A fool-proof tool loading control method for dual-spindle machining centers

Abstract

The present invention discloses a fool-proof tool loading control method for a dual-spindle machining center, comprising a chain tool magazine device and a tool identification and lifting device. The tool identification and lifting device comprises a first linear module capable of displacement along the Y-axis, a lifting bracket provided at the movable end of the first linear module, a second linear module capable of displacement along the Z-axis provided on the lifting bracket, a tool holder provided with a tool holder claw and a chip reading sensor provided below the tool holder claw at the movable end of the second linear module, each tool being provided with a chip recording the tool ID, and the center distance between the two spindles being equal to N times the tool chain pitch. The present invention minimizes the operator's operational requirements and labor intensity. Compared with tool loading methods that require careful manual intervention, the machine is significantly safer and more efficient, eliminating the risk of machine tool operation accidents caused by manual tool loading errors.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention belongs to the technical field of dual-spindle horizontal machining centers, and specifically discloses a fool-proof tool loading control method for a dual-spindle machining center. Background Art

[0002] The tool magazine suitable for dual-spindle tool changing is an important part of the dual-spindle machining center. It can complete the simultaneous processing of two parts in one clamping, greatly improving the processing efficiency of the parts. However, due to the existence of the dual spindles, the types of tools in the tool magazine are halved. Increasing the tool magazine capacity will increase the structure of the entire machining center. Therefore, in order to expand the number and types of tools in the tool magazine, increase the flexibility of processing and the comprehensive utilization rate of the equipment, it is necessary to design a new structure to meet production needs.

[0003] In the existing technology, the dual-spindle machining center model adopts two independent tool magazines. Compared with two single-spindle machining centers in terms of tool magazines, the cost improvement effect is not achieved; the tool magazines take up a large space, which has an adverse effect on the machine tool structure layout and maintenance space; the two tool magazines are installed on the two sides of the machine tool, which takes up a lot of space and is inconvenient to operate the tool magazines.

[0004] To solve the above technical problems, the specification of Chinese invention patent CN111730391A discloses a dual tool magazine mechanism suitable for a dual-spindle machining center, comprising a mounting bracket, a chain-type front tool magazine, a chain-type rear tool magazine, a tool changing device, a vertical slide, a slide, and a track beam; the chain-type front tool magazine and the chain-type rear tool magazine are respectively mounted on the mounting bracket; the two sides of the upper portion of the track beam along the width direction are respectively mounted on the chain-type front tool magazine and the chain-type rear tool magazine, and the lower portion of the track beam along the width direction is mounted with a slide; the tool changing device is mounted on the slide via a vertical slide, and the slide is provided with a first motor capable of driving the vertical slide to drive the tool changing device to move. The mounting bracket comprises a left tool magazine bracket and a right tool magazine bracket; the two ends of the chain-type front tool magazine are respectively mounted on the left tool magazine bracket and the right tool magazine bracket; the two ends of the chain-type rear tool magazine are respectively mounted on the left tool magazine bracket and the right tool magazine bracket; the chain-type front tool magazine and the chain-type rear tool magazine are arranged in parallel. The slide is also equipped with a first motor, a first lead screw, a guide rail, and a first rack. The tool changer is equipped with a second rack. The vertical slide is equipped with a first gear, a second gear, and a gear connecting shaft. The first and second gears are respectively arranged on either side of the vertical slide and connected by the gear connecting shaft. The first and second gears mesh with the first and second racks, respectively. When the first motor drives the vertical slide along the length of the guide rail, the first gear is driven to rotate by the meshing of the first rack. The first gear then drives the second gear via the gear connecting shaft. The second gear then rotates and drives the second rack, which in turn drives the tool changer. The tool changer is equipped with two tool changers, each comprising a second motor, a synchronous belt, a pulley, and a tool changer. The second motor drives the pulley to rotate and, via the synchronous belt, drives the tool changer to rotate a corresponding angle to grasp the tool. The two tool changers are mounted above the machining center and arranged symmetrically. The tool changer also includes a manual tool loading device, which is mounted on either the left or right support of the tool magazine. A second lead screw is mounted on the track beam; a third motor and a rotating connector are mounted on the slide. The rotating connector is mounted on the second lead screw, and the third motor is capable of driving the rotating connector to rotate and, through the rotating connector, driving the slide along the length of the second lead screw. The mounting bracket is provided with a mounting surface for mating with a machining center, and a reinforcing rib is connected to the mounting surface. A secondary tool holder for mating with the tool changer is mounted on each of the chain-type front and rear tool magazines. A control device is also included; the control device is capable of controlling the movement of the chain-type front and rear tool magazines, the tool changer, the vertical slide, and the slide.Although the above-mentioned dual tool magazine mechanism suitable for dual-spindle machining centers greatly reduces the space occupied and accommodates a large number of tools, increases the types of available tools, and thus improves the flexibility of machining and the comprehensive utilization rate of the equipment, the following technical defects still exist: when using one tool magazine to change tools for two spindles, it is necessary to ensure that the two tools ID (tool number identification code) exchanged to the two spindles each time by the tool magazine are the same, that is, the so-called sister tools; and the operator's manual tool loading is not only time-consuming and has a high probability of error, but also because the position and model of the tools in the original tool magazine cannot be known, it is impossible to effectively ensure that the two tools ID (tool number identification code) exchanged to the two spindles each time by the tool magazine are the same; it is estimated that a fool-proof tool loading control method for dual-spindle machining centers needs to be developed, and an automated tool loading method is implemented for CN111730391A. By means of fool-proof measures (or blind loading, fool-proof tool loading), it is ensured that the operator does not need to understand the structure and action mechanism of the machine tool and tool magazine. The tool loading and replacement can be achieved by simply placing the tool on the tool loading device and pressing the tool loading button. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In response to the technical problems existing in the prior art, the present invention provides a fool-proof tool loading control method for a dual-spindle machining center. The operator does not need to understand the structure and operation mechanism of the machine tool and the tool magazine. He only needs to simply place the tool on the tool loading device and press the tool loading button. The operator can immediately take up the job after a little training. The identification of the tool and the correctness and safety of the tool change between the spindle and the tool magazine are completely automatically executed by the machine tool NC system, which minimizes the requirements on the operator's operating level and labor intensity. Compared with the tool loading method that requires careful manual intervention, the machine is obviously safer and more efficient, eliminating the risk of machine tool operation accidents caused by manual tool loading settings errors.

[0006] The present invention discloses a fool-proof tool loading control method for a dual-spindle machining center, comprising a chain tool magazine device for storing tools and exchanging tools with the spindle;

[0007] The chain-type tool magazine device includes a tool magazine body arranged on a tool magazine support, a tool chain and two ATC mechanisms are arranged on the tool magazine body, a tool sleeve is arranged between two adjacent tool chain links in the tool chain, and a spindle is correspondingly arranged below each ATC mechanism, each spindle is arranged to extend along the Z axis, and the center line connecting the two spindles is parallel to the X axis;

[0008] It also includes a tool identification and lifting and loading device arranged next to the tool magazine body, which is used to realize tool ID reading and identification, and then lift the tool and install it on the tool sleeve of the chain tool magazine device to complete the tool storage and loading of the tool magazine;

[0009] The tool identification and lifting and loading device includes a first linear module capable of displacement in the Y-axis direction, a lifting bracket is provided at the movable end of the first linear module, a second linear module capable of displacement in the Z-axis direction is provided on the lifting bracket, a tool bracket is connected to the movable end of the second linear module, a tool holder claw is provided on the tool holder claw, and a chip reading sensor is provided below the tool holder claw;

[0010] Each tool is provided with a chip recording the tool ID;

[0011] The distance between the center axes of the two spindles (3) = N times * knife chain pitch (N is a natural number);

[0012] The total number of tool pockets on the tool chain (1.4) = N*2*A (A is a natural number), that is, an even multiple of N. All tool pockets are divided into A groups, each group contains 2*N tool pockets, each group can carry a maximum of N types of tools, 2 of each type, and these two tools are always loaded on two tool pockets separated by N chain distances within the group; the entire tool magazine can carry a maximum of N*A types of tools, 2 of each type;

[0013] A control system, the control system being communicatively connected to the chain tool magazine device (1) and the tool identification and lifting and loading device (2);

[0014] The total number of tools to be assembled outside the warehouse is ≤ the total number of tool pockets on the tool chain (1.4). The operator places the tools on the tool holder (2.8) without manually identifying the tool IDs. The control system controls the tool lifting and loading device (2) to assemble the tools into the tool pockets. After all the tools are assembled into the tool pockets, any two identical tools (i.e., those with the same tool IDs) are mounted on two tool pockets on the tool chain (1.4) that are N tool chain pitches apart.

[0015] The specific steps include:

[0016] Step S1: prepare tool loading conditions, including the following steps: establishing and initializing an unloaded tool storage table and preparing tools;

[0017] S1-1, unload all the tools in the chain tool magazine device (1) to make it empty. These tools may be tools installed during machine tool maintenance or debugging, and their tool information may not be recorded in the control system or the recorded information may be incorrect; then instruct the control system to establish an initialized empty tool storage table, and assign Ky=0 to all tool sleeve number variables (when the tool magazine capacity is 70 tools in this embodiment, y=1 to 70 natural numbers), indicating that the tool sleeve is empty and has no tools, as shown in Table 1 of the embodiment.

[0018] S1-2, tool preparation, prepare all tools according to the process instructions, including various types of tools. Tools of the same type have the same ID, and there are two tools with the same tool ID;

[0019] Step S2: completing tool loading, based on the initialized no-load tool storage table and tool preparation conditions described in step S1, including the following tool loading operations and initializing the tool loading tool storage table;

[0020] S2-1, the operator takes a new tool and installs it on the tool loading device, and presses the button to issue a tool loading request instruction;

[0021] S2-2, the chip reading sensor (2.10) of the tool loading device reads the T (ID) number of the new tool - Txn, where xn is a tool serial number compiled according to a rule. The same tool has the same number, while different tools have different numbers. After the tool loading is completed, the total number of xn in the tool magazine is ≤ the total number of tool pockets on the tool chain (1.4) / 2; (in this embodiment, the total number of xn is ≤ 35);

[0022] In step S2-3, the control system searches the tool storage table to check whether the tool with the same number Txn exists in the tool magazine. It then determines whether Ky ≠ Txn (i.e., Txn does not exist) or Ky = Txn (i.e., Txn exists). If the former is true, the control system executes steps S2-4, 5, and 6. If the latter is true, the control system executes steps S2-7, 8, and 9.

[0023] S2-4, the control system queries the tool storage table until it finds two unloaded tool pockets N chain distances apart in each group, i.e., Ka = 0 and K(a + N) = 0; S2-5, the tool chain (1.4) is operated to shift the unloaded tool pocket Ka to the loading and unloading position, and the tool loading device executes the tool loading and storage program, and the tool Txn is loaded into the tool pocket Ka; S2-6, the control system dynamically updates the tool storage table, assigns Ka = Txn, and returns to S2-1;

[0024] In step S2-7, the control system searches for empty tool pockets separated by N chain distances within the group. That is, K(y+N) = 0. If so, it executes step S2-8, operates the tool chain (1.4), shifts the empty tool pocket K(y+N) to the loading and unloading position, and the tool loading device executes the tool loading and storage procedure, loading tool Txn into tool pocket K(y+N). In step S2-9, the control system dynamically updates the tool storage table, assigning K(y+N) = Txn, and returns to step S2-1. In step S2-7, if K(y+N) ≠ 0, it cannot proceed to steps S2-8 and 9. The control system prompts an abnormal alarm, and checks whether the number of prepared tools is incorrect, the number of tools Txn exceeds 2, or a machine tool failure requires repair.

[0025] S2-1 to S2-9 illustrate the process of warehousing a tool. This process is repeated several times until all the spare tools are put into the warehouse. S2-10: The operator presses the tool loading completion button.

[0026] S2-11, the control system checks the tool storage table. The two tool sets separated by N chain distances in each group must be the same, that is, Ka=K(a+N)=Txn; S2-12, if the tool storage table is checked, the tool loading is completed, and the control system establishes an initialized tool loading and storage table, as shown in Table 2 of the embodiment; if the S2-11 check fails, the control system prompts an abnormal alarm, and the machine tool failure needs to be reported for repair.

[0027] Based on the initialized tool storage table, the machine tool enters the processing program and adopts the random tool change control program of the conventional chain tool magazine during processing. After each tool exchange with the spindle, the corresponding assignment relationship between the tool pocket and the tool in the tool storage table will be dynamically updated, but there are always two identical tools in two tool pockets separated by N tool chain pitches.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, in S1, the operator unloads all the tools in the chain tool magazine device (1) to make it empty; then the control system is instructed to establish an initialized empty tool storage table, and all tool set number variables are assigned Ky=0;

[0029] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, in steps S2-1 to 3, the operator randomly takes a new tool and installs it in the tool installation device. The button sends a tool installation request instruction, and the chip reading sensor (2.10) reads the T (ID) number of the new tool - Txn. Through the program control of steps S2-4 to 10, it is achieved that within each tool set group, the tools of two tool sets separated by N chain distances must be the same, that is, Ka = K (a + N) = Txn;

[0030] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, in S2-11~12, the control system checks the tool storage table, and the tool sets of two tool sets separated by N chain distances in each group must be the same, that is, Ka=K(a+N)=Txn; if the check is passed, the tool loading is completed, and the control system establishes an initialized tool loading and storage table.

[0031] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, in S2, if the number of spare tools is incorrect, or the tool installation cannot be performed due to a machine tool failure, or the verification fails, the control program sets an abnormal alarm output to remind the operator to check or report the problem.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, there is only one tool magazine body.

[0033] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the ATC mechanism is a cam box type ATC mechanism.

[0034] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the distance between the two ATC mechanisms is equal to the center distance between the two main shafts.

[0035] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, an RFID chip is attached to the handle of the knife.

[0036] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first linear module includes a base plate, a vertical linear track and a lifting rodless cylinder extending along the Y-axis are provided on the base plate, and a drag chain is provided between the base plate and the lifting bracket.

[0037] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the second linear module includes a knife inserting and extracting cylinder and a horizontal linear rail extending along the Z-axis.

[0038] The beneficial effects of the present invention are: when using one tool magazine to change tools for two spindles, it is necessary to ensure that the two tools ID (tool number identification code) exchanged by the tool magazine to the two spindles each time are the same, that is, the so-called sister tools. It is necessary to consider optimized control methods and take fool-proof measures (or blind loading, fool-proof loading). The operator does not need to understand the structure and action mechanism of the machine tool and the tool magazine. It only needs to simply place the tool on the tool loading device and press the tool loading button. The operator can take up the job immediately after a little training; the identification of the tool, the correctness and safety of the tool change between the spindle and the tool magazine are completely automatically executed by the machine tool NC system, which minimizes the requirements on the operator's operating level and labor intensity. Compared with the tool loading method with careful manual intervention, the machine is obviously safer and more efficient, and eliminates the risk of machine tool operation accidents caused by manual tool loading settings errors. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0039] Figure 1 This is a flow chart of a fool-proof tool loading control method for a dual-spindle machining center according to the present invention;

[0040] Figure 2 It is a schematic diagram of a fool-proof tool loading control method for a dual-spindle machining center according to the present invention;

[0041] Figure 3 This is a front view of a fool-proof tool loading control method for a dual-spindle machining center according to the present invention;

[0042] Figure 4 It is a side view of a fool-proof tool loading control method for a dual-spindle machining center according to the present invention;

[0043] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a tool identification and lifting tool installation device for a fool-proof tool installation control method for a dual-spindle machining center according to the present invention;

[0044] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of a tool identification and lifting tool installation device for a fool-proof tool installation control method for a dual-spindle machining center according to the present invention;

[0045] Figure 7 The present invention is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a fool-proof tool loading control method for a dual-spindle machining center. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] The following is a further detailed description of the technical solutions of the present invention (including preferred technical solutions) by means of the accompanying drawings and by listing some optional embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the embodiments described are only some embodiments of the present invention, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative efforts are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0047] like Figure 1-6 As shown, the present invention discloses a fool-proof tool loading control method for a dual-spindle machining center, comprising a chain tool magazine device 1 for storing tools and exchanging tools with the spindle;

[0048] The chain tool magazine device 1 includes a tool magazine body 1.3 mounted on a tool magazine support. A tool chain 1.4 and two automatic control (ATC) mechanisms 1.1 and 1.2 are mounted on the tool magazine body 1.3. A tool sleeve is provided between two adjacent links of the tool chain 1.4. A spindle 3 is provided below each ATC mechanism. Each spindle 3 extends along the Z axis, with the centerline of the two spindles 3 parallel to the X axis.

[0049] It also includes a tool identification and lifting and loading device 2 arranged next to the tool magazine body 1.3, which is used to read and identify the tool ID, and then lift the tool and install it on the tool sleeve of the chain tool magazine device 1 to complete the tool storage and loading of the tool magazine;

[0050] The tool identification and lifting and loading device 2 includes a first linear module capable of displacement in the Y-axis direction, a lifting bracket 2.4 being provided at the movable end of the first linear module, a second linear module capable of displacement in the Z-axis direction being provided on the lifting bracket 2.4, and a tool bracket 2.8 being connected to the movable end of the second linear module, a tool holder clamping claw 2.9 being provided on the tool holder clamping claw 2.9 and a chip reading sensor 2.10 being provided below the tool holder clamping claw 2.9;

[0051] Each tool is provided with a chip recording the tool ID;

[0052] The distance between the center axes of the two spindles (3) = N times * knife chain pitch (N is a natural number);

[0053] The total number of tool pockets on the tool chain (1.4) = N*2*A (A is a natural number), that is, an even multiple of N. All tool pockets are divided into A groups, each group contains 2*N tool pockets, each group can carry a maximum of N types of tools, 2 of each type, and these two tools are always loaded on two tool pockets separated by N chain distances within the group; the entire tool magazine can carry a maximum of N*A types of tools, 2 of each type;

[0054] A control system, the control system being communicatively connected to the chain tool magazine device (1) and the tool identification and lifting and loading device (2);

[0055] The total number of tools to be assembled outside the warehouse is ≤ the total number of tool pockets on the tool chain (1.4). The operator places the tools on the tool holder (2.8) without manually identifying the tool IDs. The control system controls the tool lifting and loading device (2) to assemble the tools into the tool pockets. After all the tools are assembled into the tool pockets, any two identical tools (i.e., those with the same tool IDs) are mounted on two tool pockets on the tool chain (1.4) that are N tool chain pitches apart.

[0056] The specific steps include:

[0057] Step S1: prepare tool loading conditions, including the following steps: establishing and initializing an unloaded tool storage table and preparing tools;

[0058] S1-1, unload all the tools in the chain tool magazine device (1) to make it empty. These tools may be tools installed during machine tool maintenance or debugging, and their tool information may not be recorded in the control system or the recorded information may be incorrect; then instruct the control system to establish an initialized empty tool storage table, and assign Ky=0 to all tool sleeve number variables (when the tool magazine capacity is 70 tools in this embodiment, y=1 to 70 natural numbers), indicating that the tool sleeve is empty and has no tools, as shown in Table 1 of the embodiment.

[0059] S1-2, tool preparation, prepare all tools according to the process instructions, including various types of tools. Tools of the same type have the same ID, and there are two tools with the same tool ID;

[0060] Step S2: completing tool loading, based on the initialized no-load tool storage table and tool preparation conditions described in step S1, including the following tool loading operations and initializing the tool loading tool storage table;

[0061] S2-1, the operator takes a new tool and installs it on the tool loading device, and presses the button to issue a tool loading request instruction;

[0062] S2-2, the chip reading sensor (2.10) of the tool loading device reads the T (ID) number of the new tool - Txn, where xn is a tool serial number compiled according to a rule. The same tool has the same number, while different tools have different numbers. After the tool loading is completed, the total number of xn in the tool magazine is ≤ the total number of tool pockets on the tool chain (1.4) / 2; (in this embodiment, the total number of xn is ≤ 35);

[0063] In step S2-3, the control system searches the tool storage table to check whether the tool with the same number Txn exists in the tool magazine. It then determines whether Ky ≠ Txn (i.e., Txn does not exist) or Ky = Txn (i.e., Txn exists). If the former is true, the control system executes steps S2-4, 5, and 6. If the latter is true, the control system executes steps S2-7, 8, and 9.

[0064] S2-4, the control system queries the tool storage table until it finds two unloaded tool pockets N chain distances apart in each group, i.e., Ka = 0 and K(a + N) = 0; S2-5, the tool chain (1.4) is operated to shift the unloaded tool pocket Ka to the loading and unloading position, and the tool loading device executes the tool loading and storage program, and the tool Txn is loaded into the tool pocket Ka; S2-6, the control system dynamically updates the tool storage table, assigns Ka = Txn, and returns to S2-1;

[0065] In step S2-7, the control system searches for empty tool pockets N chain distances apart. That is, K(y+N) = 0. If so, it executes step S2-8, operates the tool chain (1.4), shifts the empty tool pocket K(y+N) to the loading and unloading position, and the tool loading device executes the tool loading and storage procedure, loading tool Txn into tool pocket K(y+N). In step S2-9, the control system dynamically updates the tool storage table, assigning K(y+N) = Txn, and returns to step S2-1. In step S2-7, if K(y+N) ≠ 0, it cannot proceed to step S2-8 and S2-9. The control system prompts an abnormal alarm, and checks whether the number of prepared tools is incorrect, the number of tools Txn exceeds 2, or a machine tool failure requires repair.

[0066] S2-1 to S2-9 illustrate the process of warehousing a tool. This process is repeated several times until all the spare tools are put into the warehouse. S2-10: The operator presses the tool loading completion button.

[0067] S2-11, the control system checks the tool storage table. The two tool sets separated by N chain distances in each group must be the same, that is, Ka=K(a+N)=Txn; S2-12, if the tool storage table is checked, the tool loading is completed, and the control system establishes an initialized tool loading and storage table, as shown in Table 2 of the embodiment; if the S2-11 check fails, the control system prompts an abnormal alarm, and the machine tool failure needs to be reported for repair.

[0068] Based on the initialized tool storage table, the machine tool enters the processing program and adopts the random tool change control program of the conventional chain tool magazine during processing. After each tool exchange with the spindle, the corresponding assignment relationship between the tool pocket and the tool in the tool storage table will be dynamically updated, but there are always two identical tools in two tool pockets separated by N tool chain pitches.

[0069] It should be pointed out that the chain tool magazine device 1 is a prior art, and its structure and working principle are consistent with the content disclosed in CN111730391A. A tool identification and lifting and loading device 2 is set on either the left or right side of the chain tool magazine device 1. The tool identification and lifting and loading device 2 is responsible for completing the reading and identification of the tool ID (tool number identification code), and then lifting the tool and installing it on the correct tool sleeve in the tool magazine to complete the tool storage and loading of the tool magazine. An RFID chip is attached to the handle of each tool. The chip writes the tool information (including tool ID, tool length, etc.) when the tool is adjusted. The tool ID is read by the ID chip reading sensor to realize digital identification and differentiation of different tools.

[0070] The chain-type tool magazine device 1 of the present invention is responsible for storing tools and exchanging tools with the spindles. It mainly includes an ATC (1.1, 1.2) consisting of two sets of cam box-type ATC mechanisms, a tool magazine body 1.3, a tool chain 1.4 and a tool sleeve (including drive components), and tool magazine brackets 1.5 and 1.6. It provides tool exchange for two spindles at the same time. The two ATCs operate simultaneously, each exchanging the tool loaded in the upper tool sleeve with the tool loaded on the corresponding spindle. The center distance between the two ATCs is the same as the spindle distance. In the tool chain and tool pocket 1.4 (including drive components), each tool pocket is loaded with a different tool. The tool pocket is installed on the tool chain, which is driven by a servo motor. The NC system controls the rotation of the tool chain to move the specified tool pocket to the ATC tool change position or the tool magazine tool storage and loading and unloading position. The axis spacing between the two spindles is equal to N times the tool chain pitch. The tools exchanged are tools loaded in two tool pockets separated by N tool chain pitches. Therefore, it must be ensured that the tool IDs loaded in the two tool pockets separated by N tool chain pitches are the same.

[0071] The tool identification and lifting and loading device 2 of the present invention is installed on the side of the tool magazine bracket 1.5 through the base plate 2.1. A vertical linear rail 2.2 and a lifting rodless cylinder 2.3 are installed on the base plate 2.1. A lifting bracket 2.4 is installed on the slider of the vertical linear rail 2.2. The lifting bracket 2.4 is fixedly connected to the piston rod of the rodless cylinder 2.3. The two ends of the drag chain 2.5 are respectively connected and installed on the base plate 2.1 and the lifting bracket 2.4 for routing the air pipe and the switch cable. The lifting bracket 2.4 is driven up and down by the rodless cylinder 2.3 to realize the transportation of the tool between the high position of the tool magazine and the low position for manual operation; the lifting bracket 2.4 is equipped with The tool inserting and extracting cylinder 2.6 and the horizontal linear rail 2.7 are provided with a tool holder 2.8 on the slider of the horizontal linear rail 2.7. The tool holder 2.8 is fixedly connected to the piston rod of the tool inserting and extracting cylinder 2.6. The tool holder 2.8 is driven by the tool inserting and extracting cylinder 2.6 to realize the insertion and installation or extraction and unloading of the tool in the tool magazine tool sleeve; the tool holder 2.8 is provided with a tool handle claw 2.9, which includes positioning and elastic clamping parts. Manually loading the tool into the claw can correctly position and tighten it. A chip reading sensor 2.10 is installed under the tool handle claw 2.9 to instantly read the tool ID number and identify the tool when the tool is loaded.

[0072] Preferably, in S1, the operator unloads all the tools in the chain tool magazine device (1) to make it empty; the control system establishes and initializes an empty tool storage table, and assigns Ky=0 to all tool set number variables;

[0073] Preferably, in S2-1 to S2-3, the operator takes a new tool and installs it in the tool installation device at will, and the button sends a tool installation request instruction. The chip reading sensor (2.10) reads the T (ID) number of the new tool - Txn. Through the program control of steps S2-4 to S2-10, it is achieved that in each tool set group, the tools of two tool sets separated by N chain distances must be the same, that is, Ka = K (a + N) = Txn;

[0074] Preferably, in S2-11~12, the control system checks the tool storage table, and the tool sets of two tool sets separated by N chain distances in each group must be the same, that is, Ka=K(a+N)=Txn; if the check is passed, the tool installation is completed, and the control system establishes an initialized tool storage table.

[0075] Preferably, in S2, if the number of spare tools is incorrect, or the tool installation cannot be performed due to a machine tool failure, or the verification fails, the control program sets an abnormal alarm output to remind the operator to check the number of spare tools or report the machine tool failure.

[0076] Preferably, there is only one tool magazine body 1.3.

[0077] Preferably, the ATC mechanism is a cam box type ATC mechanism.

[0078] Preferably, the distance between the two ATC mechanisms is equal to the center distance between the two main shafts 3 .

[0079] Preferably, an RFID chip is attached to the handle of the knife.

[0080] Preferably, the first linear module includes a base plate 2.1, on which a vertical linear track 2.2 extending along the Y-axis and a lifting rodless cylinder 2.1 are provided, and a drag chain 2.5 is provided between the base plate 2.1 and the lifting bracket 2.4.

[0081] Preferably, the second linear module comprises a knife inserting and extracting cylinder 2.6 and a horizontal linear rail 2.7 which are arranged to extend along the Z-axis direction.

[0082] The following is combined with Figure 7 Taking the tool magazine with a capacity of 70 tools as an example, the method of the present invention is further explained:

[0083] like Figure 7As shown, assuming that there are 70 tool holders on the tool chain of the tool magazine and the center distance between the two spindles 3 is 7 tool chain pitches, they are numbered K1 to K70 in sequence, and can hold 70 tools. The tool chain is driven by a servo motor to realize forward and reverse rotation, and the tool holder can be positioned nearby. There is a lifting and loading device on the left side, which is used to load the tool storage outside the machine into the tool magazine, or to unload the tool in the tool magazine to the outside of the machine. Both loading and unloading of tools require the tool holder specified by the program to be moved to a specific loading and unloading position. When changing tools between the tool magazine and the spindle, it is necessary to first withdraw the two tool holders separated by 7 tool chain pitches from the tool chain, and then ATC1 and ATC2 complete the tool exchange with the spindle at the same time. After the exchange is completed, the tool holder is returned to the tool chain. The two tools exchanged at the same time must be the same, so the tool storage must be correct when it is loaded. If this correctness is guaranteed by manual intervention, there is obviously a great risk of hidden dangers. It is simpler and more reliable to control using machine tool program methods, which greatly reduces labor intensity. The specific tool loading control method and process principle are as follows. Figure 1 As shown;

[0084] Step S1: prepare tool loading conditions, including the following steps: establishing and initializing an unloaded tool storage table and preparing tools;

[0085] S1-1, based on the above-mentioned tool magazine structure and working principle, establish an initialization empty tool storage table. Unload all tools in the chain tool magazine device (1) to make it empty. These tools may be tools installed during machine tool maintenance or debugging, and their tool information may not be recorded in the NC system or the recording may be incorrect; after manual confirmation of unloading, issue an initialization empty tool storage table instruction, and the control system establishes an initialization empty tool storage table, assigning Ky=0 to all tool holder number variables (when the tool magazine capacity is 70 tools in this embodiment, y=1 to 70 natural numbers), indicating that the tool holder is empty and has no tools, as shown in Table 1.

[0086]

[0087] Table 1: Initialization of no-load tool storage table

[0088] S1-2, tool preparation, prepare all tools according to the process instructions, including various types of tools. Tools of the same type have the same ID, and there are two tools with the same tool ID;

[0089] Step S2: completing tool loading, based on the initialized no-load tool storage table and tool preparation conditions described in step S1, including the following tool loading operations and initializing the tool loading tool storage table;

[0090] S2-1, the operator takes a new tool and installs it on the tool loading device, and presses the button to issue a tool loading request instruction;

[0091] S2-2, the chip reading sensor (2.10) of the tool loading device reads the T (ID) number of the new tool - Txn, where xn is a tool serial number compiled according to a rule. The same tool has the same number, while different tools have different numbers. After the tool loading is completed, the total number of xn in the tool magazine is ≤ the total number of tool pockets on the tool chain (1.4) / 2; (in this embodiment, the total number of xn is ≤ 35);

[0092] In step S2-3, the control system searches the tool storage table to check whether the tool with the same number Txn exists in the tool magazine. It then determines whether Ky ≠ Txn (i.e., Txn does not exist) or Ky = Txn (i.e., Txn exists). If the former is true, the control system executes steps S2-4, 5, and 6. If the latter is true, the control system executes steps S2-7, 8, and 9.

[0093] S2-4, the control system queries the tool storage table until it finds two unloaded tool pockets N chain distances apart in each group, i.e., Ka = 0 and K(a+7) = 0; S2-5, the tool chain (1.4) is operated to shift the unloaded tool pocket Ka to the loading and unloading position, and the tool loading device executes the tool loading and storage program, and the tool Txn is loaded into the tool pocket Ka; S2-6, the control system dynamically updates the tool storage table, assigns Ka = Txn, and returns to S2-1;

[0094] In step S2-7, the control system searches for empty tool pockets within the group that are 7 chain pitches apart. That is, K(y+7) = 0. If so, it executes step S2-8, operates the tool chain (1.4), and moves the empty tool pocket K(y+7) to the loading and unloading position. The tool loading device executes the tool loading and storage procedure, and tool Txn is loaded into tool pocket K(y+7). In step S2-9, the control system dynamically updates the tool storage table, assigning K(y+7) = Txn, and returns to step S2-1. In step S2-7, if K(y+7) ≠ 0, it cannot proceed to step S2-8 and S2-9. The control system prompts an abnormal alarm, reminding the operator to check whether the number of prepared tools is incorrect, the number of tools Txn exceeds 2, or whether the machine tool needs to be repaired.

[0095] S2-1 to S2-9 illustrate the process of warehousing a tool. This process is repeated several times until all the spare tools are put into the warehouse. S2-10: The operator presses the tool loading completion button.

[0096] S2-11, the control system checks the tool storage table. The two tool sets separated by 7 chain distances in each group must be identical, that is, Ka=K(a+7)=Txn. S2-12, if the tool storage table is checked, the tool loading is completed, and the control system establishes the initialization tool loading and storage table, as shown in Table 2. If the S2-11 check fails, the control system prompts an abnormal alarm, reminding the operator to report the machine tool failure.

[0097]

[0098] Table 2: Initialization tool storage table

[0099] Based on the initialized tool storage table, the machine tool enters the processing program and adopts the random tool change control program of the conventional chain tool magazine during processing. After each tool exchange with the spindle, the corresponding assignment relationship between the tool pocket and the tool in the tool storage table will be dynamically updated, but there are always two identical tools in two tool pockets separated by 7 tool chain pitches.

[0100] The key point of this step is that the operator can pick up the tool at will when loading it, and the tool identification and tool holder search and positioning are completely completed automatically by the machine tool; after the tool is loaded, the control system ensures that there are 2 of each type of tool in the tool magazine, which are stored in 2 tool holders 7 tool chain pitches apart.

[0101] In summary, the present invention realizes the use of only one tool magazine on a dual-spindle machining center model, thereby reducing tool magazine costs; reducing the space occupied by the tool magazine, facilitating equipment maintenance; and realizing tool storage and loading in the tool magazine on one side of the machine tool, thereby facilitating tool magazine storage operations.

[0102] The control method adopted by the present invention identifies the tool ID through the tool identification and lifting and loading device, and takes fool-proof measures for tool storage and loading in combination with the electrical control program, thereby achieving correct tool storage and tool change in the tool magazine. The operator does not need to consider the correctness of tool change between the spindle and the tool magazine, which reduces the requirements for the operator, prevents accidents, and realizes that a single tool magazine is suitable for a dual-spindle machining center.

[0103] The mechanical structure of the present invention comprises two parts: a tool identification and lifting and loading device and a chain tool magazine device. The tool identification and lifting and loading device is installed on either the left or right side of the chain tool magazine.

[0104] The tool identification and lifting and loading device is responsible for reading and identifying the tool ID (tool number identification code), then lifting and installing the tool into the correct tool holder in the tool magazine, completing the tool storage and loading. All tools are attached to the handle with an RFID chip. The chip is written with tool information (including tool ID, tool length, etc.) during tool adjustment. The tool ID is read by the ID chip reader sensor, enabling digital identification and differentiation between different tools.

[0105] The chain tool magazine is responsible for storing and exchanging tools with the spindles. It primarily includes a tool chain storage and drive mechanism, along with two cam-type automatic control (ATC) mechanisms. It simultaneously provides tool changes for both spindles. The distance between the two spindle axes is equal to N times the tool chain pitch. Tools exchanged are loaded in two tool pockets separated by N tool chain pitches. Therefore, the tool IDs of these two tool pockets, separated by N tool chain pitches, must be identical.

[0106] The present invention adopts a fool-proof tool storage and loading control method, and realizes the use of only one tool magazine on a dual-spindle machining center model through the combination of mechanical structure and electrical control program, and works reliably.

[0107] Based on the same principle of the present invention, it is possible to use only one tool magazine on a machine tool with a larger number of spindles (not limited to dual spindles). The application of a single tool magazine on a multi-axis machine tool derived on this basis should fall within the scope of protection of the rights.

[0108] It is easy for those skilled in the art to understand that the above are only preferred embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. Any modifications, combinations, replacements, improvements, etc. made within the spirit and principles of the present invention are included in the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A foolproof tool loading control method for a dual-spindle machining center, comprising a chain tool magazine device (1) for storing tools and exchanging tools with the spindle; The chain tool magazine device (1) comprises a tool magazine body (1.3) arranged on a tool magazine bracket, a tool chain (1.4) and two ATC mechanisms being arranged on the tool magazine body (1.3), a tool sleeve being arranged between two adjacent tool chain links in the tool chain (1.4), a main shaft (3) being correspondingly arranged below each ATC mechanism, each main shaft (3) being arranged to extend in the Z-axis direction, and a center line connecting the two main shafts (3) being parallel to the X-axis; Its characteristics are: It also includes a tool identification and lifting and loading device (2) arranged next to the tool magazine body (1.3), which is used to read and identify the tool ID, and then lift the tool and install it on the tool sleeve of the chain tool magazine device (1), completing the tool storage and loading in the tool magazine; The tool identification and lifting and loading device (2) comprises a first linear module capable of displacement along the Y-axis, a lifting bracket (2.4) being provided at the movable end of the first linear module, a second linear module capable of displacement along the Z-axis being provided on the lifting bracket (2.4), a tool bracket (2.8) being connected to the movable end of the second linear module, a tool holder clamping claw (2.9) and a chip reading sensor (2.10) being provided below the tool holder clamping claw (2.9); Each tool is provided with a chip that records the tool ID; The center distance between the two spindles (3) = N times * knife chain pitch, where N is a natural number; The total number of tool pockets on the tool chain (1.4) = N*2*A, where A is a natural number. All tool pockets are divided into A groups, each containing 2*N tool pockets. Each group can hold up to N types of tools, 2 of each type. Two tools of the same type are always loaded into two tool pockets N chain distances apart within the group. The entire tool magazine can hold up to N*A types of tools, 2 of each type. A control system, the control system being communicatively connected to the chain tool magazine device (1) and the tool identification and lifting and loading device (2); The total number of tools to be assembled outside the warehouse is ≤ the total number of tool pockets on the tool chain (1.4). The operator places the tools on the tool holder (2.8) without manually identifying the tool ID. The control system controls the tool lifting and loading device (2) to assemble the tools into the tool pockets. After all the tools are assembled into the tool pockets, any two identical tools are mounted on two tool pockets on the tool chain (1.4) that are N tool chain pitches apart. The specific steps include: Step S1, preparing tool loading conditions, including establishing an initialized no-load tool storage table and preparing tools; S1-1, unload all the tools in the chain tool magazine device (1) to make it empty; the command control system establishes and initializes an empty tool storage table, assigns Ky=0 to all tool sleeve number variables, and y is a natural number, indicating that the tool sleeve is empty and has no tools; S1-2, tool preparation, prepare all tools according to the process instructions, including various types of tools. Tools of the same type have the same ID, and there are two tools with the same tool ID; Step S2, completing tool loading, based on the initialized no-load tool storage table and tool preparation conditions described in step S1, including the following tool loading operations and initializing the tool loading tool storage table; S2-1, the operator takes a new tool and installs it on the tool loading device, and presses the button to issue a tool loading request instruction; S2-2, the chip reading sensor (2.10) of the tool loading device reads the new tool ID number Txn, where xn is a tool serial number compiled according to a rule. The same tool has the same number, while different tools have different numbers. After the tool loading is completed, the total number of xn in the tool magazine is ≤ the total number of tool pockets on the tool chain (1.4) / 2; S2-3, the control system searches the tool storage table to check whether there is a tool with the same number Txn in the tool magazine. If any Ky≠Txn, then Txn does not exist. If Ky=Txn, then Txn exists. When Ky≠Txn, execute S2-4, S2-5, and S2-6. When Ky=Txn, execute S2-7, S2-8, and S2-9. S2-4, the control system queries the tool storage table until it finds two tool pockets N chain distances apart in each group that are empty, that is, Ka = 0 and K(a+N) = 0; S2-5, operate the tool chain (1.4), shift the unloaded tool pocket Ka to the tool loading and unloading position, and the tool loading device executes the tool loading and storage procedure, and the tool Txn is loaded into the tool pocket Ka; S2-6, the control system dynamically updates the tool storage table, assigns Ka = Txn, and returns to S2-1; In step S2-7, the control system searches for empty tool pockets separated by N chain distances in the group. If K(y+N)=0, steps S2-8 and S2-9 are executed. If K(y+N)≠0, steps S2-8 and S2-9 cannot be executed. The control system prompts an abnormal alarm and checks whether the number of prepared tools is incorrect, the number of tools Txn exceeds 2, or the machine tool fails and needs to be reported for repair. S2-8, operate the tool chain (1.4), shift the unloaded tool pocket K (y+N) to the loading and unloading position, and the tool loading device executes the tool loading and storage program, and the tool Txn is loaded into the tool pocket K (y+N); S2-9, the control system dynamically updates the tool storage table and assigns K(y+N)=Txn; returns to S2-1; executes this process multiple times until all the prepared tools are stored; S2-10, when all the tools outside the warehouse have been put into the warehouse, the operator presses the tool loading completion button; S2-11, the control system checks the tool storage table. The two tool sets separated by N chain distances in each group must be the same, that is, Ka = K(a+N) = Txn; If the tool storage table verification is passed in S2-12, tool loading is completed and the control system establishes and initializes the tool storage table. If the verification in S2-11 fails, the control system prompts an abnormal alarm and the machine tool failure needs to be reported for repair. Based on the initialized tool storage table, the machine tool enters the processing program and adopts the random tool change control program of the conventional chain tool magazine during processing. After each tool exchange with the spindle, the corresponding assignment relationship between the tool pocket and the tool in the tool storage table will be dynamically updated, but there are always two identical tools in two tool pockets separated by N tool chain pitches.

2. The fool-proof tool loading control method for a dual-spindle machining center according to claim 1, characterized in that: In S2, the operator randomly takes a tool and assembles it to the tool holder (2.8). The chip reading sensor (2.10) identifies the chip of the tool and obtains the Txn corresponding to the tool. The control system searches and queries whether the Txn tool already exists based on the dynamically updated tool storage table. If any Ky≠Txn, continue to query the tool storage table, find that the two tool pockets N chain distances apart in a certain group are empty, that is, Ka=0and K(a+N)=0, operate the tool chain (1.4), move the empty tool pocket Ka to the loading and unloading position, execute the tool loading and storage program, load the tool Txn into the tool pocket Ka, and dynamically update the tool storage table and assign Ka=Txn; If Ky=Txn, the control system searches whether the tool pockets separated by N chain distances in the group are empty, that is, K(y+N)=0, then the tool chain (1.4) is operated to shift the empty tool pocket K(y+N) to the loading and unloading position, the tool loading device executes the tool loading and storage program, and the tool Txn is loaded into the tool pocket K(y+N), and the tool storage table is dynamically updated with the value K(y+N)=Txn.

3. The fool-proof tool loading control method for a dual-spindle machining center according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: In S2, based on this control method, after all the tools outside the magazine are loaded into the tool magazine, the two tool sets separated by N chain distances in each group have the same tool, that is, Ka=K(a+N)=Txn.

4. The fool-proof tool loading control method for a dual-spindle machining center according to claim 1, characterized in that: In S2, when an error occurs in the number of prepared tools, the number of a certain tool is not equal to 2, or the machine tool is damaged, resulting in the inability to perform tool loading or the initialization of the tool storage table verification fails, the control system prompts an abnormal alarm to remind the operator to check the number of prepared tools or report the machine tool for repair.

5. The fool-proof tool loading control method for a dual-spindle machining center according to claim 1, characterized in that: There is only one tool magazine body (1.3).

6. The fool-proof tool loading control method for a dual-spindle machining center according to claim 1, characterized in that: The ATC mechanism is a cam box type ATC mechanism.

7. The fool-proof tool loading control method for a dual-spindle machining center according to claim 1, characterized in that: The distance between the two ATC mechanisms is equal to the distance between the center axes of the two main shafts (3).

8. The fool-proof tool loading control method for a dual-spindle machining center according to claim 1, characterized in that: An RFID chip is attached to the handle of the tool to record the tool ID.

9. The fool-proof tool loading control method for a dual-spindle machining center according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first linear module comprises a base plate (2.1), a vertical linear track (2.2) and a lifting rodless cylinder (2.3) extending along the Y-axis are provided on the base plate (2.1), and a drag chain (2.5) is provided between the base plate (2.1) and the lifting bracket (2.4).

10. The fool-proof tool loading control method for a dual-spindle machining center according to claim 1, characterized in that: The second linear module comprises a knife inserting and extracting cylinder (2.6) and a horizontal linear rail (2.7) arranged to extend along the Z-axis.

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