Tool conveying device and processing system

Abstract

To increase the number of long tools that can be accommodated and to convey the long tools with a simple structure.SOLUTION: A tool conveying device 1 comprises: a tool stocker 11 that is installed adjacent to a processing machine 2 and accommodates a plurality of tools T side by side in a state of being placed thereon; a first tool conveying mechanism 12 that moves the tools to a plurality of stock positions P2 where each tool T accommodated in the tool stocker 11 is placed and a transfer standby position P3 where the tool T attachable to and detachable from a spindle 22 is placed; and a second tool conveying mechanism 13 that moves the tool to the transfer standby position P3 and a tool exchange position P4 being a position which is horizontally offset from the transfer standby position P3 and where the tool is transferred to and from the spindle 22. The second tool conveying mechanism 13 is configured to convey the tool between the transfer standby position P3 and the tool exchange position P4 via a transfer chamber 28 formed inside the processing machine.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a tool transfer device.

Background Art

[0002] As a tool used in a machine tool, a long tool that is longer than a general tool is known. Long tools often do not fit in the tool magazine provided in the machine tool. Therefore, when using a long tool, a long tool stocker for accommodating the long tool is provided in the machine tool separately from the tool magazine. The long tool accommodated in the long tool stocker is delivered to a spindle or the like in the machining chamber by a tool transfer device. Such a tool transfer device is disclosed in, for example, Patent Document 1.

[0003] The tool transfer device of Patent Document 1 includes a plurality of holding members that each hold a long tool and function as a long tool stocker, and a plurality of air cylinders provided corresponding to each holding member and configured to move in the longitudinal direction of the long tool. The air cylinder moves the long tool together with the holding member to a tool exchange position. Due to the spindle in the machining chamber being difficult to approach, the long tool at the tool exchange position is chucked by the spindle.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The tool transfer device of Patent Document 1 is provided in a space such as around the spindle that chucks the workpiece of the machine tool. Accordingly, a long tool stocker for accommodating long tools is also provided in a space such as around the spindle, that is, inside the machine tool. Therefore, due to the size of the machine tool, the number of long tools that can be accommodated is reduced. In addition, in order to transfer the tool to the spindle of the machine tool, an air cylinder, that is, a tool transfer mechanism, is provided for each of a plurality of holding members. Therefore, although it is simply for transferring the tool in a single axial direction, the structure of the tool transfer device is complicated and the number of parts is large.

[0006] An object of the present invention is to make it easy to increase the number of long tools that can be accommodated and to transfer long tools with a simple structure.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] (1) The tool transfer device of the present invention is a tool transfer device used for a machine tool including a processing chamber for processing a workpiece and a spindle provided in the processing chamber for detachably holding a tool, a tool stocker provided alongside the machine tool for accommodating a plurality of tools side by side in a placed state, a first tool transfer mechanism for moving a tool to a plurality of stock positions on which each of the tools accommodated in the tool stocker is placed and a transfer standby position on which the tool to be attached to and detached from the spindle is placed, a second tool transfer mechanism for moving a tool to a tool exchange position that is horizontally offset from the transfer standby position and the transfer standby position and at which the tool is transferred to the spindle, and the second tool transfer mechanism is configured to transfer the tool between the transfer standby position and the tool exchange position via a transfer chamber formed inside the machine tool.

[0008] In the above-described tool transfer device, a tool stocker for storing tools is provided separately from the processing machine, that is, outside the processing machine. In the tool stocker provided outside the processing machine, it is easier to secure a larger space for storing tools compared to the tool stocker provided inside the processing machine. Therefore, the tool stocker provided outside the processing machine can store more tools of various sizes and shapes. In particular, this configuration is effective when the tool is a long tool that cannot be accommodated in the tool magazine inside the processing machine. Further, in the above-described tool transfer device, the first tool transfer mechanism delivers various tools stored in the tool stocker to the second tool transfer mechanism. The second tool transfer mechanism delivers the tool to the spindle of the processing machine. That is, the transfer mechanism for delivering the tool to the spindle of the processing machine is integrated into a single transfer mechanism called the second tool transfer mechanism. Therefore, it is not necessary to provide a tool transfer mechanism for each of the plurality of tools in order to deliver the tool to the spindle of the processing machine. Therefore, according to the above-described tool transfer device, it is possible to increase the number of long tools that can be accommodated and transfer long tools with a simple structure.

[0009] (2) In the tool transfer device of (1) above, The tool stocker may accommodate the plurality of tools arranged in a direction orthogonal to their longitudinal directions.

[0010] (3) In the tool transfer device of (1) above, The tool stocker may accommodate the plurality of tools arranged in the front-rear direction of the processing machine such that their longitudinal directions are parallel to the left-right direction of the processing machine.

[0011] (4) In the tool transfer device of (1) above, The first tool transfer mechanism may move the tool to the plurality of stock positions and the transfer standby positions shifted in the direction in which the tools stored in the tool stocker are aligned from each of the plurality of stock positions.

[0012] (5) In the tool transfer device of (1) above, The first tool transfer mechanism The tool may be moved to the plurality of stock positions and the conveyance standby positions that are displaced in the front-rear direction of the processing machine from the plurality of stock positions.

[0013] According to the tool conveyance device of (2) to (5) above, the accommodation space in the tool stocker can be efficiently utilized as compared with a configuration in which a plurality of tools are arranged in their longitudinal directions.

[0014] (6) In the tool conveyance device of (1) above, the second tool conveyance mechanism may move the tool to the conveyance standby position and the tool exchange position that is displaced in the longitudinal direction of the tool accommodated in the tool stocker from the conveyance standby position.

[0015] (7) In the tool conveyance device of (1) above, the second tool conveyance mechanism may move the tool to the conveyance standby position and the tool exchange position that is displaced in the left-right direction of the processing machine from the conveyance standby position.

[0016] Generally, in a processing machine, equipment for operating the spindle is arranged behind (the back side) of the processing chamber, and a door for loading and unloading workpieces is provided in front (the front side) of the processing chamber. Also, the bottom of the processing chamber is close to the floor of a factory or the like. There may be space above the processing chamber, but if tools are inserted from above the processing chamber, the tool conveyance device becomes large in the vertical direction. In contrast, in the tool conveyance devices of (6) and (7) above, the space in the left-right direction of the processing machine is utilized to convey the tool from the tool stocker to the processing machine. That is, the above tool conveyance device is easily applicable not only to a dedicated processing machine but also to a general-purpose processing machine.

[0017] (8) In the tool conveyance device of (1) above, the direction in which the first tool conveyance mechanism moves the tool may intersect with the direction in which the second tool conveyance mechanism moves the tool.

[0018] When the direction in which the first tool transfer mechanism moves the tool is the same as the direction in which the second tool transfer mechanism moves the tool, the tool transfer device is likely to be enlarged in that direction. In contrast, in the tool transfer device of (8) above, the direction in which the first tool transfer mechanism moves the tool is different from the direction in which the second tool transfer mechanism moves the tool. Therefore, according to this tool transfer device, enlargement of the tool transfer device is suppressed. Preferably, in a top view, the direction in which the first tool transfer mechanism moves the tool intersects the direction in which the second tool transfer mechanism moves the tool. More preferably, in a top view, the direction in which the first tool transfer mechanism moves the tool is orthogonal to the direction in which the second tool transfer mechanism moves the tool.

[0019] (9) In the tool transfer device of (1) above, the first tool transfer mechanism and the second tool transfer mechanism may be provided at a position lower than the ceiling of the processing machine.

[0020] For example, consider the case where a tool is put into the transfer chamber in the processing machine from above. In this case, the tool transfer device needs to move the tool accommodated in the tool stocker to a position higher than the ceiling of the processing machine. As an example of such a transfer method, there is the transfer of a tool using a gantry loader. In this case, it is necessary to provide a guide rail above the processing machine, and the tool transfer device is likely to be enlarged in the vertical direction. In contrast, in the tool transfer device of (9) above, the first and second tool transfer mechanisms for transferring the tool are provided at a position lower than the ceiling of the processing machine. Therefore, according to this tool transfer device, enlargement of the tool transfer device in the vertical direction can be suppressed.

[0021] (10) In the tool transfer device of (1) above, the tool transfer device further includes a plurality of bases on which the plurality of tools are respectively placed, and a locking mechanism that detachably connects each of the plurality of bases to the first tool transfer mechanism.

[0022] In the tool transfer device of (10) above, the first tool transfer mechanism does not directly grip the tool. The first tool transfer mechanism moves the tool by moving the base. The first tool transfer mechanism and the base are detachably connected by a locking mechanism. Therefore, regardless of the size and shape of the tool, the shapes of the objects transferred between the first tool transfer mechanism and the second tool transfer mechanism can be made the same, and it is easy to simplify each tool transfer mechanism.

[0023] (11) In the tool transfer device of (1) above, The tool transfer device further includes a plurality of bases on which the plurality of tools are respectively placed, The first tool transfer mechanism may be connected to the base from the side where the tool is placed on the base and move the tool by moving the base.

[0024] If it is such a thing, adjacent bases can be made adjacent to each other and arranged in the tool stocker. Therefore, according to the above tool transfer device, the number of tools that can be accommodated in the tool stocker can be further increased. In other words, when the first tool transfer mechanism sandwiches and conveys both side faces of the base with a hand having a pair of claw parts, it is necessary to form a gap for the claw parts to penetrate between each base, and the stock position has to be set so that an installation interval occurs between each base. In contrast, in the case of the tool transfer device of (11) above, since it is connected between the tool placement side of the base and the first tool transfer mechanism, there is no need to provide such a gap, and the space in the tool stocker can be utilized to the maximum extent effectively.

[0025] (12) In the tool transfer device of (1) above, The tool transfer device further includes a plurality of bases on which the plurality of tools are respectively placed, The second tool transfer mechanism may be connected to the base from the side opposite to the side where the tool is placed on the base and move the tool by moving the base.

[0026] In the tool transfer device of (12) above, the second tool transfer mechanism is connected to the base from below. Therefore, a transfer mechanism such as a conveyor can be applied as the second tool transfer mechanism. The second tool transfer mechanism does not need to include a lifting mechanism or the like that moves the tool in the vertical direction. Therefore, according to the above tool transfer device, an increase in the size of the tool transfer device in the vertical direction can be suppressed.

[0027] (13) In the tool transfer device of (1) above, the first tool transfer mechanism In addition to the stock position and the transfer standby position, the tool may be moved to a set position where the tool is put into and taken out of the tool stocker.

[0028] For example, when the tool stocker does not have a function of taking in and out tools from the outside, the tool to be stored in the tool stocker is first mounted on the spindle of the machine tool. After that, the tool transfer mechanism transfers the tool received from the spindle to the tool stocker. In contrast, in the tool transfer device of (13) above, the tool can be put into and taken out of the tool stocker without passing through the spindle. Therefore, according to this tool transfer device, the operation of storing the tool in the tool stocker becomes easy.

[0029] (14) In the tool transfer device of (1) above, the machine tool includes a first fixing portion for fixing the first tool transfer mechanism, and a second fixing portion for fixing the second tool transfer mechanism, and by fixing the first tool transfer mechanism and the second tool transfer mechanism to the machine tool by the first fixing portion and the second fixing portion, the machine tool, the first tool transfer mechanism, and the second tool transfer mechanism may be configured to be separable from the tool stocker.

[0030] In order to automatically transfer the tool between the second tool transfer mechanism and the spindle of the machine tool at the tool change position, the position of the second tool transfer mechanism relative to the machine tool is crucial. Suppose the second tool transfer mechanism is fixed to the tool stocker. In this case, when assembling the tool transfer mechanism, an alignment operation is required to enable the machine tool to recognize the tool change position. Similarly, suppose the first tool transfer mechanism is fixed to the machine tool and the second tool transfer mechanism is fixed to the tool stocker. In this case, an alignment operation is needed to allow the first tool transfer mechanism to recognize the transfer standby position. In the tool transfer device described in (14) above, both the first tool transfer mechanism and the second tool transfer mechanism are fixed to the machine tool. Therefore, for example, if the machine tool is shipped with the first tool transfer mechanism and the second tool transfer mechanism attached, there is no need to perform the above-mentioned alignment operation when assembling the tool transfer device at the destination. Thus, according to this tool transfer device, the assembly work of the tool transfer device can be facilitated.

[0031] (15) In the tool transfer device described in (1) above, The tool stocker is Provided adjacent to the side surface of the machine tool, When the machine tool is divided vertically into two at the center of its height, in a side view, the area where the tool stocker overlaps with the upper part of the machine tool may be larger than the area where the tool stocker overlaps with the lower part of the machine tool.

[0032] (16) In the tool transfer device described in (1) above, The tool stocker is A tool storage housing for accommodating the plurality of tools, And support legs for supporting the tool storage housing, The support legs are May be configured to form a space under the tool storage housing.

[0033] (17) In the tool transfer device described in (16) above, The machine tool further Includes a machining waste transfer device for transferring machining waste generated by machining the workpiece, The machining chip conveying device may be provided in the space below the tool storage housing and include a discharge portion that discharges the machining chips from the machine tool. It may be provided in the space below the tool storage housing and include a discharge portion that discharges the machining chips from the machine tool.

[0034] Generally, a discharge port of a machining chip conveying device, a machining chip storage bucket, etc. are often provided laterally at the lower part of a machine tool. In the tool conveying devices of the above (15) to (17), the tool stocker is provided side by side at the upper part of the machine tool. That is, the tools are stored using the space located above the discharge portion of the machining chip conveying device. Therefore, for example, it is easy to expand the tool stocker in the front-rear direction. Thus, according to this tool conveying device, the number of tools that can be stored in the tool stocker can be further increased.

[0035] (18) In the tool conveying device of the above (1), the plurality of stock positions are arranged side by side in the front-rear direction of the machine tool, and the front-rear direction distance between the foremost stock position and the rearmost stock position may be longer than the front-rear direction distance of the machining chamber.

[0036] (19) In the tool conveying device of the above (1), the plurality of stock positions are arranged side by side in the front-rear direction of the machine tool, and the conveyance standby position may be provided in front of at least one stock position and also provided behind at least one stock position.

[0037] The tool conveyed by the second tool conveyance mechanism is delivered to the spindle of the machine tool. In the machine tool, various devices such as devices for operating the spindle are arranged behind the spindle in the machining chamber. Due to the arrangement of these devices, the machine tool protrudes rearward from the position of the spindle (the position where the spindle descends to the most rearward position). Suppose that the conveyance standby position for delivering the tool between the spindle and the second tool conveyance mechanism is provided behind all the stock positions. In this case, all the tools are accommodated in front of the conveyance standby position, that is, in front of the second tool conveyance mechanism. This means that no stock position is provided beside the portion of the machine tool that protrudes rearward from the second tool conveyance mechanism. On the other hand, in the tool conveyance devices of the above (18) and (19), at least one stock position is provided in front of and behind the conveyance standby position. With this configuration, the space beside the portion of the machine tool that protrudes rearward from the second tool conveyance mechanism can also be effectively utilized. That is, in the above tool conveyance device, the length of the machine tool in the front-rear direction is effectively utilized to accommodate the tools in the tool stocker. Therefore, according to this tool conveyance device, it is possible to increase the number of tools that can be accommodated in the tool stocker while suppressing the enlargement of the tool conveyance device.

[0038] (20) The machining system of the present invention includes any one of the tool conveyance devices of the above (1) to (19) and the machine tool.

Advantages of the Invention

[0039] According to the tool conveyance device of the present invention, it is possible to increase the number of long tools that can be accommodated and convey the long tools with a simple structure.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0040]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0041] Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0042] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of the machining system of the present embodiment. The machining system 100 includes a tool transfer device 1, a machine tool 2, and a control device (not shown). In the machining system 100, the tools used in the machine tool 2 are stored in the tool transfer device 1. The tool transfer device 1 transfers the stored tools and delivers them to the machine tool 2. The tool transfer device 1 transfers and stores the tools delivered from the machine tool 2. Hereinafter, each configuration will be described in detail.

[0043] <Configuration> [Machine Tool] The machine tool 2 is a machine for machining a workpiece. The machine tool 2 is a composite machining machine having a turning function and a milling function. The machine tool 2 may be, for example, a machine that can perform not only removal machining but also additive machining, and may be of any type to which the tool transfer device described later can be applied.

[0044] The processing machine 2 includes a door 295 that can be opened and closed. The door 295 forms part of the exterior of the processing machine 2. The door 295 opens and blocks the passage between the processing chamber for processing the workpiece and the outside of the processing machine 2. The door 295 is configured to be able to carry the workpiece into the processing chamber and carry the workpiece out of the processing chamber. The door 295 is provided on the front of the processing machine 2. Hereinafter, the front of the processing machine 2 refers to the surface on the side of the processing machine 2 where the door 295 is provided. The back of the processing machine 2 refers to the surface on the side opposite to the front in the processing machine 2. Also, in the processing machine 2, the direction from the back to the front is referred to as the forward direction, and the direction from the front to the back is referred to as the backward direction. In the processing machine 2, the left direction refers to the direction towards the left of the processing machine 2 in a front view, and the right direction refers to the direction towards the right of the processing machine 2 in a front view. In the processing machine 2, the upward direction refers to the direction towards the top (ceiling) of the processing machine 2 in a front view, and the downward direction refers to the direction towards the bottom (floor) of the processing machine 2 in a front view.

[0045] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram schematically showing the structure of the processing machine of the present embodiment. The processing machine 2 includes a processing chamber 21 for processing a workpiece and a main shaft 22 provided in the processing chamber. The processing chamber 21 is a space for processing the workpiece. The processing chamber 21 is formed by a splash guard or the like. The main shaft 22 detachably holds a tool via a tool holder. The main shaft 22 is rotatably held by a spindle head (not shown). The spindle head is movably held in the vertical direction (also referred to as the X direction) and the front-rear direction (also referred to as the Y direction) on a column (not shown) erected at the rear end of the bed 29 of the processing machine 2. The column is movably supported in the left-right direction (also referred to as the Z direction) on the upper surface of the rear end of the bed. With such a configuration, the main shaft 22 can move in the vertical direction, the front-rear direction, and the left-right direction. Also, the main shaft 22 is configured to be rotatable about a rotation axis (also referred to as the B axis) parallel to the front-rear direction.

[0046] The processing machine 2 further includes a work spindle 23 and an auxiliary work spindle 24. The work spindle 23 and the auxiliary work spindle 24 are provided in the processing chamber 21. The work spindle 23 and the auxiliary work spindle 24 are provided on the bed 29. Each of the work spindle 23 and the auxiliary work spindle 24 includes a chuck for gripping the end of the work. The work spindle 23 and the auxiliary work spindle 24 support the work such that its central axis is parallel to the left-right direction.

[0047] The processing machine 2 further includes a standard tool magazine 25, a standard tool changer 26, and a machining chip conveyor 27. The standard tool magazine 25 houses a plurality of tools 251 to be mounted on the spindle 22. The standard tool magazine 25 is provided within the processing machine 2. The standard tool magazine 25 is provided adjacent to the processing chamber 21. At least a part of the standard tool magazine 25 is provided to the left of the processing chamber 21. The standard tool changer 26 is a magazine-type automatic tool changer. The standard tool changer 26 is provided within the processing machine 2. The standard tool changer 26 performs the transfer of tools between the standard tool magazine 25 and the spindle 22. The machining chip conveyor 27 conveys the machining chips produced by machining the work. The machining chip conveyor 27 conveys the machining chips generated in the processing chamber 21 outside the processing machine 2. The machining chip conveyor 27 extends in the left-right direction from the processing chamber 21. A part of the machining chip conveyor 27 is provided within the processing machine 2, and the rest is provided outside the processing machine 2. The machining chip conveyor 27 includes a receiving portion 271 for receiving the machining chips. The receiving portion 271 is provided below the processing chamber 21. The machining chip conveyor 27 includes a discharging portion 272 for discharging the machining chips. The discharging portion 272 is provided outside the processing machine 2. The discharging portion 272 protrudes outward from the lower part of the right side surface of the processing machine 2. The discharging portion 272 includes, for example, a discharge port 2721. The discharging portion 272 includes, for example, a bucket 2722 for accommodating the machining chips discharged from the discharge port.

[0048] In the processing machine 2, a transfer chamber 28 is provided. The transfer chamber 28 is provided adjacent to the tool stocker 11. The transfer chamber 28 is provided so as to protrude into the processing chamber 21 from the exterior surface (right side surface) of the processing machine 2. The transfer chamber 28 is provided so as to protrude into the processing chamber 21 from the ceiling of the processing chamber 21. The transfer chamber 28 is provided at the upper right part of the processing machine 2. In the transfer chamber 28, a tool T to be delivered to the main shaft 22 by a second tool transfer mechanism 13 described later is transferred.

[0049] [Tool transfer device] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view in a front view of the tool transfer device of the present embodiment. This figure is a view obtained by cutting the tool transfer device 1 in a plane perpendicular to the front-rear direction and viewed from the front. The tool transfer device 1 includes a tool stocker 11, a first tool transfer mechanism 12, and a second tool transfer mechanism 13.

[0050] [Tool stocker] The tool stocker 11 stores a plurality of tools T arranged in a placed state. Here, the tool T is a long tool called a long tool. The tool T has a size that cannot be completely accommodated in the standard tool magazine 25 of the processing machine 2. The tool T has, for example, a length dimension in its longitudinal direction that is larger than the dimension in the front-rear direction or the left-right direction of the accommodation portion in the standard tool magazine 25 where the tool is accommodated.

[0051] The tool stocker 11 is provided adjacent to the processing machine 2. More specifically, the tool stocker 11 is provided on the right side of the processing machine 2. However, the tool stocker 11 may be provided on the left side of the processing machine 2. The tool stocker 11 is provided so as to be connected to the processing machine 2. However, the tool stocker 11 may be provided at a predetermined distance from the processing machine 2. The predetermined distance is not particularly limited and is appropriately set according to the product specifications and the like.

[0052] The tool stocker 11 includes a support leg 111 and a tool storage housing 112. The support leg 111 is provided on the floor of the facility where the tool transfer device 1 and the processing machine 2 are installed. The support leg 111 supports the tool storage housing 112. The support leg 111 is configured to form a space below the tool storage housing 112. In this way, with the tool storage housing 112 supported upward by the support leg 111, an equipment storage space is formed below the tool storage housing 112. As a result, the discharge part 272 of the machining waste transfer device 27 arranged on the right side of the processing machine 2 can be arranged. That is, even if the tool transfer device 1 is additionally installed as an option with respect to the processing machine 2, the overall footprint can be made not to change so much. Further, since the tool storage housing 112 is arranged above the discharge part 272, the entire width in the front-rear direction of the processing machine 2 can be utilized. Therefore, it is possible to increase the number of tools T that can be stored inside even when placed horizontally. The support leg 111 has, for example, a frame structure. As an example, the support leg 111 is composed of at least four columns. Each column supports a corner of the lower surface of the tool storage housing 112.

[0053] The tool storage housing 112 is provided on the support leg 111. The tool storage housing 112 has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. The tool storage housing 112 forms a tool storage chamber for storing tools inside. The tool storage housing 112 has a front surface, a rear surface, an upper surface, a lower surface, and a right side surface, and the left side surface of the tool storage housing 112 is open.

[0054] The tool storage housing 112 is installed adjacent to the upper right part of the processing machine 2. The tool storage housing 112 is connected to the right side surface of the processing machine 2. The tool storage housing 112 is provided so as to be adjacent to the transfer chamber 28 formed inside the processing machine 2. The tool storage housing 112 is provided at a predetermined height position from the lower end (floor) of the support leg 111. The tool storage housing 112 is provided at a position higher than the machining waste transfer device 27 (see FIG. 2) of the processing machine 2. At least a part of the discharge part 272 of the machining waste transfer device 27 of the processing machine 2 is provided below the tool storage housing 112.

[0055] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the tool transfer device of the present embodiment as viewed from the right side. This figure is a view of the tool transfer device 1 cut along a plane perpendicular to the left-right direction and viewed from the right side. The tool storage housing 112 has a length in the front-rear direction that can accommodate a plurality of tools T. The length of the tool storage housing 112 in the front-rear direction is longer than the length of the machining chamber 21 in the front-rear direction. The front surface 1121 of the tool storage housing 112 is provided in front of the center of the machining machine 2 in the left-right direction. The front surface 1121 of the tool storage housing 112 is provided at substantially the same position as the front door of the machining machine 2 in the front-rear direction. The rear surface 1122 of the tool storage housing 112 is provided behind the center of the machining machine 2 in the left-right direction. The rear surface 1122 of the tool storage housing 112 is provided behind the rear surface of the machining chamber 21 in the front-rear direction. However, the size of the tool storage housing 112 described in the present embodiment is an example. The size of the tool storage housing 112 may be appropriately changed according to the type, number, size, etc. of the tools to be accommodated. Note that a drawer 1123 is provided on the front surface 1121 of the tool storage housing 112. The drawer 1123 is movable in the front-rear direction. The drawer 1123 can be pulled out in front of the front surface 1121 of the tool storage housing 112. The drawer 1123 can accommodate the tool T that is inserted from the outside of the tool stocker 11. Here, the outside of the tool stocker 11 refers to the outside of the processing system 100. The outside of the tool stocker 11 does not refer to the machining machine 2.

[0056] Each of the plurality of tools T is arranged such that its longitudinal direction is parallel to the left-right direction. The plurality of tools T are arranged side by side. The plurality of tools T are arranged and accommodated in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of each tool. The plurality of tools T are arranged and accommodated in the front-rear direction.

[0057] FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a configuration in which the tool stocker of the present embodiment is separated from the machining machine. The tool stocker 11 is configured to be separable from the machining machine 2, the first tool transfer mechanism 12, and the second tool transfer mechanism 13.

[0058] [Base] FIG. 6 is a view showing the tools stored in the tool stocker of the present embodiment. In the figure, (A) is a view of the tool T seen from the right side. In order to store the tools in the tool stocker 11, the tool transfer device 1 includes a plurality of bases 14. Since the plurality of bases 14 have the same configuration, only one base will be described below. The base 14 has a plate shape with the longitudinal direction in the left-right direction. The base 14 is configured to support the tool T on the upper surface side. The method of supporting the tool by the base 14 is not particularly limited. For example, as shown in (B) in the figure, the base 14 includes a plurality of supports 141 for supporting the tool T. The supports 141 are on the upper surface of the base 14 and are provided at least two or more side by side along the longitudinal direction on the placement surface side of the tool. The support 141 is, for example, generally in the shape of a V-block and is configured to be detachable from the base 14. The first support supports the first end of the tool. The second support supports the second end of the tool. For example, the longitudinal position of the support 141 on the upper surface of the base 14 can be appropriately changed according to the weight and length of the tool. The plurality of supports 141 are configured to be able to appropriately change the position, size, shape, etc. according to the tool to be supported. Further, in the present embodiment, the upper surface side of the base 14 is connected to the first tool transfer mechanism 12 described later, and the lower surface side of the base 14 is connected to the second tool transfer mechanism 13 described later.

[0059] [First Tool Transfer Mechanism] FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing the first tool transfer mechanism in the tool transfer device of the present embodiment. The first tool transfer mechanism 12 transfers the tool in the front-rear direction of the processing machine 2 within the tool storage housing 112. The first tool transfer mechanism 12 is provided at the upper right part of the processing machine 2. The first tool transfer mechanism 12 is provided so that at least a part thereof protrudes from the processing machine 2. The first tool transfer mechanism 12 is provided so that at least a part thereof protrudes from the processing machine 2 in the left-right direction. The first tool transfer mechanism 12 is provided at a position lower than the ceiling 291 of the processing machine 2. The first tool transfer mechanism 12 can move the tool T in the vertical direction and the front-rear direction. More specifically, the first tool transfer mechanism 12 includes a front-rear movement mechanism 121, a vertical movement mechanism 122, and a transfer arm 123.

[0060] The forward and backward movement mechanism 121 moves the transfer arm 123 in the forward and backward directions. The forward and backward movement mechanism 121 is, for example, a slider. However, the forward and backward movement mechanism 121 is not limited to a slider. The forward and backward movement mechanism 121 may be configured to be able to move the transfer arm 123 in the forward and backward directions. The forward and backward movement mechanism 121 includes a guide rail 1211, a slide base 1212, and a drive device 1213. The guide rail 1211 is provided at the upper right part of the processing machine 2. The guide rail 1211 extends in the forward and backward directions. In the forward and backward directions, both ends of the guide rail 1211 are fixed to the processing machine 2 via the first fixing portion 293. The first fixing portion 293 uses, for example, a frame that supports each device of the processing machine 2, a splash guard, etc., or is fixed. Therefore, by fixing the guide rail 1211 to the first fixing portion 293, the guide rail 1211 is configured to be positioned with respect to each device of the processing machine 2. Also, as will be described later, the second tool transfer mechanism 13 is not a tool stocker but is fixed to the processing machine 2 side. Since each transfer mechanism related to the transfer of the tool T is fixed to the processing machine 2 in this way, even when a tool stocker 11 for long tools is additionally provided as an option to the processing machine 2, it is easy to adjust the positions of the respective devices. That is, the stationary part as a function of the tool transfer device 1 is concentrated in the tool storage housing 112, and the movable part that requires alignment is fixed to the processing machine 2. For this reason, after the alignment is completed, the tool transfer device 1 can be assembled only by covering the parts of each transfer mechanism that are exposed from the processing machine 2 to the outside with the tool storage housing 112. Therefore, it is easy to add as an optional function. The slide base 1212 is slidably attached along the guide rail 1211. The slide base 1212 has a plate shape. The slide base 1212 extends downward from the guide rail. The slide base 1212 moves in the forward and backward directions along the guide rail 1211. The slide base 1212 is moved by the drive device 1213. The drive device 1213 is, for example, a servo motor. However, the drive device 1213 is not limited to this. The drive device 1213 may be any device that can move the slide base 1212, such as various motors such as a linear motor, a hydraulic device, a pneumatic device, or other actuators.

[0061] The vertical movement mechanism 122 moves the transfer arm 123 in the vertical direction. The vertical movement mechanism 122 includes a guide rail 1221 and a lifting device 1222. The guide rail 1221 is attached to the slide base 1212 of the front-back movement mechanism 121. The guide rail 1221 extends in the vertical direction. The lifting device 1222 is attached to the slide base 1212 of the front-back movement mechanism 121. The lifting device 1222 is a hydraulic device. However, the lifting device 1222 is not limited thereto. The lifting device 1222 may be any device that can move the transfer arm 123 in the vertical direction. The lifting device 1222 may be various motors, sliders, pneumatic devices, other actuators, etc.

[0062] The transfer arm 123 is movably attached to the guide rail 1221 of the vertical movement mechanism 122. The transfer arm 123 includes an arm portion 1231 and a plurality of claw portions 1232. The arm portion 1231 extends in the left-right direction. The left end portion of the arm portion 1231 is movably attached to the guide rail 1221. The upper portion of the arm portion 1231 is attached to the lifting device 1222. The plurality of claw portions 1232 are provided at the lower portion of the arm portion 1231. The plurality of claw portions 1232 extend downward from the arm portion 1231. In this embodiment, four claw portions 1232 are provided. Two claw portions 1232 are provided at the tip (right end portion) of the arm portion 1231 with a predetermined interval in the front-back direction. The remaining two claw portions 1232 are provided at a position a predetermined distance away from the tip of the arm portion 1231 in the left-right direction. The remaining two claw portions 1232 are also provided with a predetermined interval in the front-back direction. The interval between two adjacent claw portions 1232 in the front-back direction is larger than the diameter of the tool T. The plurality of claw portions 1232 are provided so as to straddle the tool T. However, the plurality of claw portions 1232 do not contact the tool T. The plurality of claw portions 1232 are configured to be detachable from the base 14 via the locking mechanism 15. The plurality of claw portions 1232 are connected so as to be inserted into the base 14 via the locking mechanism 15.

[0063] [Locking mechanism] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a lock mechanism that connects the first tool transfer mechanism and the base in the tool transfer device of the present embodiment. Referring to (A) in the figure, the lock mechanism 15 detachably connects the base 14 and the first tool transfer mechanism 12 (claw portion 1232). The lock mechanism 15 is, for example, a catch cylinder. That is, the lock mechanism 15 is provided between the claw portion 1232 of the first tool transfer mechanism 12 and the upper surface of the base, and includes a recess 151 and a protrusion 152. In this embodiment, the recess 151 is provided on the upper surface side of the base 14, and the protrusion 152 is provided on the claw portion 1232.

[0064] The recess 151 is provided in the base 14. The recess 151 has a hole shape. The recess 151 opens to the upper surface of the base 14. The inner peripheral surface of the recess 151 includes a reduced diameter portion 1511.

[0065] The protrusion 152 is provided at the lower end of the claw portion 1232. The protrusion 152 protrudes downward from the lower end of the claw portion 1232. The protrusion 152 includes a cylinder 1521, a pressure device 1522, a piston 1523, an elastic member 1524, and a plurality of balls 1525. The upper end of the cylinder 1521 is fixed to the claw portion 1232. The upper end of the cylinder 1521 is connected to the pressure device 1522. The pressure device 1522 is a pneumatic device, an electric actuator, or the like. The lower end of the cylinder 1521 is configured to be insertable into the recess 151. A plurality of balls 1525 are provided at the lower end of the cylinder 1521. The plurality of balls 1525 are provided so as to be able to protrude from the outer peripheral surface of the cylinder 1521. A piston 1523 is provided inside the cylinder 1521. The piston 1523 is configured to be movable along the axial direction of the cylinder 1521. The piston 1523 is connected to an elastic member 1524 provided in the cylinder 1521. The elastic member 1524 is, for example, a spring. The rod portion of the piston 1523 is configured such that a part thereof has a reduced diameter.

[0066] Referring to (B) in the figure, when connecting the claw portion 1232 and the base 14, that is, when inserting the convex portion 152 of the locking mechanism 15 into the concave portion 151, the pressure device 1522 operates. The pressure device 1522 pushes down the piston 1523 in the cylinder 1521. As a result, the reduced-diameter portion of the piston is positioned inside the plurality of balls 1525. The plurality of balls 1525 can move inward and can be retracted from the outer peripheral surface of the cylinder 1521. Thereby, the convex portion 152 is inserted into the concave portion 151. When the convex portion 152 is inserted into the concave portion 151, the pressure device 1522 becomes inactive, and the piston 1523 is pushed up by the elastic member 1524. As a result, as shown in (A) in the figure, the plurality of balls 1525 are pushed outwards and protrude from the outer peripheral surface of the cylinder 1521. The protruding portions of the plurality of balls 1525 are restricted from moving upward by the reduced-diameter portion 1511 of the concave portion 151. Thereby, the first tool transfer mechanism 12 can move the tool T by moving the base 14 via the locking mechanism 15.

[0067] Referring to FIG. 4, the first tool transfer mechanism 12 moves the tool T to the set position P1, the stock position P2, and the transfer standby position P3. The first tool transfer mechanism 12 is configured to transfer the tool T between the set position P1 and the stock position P2. The first tool transfer mechanism 12 is configured to transfer the tool T between the stock position P2 and the transfer standby position P3. The first tool transfer mechanism 12 may be configured to transfer the tool T between the set position P1 and the transfer standby position P3.

[0068] [Set position] The set position P1 is the position where the tool T to be placed into the tool stocker 11 from outside the tool stocker 11 is placed. The set position P1 is provided within the tool stocker 11 (tool housing 112). The set position P1 is provided so as to be aligned in the front-rear direction with the stock position P2 and the transfer standby position P3. More specifically, the arrangement intervals in the front-rear direction of the set position P1, the stock position P2, and the transfer standby position P3 are set to be constant. In a state where the bases 14 with the tool T placed at each position are set, the long sides of the bases 14 are adjacent to each other with almost no gap. Here, "almost no gap" means that there is only a gap smaller than the width dimension of the claw portion 1232 of the first tool transfer mechanism 12. The set position P1 is provided in front of the stock position P2 and the transfer standby position P3. The set position P1 is set on the drawer 1123 in a state of being pushed into the tool housing 112 of the tool stocker 11. The tool T is placed at the set position P1 via the base 14. More specifically, the operator pulls out the drawer 1123 forward from the tool housing 112 and sets the base 14 with the tool T placed on the drawer 1123. Here, after setting the drawer 1123, the operator pushes the drawer 1123 into the tool housing 112, so that the tool T on the base 14 is configured to be arranged at the set position P1.

[0069] [Stock position] The stock position P2 is the position where the tool T to be stored in the tool stocker 11 is placed. Since the tool stocker 11 can store a plurality of tools, a plurality of stock positions P2 are provided. More specifically, the tool T arranged at the stock position P2 is a tool that is not used in the current processing step or the next processing step and is a tool in standby. Each stock position P2 is provided within the tool stocker 11 (tool housing 112). Each stock position P2 is provided side by side in the front-rear direction. The distance in the front-rear direction between the foremost stock position P2 and the rearmost stock position P2 is longer than the distance in the front-rear direction of the processing chamber 21 (the distance between the inner surface of the door forming the front surface of the processing chamber 21 and the wall surface forming the rear surface of the processing chamber 21). The base 14 can be placed at each stock position P2. The tool T is placed at each stock position P2 via the base 14.

[0070] [Tool Waiting Position] The tool waiting position P3 is the position where the tool T detachably attached to the spindle 22 is placed. That is, the tool waiting position P3 is the position where the tool T attached to the spindle 22 is placed and the position where the tool T removed from the spindle 22 and housed in the tool stocker 11 is placed. In the present embodiment, the tool waiting position P3 is a position where the tool T removed from the spindle 22 is temporarily placed until it is conveyed to the stock position P2 by the first tool conveyance mechanism 12. Also, the tool waiting position P3 is a position where the tool T at the stock position P2 is temporarily placed until it is conveyed to the spindle 22. The tool T removed from the spindle 22 is conveyed to the tool waiting position P3 and then placed at the stock position P2. The tool waiting position P3 is provided within the tool stocker 11 (tool housing 112). However, the tool waiting position P3 may be provided in the conveyance chamber 28 formed in the processing machine 2. One tool waiting position P3 is provided. The tool waiting position P3 is provided at a position shifted in the direction (front-rear direction) in which the tools T housed in the tool stocker 11 are aligned from each stock position P2. The tool waiting position P3 is provided in the middle of a plurality of stock positions P2 arranged in the front-rear direction. The tool waiting position P3 is provided in front of at least one stock position P2. The tool waiting position P3 is provided behind at least one stock position P2. The tool waiting position P3 is provided between two adjacent stock positions P2 in the front-rear direction. The tool waiting position P3 is provided at the center of the tool housing 112 in the front-rear direction. However, the position where the tool waiting position P3 is provided is not particularly limited. The tool waiting position P3 may be a position different from the stock position P2. The tool waiting position P3 is provided in a part of the second tool conveyance mechanism 13. The tool waiting position P3 corresponds to the end (right end) on the tool stocker 11 side of the second tool conveyance mechanism 13 extending in the left-right direction.

[0071] [Second Tool Conveyance Mechanism] Referring to FIG. 3, the second tool transfer mechanism 13 is a conveyor. The second tool transfer mechanism 13 includes a transfer table 131 and a left-right movement mechanism 132. As shown in FIG. 5, the second tool transfer mechanism 13 is provided below the first tool transfer mechanism 12 and is configured such that the transfer directions intersect at 90 degrees at a twisted position. This second tool transfer mechanism 13 mainly transfers the tool T between the transfer standby position P3 of the tool stocker 11 and the tool exchange position P4 where tool exchange with the tool spindle 22 is performed. Also, while the first tool transfer mechanism 12 is connected to the upper surface side of the base 14 to transfer the tool T, the second tool transfer mechanism 13 is connected to the lower surface side of the base 14 to transfer the tool T.

[0072] The transfer table 131 has a plate shape. The transfer table 131 is configured such that the base 14 can be placed thereon. The transfer table 131 supports the base 14 placed on the transfer table 131. The transfer table 131 is configured such that the base 14 placed on the transfer table 131 can be removed from the transfer table 131. The transfer table 131 includes a regulating mechanism for regulating the movement of the base 14 relative to the transfer table 131. The regulating mechanism is, for example, a positioning pin or the like. The transfer table 131 is attached to the left-right movement mechanism 132.

[0073] The left - right movement mechanism 132 moves the transfer table 131 in the left - right direction. The left - right movement mechanism 132 extends in the left - right direction. The left - right movement mechanism 132 is fixed to the processing machine 2 via a second fixing part (not shown). The second fixing part is also fixed to a frame or the like that supports each device of the processing machine 2. By fixing the left - right movement mechanism 132 to the second fixing part, it is positioned relative to each device of the processing machine 2. The left - right movement mechanism 132 includes a transmission device 1321 and a drive device 1322. The transmission device 1321 extends in the left - right direction. The transmission device 1321 supports the transfer table 131. The transmission device 1321 is a chain, a belt, or the like. The drive device 1322 drives the transmission device 1321. The drive device 1322 is, for example, a servo motor. The drive device 1322 is not limited to a servo motor as long as it can move the transfer table 131. Note that the left - right movement mechanism 132 is not limited to such a configuration. As long as it can move the transfer table 131, it may be various actuators, pneumatic devices, hydraulic devices, etc. The left - right movement mechanism 132 moves the transfer table 131 between the right - hand end on the side of the transfer standby position P3 and the left - hand end on the side of the tool change position P4. When the transfer table 131 is arranged at the right - hand end, the tool T on the base 14 attached to the upper part of the transfer table 131 is arranged at the transfer standby position P3, and the upper surfaces of the plurality of each base 14 placed in the tool stocker 11 are configured to be substantially flush.

[0074] At least a part of the second tool transfer mechanism 13 having such a configuration is provided inside the processing machine 2. At least a part of the second tool transfer mechanism 13 is provided in the upper - right part of the processing machine 2. The second tool transfer mechanism 13 is provided so as not to protrude from the transfer chamber 28 to the processing chamber 21 of the processing machine 2. A part of the second tool transfer mechanism 13 is provided so as to protrude from the processing machine 2 toward the tool stocker 11 side. A part of the second tool transfer mechanism 13 is provided so as to protrude from the right - hand side surface 292 of the processing machine 2. The second tool transfer mechanism 13 is provided so as to penetrate the right - hand side surface 292 of the processing machine 2. The second tool transfer mechanism 13 passes through an opening provided in the right - hand side surface 292 of the processing machine 2 and protrudes to the right of the processing machine 2.

[0075] The second tool transfer mechanism 13 is provided at a position lower than the ceiling 291 of the processing machine 2. A part of the second tool transfer mechanism 13 is provided inside the tool stocker 11. The right end portion of the second tool transfer mechanism 13 is provided inside the tool stocker 11. The left end portion of the second tool transfer mechanism 13 is provided inside the processing machine 2. The left end portion of the second tool transfer mechanism 13 is provided inside the transfer chamber 28 of the processing machine 2. The left end portion of the second tool transfer mechanism 13 is provided on the right side of the shutter 281 that separates the processing chamber and the transfer chamber. The second tool transfer mechanism 13 is configured such that at least a part of the tool T protrudes into the processing chamber 21 when the tool T is located at the tool exchange position P4. The second tool transfer mechanism 13 is configured such that the tip end portion (left end portion) of the tool T protrudes into the processing chamber 21. The base end portion of this tool T is attached to the spindle 22. Note that the tool exchange position P4 may be provided in the transfer chamber 28, and the base end portion thereof does not have to be exposed in the processing chamber 21 in a state where the tool T is arranged at the tool exchange position P4. For example, the tip end portion of the spindle 22 may enter the transfer chamber 28 and be attached to and detached from the base end portion of the tool T.

[0076] [Tool exchange position] The tool exchange position P4 is the position where the tool T is attached to and detached from the spindle 22. The tool exchange position P4 is provided inside the processing chamber 21. The tool exchange position P4 is provided at a position shifted in the longitudinal direction (left - right direction) of the tool T accommodated in the tool stocker 11 from the transfer standby position P3. That is, the second tool transfer mechanism 13 moves the tool T to the tool exchange position P4, which is a position horizontally shifted with respect to the transfer standby position P3 and the transfer standby position P3. The second tool transfer mechanism 13 is configured to transfer the tool T between the transfer standby position P3 and the tool exchange position P4 via the transfer chamber 28 formed inside the processing machine 2. In other words, the second tool transfer mechanism 13 is configured to be able to reciprocate the tool T between the transfer standby position P3 and the tool exchange position P4.

[0077] [Control device] A control device (not shown) controls the operations of the first tool transfer mechanism 12 and the second tool transfer mechanism 13. The control device may control the operation of the processing machine 2. The control device is composed of a computer including a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, etc. The control device controls the operations of each component of the processing system 100 by executing a computer program stored in a recording medium.

[0078] <Operation> Subsequently, the operation of the processing system 100 will be described. First, the case where the tool transfer device 1 moves the tool T from the set position P1 to the stock position P2 will be described.

[0079] Referring to FIG. 4, first, the operator opens the drawer 1123 of the tool stocker 11 and puts the tool T into the drawer. The operator closes the drawer 1123 into which the tool has been put. As a result, the tool T is arranged at the set position P1. Thereafter, the operator operates the operation panel. It is input to the operation panel that the tool is accommodated in the drawer 1123. Note that the arrangement of the tool at the set position P1 may be performed manually or by a machine.

[0080] Next, based on the input from the operation panel, the control device controls the first tool transfer mechanism 12. The first tool transfer mechanism 12 moves the tool T placed at the set position P1 to the stock position P2. More specifically, the transfer arm 123 of the first tool transfer mechanism 12 is waiting at the initial position. The initial position is not particularly limited. The initial position is, for example, above the transfer standby position P3. Next, the transfer arm 123 moves in the front-rear direction based on an instruction from the control device. The transfer arm 123 stops above the set position P1. Next, the transfer arm 123 descends and is connected to the base arranged at the set position P1. Next, the transfer arm 123 holds the base supporting the tool T and rises and stops at a predetermined height. Next, the transfer arm 123 moves in the front-rear direction and the up-down direction and places the base on a predetermined stock position P2. As a result, the tool T is moved from the set position P1 to the stock position P2.

[0081] Next, when the tool transfer device 1 delivers the tool T stored in the tool stocker 11 to the spindle of the machine tool 2, that is, when it moves from the stock position P2 via the transfer standby position P3 to the tool change position P4, an explanation will be given.

[0082] First, the operator inputs an instruction to attach the tool T to the spindle of the machine tool into the operation panel. Based on the input from the operation panel, the control device controls the first tool transfer mechanism 12. The first tool transfer mechanism 12 moves appropriately in the vertical and longitudinal directions based on the instruction from the control device. The first tool transfer mechanism 12 moves the tool T placed at the stock position P2 to the transfer standby position P3.

[0083] Referring to FIG. 3, after the tool T is placed at the transfer standby position P3, the control device controls the second tool transfer mechanism 13. The second tool transfer mechanism 13 moves in the left - right direction based on the instruction from the control device. The second tool transfer mechanism 13 moves the tool T located at the transfer standby position P3 to the tool change position P4. Before the tool T reaches the tool change position P4, the control device opens the shutter 281 of the transfer chamber 28.

[0084] Next, the control device controls the spindle 22 of the machine tool 2. The spindle 22 moves appropriately in the vertical, left - right, and longitudinal directions based on the instruction from the control device. Also, the spindle 22 rotates appropriately around the axis (B - axis) parallel to the longitudinal direction based on the instruction from the control device. The spindle 22 holds the tool located at the tool change position P4 based on the instruction from the control device.

[0085] By operating the processing system 100 in this way, the tool T stored in the tool stocker 11 is attached to the spindle 22. When removing the tool T attached to the spindle 22 and storing it in the tool stocker 11, the reverse operation of the above is performed.

[0086] As described above, in the tool transfer device 1 of the present embodiment, the tool stocker 11 that houses the tool T is provided outside the machine tool 2. Therefore, in the tool stocker 11, compared with the tool stocker provided inside the machine tool, more tools T of various sizes and shapes can be housed. Further, in the tool transfer device 1, the transfer mechanism for delivering the tool T to the spindle 22 of the machine tool 2 is integrated into one transfer mechanism, namely the second tool transfer mechanism 13. Therefore, according to the tool transfer device 1, the number of tools T (long tools) that can be accommodated can be increased, and the long tools can be transferred with a simple structure.

[0087] Further, in the tool transfer device 1, a plurality of claw portions 1232 in the first tool transfer mechanism 12 are connected so as to be inserted into the base 14 from above by the lock mechanism 15. The plurality of claw portions 1232 are disconnected from the base 14 so as to be pulled out upward by the lock mechanism 15. With such a configuration, for example, compared with a configuration in which the base is sandwiched by a hand having a configuration in which the claw portions approach and separate, the gap for allowing the claw portions to enter between each base 14 can be minimized or substantially eliminated. Therefore, according to the tool transfer device 1, the space inside the tool stocker 11 can be utilized most effectively.

[0088] Furthermore, in the tool transfer device 1, the first tool transfer mechanism 12 and the second tool transfer mechanism 13 related to the transfer of the tool T are fixed to the machine tool 2 instead of the tool stocker 11. Therefore, it is easy to adjust the positions between each device of the machine tool 2 and the first and second tool transfer mechanisms 12 and 13. Therefore, according to the tool transfer device 1, it is easy to add the tool stocker 11 as an optional function.

[0089] The description of the above-described embodiment is illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. Modifications and changes can be appropriately made by those skilled in the art. The scope of the present invention is indicated not by the above-described embodiment but by the scope of the claims. Further, the scope of the present invention includes changes from the embodiments within the scope equivalent to the scope of the claims.

[0090] For example, in the above embodiment, the first tool transport mechanism 12 moves a tool provided at the set position P1. However, the set position P1 does not have to be provided in the tool transport device 1. In this case, the second tool transport mechanism 13 and the first tool transport mechanism 12 may move a tool attached to the spindle 22 of the processing machine 2 to the tool stocker 11 and place it at the stock position.

[0091] In the above embodiment, the case where the transfer standby position P3 is provided in the tool stocker 11 has been described. However, the transfer standby position P3 may be provided in the transfer chamber 28 formed in the processing machine 2. In this case, the first tool transfer mechanism 12 moves the tool placed at the stock position P2 in the tool stocker 11 to the transfer standby position P3 in the transfer chamber 28 of the processing machine 2. The same can be said about the tool exchange position P4. That is, in the above embodiment, the case where the tool exchange position P4 is provided in the processing chamber 21 has been described. However, the tool exchange position P4 may be provided in the transfer chamber 28. In this case, the transfer chamber 28 is configured so that at least a part of the spindle 22 can enter the transfer chamber 28. The tool T is attached to and detached from the spindle 22 in the transfer chamber 28.

[0092] In the above embodiment, the lock mechanism 15 locks the first tool transport mechanism 12 and the base 14. The above description concerns a case where the first tool transport mechanism 12 and the base 14 are connected to each other. However, the connection between the first tool transport mechanism 12 and the base 14 is not limited to the lock mechanism 15. The connection between the first tool transport mechanism 12 and the base 14 may be performed by, for example, a hand having a claw portion that can move toward and away from each other. Also, the first tool transport mechanism 12 may directly grip a tool. [Explanation of symbols]

[0093] 100: Processing system 1: Tool transport device 2: Processing machine 11: Tool Stocker 111: Support leg 112: Tool storage case 12: First tool transport mechanism 121: Front and Rear Movement Mechanism 122: Up and Down Movement Mechanism 123: Transfer Arm 13: Second Tool Transfer Mechanism 131: Transfer Table 132: Left and Right Movement Mechanism 14: Base 15: Lock Mechanism 151: Recess 152: Projection 21: Processing Chamber 22: Main Spindle 23: Auxiliary Workpiece Main Spindle 24: Auxiliary Workpiece Main Spindle 25: Standard Tool Magazine 26: Standard Tool Changer 27: Chip Transfer Device 28: Transfer Chamber 291: Ceiling of the Processing Machine 292: Right Side of the Processing Machine 293: Fixed Part P1: Set Position P2: Stock Position P3: Transfer Waiting Position P4: Tool Change Position T: Tool (Long Tool)

Claims

1. A tool transfer device used in a processing machine including a processing chamber for processing a workpiece and a spindle provided in the processing chamber for detachably holding a tool, a tool stocker provided beside the processing machine for storing a plurality of tools side by side in a mounted state, a first tool transfer mechanism for moving a tool to a plurality of stock positions on which each of the tools stored in the tool stocker is mounted and a transfer standby position on which the tool to be attached to and detached from the spindle is mounted, and a second tool transfer mechanism for moving a tool to a tool exchange position that is horizontally displaced from the transfer standby position and at which the tool is transferred to the spindle, wherein the second tool transfer mechanism is configured to transfer a tool between the transfer standby position and the tool exchange position via a transfer chamber formed in the processing machine.

2. The tool transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the tool stocker stores the plurality of tools side by side in a direction orthogonal to their longitudinal directions.

3. The tool transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the tool stocker stores the plurality of tools side by side in the front-rear direction of the processing machine such that their longitudinal directions are parallel to the left-right direction of the processing machine.

4. The tool transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the first tool transfer mechanism moves a tool to the plurality of stock positions and the transfer standby position that is displaced from each of the plurality of stock positions in the direction in which the tools stored in the tool stocker are aligned.

5. The tool transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the first tool transfer mechanism moves a tool to the plurality of stock positions and the transfer standby position that is displaced from each of the plurality of stock positions in the front-rear direction of the processing machine.

6. The tool transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the second tool transfer mechanism moves a tool to the transfer standby position and the tool exchange position that is displaced from the transfer standby position in the longitudinal direction of the tool stored in the tool stocker.

7. The tool transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the second tool transfer mechanism moves a tool to the transfer standby position and the tool exchange position that is displaced from the transfer standby position in the left-right direction of the processing machine.

8. The tool transfer device according to claim 1, In the tool transfer device, the direction in which the first tool transfer mechanism moves the tool intersects with the direction in which the second tool transfer mechanism moves the tool.

9. The tool transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the first tool transfer mechanism and the second tool transfer mechanism are provided at a position lower than the ceiling of the processing machine.

10. The tool transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the tool transfer device further comprises: a plurality of bases on which the plurality of tools are respectively placed; a lock mechanism that detachably connects each of the plurality of bases to the first tool transfer mechanism.

11. The tool transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the tool transfer device further comprises: a plurality of bases on which the plurality of tools are respectively placed; the first tool transfer mechanism: is connected to the base from the side where the tool is placed on the base, and moves the tool by moving the base.

12. The tool transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the tool transfer device further comprises: a plurality of bases on which the plurality of tools are respectively placed; the second tool transfer mechanism: is connected to the base from the side opposite to the side where the tool is placed on the base, and moves the tool by moving the base.

13. The tool transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the first tool transfer mechanism: moves the tool to a set position for loading and unloading the tool to and from the tool stocker, in addition to the stock position and the transfer standby position.

14. The tool transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the processing machine includes: a first fixing portion for fixing the first tool transfer mechanism; a second fixing portion for fixing the second tool transfer mechanism; By fixing the first tool transfer mechanism and the second tool transfer mechanism to the processing machine by the first fixing portion and the second fixing portion, the processing machine, the first tool transfer mechanism, and the second tool transfer mechanism are configured to be separable from the tool stocker.

15. The tool transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the tool stocker: is provided adjacent to the side surface of the processing machine; When the processing machine is divided vertically at the center of its height, in a side view, the area where the tool stocker overlaps with the upper part of the processing machine is larger than the area where the tool stocker overlaps with the lower part of the processing machine.

16. The tool transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the tool stocker includes a tool housing housing for housing the plurality of tools, and support legs for supporting the tool housing housing, and the support legs are configured to form a space under the tool housing housing, a tool transfer device.

17. The tool transfer device according to claim 16, wherein the processing machine further includes a processing waste transfer device for transferring processing waste generated by processing the workpiece, and the processing waste transfer device is provided in a space under the tool housing housing, and includes a discharge portion for discharging the processing waste from the processing machine, a tool transfer device.

18. The tool transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of stock positions are arranged side by side in the front-rear direction of the processing machine, and the front-rear direction distance between the foremost stock position and the rearmost stock position is longer than the front-rear direction distance of the processing chamber, a tool transfer device.

19. The tool transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of stock positions are arranged side by side in the front-rear direction of the processing machine, and the transfer standby position is provided in front of at least one stock position and provided behind at least one stock position, a tool transfer device.

20. A processing system including the tool transfer device according to any one of claims 1 to 19 and the processing machine.

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