipment mechanism 126 for picking up and manipulating workpieces 100. In this way, if needed, the manipulator 180 operating the equipment mechanism 126 can at least feed individual workpieces 100 toward the machine tool 10 into or remove them from the machining mechanism 122.

[0208] According to another embodiment, a secondary function 244 is provided, which includes changing a tray or clamping device via an operating robot 180 operated by the equipment mechanism 126. Therefore, a storage device 248 is provided for this device. Figure 2The device is designated 246. Such a device (clamping device) 248 can be designed as part of the workpiece holder 60 or can be otherwise coupled to the workpiece holder 60. For example, when there are variations between different workpiece types or workpiece sizes, variations in the device operated by the manipulator 180 of the equipment mechanism 126 are suitable. For example, the machine tool 10 has a worktable for accommodating the workpiece 100, which is equipped with the device 248 to hold and clamp the workpiece 100.

[0209] Of course, secondary functions (see) Figure 7 Arrows 238, 240, 242, and 244 in the diagram do not need to be present in every implementation. Nevertheless, at least in this implementation, the operating mechanism 124 and, if necessary, the equipment mechanism 126 can be strengthened accordingly.

[0210] In one embodiment, the machine remote interface 220 of the equipment mechanism 126 is opposite to the machine-side interface 200. In another embodiment, the machine remote interface 210 of the operating mechanism 124 is opposite to the machine-side interface 170. In other words, for example, the operating mechanism 124 acts as a "medium" between the machine tool 10 and other operating techniques for workpiece handling. In other words, for example, the equipment mechanism 126 serves as a "medium" between the machine tool 10 and other operating techniques for tool handling.

[0211] refer to Figures 8 to 11 A combined transfer and storage device 252 (hereinafter referred to as "the device") is introduced, which can be combined with at least one machine tool 10 or at least one manufacturing system 120 to form a manufacturing equipment 250.

[0212] Device 252 can be used for storage and transfer purposes. The device can be coupled in a suitable manner to at least one machine tool 10, thereby enabling partially or highly automated workpiece changeover. Device 252 includes a storage plane 260 having a plurality of storage units 270. The term storage plane should be understood functionally. Storage units 270 are, for example, one or more shelf storage units.

[0213] Device 252 includes a housing 262 that accommodates a storage 270 on storage plane 260. Other components of device 252 are housed within housing 262. The longitudinal extension of housing (see double arrow 264 illustrating the longitudinal direction) is significantly greater than the lateral extension (see double arrow 266 illustrating the lateral direction) and significantly greater than the height extension (see double arrow 268 illustrating the vertical direction). In an embodiment, the height extension (arrow 268) is also greater than the lateral extension (arrow 266).

[0214] According to Figure 8In one embodiment, the storage unit 270 has a plurality of stacked storage compartments 272 for accommodating workpiece carriers 162. The workpiece carriers 162 are each used to accommodate a large number or multiple workpieces 100. In another embodiment, each storage compartment 272 includes a placement portion 274 for accommodating the workpiece carrier 162; see also [reference needed] in this regard. Figure 9 and Figure 10 .

[0215] The device 252 has a feed interface 280 on its end side. In this embodiment, the unmanned transport vehicle 290 has driven to the feed interface 280 and is connected to the device 252 there. The workpiece carrier 162 can be introduced into or removed from the device 252 through the feed interface 280. In this embodiment, the transport vehicle 290 is designed as an unmanned transport vehicle (AGV) and is provided with multiple workpiece carriers 162 arranged stacked on top of each other on the frame 292.

[0216] When the feed interface 280 is in the open state, the workpiece carrier 162 is conveyed through the feed interface 280. The feed interface 280 has a door 282, which in this embodiment is designed as a segmented door with multiple segments 284. In the closed state, the door 282 forms a vertical closed plane. The door 282 can move between the open and closed states. In the open state, the door 282 moves at least partially below the upper side 286 of the housing 262. In other words, in this embodiment, the segments 284 of the door 282, when open, are guided below the top (upper side 286) of the housing 262 of the device 252 and are held if necessary. This allows easy access to the bottom area and sides around the feed interface 280 when the door 282 is open.

[0217] The device 252 includes a conveying device 300, which includes a longitudinal driver 302 having a slide movable along a guide 304 extending in the longitudinal direction 264. In other words, in this embodiment, the longitudinal driver 302 is guided on its underside. The longitudinal driver 302 carries a moving column 308. The moving column can be moved in a translational manner in the longitudinal direction 264 by means of the conveying device 300.

[0218] The conveying device 300 carries an operating device 312 designed for manipulating the workpiece carrier 162. The operating device 312 can be moved vertically along a vertical guide on a moving column 308 via a vertical actuator 310 (arrow 268). The vertical actuator 310 can also be referred to as a lifting actuator. The conveying device 300 can move the operating device 312 in the longitudinal direction 264 as needed between the storage 270, the feed interface 280, and at least one processing interface 328.

[0219] Refer to and Figure 10 The detailed design of the device 252 with the conveying device 300 shown in the embodiment is illustrated in more detail.

[0220] Figure 9 A perspective enlarged view of the conveying device 300 and, in particular, the operating device 312 housed thereon is shown. The conveying device 300 includes a movable column 308 on which the operating device 312 is movably held by a vertical drive 310.

[0221] The operating device 312 includes a support 320, which can be moved vertically by a vertical actuator 310. The support 320 has a worktable 322, which can be pivoted about a vertically oriented rotation axis by a rotation actuator 324. In this way, the worktable 322 can rotate in a horizontal plane. The worktable 322 carries a linear actuator 330. In an embodiment, the linear actuator 330 is designed as a telescopic linear actuator.

[0222] The linear actuator 330 includes a base guide 332 located on a worktable 322. A telescopic guide 334 is received and movably supported on the base guide 332. In an embodiment, the telescopic guide 334 includes a first guide segment 336 facing the base guide 332 and a second guide segment 338 facing the slide 340. The two guide segments 336 and 338 extend parallel to each other. In this way, the effective stroke of the linear actuator 330 is increased. The linear actuator 330 can be pivoted as a whole by rotating the actuator 324.

[0223] Thus, the slide 340 is also pivoted. Furthermore, the slide 340 can move linearly via the linear actuator 330. The slide 340 carries a support 346, which itself carries a carrier 352 designed as a dual-carrier. In an embodiment, another rotary actuator 348 with a vertically oriented rotation axis is also arranged between the support 346 and the carrier 352. In an embodiment, the carrier 352 is designed as a dual-carrier, which extends symmetrically to, for example, a plane of symmetry intersecting the rotation axis of the rotary actuator 348.

[0224] The carrier 352 has two receiving positions 354 and 356, each capable of accommodating the workpiece carrier 162. In an embodiment, the receiving positions 354 and 356 are slightly inclined relative to the horizontal line. The inclination of the receiving positions 354 and 356 is adapted to the inclination of the placement portion 274 in the storage 270. In an embodiment, the receiving positions 354 and 356 are formed by fork tips that can engage the workpiece carrier 162 from below. For example, in a top view, the dual carriers 2 have an H-shaped structure.

[0225] The dual carrier 352 allows for quick replacement of the workpiece carrier 162 because it provides two receiving positions 352, 354 and because the rotary actuator 348 allows the carrier 352 to rotate about the axis of symmetry.

[0226] The rotary driver 324, coupled to the worktable 322, allows the linear driver 330, for example, on the first side ( Figure 10 (left 360) and the opposite second side ( Figure 10 (362 on the right side) and the end side when needed (see the right side) Figure 11 The two end sides 370 and 372) pivot between their orientations. In other words, for example, the rotation actuator 324 can start from the 0° position (parallel to the longitudinal direction 264) and pivot +90° and -90° to reach the sides 360 and 362.

[0227] Even within the limited lateral extension range (lateral direction 266) of the device 252 or its housing 262, the design of the linear actuator 330 as a telescopic linear actuator allows for a sufficiently large stroke. In this case, as an example in the embodiment, Figure 10 The installation space conditions are shown. The conveyor 300, with operating device 312, can move between the storage 270 on the first side 360 ​​and the second side 362, and can unload and pick up the workpiece carrier 162 in the storage plane 260 if needed. It can also be accessed via the feed interface 280 (see...). Figure 8 Replace the workpiece carrier 162. In this way, the device 252 is used not only as a conveying device, but also as a storage device with considerable storage capacity in the storage plane 260.

[0228] Figure 11 An exemplary configuration of manufacturing equipment 250, provided in a schematic simplified top view, is illustrated. Manufacturing equipment 250 also includes a plurality of manufacturing systems 120 configured according to this disclosure. Figure 11 The resulting topology is similar to a bus topology. Needless to say, the location of storage 270 or manufacturing system 120 can be chosen flexibly enough. Each manufacturing system 120 is connected to one of the processing interfaces 328 of device 252 via its transfer interface 210. Figure 11 In this configuration, some storage units 270 are occupied by the workpiece carrier 162, while the others are not.

[0229] In one embodiment, the workpiece 100 is exchanged between the device 252 and the machine tool 10 in the processing mechanism 122 by indirectly using the operating mechanism 124 having the operating unit 150.

[0230] In this embodiment, the device 252 extends between a first end side 370 and a second end side 372. A feed interface 280 for connecting the vehicle 290 is arranged on at least one of the two end sides 370, 372. Within the device 252, a conveying device 300 having an operating device 312 undertakes the conveying of the workpiece carrier 162.

[0231] Figure 11 The possibility of lateral access to the storage 270 is also shown. In the embodiment, 382 on the side 362 (here: right side) represents an operator standing in front of one of the storage 270s in a top view. The storage 270s of the storage plane 260 can be accessed through the door 380. The device 252 can also be loaded in this manner. At least some of the storage 270s of the storage plane 260 can be accessed laterally by the operator 382.

[0232] Various manufacturing systems 120 can perform manufacturing steps constructed sequentially to each other. Transfers between individual manufacturing systems 120 and, if necessary, intermediate storage devices are performed by combined transfer and storage devices 252. However, it is also conceivable that similar manufacturing steps are processed in parallel by multiple manufacturing systems 120 to increase the overall productivity of system 250.

[0233] According to Figure 11 In this embodiment, tool changing is primarily performed via a corresponding equipment mechanism 126 of the manufacturing system 120, particularly via an operating robot 180 located there. Feeding of the equipment mechanism 126 is performed via an interface 220 that is functionally opposite to the device 252.

[0234] As explained above, in addition to the primary functions of the equipment mechanism 126 (tool changing) and the operating mechanism 124 (workpiece changing), secondary functions can also be conceived in principle. This, for example, involves the limited ability to change workpieces via the equipment mechanism 126 and the limited ability to change tools via the operating mechanism 124.

Claims

1. A manufacturing system (120) for cutting operations, the manufacturing system being used to produce precision mechanical workpieces (100), the manufacturing system having the following components: At least one machine tool (10) designed for multi-axis machining and having a tool holder (44) and a workpiece holder (60) capable of moving relative to each other on four or five axes, wherein, There are three translation axes (X, Y, Z) and one or two rotation axes (B, C). The tool holder (44) and the workpiece holder (60) are arranged on the rear side of the working space (144) of the machine tool (10); Operating mechanism (124), the operating mechanism includes the following components: A first interface (170) leads to the machine tool (10), and the first interface is laterally connected to the workspace (144). The second interface (210) is used for transmission purposes. Operation unit (150), and At least one buffer (164, 166). The operating unit (150) is designed for automated workpiece changeover. The operation unit (150) is designed as a suspended articulated arm robot (152), and the range of motion of the articulated arm robot includes a first interface (170), a workpiece transfer position with a workpiece holder (60), and a second interface (210).

2. The manufacturing system (120) according to claim 1, wherein, The machine tool (10) is a compactly designed machine tool.

3. The manufacturing system (120) according to claim 1, wherein, The operating unit (150) provides a primary function and at least one secondary function, the primary function including workpiece replacement and the secondary function including tool replacement.

4. The manufacturing system (120) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The operating unit (150) has a double clamp (156) designed to hold at least a blank (102).

5. The manufacturing system (120) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The buffers (164, 166) include at least one placement portion (168) for a workpiece carrier (162), the workpiece carrier having a plurality of storage spaces designed to accommodate at least a blank (102).

6. The manufacturing system (120) according to claim 5, wherein, At least a first workpiece carrier (162) for providing a blank (102) and a second workpiece carrier (162) for accommodating a processed workpiece (100) or a remaining workpiece (106) are provided, the first workpiece carrier and the second workpiece carrier being able to be accommodated together in an operating mechanism (124).

7. The manufacturing system (120) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, the manufacturing system further comprising at least one auxiliary storage unit (214) designed for storing random samples.

8. The manufacturing system (120) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The operating unit (150) has a pick-up clamp (158) designed to hold the processed workpiece (100).

9. The manufacturing system (120) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The operating mechanism (124) also includes a monitoring station (216).

10. The manufacturing system (120) according to claim 9, wherein, The monitoring station (216) is an optical monitoring station.

11. The manufacturing system (120) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, the manufacturing system further comprising at least one reference component (218) for aligning workpieces (100).

12. The manufacturing system (120) according to claim 11, wherein the reference component (218) is used to center the workpiece (100).

13. The manufacturing system (120) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, At least a first interface (170) between the machine tool (10) and the operating mechanism (124) can be closed by a door (172).

14. The manufacturing system (120) according to claim 13, wherein, The door (172) is a sliding door.

15. The manufacturing system (120) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, the manufacturing system further comprising an equipment mechanism (126) having an operating manipulator (180), the equipment mechanism (126) and the operating mechanism (124) being connected to the workspace (144) of the machine tool (10) on opposite sides.

16. The manufacturing system (120) according to claim 15, wherein the manipulator (180) is a manipulator equipped with a robot.

17. The manufacturing system (120) according to claim 15, wherein, The manipulator (180) provides a primary function and at least one secondary function, the primary function including tool changing and the secondary function including workpiece changing.

18. The manufacturing system (120) according to claim 17, wherein, The manipulator (180) provides at least one additional secondary function, which includes modular assembly with a tool kit (192).

19. The manufacturing system (120) according to claim 15, wherein, The manipulator (180) is designed as a SCARA robot (182) and has two or more parallel pivots (186), and the SCARA robot (182) is capable of moving linearly along an axis (178) oriented parallel to the pivots (186).

20. The manufacturing system (120) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The machine tool (10) has the following components: Rack module (18) A Y-axis slide (28) is arranged on a Y-axis guide on the lower side (34) of the frame assembly (18) and is capable of moving horizontally relative to the frame assembly (18). An X-axis slide (22) is arranged on an X-axis guide on the inclined side (26) of a frame assembly (18) and is movable horizontally relative to the frame assembly (18), wherein the frame assembly (18) is designed as an inclined bed-frame assembly, and the X-axis slide (22) is movable along an X-axis perpendicular to the Y-axis, and the Y-axis slide (28) is movable along the Y-axis. Z-axis slide (32), which is capable of vertical movement on a Z-axis guide on the front side of X-axis slide (22), and A rotary actuator (40, 42) is received directly or indirectly on a Y-axis slide (28), the rotary actuator carrying a worktable (146) with a workpiece holder (60).

21. The manufacturing system (120) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The machine tool (10) is assigned to a machining mechanism, which is separate from the operating mechanism (124) and the equipment mechanism (126).

22. An apparatus (250) for cutting operations, the apparatus having a manufacturing system (120) according to any one of claims 1 to 21, and a combined conveying and storage device (252), the apparatus having the following components: Storage plane (260) includes two or more storage units (270) spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction (264), the storage units having storage spaces (272) stacked on top of each other for a workpiece carrier (162) for accommodating a blank (102) or a processed workpiece (100). The conveying device (300) extending in the longitudinal direction (264) includes a guide (304) on the bottom side and a moving column (308) that carries the operating device (312). At least one machining interface (328) is arranged next to or between the storage units for direct or indirect connection to the machine tool (10). At least one feed interface is located on the end side of the conveying and storage device (252), which the unmanned transport vehicle (290) can reach. in, The conveying device (300) realizes workpiece transfer between the feed interface (280), the storage plane (260), and at least one processing interface (328), and The workpiece transfer between the transfer and storage device (252) and the machine tool (10) is indirectly carried out using the operation unit (150) of the operating mechanism (124).

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