chip removal machine

Abstract

The application provides a chip removal machine for separating metal chips in cutting fluid of a numerical control machine tool, comprising a chip removal machine body, a water tank assembly and a chip taking part, wherein the chip removal machine body is provided with a chip removal opening for discharging the cutting fluid; the water tank assembly comprises a raw water cavity, a clean water cavity and a filter part between the raw water cavity and the clean water cavity; the chip taking part is detachably arranged on a side of the filter part close to the raw water cavity, and the chip taking part has a liquid inlet, a liquid outlet and a containing cavity for containing the chips in communication with the liquid inlet and the liquid outlet; the liquid inlet is in communication with the raw water cavity, the liquid outlet is in communication with a gap between the chip taking part and the filter part, and the height of the liquid outlet is higher than that of the liquid inlet; and the caliber of the liquid outlet is smaller than that of the liquid inlet. Through the unique self-reflux design and the optimization of the detachable chip taking part, the application realizes effective separation and collection of iron chips and aluminum chips, and solves the problem that a large amount of metal chips are accumulated in the chip removal machine in the prior art, thereby affecting the normal operation of the equipment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of chip conveyor technology, and more specifically, to a chip conveyor. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, chip conveyors, as an indispensable part of modern machining, are widely used in CNC machine tools, machining centers, and other equipment to automatically clean and transport metal chips generated during processing. These chip conveyors primarily use continuously moving chain plates to carry chips to the chip discharge port. They are simple in structure, reliable in operation, and effectively improve production efficiency and safety.

[0003] However, in existing chip conveyors, iron and aluminum chips, due to their small size and low density, easily suspend in the cutting fluid and enter the conveyor's interior with the fluid flow. Over time, these unremoved fine chips accumulate in the conveyor's internal structures, such as chains, conveyor belts, and filters, forming difficult-to-clean deposits. This not only significantly reduces the conveyor's operating efficiency and chip removal effect but can also cause jamming, affecting its normal operation. More seriously, the accumulation of fine chips inside the conveyor accelerates equipment wear, shortens its service life, and increases maintenance and replacement costs. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The main objective of this invention is to provide a chip conveyor to solve the problem of excessive accumulation of metal chips in existing chip conveyors, which affects the normal operation of the equipment.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, according to one aspect of the present invention, a chip conveyor is provided for separating metal chips from cutting fluid in a CNC machine tool. The chip conveyor includes a chip conveyor body, a water tank assembly, and a chip collector. The chip conveyor body is provided with a chip discharge port for discharging the cutting fluid. The water tank assembly includes a raw water chamber, a clean water chamber, and a filter element located between the raw water chamber and the clean water chamber. The filter element is detachably disposed on the side of the filter element near the raw water chamber. The chip collector has a liquid inlet, a liquid outlet, and a receiving cavity communicating with both the liquid inlet and the liquid outlet for accommodating chips. The liquid inlet communicates with the raw water chamber, and the liquid outlet communicates with the gap between the chip collector and the filter element. The height of the liquid outlet is higher than the height of the liquid inlet. The diameter of the liquid outlet is smaller than the diameter of the liquid inlet.

[0006] Furthermore, the receiving cavity has a buffer inner wall disposed opposite to the liquid inlet, and the extension direction of the liquid inlet to the buffer inner wall is the same as the liquid inlet direction.

[0007] Furthermore, the chip removal component includes a support base plate and a side plate connected to each other, the support base plate and the side plate forming a receiving cavity and a liquid inlet; the liquid outlet includes: a first liquid outlet, the side of the side plate away from the support base plate forming the first liquid outlet; and a second liquid outlet, a filter screen is provided on the side plate, the filter screen forming the second liquid outlet, the aperture of the second liquid outlet being greater than or equal to the aperture of the filter screen on the filter component.

[0008] Furthermore, the raw water chamber includes a first connecting chamber and a second connecting chamber connected in series. The chip discharge port is located in the first connecting chamber, and the second connecting chamber is located downstream of the first connecting chamber. The extension direction of the second connecting chamber is perpendicular or inclined to the extension direction of the first connecting chamber. The first connecting chamber and the second connecting chamber are connected by a backflush port. The filter element is located between the second connecting chamber and the purified water chamber, and the chip removal element is located in the second connecting chamber.

[0009] Furthermore, the filter element is arranged around the periphery of the backflush port and forms a second communicating cavity with the periphery of the backflush port, the chip removal element is arranged around the periphery of the backflush port, and the liquid inlet is arranged opposite to the backflush port.

[0010] Furthermore, the chip-collecting component is snapped into the housing of the water tank assembly. The water tank assembly is provided with a guide rail, and the chip-collecting component is provided with a guide groove corresponding to the guide rail. The guide rail and the guide groove are slidably connected. The chip conveyor also includes a drive motor, a control unit, and a weight detection component. The drive end of the drive motor is retractably set and used to drive the chip-collecting component. The control unit is configured to drive the motor to work according to the signal detected by the weight detection component, so as to drive the chip-collecting component to rise or fall.

[0011] Furthermore, the water purification chamber includes a first chamber and a second chamber connected in series, the first chamber being located on the side of the original water chamber, and at least a portion of the second chamber being located at the bottom of the first connected chamber.

[0012] Furthermore, the water tank assembly includes a first tank and a second tank. The first tank has a separated second cavity and a first communicating cavity, and the second tank has a second communicating cavity and a first cavity. The connecting sidewalls of the first tank and the second tank are provided with backflow ports and return ports for communicating between the first cavity and the second cavity.

[0013] Furthermore, the water tank assembly also includes a partition component disposed within the first housing. The portion of the chip conveyor body disposed within the first housing is connected to the partition component, and the inner wall of the first housing and the cooperation between the chip conveyor body and the partition component form a second cavity and a first communicating cavity.

[0014] Furthermore, the chip conveyor body includes a first connecting section and a second connecting section that are connected to each other along the extension direction of the first housing; the partition component includes a support plate section, which is disposed on the bottom wall of the first housing and supported below the chip conveyor body. The support plate section is at least partially spaced from the bottom wall of the first housing, and the outer edge of the support plate section is adapted to and connected to the periphery of the side wall of the first housing to separate and form a first communicating cavity and a second cavity that are separated vertically.

[0015] Furthermore, the partition assembly also includes: a first support plate, which is disposed on the bottom wall of the first housing and spaced apart along the extension direction of the first housing; the casters of the water tank assembly are supported on the first support plate; a second support plate, which is disposed on the bottom wall of the first housing and spaced apart from the bottom wall of the first housing; at least a portion of the chip conveyor body is connected to the second support plate; and a limiting member is disposed on the bottom wall of the first housing. When the chip conveyor body is connected to the first housing, the limiting member engages with the chip conveyor body to limit the displacement of the chip conveyor body.

[0016] Applying the technical solution of this invention, the chip conveyor body, as the executing part of the entire chip removal system, is responsible for conveying and discharging cutting fluid containing metal chips. The chip discharge port is crucial for the connection between the chip conveyor body and the water tank assembly, ensuring that the cutting fluid can be smoothly introduced from the chip conveyor body into the water tank assembly to begin its purification process. The water tank assembly consists of a raw water chamber, a clean water chamber, and a filter element; the synergistic effect of these components is the core of the chip conveyor. The raw water chamber receives the cutting fluid containing chips, while the clean water chamber stores the filtered, clean cutting fluid. The filter element, located between the two, intercepts metal chips in the cutting fluid, forming a transition from "dirty water" to "clean water." The chip-collecting component communicates with the raw water chamber through its inlet, allowing the cutting fluid to flow into its internal receiving chamber and out after filtration. The detachable nature of the chip-collecting component makes cleaning metal chips extremely convenient. When the chips accumulate to a certain amount in the receiving chamber, the operator can easily separate the chip-collecting component from the chip conveyor for centralized processing and cleaning, and then reinstall it. This application achieves effective separation and collection of metal chips through a unique self-recoil design and optimized detachable chip-collecting components, solving the problem of large accumulation of metal chips in existing chip conveyors that affects equipment operation. Attached Figure Description

[0017] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this application, are used to provide a further understanding of the invention. The illustrative embodiments of the invention and their descriptions are used to explain the invention and do not constitute an undue limitation of the invention. In the drawings:

[0018] Figure 1 A side perspective view of an embodiment of a chip conveyor according to the present invention is shown;

[0019] Figure 2A top-sectional view along the horizontal direction is shown for one embodiment of the chip conveyor according to the present invention;

[0020] Figure 3 A perspective view of a chip-collecting component according to an embodiment of a chip conveyor according to the present invention is shown;

[0021] Figure 4 A perspective view of the chip conveyor body according to an embodiment of the chip conveyor of the present invention is shown;

[0022] Figure 5 A perspective schematic diagram of an embodiment of a chip conveyor according to the present invention is shown;

[0023] Figure 6 A perspective view of a water tank assembly and a filter element according to an embodiment of a chip conveyor according to the present invention is shown.

[0024] The above figures include the following reference numerals:

[0025] 100. Chip conveyor body; 101. Chip discharge port; 110. First connecting section; 120. Second connecting section; 130. Casters; 200. Water tank assembly; 210. First housing; 211. Backflush port; 212. Raw water chamber; 212a. First connecting chamber; 212b. Second connecting chamber; 213. Clean water chamber; 213a. First chamber; 213b. Second chamber; 214. Return port; 220. Second housing; 2 30. Separating component; 231. Support plate segment; 231a. Connection port; 232. Separating plate; 233. First support plate; 234. Second support plate; 235. Limiting component; 300. Filter component; 400. Chip removal component; 410. Liquid inlet; 420. Liquid outlet; 421. First liquid outlet; 422. Second liquid outlet; 430. Supporting base plate; 440. Side plate; 450. Receiving cavity; 500. Liquid level gauge. Detailed Implementation

[0026] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in this application can be combined with each other. The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0027] like Figures 1 to 6As shown, an embodiment of the present invention provides a chip conveyor for separating metal chips from the cutting fluid of a CNC machine tool. The chip conveyor includes a chip conveyor body 100, a water tank assembly 200, and a chip collector 400. The chip conveyor body 100 is provided with a chip discharge port 101 for discharging the cutting fluid. The water tank assembly 200 includes a raw water chamber 212, a clean water chamber 213, and a filter element 300 located between the raw water chamber 212 and the clean water chamber 213. The chip collector 400 is detachably disposed on the side of the filter element 300 near the raw water chamber 212. The chip collector 400 has a liquid inlet 410, a liquid outlet 420, and a receiving cavity 450 for accommodating chips, which communicates with both the liquid inlet 410 and the liquid outlet 420. The liquid inlet 410 communicates with the raw water chamber 212, and the liquid outlet 420 communicates with the gap between the chip collector 400 and the filter element 300. In this design, the height of the outlet 420 is higher than that of the inlet 410, and / or the diameter of the outlet 420 is smaller than that of the inlet 410. The principle behind this design is to utilize the flow characteristics of the cutting fluid. Through at least one of the height and diameter differences, the chips in the cutting fluid are encouraged to deposit in the chip collector 400. The purified cutting fluid can then smoothly flow back to the clean water chamber 213 through the outlet 420, achieving the recycling of the cutting fluid. The implementation is highly effective, efficiently separating and collecting fine metal chips, avoiding clogging during the cutting fluid return process, and improving the working efficiency and reliability of the chip conveyor.

[0028] The chip conveyor provided in this invention, through its unique self-recoil design and optimized detachable chip-collecting components, achieves effective collection and convenient cleaning of metal chips, solving the problem of large accumulation of metal chips in existing chip conveyors that affects equipment operation.

[0029] In existing technology, the filter element 300 is fixed and generally difficult to replace and maintain. For example... Figure 1 , Figure 2As shown, in this application, the chip conveyor body 100 is the main frame of the chip conveyor, serving to support and integrate other components. The chip discharge port 101 on it is the inlet for the cutting fluid to enter the chip conveyor. Through this port, the cutting fluid containing metal chips is guided to the water tank assembly 200 to begin its separation process. The water tank assembly 200, as one of the core components of the chip conveyor, forms a conversion pathway from dirty cutting fluid to clean cutting fluid through the separation of the raw water chamber 212 and the clean water chamber 213, and the filter element 300 located between them. The raw water chamber receives the cutting fluid from the chip discharge port, while the clean water chamber stores the filtered clean cutting fluid for reuse. The filter element 300, located between the raw water chamber 212 and the clean water chamber 213, plays a crucial role in the cutting fluid purification process. It filters out the metal chips from the cutting fluid, allowing clean cutting fluid to flow into the clean water chamber, while the retained chips are guided to the chip collection element 400. The chip collector 400 is detachably mounted on the side of the filter element 300 near the raw water chamber 212, and includes an inlet 410, an outlet 420, and a receiving chamber 450 for collecting chips. The inlet communicates with the raw water chamber, allowing cutting fluid to enter the chip collector; while the outlet communicates with the gap between the chip collector and the filter element. The height of the outlet is higher than that of the inlet, or the diameter of the outlet is smaller than that of the inlet. This design utilizes the principles of gravity and fluid dynamics to promote the separation and deposition of chips, ensuring that clean cutting fluid can flow through the outlet to the clean water chamber without carrying excessive chips. Simultaneously, the detachability of the chip collector 400 facilitates regular cleaning and maintenance. When a certain amount of metal chips accumulate inside the chip collector 400, it can be disassembled, cleaned, and reinstalled, thus ensuring the continuous and efficient operation of the chip conveyor.

[0030] Specifically, such as Figure 3 As shown, the receiving cavity 450 has a buffer inner wall disposed opposite to the liquid inlet 410, and the extension direction of the liquid inlet 410 to the buffer inner wall is the same as the liquid inlet direction of the liquid inlet 410. When the cutting fluid enters the chip collector 400, the buffer inner wall can better impact the cutting fluid in the cutting fluid, so as to fully deposit the cutting fluid in the receiving cavity 450. In this embodiment, the buffer inner wall and the liquid inlet 410 are respectively disposed on both sides of the chip collector 400.

[0031] Specifically, the chip collector 400 includes a supporting base plate 430 and a side plate 440 connected to each other, which together form a receiving cavity 450 and a liquid inlet 410. The liquid outlet 420 includes a first liquid outlet 421 and a second liquid outlet 422. The side of the side plate 440 away from the supporting base plate 430 forms the first liquid outlet 421. A filter screen is provided on the side plate 440, and the second liquid outlet 422 is formed on the filter screen. The aperture of the second liquid outlet 422 is greater than or equal to the aperture of the filter screen on the filter element 300. The first liquid outlet 421 is located at the top of the chip collector 400 and is used to remove the chip collector 400 and pour out the chips from the first liquid outlet 421 after the chip storage inside the chip collector 400 is full. The second liquid outlet 422 is used to filter the chips in the cutting fluid. Specifically, by making the aperture of the second outlet 422 greater than or equal to the aperture of the filter mesh on the filter element 300, it is possible to ensure the filtration effect of the chips while ensuring the flow of the cutting fluid.

[0032] Specifically, the raw water chamber 212 includes a first connecting chamber 212a and a second connecting chamber 212b connected together. The chip discharge port is located in the first connecting chamber 212a. The second connecting chamber 212b is located downstream of the first connecting chamber 212a. The extension direction of the second connecting chamber 212b is perpendicular or inclined to the extension direction of the first connecting chamber. The first connecting chamber 212a and the second connecting chamber 212b are connected by a backflush port 211. The filter element 300 is located between the second connecting chamber 212b and the purified water chamber 213. The chip removal element 400 is located in the second connecting chamber 212b. With this configuration, the water flow velocity at the downstream end of the first connecting cavity 212a is relatively high, and the water flows back through the end bend and enters the second connecting cavity 212b through the backflow port 211. This avoids ensuring the flow velocity at the chip collector 400 and ensures the impact on the chip collector 400, so as to fully impact the metal chips into the chip collector 400, thereby achieving the collection of metal chips.

[0033] In the above embodiment, the original water chamber 212 is divided into two connected regions: a first connecting chamber 212a and a second connecting chamber 212b. The first connecting chamber 212a serves as the initial receiving chamber for the cutting fluid, with the chip discharge port 101 located inside, allowing the cutting fluid discharged from the machine tool to flow directly into this chamber. Subsequently, under the guidance of gravity and design, the fluid is transferred to the second connecting chamber 212b through the backflushing port 211 located downstream of the first connecting chamber 212a. Notably, the arrangement direction of the second connecting chamber 212b forms a perpendicular or inclined angle with the flow direction of the first connecting chamber, thereby altering the flow trajectory of the cutting fluid and promoting the sedimentation and separation of internal metal chips. The positioning of the filter element 300 is crucial; it is precisely arranged between the second connecting chamber 212b and the clean water chamber 213, acting as the final line of defense for filtration, ensuring that no fine chip particles can enter the clean water chamber and thus affect the quality of the cutting fluid. At the same time, the chip collector 400 is positioned within the second connecting chamber 212b, enabling it to intercept and collect metal chips that have not yet settled in the cutting fluid flow path. The purification chamber 213 receives cutting fluid that has undergone rigorous filtration and purification, thanks to the initial sedimentation in the raw water chamber, the intermediate interception by the chip collector 400, and the final barrier effect of the filter 300. The design of the purification chamber ensures that the cutting fluid, after undergoing all separation and purification steps, can be stored in optimal condition and is ready for reuse at any time. This not only improves the reuse rate of the cutting fluid but also reduces the demand for fresh cutting fluid, saving costs and aligning with environmental protection principles.

[0034] Specifically, the filter element 300 is arranged around the periphery of the backflush port 211 and together with the periphery of the backflush port 211 forms a second communicating cavity 212b. The chip-collecting element 400 is also arranged around the periphery of the backflush port 211, and the liquid inlet 410 is positioned opposite to the backflush port 211. The filter element 300 not only surrounds the backflush port 211 but also, together with the periphery of the backflush port 211, forms the second communicating cavity 212b. This design ensures that the cutting fluid that has undergone the backflush process from the first communicating cavity 212a is immediately intercepted by the filter element 300 when it enters the second communicating cavity 212b. The precise layout of the filter element 300 enables it to effectively capture and block metal chips carried in the cutting fluid flowing through the backflush port 212b, laying the foundation for further purification of the cutting fluid. The chip collector 400 is also arranged around the backflushing port 211, with its inlet 410 facing the backflushing port 211. This means that when the cutting fluid enters the second connecting chamber 212b from the first connecting chamber 212a through the backflushing port 211, the inlet 410 of the chip collector 300 is directly facing this flow path, allowing it to directly receive and process the flowing cutting fluid. The ingenuity of this design lies in the fact that the chip collector 300 can efficiently collect metal chips, especially fine chips, during this process, thereby improving the overall separation efficiency of the metal chips. The backflushing port 211 plays a central role in this system, connecting not only the first connecting chamber 212a and the second connecting chamber 212b, but also directly connecting to the filter element 300 and the chip collector 400. Through the hydrodynamic design of the backflushing port 211, when the cutting fluid containing metal chips passes through the backflushing port, the chips are more easily separated from the liquid due to inertia, achieving effective interception and collection of the metal chips.

[0035] Specifically, the chip-collecting component 400 is snapped into the housing of the water tank assembly 200. The water tank assembly 200 is provided with a guide rail, and the chip-collecting component 400 is provided with a guide groove corresponding to the guide rail. The guide rail and the guide groove are slidably connected. The chip-collecting component 400 is provided with a drive motor. The chip conveyor also includes a control unit and a weight detection component. The control unit is configured to drive the motor to work according to the signal detected by the weight detection component, so as to drive the chip-collecting component 400 to rise or fall.

[0036] The above embodiments provide several ways to detachably connect the chip collector 400. In the first embodiment, the chip collector 400 and the housing of the water tank assembly 200 are connected by a snap-fit ​​mechanism to achieve stable installation and quick disassembly, facilitating daily maintenance and cleaning. In the second embodiment, the chip collector 400 is slidably connected to the guide rail on the water tank assembly 200 via a guide groove. This design allows the chip collector 400 to move smoothly in the vertical direction, enhancing its flexibility. Especially when cleaning or replacing the filter screen is required, it can be easily moved in or out of the water tank assembly, simplifying the maintenance process and improving work efficiency. In the third embodiment, the chip conveyor also includes a drive motor, a control unit, and a weight detection device. The drive end of the drive motor is retractably configured to drive the chip-collecting component. The drive end of the drive motor is located below the chip-collecting component to raise and lower it. Based on the signal fed back from the weight detection device, the control unit intelligently controls the start and stop of the motor. When the chip-collecting component 400 detects that the collected metal chips have reached a certain weight, the control unit automatically starts the motor, raising the chip-collecting component to a height easily accessible for manual handling, thus completing the unloading of the metal chips. Conversely, after the chips are unloaded, the chip-collecting component 400 automatically descends back to its original position, ready to receive the next batch of chips. This automated process greatly reduces manual intervention and improves the system's automation level and operational safety. The weight detection device monitors the accumulation of chips within the chip-collecting component 400, providing real-time data support to the control unit, ensuring that the chip-collecting component 400 can be emptied at appropriate times, avoiding overload or affecting the normal flow of cutting fluid, and guaranteeing the stable operation and long-term reliability of the system. The control unit, acting as the brain of the entire system, comprehensively analyzes the data provided by the weight detection component and intelligently regulates the movement of the chip-collecting component 400. This ensures that the separation, collection, and cleaning of metal chips are efficient and orderly, while also preventing unnecessary frequent movements of the chip-collecting component 400, saving energy and extending the machine's lifespan. Other implementation methods may include at least two of the first, second, and third implementation methods.

[0037] Specifically, the purified water chamber 213 includes a first chamber 213a and a second chamber 213b connected in series. The first chamber 213a is located on the side of the original water chamber 212, and at least a portion of the second chamber 213b is located at the bottom of the first connecting chamber 212a. The first chamber 213a's location on one side of the original water chamber 212 facilitates physical isolation between the purified cutting fluid and the untreated cutting fluid, avoiding the possibility of secondary contamination. Simultaneously, the side location allows the first chamber to easily receive the cutting fluid treated by the filter assembly, preparing it for subsequent recycling. At least a portion of the second chamber 213b is embedded in the bottom of the first connecting chamber 212a. This design fully utilizes the three-dimensional space of the water tank assembly, optimizes the spatial structure layout, and increases the overall volume of the water tank. The return port 214 is a channel connecting the first chamber 213a and the second chamber 213b, allowing the cutting fluid in both chambers to circulate and expanding the space for storing the cutting fluid.

[0038] Specifically, the water tank assembly 200 includes a first tank 210 and a second tank 220. The first tank 210 has a separated second cavity 213b and a first connecting cavity 212a. The second tank 220 has a second connecting cavity 212b and a first cavity 213a. A backflow port 211 and a return port 214 for connecting the first cavity 213a and the second cavity 213b are spaced apart on the connecting sidewalls of the first tank 210 and the second tank 220. The first tank 210 is designed to contain two separated chambers: the second cavity 213b and the first connecting cavity 212a. This design provides a separation space for the cutting fluid and metal chips. The second tank 220 also carries two chambers: the second connecting cavity 212b and the first cavity 213a. This part of the structure complements the first tank and together constitutes the core framework of the entire water tank assembly. The first tank 210 and the second tank 220 are spaced apart on their connecting sidewalls, with a backflush port 211 and a return port 214 specifically designed. The backflush port 211 utilizes the flow inertia of the cutting fluid. When cutting fluid containing metal chips passes through the backflush port 211, the cutting fluid is subjected to a reverse impact, making it easier for the chips to separate from the liquid and settle. The return port 214 serves as an important channel for the purified cutting fluid to return to the CNC machine tool. The connection from the first chamber 213a to the second chamber 213b ensures that the pre-treated cutting fluid can smoothly transition to the next stage of the purification process, and finally return to the machine tool for use through the return port, forming a complete circulation system. Through the dual-tank design of the first tank 210 and the second tank 220, and the ingenious layout of the backflush port 211 and the return port 214 between them, the entire tank assembly achieves efficient separation, sedimentation, and return of the cutting fluid. This design not only increases the water tank's capacity, effectively solving the problem of separating iron and aluminum chips, but also reduces the impact of chip accumulation in a single tank on the cutting fluid flow by decomposing the liquid and chip processing into two separate tanks, ensuring stable system operation. Furthermore, the separate design of the two tanks facilitates maintenance and cleaning, reduces repair complexity, and ensures long-term operational efficiency.

[0039] Specifically, the water tank assembly 200 also includes a partition assembly 230 disposed within the first housing 210. The portion of the chip conveyor body 100 disposed within the first housing 210 is connected to the partition assembly 230. The partition assembly 230, in conjunction with the inner wall of the first housing 210 and the chip conveyor body 100, forms a second cavity 213b and a first connecting cavity 212a. The partition assembly 230 is precisely installed inside the first housing 210, not only fitting tightly against the side wall of the housing but also directly connected to certain components of the chip conveyor body 100. This connection method effectively utilizes the limited space within the housing while ensuring structural stability and sealing. The combined action of the partition assembly and the chip conveyor body 100 provides the physical basis for the circulation path of the cutting fluid and the separation of chips. The cooperation between the inner wall of the first housing 210, the partition assembly 230, and the chip conveyor body 100 cleverly separates the second cavity 213b and the first connecting cavity 212a into two independent working areas. The second cavity 213b serves as a storage container for the purified cutting fluid, while the first connecting cavity 212a is responsible for the flow and buffering of the cutting fluid. The two are separated by the precise layout of the separator 230, minimizing the mixing of the purified cutting fluid with the newly flowing cutting fluid, thus ensuring the high purity of the cutting fluid and the continuity of system operation.

[0040] Specifically, the chip conveyor body includes a first connecting section 110 and a second connecting section 120 that are interconnected along the extending direction of the first housing 210; the partition assembly 230 includes a support plate section 231, which is disposed on the bottom wall of the first housing 210 and supported below the chip conveyor body 100. The support plate section 231 is spaced apart from at least part of the bottom wall of the first housing 210, and the outer edge of the support plate section 231 is adapted to and connected to the periphery of the side wall of the first housing 210 to partition and form a first communicating cavity 212a and a second cavity 213b that are separated vertically. The core part of the partition assembly 230—the support plate section 231—is disposed on the bottom wall of the first housing 210 and is closely attached to and supported below the chip conveyor body 100. The spaced-apart arrangement of the support plate section 231 and the bottom wall of the first housing 210 creates a certain space, which is the basis for the vertical separation of the first communicating cavity 212a and the second cavity 213b. The outer edge of the support plate segment 231 is fitted and firmly connected to the periphery of the side wall of the first housing 210, ensuring the stability and sealing between the separator assembly 231 and the housing, preventing leakage of cutting fluid between the separated areas. Through the combination of the first connecting segment 110, the second connecting segment 120 and the first housing 210, and the function of the support plate segment 231 in the separator assembly 230, the entire chip conveyor system achieves efficient management of cutting fluid and effective separation of metal chips. The first connecting cavity 212a serves as a space for initial separation of cutting fluid and chips, while the second cavity 213b further purifies the cutting fluid, preparing it for subsequent recycling.

[0041] Specifically, such as Figures 4 to 6 As shown, the partition assembly 230 further includes: a first support plate 233, a second support plate 234, and a limiting member 235, which are disposed on the bottom wall of the first housing 210 and spaced apart along the extending direction of the first housing 210. The casters 130 of the water tank assembly 200 are supported on the first support plate 233. The second support plate 234 is disposed on the bottom wall of the first housing 210, and its upper end face is spaced apart from the bottom wall of the first housing 210. At least a portion of the chip conveyor body 100 is connected to the second support plate 234. The limiting member 235 is disposed on the bottom wall of the first housing 210. When the chip conveyor body 100 is connected to the first housing 210, the limiting member 235 engages with the chip conveyor body 100 to limit the displacement of the chip conveyor body 100. The first support plate 233 is disposed on the bottom wall of the first housing 210 and spaced apart along the extending direction of the housing. Casters 130 are mounted on the first support plate 233, ensuring the free movement of the chip conveyor and effectively distributing the machine's weight through floor support, reducing direct pressure on the bottom wall of the housing. The second support plate 234 is also mounted on the bottom wall of the first housing 210, but its upper surface maintains a certain distance from the bottom wall to facilitate the flow of cutting fluid within the housing. The bottom of the chip conveyor body 100 contacts the second support plate 234, which provides stability for the chip conveyor body 100. Limiting elements 235 are designed and installed on the second support plates 234 of the first housing 210. Each set of second support plates 234 has one limiting element 235 on each side of its upper surface. When the chip conveyor body 100 is connected to the first housing 210, the limiting elements 235 engage with the chip conveyor body 100, effectively limiting the displacement of the chip conveyor body 100 within the housing. This design ensures that the chip conveyor remains in a fixed position during operation, preventing displacement caused by vibration or external impact. This, in turn, ensures that the coordinated operation between the chip conveyor and the water tank assembly is undisturbed, maintaining the stability and safety of the system operation.

[0042] In some embodiments, such as Figure 5As shown, the water tank assembly 200 is also equipped with a level gauge 500, which provides real-time feedback on the cutting fluid level, crucial for ensuring stable system operation. It allows operators or the control system to promptly determine if the cutting fluid has reached the preset minimum or maximum level, enabling replenishment or drainage to maintain the cutting fluid within the appropriate operating range. By monitoring the fluid level, the level gauge 500 helps prevent excessive cutting fluid overflow, which not only wastes resources but also increases maintenance work and environmental pollution risks. Simultaneously, it prevents the system from drying out due to insufficient cutting fluid, avoiding damage to critical components such as pumps and filters, and ensuring long-term reliable system operation. The cutting fluid level directly affects the system's hydrodynamic characteristics. Data from the level gauge 500 can be used to adjust the position of the chip picker, the operating speed of the chip conveyor, and other parameters to achieve optimal chip separation and cutting fluid circulation. For example, when a rise in fluid level is detected, the lifting frequency of the chip picker can be increased to prevent chip blockage; conversely, the lifting frequency can be reduced to save energy. In conjunction with the control unit and drive motor, the level gauge 500 supports automated control. When the level gauge 500 detects that the cutting fluid level is below a set threshold, the control unit can automatically activate the replenishment mechanism; conversely, when the cutting fluid level is excessive, it automatically initiates the discharge or circulation mode without manual intervention, improving the system's automation level and efficiency. The level gauge 500 can identify abnormal level changes, such as sudden drops or rises, which may be signs of system malfunctions, such as leaks or blockages. Timely warning information helps to quickly troubleshoot problems, prevent greater losses, and ensure operator safety.

[0043] As can be seen from the above description, the embodiments of the present invention achieve the following technical effects:

[0044] The height difference and diameter difference between the inlet 410 and the outlet 420 ensure that the cutting fluid undergoes a flow channel change from large to small when passing through the chip picker 400. This flow channel change causes the speed and direction of the cutting fluid to change during the flow process, which helps the metal chips to settle and separate, effectively preventing them from redistributing with the flow of the cutting fluid, and improving the accuracy and efficiency of separation.

[0045] The relative arrangement of the buffered inner wall of the receiving cavity 450 and the inlet 410 provides a buffer space for the flow of cutting fluid. When the cutting fluid enters through the inlet, it is slowed down by the guidance of the buffered inner wall, further promoting the separation of chips and fluid. This design is tailored to the dynamic fluid characteristics of cutting fluid, optimizes the separation process, prevents cutting fluid from directly impacting the filter element 300, and reduces wear and damage to the filter element.

[0046] The chip collector 400 utilizes a receiving cavity formed by a supporting base plate 430 and a side plate 440, combined with a dual-outlet design: a first outlet 421 and a second outlet 422. The former utilizes the structure of the side plate, while the latter achieves a secondary filtration and purification process through a filter screen installed on the side plate. This design ensures the high purity of the cutting fluid, while the use of a filter screen allows for the system's self-cleaning capability, reducing the frequency of manual intervention and lowering maintenance costs.

[0047] The dual-tank structure of the water tank assembly 200 (first tank 210 and second tank 220), combined with the separation of the raw water chamber 212 and the purified water chamber 213, and the connection between the first chamber 213a and the second chamber 213b, forms a closed-loop fluid management system. Through the interconnected arrangement, the vertically or obliquely extended second connecting chamber 212b, and the spaced arrangement of the backflushing port 211 and the return port 214, the circulation path of the cutting fluid is optimized, the utilization rate of the cutting fluid is improved, and the environmental impact is reduced. Simultaneously, physical isolation effectively prevents re-contamination of the purified cutting fluid, maintaining the purity and stability of the system.

[0048] The support plate segment 231, the first support plate 233, and the second support plate 234 in the partition assembly 230 provide stable support for the chip conveyor body 100. Their spacing from the bottom wall of the first housing not only increases the water tank's volume but also protects the second cavity 213b from external mechanical stress. The addition of the limiting member 235 further restricts the displacement of the chip conveyor body, ensuring system stability and reliability under vibration or external forces.

[0049] The chip collector 400 is connected to the water tank assembly 200 by snap-fit ​​or sliding connection. Combined with the drive motor and control unit, it realizes the automatic lifting or movement of the chip collector. The position of the chip collector can be automatically adjusted according to the accumulation of chips or the flow rate of cutting fluid, so that the system can adapt to different working conditions and chip types, thereby improving the automation level and ease of operation of the system.

[0050] It should be noted that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments according to this application. As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, it should be understood that when the terms "comprising" and / or "including" are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of features, steps, operations, devices, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0051] Unless otherwise specifically stated, the relative arrangement, numerical expressions, and values ​​of the components and steps described in these embodiments do not limit the scope of this application. It should also be understood that, for ease of description, the dimensions of the various parts shown in the drawings are not drawn to actual scale. Techniques, methods, and devices known to those skilled in the art may not be discussed in detail, but where appropriate, such techniques, methods, and devices should be considered part of the specification. In all examples shown and discussed herein, any specific values ​​should be interpreted as merely exemplary and not as limitations. Therefore, other examples of exemplary embodiments may have different values. It should be noted that similar reference numerals and letters in the following drawings denote similar items; therefore, once an item is defined in one drawing, it need not be further discussed in subsequent drawings.

[0052] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the orientation or positional relationship indicated by directional terms such as "front, back, up, down, left, right", "horizontal, vertical, horizontal" and "top, bottom" is usually based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and is only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description. Unless otherwise stated, these directional terms do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation on the scope of protection of this application; the directional terms "inner" and "outer" refer to the inner and outer contours relative to the outline of each component itself.

[0053] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as "above," "on top of," "on the upper surface of," "above," etc., are used herein to describe the spatial positional relationship of a device or feature as shown in the figures to other devices or features. It should be understood that spatial relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations in use or operation beyond the orientation of the device as described in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures were inverted, a device described as "above" or "on top of" other devices or structures would subsequently be positioned as "below" or "under" other devices or structures. Thus, the exemplary term "above" can include both "above" and "below." The device may also be positioned in other different ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptions used herein will be interpreted accordingly.

[0054] Furthermore, it should be noted that the use of terms such as "first" and "second" to define components is merely for the purpose of distinguishing the corresponding components. Unless otherwise stated, the above terms have no special meaning and therefore cannot be construed as limiting the scope of protection of this application.

[0055] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the invention. Various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A chip conveyor for separating metal chips from the cutting fluid of a CNC machine tool, characterized in that, include: The chip conveyor body (100) is provided with a chip discharge port (101) for discharging cutting fluid. A water tank assembly (200) includes a raw water chamber (212), a purified water chamber (213), and a filter element (300) located between the raw water chamber (212) and the purified water chamber (213). A chip collector (400) is detachably disposed on the side of the filter element (300) near the raw water chamber (212). The chip collector (400) has an inlet (410), an outlet (420), and a receiving cavity (450) for receiving chips that communicates with both the inlet (410) and the outlet (420). The inlet (410) communicates with the raw water chamber (212), and the outlet (420) communicates with the gap between the chip collector (400) and the filter element (300). Wherein, the height of the liquid outlet (420) is set higher than the height of the liquid inlet (410); and / or, The diameter of the outlet (420) is smaller than the diameter of the inlet (410); The raw water chamber (212) includes a first connecting chamber (212a) and a second connecting chamber (212b) connected together. The chip discharge port is located in the first connecting chamber (212a). The second connecting chamber (212b) is located downstream of the first connecting chamber (212a). The extension direction of the second connecting chamber (212b) is perpendicular or inclined to the extension direction of the first connecting chamber. The first connecting chamber (212a) and the second connecting chamber (212b) are connected by a backflush port (211). The filter element (300) is located between the second connecting chamber (212b) and the purified water chamber (213). The chip removal element (400) is located in the second connecting chamber (212b). The filter element (300) surrounds the periphery of the backflush port (211) and forms the second communicating cavity (212b) with the periphery of the backflush port (211). The chip removal element (400) surrounds the periphery of the backflush port (211). The liquid inlet (410) is disposed opposite to the backflush port (211). The chip-collecting component (400) is engaged with the housing of the water tank assembly (200), and / or, The water tank assembly (200) is provided with a guide rail, and the chip collector (400) is provided with a guide groove corresponding to the guide rail. The guide rail and the guide groove are slidably connected, and / or, The chip conveyor also includes a drive motor, a control unit, and a weight detection device. The drive end of the drive motor is retractably configured and used to drive the chip-collecting device. The control unit is configured to drive the motor to work according to the signal detected by the weight detection device, so as to drive the chip-collecting device (400) to rise or fall.

2. The chip conveyor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The receiving cavity (450) has a buffer inner wall disposed opposite to the liquid inlet (410), and the extension direction of the liquid inlet (410) to the buffer inner wall is the same as the liquid inlet direction of the liquid inlet (410).

3. The chip conveyor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The chip-collecting component (400) includes a support base plate (430) and a side plate (440) connected to each other, the support base plate (430) and the side plate (440) surrounding the receiving cavity (450) and the liquid inlet (410); the liquid outlet (420) includes: The first liquid outlet (421) is formed by the side of the side plate (440) away from the supporting base plate (430); and / or, The second liquid outlet (422) is provided on the side plate (440), and the second liquid outlet (422) is formed on the filter screen. The aperture of the second liquid outlet (422) is greater than or equal to the aperture of the filter screen on the filter element (300).

4. The chip conveyor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water purification chamber (213) includes a first chamber (213a) and a second chamber (213b) connected in series. The first chamber (213a) is located on the side of the raw water chamber (212), and at least a portion of the second chamber (213b) is located at the bottom of the first connected chamber (212a).

5. The chip conveyor according to claim 4, characterized in that, The water tank assembly (200) includes a first tank (210) and a second tank (220). The first tank (210) is provided with a second cavity (213b) and a first communicating cavity (212a) that form a separation. The second tank (220) is provided with a second communicating cavity (212b) and a first cavity (213a). The backflow port (211) and a return port (214) for communicating the first cavity (213a) and the second cavity (213b) are provided at intervals on the connecting sidewalls of the first tank (210) and the second tank (220).

6. The chip conveyor according to claim 5, characterized in that, The water tank assembly (200) also includes: A partition component (230) is disposed inside the first housing (210). The portion of the chip conveyor body (100) disposed inside the first housing (210) is connected to the partition component (230) to separate and form the second cavity (213b) and the first communicating cavity (212a) by the cooperation of the inner wall of the first housing (210) and the chip conveyor body (100) and the partition component (230).

7. The chip conveyor according to claim 6, characterized in that, The separating component (230) includes: A support plate segment (231) is disposed on the bottom wall of the first housing (210) and supported below the chip conveyor body (100). The support plate segment (231) is spaced apart from at least part of the bottom wall of the first housing (210). The outer edge of the support plate segment (231) is adapted to and connected to the periphery of the side wall of the first housing (210) to separate and form the first communicating cavity (212a) and the second cavity (213b) which are separated vertically.

8. The chip conveyor according to claim 6, characterized in that, The chip conveyor body includes a first connecting section (110) and a second connecting section (120) that are interconnected along the extending direction of the first housing (210); the partition assembly (230) includes: A support plate segment (231) is disposed on the bottom wall of the first housing (210). The first connecting segment (110) is supported on the support plate segment (231). The second connecting segment (120) extends out of the support plate segment (231). The first connecting segment (110) is provided with the chip discharge port (101). The partition assembly (230) also includes a partition plate (232). The partition plate (232) is disposed on the side wall of the first housing (210) and located between the first connecting segment (110) and the second connecting segment (120). The partition plate (232) is connected to the first connecting segment (110) and the second connecting segment (120). The connecting section (110) and the inner wall of the first housing (210) form the first communicating cavity (212a). The support plate section (231) is provided with a connecting port (231a) near the second connecting section (120). The support plate section (231) and at least part of the bottom wall of the first housing (210) are spaced apart to form a part of the second cavity (213b). The end of the support plate section (231), the inner wall of the first housing (210) and the side of the partition plate (232) away from the first connecting section (110) form another part of the second cavity (213b).

9. The chip conveyor according to claim 8, characterized in that, The separation component also includes: A first support plate (233) is disposed on the bottom wall of the first tank (210) at intervals along the extending direction of the first tank (210), and the casters (130) of the water tank assembly (200) are supported on the first support plate (233), and / or, A second support plate (234) is disposed on the bottom wall of the first housing (210), the upper end face of the second support plate (234) being spaced apart from the bottom wall of the first housing (210), at least a portion of the chip conveyor body (100) being connected to the second support plate (234), and / or, A limiting member (235) is provided on the bottom wall of the first housing (210). When the chip conveyor body (100) is connected to the first housing (210), the limiting member (235) engages with the chip conveyor body (100) to limit the displacement of the chip conveyor body (100).

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