Material supply machine, control method for material supply machine, and program product

Abstract

This invention provides a material supply machine with a simpler construction. The material supply machine (100) includes: a plurality of anti-vibration tubes (SP), each capable of holding bars (BR) of different diameters and capable of being mounted within a spindle (MS); a support member (30) capable of supporting the anti-vibration tubes; a moving mechanism (TM) for moving the support member parallel to each other in the X-axis and Z-axis directions; and a pushing mechanism (PD) for pushing the anti-vibration tubes supported by the support member into the spindle. The support member (30) is capable of supporting the bars, and the pushing mechanism (PD) is capable of pushing the bars into the anti-vibration tubes located within the spindle (MS). The moving mechanism (TM) moves the support member (30) parallel to each other between the position of the support member when the support member begins to support the anti-vibration tubes or bars and the position of the support member when the pushing mechanism (PD) pushes the anti-vibration tubes or bars into the spindle (MS).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a material supply machine, a control method for the material supply machine, and a program product. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, a different diameter bar feeding device (material feeder) was known to supply bars of different diameters to the hollow spindle of a lathe (see Patent Document 1). This material feeding mechanism is characterized by using a bar drum that holds a stock tube for storing the bar and a guide tube for storing the magazine tube, which can feed the bar and the magazine tube into the spindle separately.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 6-182602 Summary of the Invention

[0004] <Problem to be solved by this invention>

[0005] However, the aforementioned material supply machine has a complex structure because it has a drum that serves as a mechanism for correctly aligning the central axis of the bar with the central axis of the magazine tube.

[0006] Therefore, it is desirable to provide a material supply machine with a simpler construction.

[0007] <Methods for solving problems>

[0008] One embodiment of the material supply machine of the present invention is a material supply machine capable of supplying bars of different diameters to the spindle of a working machine, and includes: a plurality of tube components, each capable of holding bars of different diameters and capable of being installed within the spindle; a support component capable of supporting the tube components; a moving mechanism that causes the support component to move parallel to the spindle in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the spindle; and a pushing mechanism that pushes the tube component supported by the support component into the spindle, wherein the support component is capable of supporting the bars, the pushing mechanism is configured to push the bars into the tube components located within the spindle, and the moving mechanism is configured to cause the support component to move parallel to the position of the support component when the support component begins to support the tube component or the bars and the position of the support component when the pushing mechanism pushes the tube component or the bars into the spindle.

[0009] <The Effects of the Invention>

[0010] The aforementioned material supply machine can achieve a simpler structure. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1This is a perspective view of the material supply machine and the working machinery according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0012] Figure 2 It is a three-dimensional diagram of a material supply machine with some of its constituent elements omitted.

[0013] Figure 3 This is a three-dimensional view of the support mechanism that constitutes the material supply machine.

[0014] Figure 4 This is a right-side view of the support mechanism, with some of its components omitted.

[0015] Figure 5 This diagram illustrates the operation of the support mechanism used to move the vibration damping tube from the tube storage position to the tube insertion start position.

[0016] Figure 6 This diagram illustrates the action of the pushing mechanism that pushes the anti-vibration tube, which is located at the beginning of the tube pushing, into the spindle side.

[0017] Figure 7 This diagram illustrates the operation of the support mechanism that moves the bar from the bar storage position to the bar push-in starting position.

[0018] Figure 8 This diagram illustrates the action of the pushing mechanism that pushes the bar, which is located at the starting position of the bar push-in, into the spindle side.

[0019] Figure 9 This diagram illustrates the action of the pushing mechanism that pushes the bar located inside the vibration damping tube into the spindle side.

[0020] Figure 10 It is a perspective view of the anti-vibration tube, which is installed with the first adjusting component constituting the second adjusting mechanism, and the second adjusting component installed on the working machine.

[0021] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the first and second adjusting components that constitute the second adjusting mechanism.

[0022] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a material supply and processing procedure.

[0023] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0024] 20 Electric motor; 21 Feed nut; 22 Feed threaded shaft; 30 Support component; 30E Rear end; 30V Plate-shaped part; 31 Actuator; 32 Pin; 33 Pin receiving tube; 50 Base; 51 First push-in component; 51B Rear claw; 51F Front claw; 52 Second push-in component; 53 Third push-in component; 61 First self-aligning component; 62 Second self-aligning component; 62C Cylindrical part; 62F Flange; 62S Inner circumferential surface; 80 Controller; 100 Material feeder; AD First self-aligning mechanism; AM Second self-aligning mechanism; BK Self-aligning block; BK1 First self-aligning block; BK2 Second self-aligning block; BMA, BMB Main body; BR Bar; BR1 First bar; BS Bar storage component; BS1 First bar storage component; BS2 Second bar storage component; BS3 Third bar storage component; BS4 First... Four-bar storage components; CR outer cover; CTR working machine controller; CV conveyor belt; ED lifting mechanism; GD guide; HK hook component; KY self-aligning key; KY1 first self-aligning key; KY2 second self-aligning key; KY3 third self-aligning key; KY4 fourth self-aligning key; KY5 fifth self-aligning key; KY6 sixth self-aligning key; KY12 twelfth self-aligning key; LM long strip component; MS spindle; MT working machine; MX rotary axis; PD push-in mechanism; PX central shaft; SD support mechanism; SH spindle table; SLA, SLB tilting parts; SLA1, SLB1 first tilting surface; SLA2, SLB2 second tilting surface; SLA3 third tilting surface; SP anti-vibration tube; SP1 first anti-vibration tube; SP2 second anti-vibration tube; SP3 third anti-vibration tube; SP4 fourth anti-vibration tube; ST stop component; SX central shaft. Detailed Implementation

[0025] In the following description, the material supply machine 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 and Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the material supply machine 100 connected to the working machine MT. Specifically, Figure 1 The image above is a perspective view of the working machine MT and the material supply machine 100. Figure 1 The image below is a perspective view of the spindle MS, spindle table SH, and material feeder 100 of the machine tool MT. Figure 1 In the image below, for clarity, illustrations of the machine tool MT, excluding the spindle MS and spindle table SH, have been omitted. Figure 2 This is a perspective view of a part of the material supply machine 100. Specifically, Figure 2 The image above shows the CR outer cover removed (see image above). Figure 1 The following is a perspective view of the material supply machine 100. Figure 2 The image below is a perspective view of the material supply machine 100 with more parts removed.

[0026] exist Figure 1 and Figure 2 In this system, X1 represents one direction of the X-axis constituting the three-dimensional orthogonal coordinate system, and X2 represents the other direction of the X-axis. Similarly, Y1 represents one direction of the Y-axis constituting the three-dimensional orthogonal coordinate system, and Y2 represents the other direction of the Y-axis. Likewise, Z1 represents one direction of the Z-axis constituting the three-dimensional orthogonal coordinate system, and Z2 represents the other direction of the Z-axis. Figure 1 In the figures, the X1 side of the material feeder 100 corresponds to the front side (front face) of the material feeder 100, and the X2 side corresponds to the rear side (back face) of the material feeder 100. Furthermore, the Y1 side of the material feeder 100 corresponds to the left side of the material feeder 100, and the Y2 side corresponds to the right side of the material feeder 100. Additionally, the Z1 side of the material feeder 100 corresponds to the upper side of the material feeder 100, and the Z2 side corresponds to the lower side of the material feeder 100. The same applies to the other figures.

[0027] like Figure 2 As shown, the material feeder 100 is a device for supplying various types of bars BR with different diameters to the machine tool MT. It includes a controller 80, a first core-adjusting mechanism AD, a bar storage component BS, a lifting mechanism ED, a pushing mechanism PD, a support mechanism SD, and a vibration damper SP. In the example shown, the material feeder 100 is configured to supply four different diameter round bars BR to the machine tool MT. Specifically, the material feeder 100 is configured to use four different vibration dampers SP to supply four types of bars BR to the machine tool MT.

[0028] The bar BR is an example of a long strip component LM, comprising a first bar BR1 to a fourth bar. The diameter of the first bar BR1 is smaller than the diameter of the second bar, the diameter of the second bar is smaller than the diameter of the third bar, and the diameter of the third bar is smaller than the diameter of the fourth bar.

[0029] The bar storage component BS is a mechanism for storing bar stock BR. As shown in the example diagram... Figure 2 As shown in the figure above, the bar storage component BS includes a first bar storage component BS1 to a fourth bar storage component BS4. Figure 2 As shown in the figure below, the first bar storage component BS1 is composed of two conveyor belts CV driven by a motor. The first bar BR1, which is placed on the two conveyor belts CV extending along the Y-axis, moves towards the X1 side (front side) via the two conveyor belts CV. A stop member ST is provided at the front end of the conveyor belt CV, and the first bar BR1 positioned at the foremost side is restricted from further forward movement by the stop member ST. It should be noted that... Figure 2In the figure below, although the second bar storage component BS2 to the fourth bar storage component BS4 are omitted from the illustration for clarity, they have the same structure as the first bar storage component BS1.

[0030] The vibration damper SP is a component used to suppress the vibration of the bar BR, which is held and rotated by the spindle MS. It is mounted on the spindle MS such that the rotation axis MX of the spindle MS and the central axis SX of the vibration damper SP are on the same straight line. In the example shown, the vibration damper SP is configured to rotate together with the spindle MS. With this structure, the vibration damper SP can suppress the vibration of the bar BR.

[0031] Furthermore, the vibration damper SP is another example of the elongated component LM, comprising the first vibration damper SP1 to the fourth vibration damper SP4. For example... Figure 2 As shown in the diagram above, the fourth vibration damper SP4 is a roughly cylindrical component, configured such that its inner diameter is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the fourth rod, and it is housed in a position supported by two hook components HK extending along the Y-axis. Note that in Figure 2 In the image above, the first anti-vibration tube SP1 is mounted on the spindle MS, while the second anti-vibration tube SP2 is hidden among other components and not visible. Furthermore, in Figure 2 In the figure below, for clarity, the illustrations of the first vibration damper SP1 to the fourth vibration damper SP4 are omitted. However, the first vibration damper SP1 to the third vibration damper SP3 have the same structure as the fourth vibration damper SP4, and are housed in the same manner as the fourth vibration damper SP4, supported by two hook components HK in a state extending along the Y-axis.

[0032] The first self-aligning mechanism AD is an example of a self-aligning mechanism used to position the anti-vibration tube SP. In the example shown, the first self-aligning mechanism AD is configured to position the anti-vibration tube SP using six movable rollers so that the rotation axis MX of the spindle MS is on the same straight line as the central axis SX of the anti-vibration tube SP.

[0033] The lifting mechanism ED is an example of a moving mechanism TM used to move a long strip component LM in parallel. In the example shown, the lifting mechanism ED is configured to move the support mechanism SD in parallel along the Z-axis direction, which is perpendicular to the axis direction (Y-axis direction) of the spindle MS. Specifically, the lifting mechanism ED utilizes a feed thread mechanism, such as... Figure 2 As shown in the figure below, it consists of a motor 20, a feed nut 21, and a feed thread shaft 22.

[0034] The controller 80 is configured to control the operation of the material feeder 100. In the example shown, the controller 80 is configured to include a computer (microcomputer) equipped with a CPU, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, and input / output interfaces. Furthermore, the controller 80 is mounted on the material feeder 100 and is configured to control the operation of the machine tool MT according to the machine tool controller CTR (see reference). Figure 1 The controller 80 receives various information to perform actions. Specifically, the controller 80 can execute programs stored in a storage medium such as a non-volatile memory device via the CPU, and output control commands to the first core-adjusting mechanism AD, the bar storage component BS, the lifting mechanism ED, the pushing mechanism PD, and the support mechanism SD to make them operate. It should be noted that the controller 80 can be installed on the machine tool MT, or it can be integrated with the machine tool controller CTR.

[0035] Next, refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 Explain the pushing mechanism PD and the supporting mechanism SD. Figure 3 This is a 3D view of the support mechanism SD. Specifically, Figure 3 The image above is a perspective view of the support mechanism SD with the push-in mechanism PD installed. Figure 3 The image below is a perspective view of the main components of the support mechanism SD. That is, in Figure 3 The diagram below omits some of the components of the support mechanism SD. Figure 4 This is a right-side view of the main part of the support mechanism SD, with... Figure 3 The image below corresponds to this.

[0036] The support mechanism SD is another example of a moving mechanism TM used to move the long strip component LM in parallel. In the example shown, the support mechanism SD includes a support component 30, an actuator 31, a pin 32, a pin receiving tube 33, and a pushing mechanism PD.

[0037] Support member 30 is a component used to support the long strip member LM. As shown in the example diagram... Figure 4 As shown, the support member 30 includes a plate-like portion 30V, which has a generally V-shaped cross-section in a virtual plane (a plane parallel to the XZ plane) perpendicular to the axial direction (Y-axis direction) of the spindle MS.

[0038] The actuator 31 is configured to enable the support member 30 to move parallel to the X-axis direction, which is perpendicular to the axial direction (Y-axis direction) of the main shaft MS. In the example shown, the actuator 31 is a single-lever cylinder. However, the actuator 31 can also be any other actuator.

[0039] Pin 32 is configured to further push the rod BR inside the anti-vibration tube SP into the Y2 side (spindle side, right side). In the example shown, pin 32 is a circular rod extending along the Y-axis, with an outer diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the first anti-vibration tube SP1.

[0040] The pin receiving tube 33 is a component that houses and supports the pin 32 so that the pin 32 can move forward and backward along the Y-axis. In the example shown, the lifting mechanism ED is configured such that by lifting the support mechanism SD, which includes the pin receiving tube 33, the pin 32 can be positioned so that the central axis PX of the pin 32 housed in the pin receiving tube 33 is on the same straight line as the rotation axis MX of the spindle MS.

[0041] The push-in mechanism PD is a mechanism for pushing the long strip component LM into the spindle MS. In the example shown, the push-in mechanism PD has a base 50 that is movable by a guide member GD extending in the Y-axis direction. The base 50 is configured to be movable in the Y-axis direction by a linear actuator and includes a first push-in member 51, a second push-in member 52, and a third push-in member 53.

[0042] The first pushing member 51 is a component used to move the vibration damping tube SP forward and backward along the Y-axis direction. In the example shown, the first pushing member 51 has a front claw portion 51F and a rear claw portion 51B. The front claw portion 51F is configured to move relative to the base 50 in the X-axis direction (front-back) as shown by arrow AR1, and the rear claw portion 51B is configured to move relative to the base 50 in the X-axis direction (front-back) as shown by arrow AR2. With this structure, the first pushing member 51 can move the front claw portion 51F and the rear claw portion 51B respectively away from the central axis SX (outside the radial direction of the vibration damping tube SP) inside the vibration damping tube SP, thereby connecting the vibration damping tube SP and the first pushing member 51.

[0043] The second pushing member 52 is a component for pushing the bar BR in the Y-axis direction. In the example shown in the figure, as indicated by arrow AR3, the second pushing member 52 is configured to be movable relative to the base 50 in the Y-axis direction (left and right). Specifically, when the bar BR placed on the support member 30 is pushed in, the right end (end on the Y2 side) of the second pushing member 52 protrudes to the right (Y2 side) of the right end (end on the Y2 side) of the front claw portion 51F and the rear claw portion 51B of the first pushing member 51. Conversely, when the anti-vibration tube SP placed on the support member 30 is pushed in, the right end (end on the Y2 side) of the front claw portion 51F and the rear claw portion 51B of the first pushing member 51 protrudes to the right (Y2 side) of the right end (end on the Y2 side) of the second pushing member 52.

[0044] The third pushing member 53 is a component used to move the pin 32 housed in the pin receiving tube 33 forward and backward along the Y-axis. A slit is formed on the lower part of the pin receiving tube 33, which extends along the Y-axis to allow the plate-shaped connecting member 53P of the third pushing member 53 to pass through. In the example shown, the third pushing member 53 is configured to be detachable from the base 50. Specifically, the third pushing member 53 is fixed to the base 50 so that it can move together with the base 50 along the Y-axis when the pin 32 moves forward and backward. On the other hand, when the pushing mechanism PD moves the vibration damping tube SP mounted on the support member 30 forward and backward along the Y-axis, or when the pushing mechanism PD pushes the bar BR mounted on the support member 30 forward and backward along the Y-axis, the third pushing member 53 separates from the base 50.

[0045] With this structure, the pushing mechanism PD can push the anti-vibration tube SP to the Y2 side or pull it back to the Y1 side via the first pushing member 51. In addition, the pushing mechanism PD can push the bar BR to the Y2 side via the second pushing member 52. Furthermore, the pushing mechanism PD can push the pin 32 to the Y2 side or pull it back to the Y1 side via the third pushing member 53.

[0046] Next, refer to Figure 5 This describes the action of the support mechanism SD that moves the vibration damping tube SP from the tube storage position to the tube insertion start position. Figure 5 This is a left-side view of the material supply machine 100, in which some of its components are omitted from the illustration. Specifically, Figure 5 The four states of the material supply machine 100 (first state S51 to fourth state S54) are shown. In the example, the states of the material supply machine 100 change sequentially in the order of first state S51, second state S52, third state S53, and fourth state S54. It should be noted that the tube storage position of the anti-vibration tube SP is the position of the anti-vibration tube SP when it is hooked on the hook member HK. In addition, the tube insertion start position of the anti-vibration tube SP is the position of the anti-vibration tube SP when the central axis SX of the anti-vibration tube SP placed on the support member 30 is on the same straight line as the rotation axis MX of the main shaft MS.

[0047] In the first state S51, which is the initial state, the support member 30 is located on the Z2 side (lower side) than the first anti-vibration tube SP1 located in the tube storage position. It should be noted that in the example shown in the figure, the tube storage positions of the four anti-vibration tubes SP (first anti-vibration tube SP1 to fourth anti-vibration tube SP4) are set to be equally spaced in the Z-axis direction.

[0048] Subsequently, as shown in the second state S52, the support member 30 moves parallel to the X2 side (rear side) via the actuator 31 and is positioned directly below the first anti-vibration tube SP1.

[0049] Subsequently, as shown in the third state S53, the support mechanism SD (support member 30) moves parallel to the Z1 side (upper side) via the lifting mechanism ED, and the first anti-vibration tube SP1 is lifted by the support member 30 and released from the hook member HK.

[0050] Subsequently, as shown in the fourth state S54, the support member 30 moves parallel to the X1 side (front side) via the actuator 31, and the first anti-vibration tube SP1 is positioned at the tube insertion start position. At this time, the support mechanism SD (support member 30) can also move in the Z-axis direction via the lifting mechanism ED. It should be noted that in the example shown, the tube insertion start positions of the four anti-vibration tubes SP (first anti-vibration tube SP1 to fourth anti-vibration tube SP4) are set to be at the same position as each other.

[0051] In this way, the support mechanism SD allows the vibration damping tube SP to move from the tube storage position to the tube insertion start position. It should be noted that, referring to... Figure 5 The above description pertains to the case where the first anti-vibration tube SP1 is moved from the tube storage position to the tube insertion start position, but it also applies to the case where the second anti-vibration tube SP2 to the fourth anti-vibration tube SP4 are each moved from the tube storage position to the tube insertion start position.

[0052] Next, refer to Figure 6 This describes the action of the pushing mechanism PD, which pushes the anti-vibration tube SP, which is in the initial position of tube pushing in, toward the spindle MS. Figure 6 This is a top view of the material supply machine 100, in which some of its constituent elements are omitted. Specifically, Figure 6 The diagram shows three states of the material feeder 100 (first state S61 to third state S63). In the example diagram, the states of the material feeder 100 change sequentially in the order of first state S61, second state S62, and third state S63.

[0053] In the first state S61, the base 50 of the pushing mechanism PD is located at a distance of DS1 from the left end (the end on the Y1 side) of the material feeder 100. Moreover, the first pushing member 51 of the pushing mechanism PD is located at a distance of DS2 to the left of the left end of the first anti-vibration tube SP1.

[0054] Subsequently, as shown in the second state S62, the base 50 of the pushing mechanism PD moves to the right (Y2 side) via a linear actuator, and the front claw 51F and rear claw 51B of the first pushing member 51 are inserted into the interior of the first anti-vibration tube SP1. The front claw 51F and rear claw 51B, inserted into the interior of the first anti-vibration tube SP1, extend away from each other along the X-axis direction, pressing against the inner circumferential surface of the first anti-vibration tube SP1 from the inside. At this time, the base 50 of the pushing mechanism PD is located at a distance DS3 from the left end (Y1 side end) of the material feeder 100.

[0055] Subsequently, as shown in the third state S63, the base 50 of the pushing mechanism PD moves further to the right (Y2 side) via a linear actuator, and the right end (end on the Y2 side) of the first anti-vibration tube SP1 passes through the first self-aligning mechanism AD and is inserted into the spindle MS, thereby reaching the tube pushing completion position. The tube pushing start position of the anti-vibration tube SP is the position of the anti-vibration tube SP when it is installed in the spindle MS. At this time, the base 50 of the pushing mechanism PD is located at a distance of DS4 from the left end (end on the Y1 side) of the material feeder 100.

[0056] In this way, the pushing mechanism PD can move the anti-vibration tube SP from the tube pushing start position to the tube pushing completion position. It should be noted that, referring to... Figure 6 The above description pertains to the case where the first anti-vibration tube SP1 is moved from the tube insertion start position to the tube insertion completion position, but it also applies to the case where the second anti-vibration tube SP2 to the fourth anti-vibration tube SP4 are each moved from the tube insertion start position to the tube insertion completion position.

[0057] Next, refer to Figure 7 This describes the action of the support mechanism SD that moves the bar BR from the bar storage position to the bar push-in start position. Figure 7 This is a left-side view of the material supply machine 100, corresponding to... Figure 5 The illustrations of some of the constituent materials are omitted. Specifically, Figure 7 The four states of the material feeder 100 (first state S71 to fourth state S74) are shown. In the example, the states of the material feeder 100 change sequentially in the order of first state S71, second state S72, third state S73, and fourth state S74. It should be noted that the bar stock BR's bar storage position is the position of the bar stock BR ​​when it is stopped by the stop member ST while being conveyed forward (X1 side) by the conveyor belt CV. Furthermore, the bar stock BR's bar push-in starting position is the position of the bar stock BR ​​when the central axis BX of the bar stock BR, which is mounted on the support member 30, is on the same straight line as the rotation axis MX of the main shaft MS.

[0058] In the first state S71, which is the initial position, the support member 30 is located on the Z2 side (lower side) than the first bar BR1 located in the bar storage position. It should be noted that in the example shown in the figure, the bar storage positions of the four types of bars BR (first bar BR1 to fourth bar) are set to be arranged at equal intervals in the Z-axis direction.

[0059] Subsequently, as shown in the second state S72, the support member 30 moves parallel to the X2 side (rear side) via the actuator 31 and is positioned directly below the first bar BR1.

[0060] Subsequently, as shown in the third state S73, the support mechanism SD (support member 30) moves parallel to the Z1 side (upper side) via the lifting mechanism ED, and the first bar BR1 is lifted by the rear end 30E of the support member 30 to above the stop member ST (Z1 side). The first bar BR1 lifted by the rear end 30E of the support member 30 rolls on the plate-shaped portion 30V and moves to the lowest position on the support member 30.

[0061] Subsequently, as shown in the fourth state S74, the support member 30 moves parallel to the X1 side (front side) via the actuator 31, and the first bar BR1 is positioned at the bar insertion start position. At this time, the support mechanism SD (support member 30) can also move in the Z-axis direction via the lifting mechanism ED. It should be noted that in the example shown, the bar insertion start positions of the four types of bars BR (first bar BR1 to fourth bar) are set such that the X coordinates (positions in the X-axis direction) are the same for each other, and the Z coordinates (positions in the Z-axis direction) are slightly different for each other depending on the diameter.

[0062] In this way, the support mechanism SD can move the bar BR from the bar storage position to the bar insertion start position. It should be noted that, referring to... Figure 7 The above description pertains to the case where the first bar BR1 is moved from the bar storage position to the bar push-in start position, but it also applies to the case where the second to fourth bars are each moved from the bar storage position to the bar push-in start position.

[0063] Next, refer to Figure 8 This describes the action of the pushing mechanism PD, which pushes the bar BR, which is located at the starting position of the bar push-in, into the spindle MS side. Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the material supply machine 100, in which some of the constituent elements are omitted. Specifically, Figure 8 It is viewed from the X1 side. Figure 6 and Figure 7 The diagram is obtained by examining the cross-sections of each component in section CL1, which is parallel to the YZ plane. Furthermore, Figure 8 The diagram shows three states of the material feeder 100 (first state S81 to third state S83). In the example diagram, the states of the material feeder 100 change sequentially in the order of first state S81, second state S82, and third state S83.

[0064] In the first state S81, the base 50 of the pushing mechanism PD is located at a distance from DS11 from the left end (Y1 side end) of the pushing mechanism PD. Furthermore, the right end (Y2 side end) of the second pushing member 52 of the pushing mechanism PD is located at a distance from DS12 to the left (Y1 side) of the right end (Y2 side end) of the first pushing member 51 of the pushing mechanism PD, and at a distance from DS13 to the left (Y1 side) of the left end (Y1 side end) of the first bar BR1.

[0065] Subsequently, as shown in the second state S82, the second pushing member 52 is protruded to the right (Y2 side) of the first pushing member 51 relative to the base 50 by an actuator. Furthermore, as shown in the second state S82, the base 50 of the pushing mechanism PD is moved to the right (Y2 side) by a linear actuator, and the right end of the second pushing member 52 contacts the left end of the first rod BR1. At this time, the base 50 of the pushing mechanism PD is located at a distance DS14 from the left end (Y1 side end) of the pushing mechanism PD. Additionally, the third pushing member 53 is separated from the base 50 by an actuator to prevent it from moving with the base 50.

[0066] Subsequently, as shown in the third state S83, the base 50 of the pushing mechanism PD moves further to the right (Y2 side) via a linear actuator. The right end of the first bar BR1 (the end on the Y2 side) passes through the first self-aligning mechanism AD and is inserted into the first anti-vibration tube SP1 installed in the spindle MS, thus reaching the bar pushing completion position. The bar pushing completion position is approximately the position of the bar BR when the entire bar BR is inserted into the anti-vibration tube SP installed in the spindle MS. At this time, the base 50 of the pushing mechanism PD is located at a distance DS15 from the left end (the end on the Y1 side) of the pushing mechanism PD.

[0067] In this way, the pushing mechanism PD can move the bar stock BR ​​from the bar stock pushing start position to the bar stock pushing completion position. It should be noted that, referring to... Figure 8 The above description pertains to the case where the first bar BR1 is moved from the bar insertion start position to the bar insertion completion position, but it also applies to the case where the second to fourth bars are each moved from the bar insertion start position to the bar insertion completion position.

[0068] Next, refer to Figure 9 This describes the action of the pushing mechanism PD, which pushes the bar BR located inside the vibration damping tube SP into the spindle MS side. Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of the material supply machine 100, corresponding to... Figure 8 The illustration of some of the constituent elements is omitted. Specifically, Figure 9 Viewed from the X1 side Figure 6 and Figure 7The diagram is obtained by examining the cross-sections of each component in section CL1, which is parallel to the YZ plane. Figure 9 The material feeder 100 is shown in three states (first state S91 to third state S93). In the example shown, the states of the material feeder 100 change sequentially in the order of first state S91 and second state S92. Furthermore, second state S92 shows the state when an unused bar BR is pushed to the right, and third state S93 shows the state when a bar BRS shorter than the unused bar BR is pushed to the right.

[0069] In the first state S91, the support mechanism SD is configured such that the central axis PX of the pin 32 housed in the pin housing tube 33 is on the same straight line as the central axis BX of the first rod BR1 located in the first vibration damping tube SP1. Furthermore, the base 50 of the pushing mechanism PD is located at a distance DS21 from the left end (end on the Y1 side) of the pushing mechanism PD, and the right end (end on the Y2 side) of the pin 32 is located slightly to the left (Y1 side) of the left end (end on the Y1 side) of the first rod BR1 located in the first vibration damping tube SP1.

[0070] Subsequently, as shown in the second state S92, the base 50 of the pushing mechanism PD moves to the right (Y2 side) via a linear actuator. The third pushing member 53 is fixed to the base 50 via an actuator to move together with the base 50. Furthermore, the third pushing member 53 is fixed to the left end of the pin 32 housed within the pin receiving tube 33. Therefore, the pin 32 moves to the right (Y2 side) together with the base 50, pushing the first rod BR1 located within the first anti-vibration tube SP1 to the right. At this time, the base 50 of the pushing mechanism PD is located at a distance DS22 from the left end (Y1 side end) of the pushing mechanism PD. Furthermore, the first rod BR1 pushed in by the pin 32 protrudes to the right by an amount EQ1 from the right end of the first anti-vibration tube SP1.

[0071] The same applies when pushing the shortened bar BR (bar BRS) that has undergone multiple punchings to the right. In this case, as shown in the third state S93, the base 50 of the pushing mechanism PD moves to the right (Y2 side) by the pass-through actuator. Therefore, the pin 32 moves to the right (Y2 side) together with the base 50, pushing the bar BRS located in the first anti-vibration tube SP1 to the right. At this time, the base 50 of the pushing mechanism PD is located at a distance DS23 from the left end (Y1 side end) of the pushing mechanism PD. Furthermore, the bar BRS pushed in by the pin 32 protrudes to the right by an amount EQ2 from the right end of the first anti-vibration tube SP1. It should be noted that the pushing mechanism PD can also push the bar BRS out from the right end of the first anti-vibration tube SP1 using the pin 32.

[0072] In this way, the pushing mechanism PD can use pin 32 to push the rod BR located inside the vibration damping tube SP to the right. It should be noted that, referring to... Figure 9 The above description pertains to the case where the first rod BR1 located in the first vibration damping tube SP1 is pushed in using pin 32, but it also applies to the case where the second rod located in the second vibration damping tube SP2, the third rod located in the third vibration damping tube SP3, and the fourth rod located in the fourth vibration damping tube SP4 are each pushed in to the right.

[0073] Next, refer to Figure 10 and Figure 11 Explain the second core-adjusting mechanism AM. Figure 10 It is a perspective view of the first anti-vibration tube SP1, which is installed on the first core adjusting component 61 constituting the second core adjusting mechanism AM, and the second core adjusting component 62, which is installed on the working machine MT. Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the first adjusting component 61 and the second adjusting component 62 that constitute the second adjusting mechanism AM.

[0074] The second alignment mechanism AM is another example of an alignment mechanism used to position the anti-vibration tube SP. Specifically, the second alignment mechanism AM is a mechanism used to align the central axis SX of the anti-vibration tube SP with the rotation axis MX of the spindle MS (positioned on the same straight line). In the example shown, the second alignment mechanism AM is a combination of the first alignment component 61 mounted on the first anti-vibration tube SP1 and the second alignment component 62 mounted on the working machine MT.

[0075] like Figure 11 As shown, the first adjusting component 61 has a generally cylindrical shape, and twelve adjusting keys KY (first adjusting key KY1 to twelfth adjusting key KY12) are formed on the outer peripheral surface of the rear half. In the example shown, all twelve adjusting keys KY have the same shape and the same size. In addition, a groove GV is formed between two adjacent adjusting keys KY.

[0076] Each of the twelve adjusting keys KY has a main body (BMA) and a tilting section (SLA). The main body (BMA) is a generally cuboid portion that protrudes radially outward. The tilting section (SLA) is a portion that tapers from the end of the main body (BMA) on the Y2 side towards the second adjusting component 62 (Y2 side), and has a first tilting surface (SLA1), a second tilting surface (SLA2), and a third tilting surface (SLA3). The first tilting surface (SLA1) is a generally triangular surface that forms the outer peripheral surface of the tilting section (SLA) connected to the outer peripheral surface of the main body (BMA). The second tilting surface (SLA2) and the third tilting surface (SLA3) are generally triangular surfaces that form the side surfaces of the tilting section (SLA) connected to the side surfaces of the main body (BMA).

[0077] like Figure 11As shown, the second self-aligning component 62 has a generally cylindrical cylindrical portion 62C and a generally annular flange portion 62F extending radially outward from the rear end of the cylindrical portion 62C. Furthermore, the inner circumferential surface 62S of the cylindrical portion 62C is configured to accommodate four self-aligning blocks BK. In the example shown, two self-aligning blocks BK (first self-aligning block BK1 and second self-aligning block BK2) are mounted on the inner circumferential surface 62S of the cylindrical portion 62C. Both self-aligning blocks BK have the same shape and the same dimensions. Moreover, the two self-aligning blocks BK are each mounted opposite each other with a rotation axis MX between them.

[0078] Similar to the adjusting key KY, each of the two adjusting blocks BK has a main body BMB and a tilting portion SLB. The main body BMB is a generally cuboid portion that protrudes radially inward from the inner circumferential surface 62S. The tilting portion SLB is a portion that tapers from the end of the main body BMB (the end on the Y1 side) toward the first adjusting member 61 (Y1 side), and has a first tilting surface SLB1 and a second tilting surface SLB2. The first tilting surface SLB1 and the second tilting surface SLB2 are generally quadrilateral surfaces, forming the side surfaces of the tilting portion SLB that are connected to the side surfaces of the main body BMB.

[0079] In the example shown, the second adjusting block BK2 in the second adjusting member 62 is configured to be embedded in the groove GV located between the second adjusting key KY2 and the third adjusting key KY3 in the first adjusting member 61. The same applies to the first adjusting block BK1 in the second adjusting member 62. That is, the adjusting blocks BK and the adjusting key KY are configured such that, in the circumferential direction, the width WD1 of the groove GV and the width WD2 of the adjusting block BK are approximately the same (the width WD1 is slightly larger than the width WD2). Furthermore, the second adjusting mechanism AM is configured such that the outer diameter of the portion of the main body BMA in the first adjusting member 61 where the adjusting key KY is formed is approximately the same as the inner diameter of the inner circumferential surface 62S of the second adjusting member 62 (the inner diameter is slightly larger than the outer diameter).

[0080] With this structure, even when the anti-vibration tube SP is misaligned with the rotation axis MX of the main spindle MS and is pushed into the main spindle MS by the pushing mechanism PD, the second self-aligning mechanism AM can eventually align the central axis SX with the rotation axis MX. This is because the misalignment between the central axis SX and the rotation axis MX is corrected through the cooperation of the first self-aligning component 61 and the second self-aligning component 62.

[0081] Next, refer to Figure 12 This describes the process by which the controller 80 supplies the bar stock BR ​​to the spindle MS (hereinafter referred to as "material supply process"). Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a material supply process. Controller 80 repeatedly executes this material supply process at predetermined control cycles.

[0082] First, controller 80 determines whether it has received a supply command for bar BR (step PR1). In the example shown, controller 80 determines whether it has received a supply command for bar BR from the machine tool controller CTR.

[0083] When no supply instruction is received (No in step PR1), controller 80 ends the current material supply process.

[0084] When a supply command is received (Yes in step PR1), the controller 80 determines whether the diameter of the bar BR located in the spindle MS at the current moment is the same as the diameter of the bar BR specified by the supply command (step PR2).

[0085] When the diameter is determined to be the same (Yes in step PR2), the controller 80 pushes in the bar BR of the same diameter (step PR3). In the example shown, the controller 80 outputs action commands to the moving mechanism TM (actuator 31 of the support mechanism SD and motor 20 of the lifting mechanism ED), and as shown... Figure 7 As shown, a bar BR with a diameter specified by the supply command is moved from the bar storage position to the bar push-in start position. Then, the controller 80... Figure 8 The sequence of the first state S81, the second state S82, and the third state S83 shown in the diagram causes the pushing mechanism PD to operate sequentially, pushing the bar BR into the anti-vibration tube SP installed in the spindle MS.

[0086] On the other hand, when it is determined that the diameters are different ("No" in step PR2), the controller 80 pulls out the anti-vibration tube SP currently located inside the spindle MS (step PR4). In the example shown, the controller 80 outputs an action command to the pushing mechanism PD to... Figure 6 The sequence of the third state S63, the second state S62, and the first state S61 shown causes the pushing mechanism PD to operate in turn, pulling the anti-vibration tube SP out of the main shaft MS.

[0087] Then, controller 80 pushes another anti-vibration tube, different from the anti-vibration tube SP installed in spindle MS, into spindle MS (step PR5). In the example shown, controller 80 outputs action commands to the moving mechanism TM (actuator 31 of support mechanism SD and motor 20 of lifting mechanism ED), such as... Figure 5 As shown, the vibration-damping tube SP, capable of accommodating a rod BR with a diameter specified by the supply command, is moved from the tube storage position to the tube insertion start position. Then, the controller 80 outputs an action command to the insertion mechanism PD to... Figure 6 The sequence of the first state S61, the second state S62, and the third state S63 shown in the diagram causes the pushing mechanism PD to operate, pushing another anti-vibration tube SP into the main shaft MS.

[0088] Next, the controller 80 determines whether the bar BR has been inserted into another anti-vibration tube SP that has been pushed into the spindle MS (step PR6). This is because sometimes the anti-vibration tube SP is pulled out while the bar BR is already inside it. It should be noted that the bar BR is a bar BR with a diameter specified by the supply command (a diameter different from the diameter of the bar BR that was inserted into the spindle MS before the start of this material supply process). At this time, the controller 80 can determine whether the bar BR is inserted when the anti-vibration tube SP is pushed into the spindle MS again by pre-storing whether the bar BR is inserted into the pulled-out anti-vibration tube SP in a non-volatile storage device or the like.

[0089] If it is determined that a rod BR is installed in another vibration damping tube SP ("Yes" in step PR6), the controller 80 pushes the rod BR already installed in the other vibration damping tube SP into place (step PR7). In the example shown, the controller 80 outputs an action command to the pushing mechanism PD, such as... Figure 9 In the third state S93, the pushing mechanism PD is operated, causing pin 32 to protrude from pin receiving tube 33, thereby pushing the bar BR located in the anti-vibration tube SP towards the Y2 side (right side). This is to enable the processing of the bar BR to begin.

[0090] If it is determined that the rod BR is not installed in another vibration damper SP (No in step PR6), the controller 80 pushes in the new rod BR (step PR8). In the example shown, the controller 80 outputs action commands to the moving mechanism TM (actuator 31 of the support mechanism SD and motor 20 of the lifting mechanism ED), such as... Figure 7 As shown, a bar BR with a diameter specified by the supply command is moved from the bar storage position to the bar push-in start position. Then, the controller 80... Figure 8 The sequence of the first state S81, the second state S82, and the third state S83 shown in the diagram causes the pushing mechanism PD to operate sequentially, pushing the bar BR into the anti-vibration tube SP installed in the spindle MS.

[0091] In this way, controller 80 can supply the appropriate bar stock BR ​​to the spindle MS in response to the supply command from the machine controller CTR.

[0092] As mentioned above, such as Figure 1 As shown, the material supply machine 100 of this embodiment is configured to supply bars BR of different diameters to the spindle MS of the working machine MT. Specifically, as Figure 2 As shown, the material supply machine 100 includes: multiple tubular components (vibration damping tubes SP), each capable of holding bars BR of different diameters and capable of being installed within the spindle MS; and a support component 30 (see...). Figure 3The support member 30 supports the vibration damping tube SP; a moving mechanism TM moves the support member 30 parallel to the axis of the spindle MS in a direction perpendicular to the axis (along the XY plane); and a pushing mechanism PD pushes the vibration damping tube SP supported by the support member 30 into the spindle MS. Furthermore, the support member 30 supports the rod BR, and the pushing mechanism PD pushes the rod BR into the vibration damping tube SP located within the spindle MS. Additionally, the moving mechanism TM is configured to position the support member 30 at the initial position when it begins to support the vibration damping tube SP or the rod BR. Figure 5 The first state S51 or Figure 7 The position of the support component 30 in the first state S71) and the position of the support component 30 when the pushing mechanism PD pushes the anti-vibration tube SP or the bar BR into the spindle MS. Figure 5 The fourth state S54 or Figure 7 The position in the fourth state S74 moves parallel to each other.

[0093] This structure has the following effect: it can provide a material feeder 100 with a structure that is simpler than the conventional structure with a drum.

[0094] Furthermore, the moving mechanism TM can also be configured to allow the support member 30 to move parallel to each other in two directions (X-axis and Z-axis) perpendicular to the axis direction (Y-axis) of the main spindle MS. And, as... Figure 5 and Figure 7 As shown, the moving mechanism TM can also move the long strip component LM (vibration damper SP or rod BR) placed in a specified position by moving the support component 30, so that the long strip component LM moves onto the support component 30.

[0095] This structure has the following effect: the long strip component LM can be moved to the desired position simply by moving the support component 30 in parallel. Specifically, as... Figure 5 As shown, the material supply machine 100 can move the vibration damping tube SP from the tube storage position to the tube insertion start position by sequentially moving the support member 30 to the X2 side, Z1 side, and X1 side. Furthermore, as... Figure 7 As shown, the material supply machine 100 can move the bar BR from the bar storage position to the bar push-in start position by moving the support member 30 sequentially to the X2 side, Z1 side and X1 side.

[0096] In addition, such as Figure 4 As shown, the support member 30 may include a plate-like portion 30V, which has a generally V-shaped cross-section in a virtual plane (a plane parallel to the XZ plane) perpendicular to the axial direction (Y-axis direction) of the spindle MS.

[0097] This structure has the following effect: the long strip LM can be positioned at a desired location simply by placing it at any position on the support member 30. The long strip LM, placed on the support member 30, rolls on the plate-like portion 30V of the support member 30, thereby reaching the deepest part of the generally V-shaped plate-like portion 30V.

[0098] In addition, such as Figure 10 As shown, the vibration damper SP may have a first alignment member 61 that forms a second alignment mechanism AM that aligns the central axis SX of the vibration damper SP with the rotation axis MX of the spindle MS. Furthermore, the first alignment member 61 may be configured to cooperate with a second alignment member 62 mounted on the machine tool MT.

[0099] The structure has the following effect: even when the anti-vibration tube SP is pushed into the spindle MS while the central axis SX and the rotation axis MX are misaligned, the central axis SX and the rotation axis MX can be aligned at the point when the anti-vibration tube SP is pushed in.

[0100] In addition, such as Figure 9 As shown, the pushing mechanism PD can be configured to push out a pin 32 with an outer diameter D2 smaller than the inner diameter D1 of the anti-vibration tube SP. This pin 32 is used to push the bar BR located in the anti-vibration tube SP installed in the spindle MS.

[0101] The structure has the following effect: even if the bar BR located in the anti-vibration tube SP is too short to be suitable for cutting, the bar BR (end material) can be pushed out of the anti-vibration tube SP using pin 32.

[0102] In addition, the anti-vibration tube SP can also be rotatably installed inside the spindle MS together with the spindle MS.

[0103] The structure has the following effect: by rotating the anti-vibration tube SP together with the spindle MS, the vibration of the anti-vibration tube SP can be suppressed.

[0104] Furthermore, the vibration damping tube SP can be configured to be longer than the rod BR. As shown in the example diagram... Figure 9 As shown, in the axial direction (Y-axis direction) of the spindle MS, the length LT1 of the first anti-vibration tube SP1 is longer than the length LT2 of the unused first bar BR1 located inside the first anti-vibration tube SP1.

[0105] The structure has the following effect: compared with the case where the bar BR is longer than the anti-vibration tube SP, that is, when a part of the bar BR extends out of the anti-vibration tube SP, it is easier to suppress the vibration of the bar BR that rotates with the spindle MS.

[0106] Furthermore, the material supply machine 100 may include a computer (controller 80) that controls the actions of the moving mechanism TM and the pushing mechanism PD, respectively. The controller 80 can also actuate the moving mechanism TM to push the material into a predetermined tube receiving position. Figure 5 The pipe component (vibration damper SP) in the position shown in the first state S51 is placed on the support component 30 and moved to the pipe insertion start position. Figure 5 (The position shown in the fourth state S54). Furthermore, as... Figure 6 As shown, controller 80 can activate the pushing mechanism PD to push the anti-vibration tube SP, located at the tube pushing start position, into the spindle MS. Furthermore, controller 80 can activate the moving mechanism TM to move the bar stock to the designated storage position (…). Figure 7 The bar BR (in the position shown in the first state S71) is placed on the support member 30 and moved to the bar push-in start position. Figure 7 (The position shown in the fourth state S74). Furthermore, as... Figure 8 As shown, the controller 80 can activate the pushing mechanism PD to push the bar BR, which is located at the bar pushing start position, into the anti-vibration tube SP located in the spindle MS.

[0107] With this structure, the controller 80 can use the same support component 30 and pushing mechanism PD to sequentially push the anti-vibration tube SP and the bar BR into the main shaft MS. Therefore, this structure has the effect of simplifying the construction of the material supply machine 100.

[0108] In addition, the computer (controller 80) can activate the push mechanism PD to pull the anti-vibration tube SP, which houses the bar BR, out of the spindle MS.

[0109] With this structure, even if unused bar stock BR ​​remains inside the anti-vibration tube SP, the controller 80 can pull out the anti-vibration tube SP containing the bar stock BR ​​from the spindle MS. Therefore, the controller 80 can store the anti-vibration tube SP in the tube storage position with the bar stock BR ​​inside. Furthermore, the controller 80 can push another anti-vibration tube SP, capable of holding another bar stock BR ​​of a different diameter, into the spindle MS. Therefore, this structure allows the machine tool MT to meet various interruption processing requirements. It should be noted that interruption processing includes interrupting machining using a bar stock BR ​​with a first diameter and prioritizing machining using a bar stock BR ​​with a second diameter different from the first diameter.

[0110] In addition, such as Figure 12As shown, the control method of the material supply machine 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes the following steps: the controller 80 activates the moving mechanism TM to place the anti-vibration tube SP, which is located at a predetermined tube storage position, on the support member 30 and move it to a predetermined tube insertion start position (refer to step PR5); the controller 80 activates the insertion mechanism PD to push the anti-vibration tube SP, which is located at the tube insertion start position, into the main shaft MS (refer to step PR5); the controller 80 activates the moving mechanism TM to place the bar BR, which is located at a predetermined bar storage position, on the support member 30 and move it to a predetermined bar insertion start position (refer to steps PR3 and PR8); and the controller 80 activates the insertion mechanism PD to push the bar BR, which is located at the bar insertion start position, into the anti-vibration tube SP located in the main shaft MS (refer to steps PR3 and PR8).

[0111] This control method has the following effect: by operating the material feeder 100, which has a simpler structure than the conventional structure with a drum, it is possible to efficiently supply bar stock BR ​​to the spindle MS of the working machine MT.

[0112] In addition, such as Figure 12 As shown, the program used in the material supply machine 100 of the embodiment of the present invention causes the controller 80 to perform the following processes: actuating the moving mechanism TM to place the anti-vibration tube SP, which is located at a predetermined tube storage position, on the support member 30 and move it to a predetermined tube insertion start position (see step PR5); actuating the insertion mechanism PD to push the anti-vibration tube SP, which is located at the tube insertion start position, into the spindle MS (see step PR5); actuating the moving mechanism TM to place the bar BR, which is located at a predetermined bar storage position, on the support member 30 and move it to a predetermined bar insertion start position (see steps PR3 and PR8); and actuating the insertion mechanism PD to push the bar BR, which is located at the bar insertion start position, into the anti-vibration tube SP located in the spindle MS (see steps PR3 and PR8).

[0113] This program is used in a material feeder 100 with a simpler structure than the conventional one with a drum, and is able to efficiently feed bar stock BR ​​to the spindle MS of the working machine MT.

[0114] The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above. However, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. Various modifications and substitutions can be applied to the above embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, each feature described with reference to the above embodiments can be appropriately combined as long as there is no technical contradiction.

Claims

1. A material feeding machine capable of feeding bars of different diameters to the main shaft of a working machine, and comprising: Multiple tubular components, each capable of holding rods of different diameters and being installed within the main shaft; A support component that can support the tubular component; A moving mechanism that causes the support component to move parallel to the axis of the main shaft in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the main shaft; as well as The pushing mechanism pushes the tubular component, supported by the support member, into the spindle. The supporting component is capable of supporting the rod. The pushing mechanism is configured to push the bar into the tube component located within the main shaft. The moving mechanism is configured to move parallel between the position of the support member when the support member begins to support the tube member or the rod and the position of the support member when the pushing mechanism pushes the tube member or the rod into the spindle.

2. The material supply machine according to claim 1, wherein, The moving mechanism is configured to allow the support member to move parallel to each other in two directions perpendicular to the axis of the main shaft.

3. The material supply machine according to claim 1, wherein, The moving mechanism lifts the tube component or the rod placed in a predetermined position by moving the supporting component, thereby moving the tube component or the rod onto the supporting component.

4. The material supply machine according to claim 1, wherein, The support component includes a plate-like portion having a generally V-shaped cross-section in a virtual plane perpendicular to the axial direction of the spindle.

5. The material supply machine according to claim 1, wherein, The tube component has a first self-aligning component, which constitutes a self-aligning mechanism for aligning the central axis of the tube component with the central axis of the spindle. The first adjusting component is configured to cooperate with a second adjusting component mounted on the working machine.

6. The material supply machine according to claim 1, wherein, The pushing mechanism is configured to push out a pin having an outer diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the tube component, the pin being used to push the bar inside the tube component mounted in the spindle.

7. The material supply machine according to claim 1, wherein, The material supply machine includes a computer that controls the respective actions of the moving mechanism and the pushing mechanism. The computer: The moving mechanism is activated to load the pipe component, which is located in the designated pipe receiving position, onto the support component and move it to the designated pipe pushing start position. The pushing mechanism is activated to push the tube component, which is positioned at the tube pushing start position, into the spindle; The moving mechanism is activated to load the bar, located at a predetermined bar storage position, onto the support member and move it to a predetermined bar insertion start position; and The pushing mechanism is activated to push the bar, positioned at the bar pushing start position, into the tube component located within the main shaft.

8. The material supply machine according to claim 7, wherein, The computer actuates the pushing mechanism to pull the tubular component, which houses the rod, out of the spindle.

9. A control method for a material feeder, which is a control method for a material feeder capable of feeding bars of different diameters to the main shaft of a working machine, wherein, The material supply machine includes: Multiple tubular components, each capable of holding rods of different diameters and being installed within the main shaft; A support component that can support the tubular component; A moving mechanism that causes the support member to move parallel to the axis of the main shaft in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the main shaft; and A pushing mechanism that pushes the tubular component, supported by the support member, into the main shaft; the support member is capable of supporting the rod. The pushing mechanism is configured to push the bar into the tube component located within the main shaft, and the moving mechanism is configured to move the support member parallel to the position of the support member when the support member begins to support the tube component or the bar and the position of the support member when the pushing mechanism pushes the tube component or the bar into the main shaft. The control method includes: The computer causes the moving mechanism to load the pipe component, which is located in the designated pipe receiving position, onto the support component and move it to the designated pipe pushing start position. The computer actuates the pushing mechanism to push the tube component, positioned at the tube pushing start position, into the spindle; The computer causes the moving mechanism to actuate, thereby loading the bar located at the predetermined bar storage position onto the support member and moving it to the predetermined bar insertion start position; and The computer actuates the pushing mechanism to push the bar, positioned at the bar pushing start position, into the tube component located within the main shaft.

10. A program product used in a material feeder capable of feeding bars of different diameters to the spindle of a machine tool, wherein, The material supply machine includes: Multiple tubular components, each capable of holding rods of different diameters and being installed within the main shaft; A support component that can support the tubular component; A moving mechanism that causes the support member to move parallel to the axis of the main shaft in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the main shaft; and A pushing mechanism that pushes the tubular component, supported by the support member, into the main shaft; the support member is capable of supporting the rod. The pushing mechanism is configured to push the bar into the tube component located within the main shaft, and the moving mechanism is configured to move the support member parallel to the position of the support member when the support member begins to support the tube component or the bar and the position of the support member when the pushing mechanism pushes the tube component or the bar into the main shaft. The program product causes the computer to perform the following processes: The moving mechanism is activated to load the pipe component, which is located in the designated pipe receiving position, onto the support component and move it to the designated pipe pushing start position. The pushing mechanism is activated to push the tube component, which is positioned at the tube pushing start position, into the spindle; The moving mechanism is activated to load the bar, located at a predetermined bar storage position, onto the support member and move it to a predetermined bar insertion start position; and The pushing mechanism is activated to push the bar, positioned at the bar pushing start position, into the tube component located within the main shaft.

Images