Machining system

Abstract

To increase productivity in a machine tool for automatically carrying in / out a workpiece.SOLUTION: A machining system 100 comprises: a machine tool 1 including a machining chamber R for machining a workpiece; a first workpiece conveyance mechanism 3 for conveying the workpiece between the outside of the machine tool 1 and the machining chamber R; and a second workpiece conveyance mechanism 5 at least partially provided in the machining chamber R to convey the workpiece in a horizontal direction in the machining chamber R. The two workpiece conveyance mechanisms can independently convey the workpiece in or out from the machining chamber of the machine tool, and productivity can be increased.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a processing system. [Background technology]

[0002] There is known a workpiece transport device that automatically transports a workpiece to a machine tool. The workpiece transport device removes the workpiece to be machined from a workpiece stocker and attaches it to the workpiece spindle of the machine tool. The workpiece transport device also removes the machined workpiece from the workpiece spindle and transports it to a predetermined position. Such a workpiece transport device is disclosed in, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a workpiece transport device that transports a workpiece from the outside of a machine tool to the inside of the machine tool. In this workpiece transport device, a hand that grips the workpiece moves along a rail installed above the machine tool. The hand is configured to be able to move in the vertical direction as well. The workpiece transport device grips a workpiece placed outside the machine tool and transports it into the machining chamber of the machine tool. The workpiece transport device attaches the workpiece to the workpiece spindle of the machine tool.

[0004] Patent Document 2 discloses a workpiece transport device that transports a workpiece inside a machine tool. In this workpiece transport device, a hand that grips the workpiece moves along a rail, part of which is installed inside the machine tool. The workpiece transport device transports the workpiece between a carry-in / out position located outside the machine tool and a machining position where the workpiece is machined, and attaches / detaches the workpiece to / from the workpiece spindle. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6138438 [Patent Document 2] Patent No. 3943360 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] As disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2, there are various types of workpiece transport devices that load and unload workpieces into and from machine tools. Meanwhile, machine tools sometimes machine multiple workpieces in parallel within a single machining chamber to improve productivity. For example, when multiple workpiece spindles that hold workpieces are provided in a single machining chamber, one workpiece may be machined by a first workpiece spindle and another workpiece may be machined by a second workpiece spindle.

[0007] In such a machine tool, suppose that while the workpiece transportation device is transporting a workpiece to be supplied to the first workpiece spindle, the second workpiece spindle finishes machining the workpiece. The workpiece transportation device of Patent Document 1 can transport only one workpiece at a time. Therefore, the workpiece attached to the second workpiece spindle cannot be removed until the workpiece transportation device has finished attaching the workpiece to the first workpiece spindle. Similarly, the workpiece transportation device of Patent Document 2 can also transport only one workpiece at a time. As such, it is difficult to increase the productivity of the machine tool with the workpiece transportation devices of Patent Documents 1 and 2.

[0008] An object of the present invention is to improve production efficiency in a machine tool that automatically loads and unloads a workpiece. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] (1) The processing system of the present invention comprises a machine tool including a processing chamber for processing a workpiece, a first workpiece transport mechanism for transporting the workpiece between the outside of the machine tool and the processing chamber, and a second workpiece transport mechanism at least partially provided within the processing chamber for transporting the workpiece horizontally within the processing chamber.

[0010] The above-mentioned machining system is provided with a first workpiece transport mechanism and a second workpiece transport mechanism separate from the first workpiece transport mechanism. In this machining system, the two workpiece transport mechanisms can independently load and unload workpieces into and from the machining chamber of the machine tool. This machining system is particularly effective when the machine tool processes multiple workpieces in parallel. Therefore, the above-mentioned machining system can improve production efficiency in machine tools that automatically load and unload workpieces.

[0011] (2) In the processing system of (1) above, the machine tool may include an openable and closable door on the front side of the processing chamber, the first work transport mechanism may be configured to transport the work horizontally outside the processing chamber, and the horizontal transport path of the work by the second work transport mechanism may be set to be parallel to the door side more than the horizontal transport path of the work by the first work transport mechanism.

[0012] In the machining system (2) above, the first workpiece transport mechanism and the second workpiece transport mechanism are parallel to each other and offset from each other so that their transport paths do not intersect. Therefore, even when the first workpiece transport mechanism and the second workpiece transport mechanism are operating simultaneously, they are unlikely to intersect with each other. Therefore, the machining system described above can improve production efficiency in machine tools that automatically load and unload workpieces. Furthermore, machine tools are generally installed in locations where people are present, such as factories. The first workpiece transport mechanism transports workpieces outside the machine tool. Therefore, the first workpiece transport mechanism is often covered by a protective wall to prevent people from coming into contact with the first workpiece transport mechanism or the workpieces being transported. In particular, in machine tools, doors for people to access the machining chamber and operation panels for people to input commands to the machine tool are often installed on the front of the machine tool. Therefore, a sufficiently large protective wall is often installed in front of the first workpiece transport mechanism. In the machining system (2) above, the horizontal transport path of the first workpiece transport mechanism is installed behind the horizontal transport path of the second workpiece transport mechanism, i.e., at a position farther from the door. Therefore, according to the above-described machining system, the size of the protective wall that covers the first workpiece transport mechanism can be reduced, and an increase in the size of the machine tool can be suppressed.

[0013] (3) The processing system of (1) above may further include a first storage section provided outside the machine tool in which the workpiece is stored, and a second storage section provided inside the machine tool in which the workpiece is stored, and the first workpiece transport mechanism may be configured to transport the workpiece in a horizontal direction outside the machine tool, and the second workpiece transport mechanism may be configured to transport the workpiece in a horizontal direction inside the machine tool.

[0014] Suppose a machining system has only one workpiece transport mechanism. In this case, for example, one workpiece transport mechanism transports a workpiece, for example, from a workpiece stocker, into a machining chamber. When machining of the workpiece is completed, this workpiece transport mechanism removes the workpiece from the machining chamber. The workpiece transport mechanism then retrieves the next workpiece to be machined from the workpiece stocker. In contrast, in the machining system described above in (3), for example, when a workpiece is transported into the machining chamber by a first workpiece transport mechanism, the machined workpiece can be removed from the machining chamber by a second workpiece transport mechanism. Therefore, the first workpiece transport mechanism that has finished transporting a workpiece into the machining chamber can retrieve the next workpiece to be machined, for example, from the workpiece stocker, without waiting for the machining of the workpiece to be completed. As a result, the period from the completion of machining of the previously transported workpiece to the start of machining of the next workpiece can be shortened compared to when a single workpiece transport mechanism is used to transport the workpiece. In addition, the second workpiece transport mechanism transports workpieces within the machine tool. Therefore, the second workpiece transport mechanism can enter the machining chamber more quickly than the first workpiece transport mechanism, which enters the machining chamber from outside the machine tool. Therefore, even when the workpiece is in the middle of machining or machining is temporarily stopped, the workpiece can be quickly carried in and out of the machining chamber compared to a machining system equipped with only the first workpiece transport mechanism.

[0015] (4) In the machining system of (1) above, the machine tool may further include one or more work spindles provided in the machining chamber and on which workpieces are attached, the first work transport mechanism transporting workpieces attached to and / or removed from the work spindles, and the second work transport mechanism transporting workpieces attached to and / or removed from the work spindles.

[0016] In the machining system (4) above, the first workpiece transfer mechanism and the second workpiece transfer mechanism can each transport a workpiece, and can also attach the workpiece to the workpiece spindle, detach it from the workpiece spindle, or both. This eliminates the need for a separate device for attaching and detaching the workpiece to and from the workpiece spindle. Therefore, the above machining system can improve production efficiency in machine tools that automatically load and unload workpieces.

[0017] (5) In the machining system of (2) above, the machine tool further includes a work headstock provided in the machining chamber and equipped with a work spindle on which a workpiece is attached, and a tool post provided in the machining chamber above or below the work spindle on which a tool for machining the workpiece is attached, and when the machine tool is viewed from above, the horizontal transport path of the workpiece by the first work transport mechanism is set within the machining equipment installation area in which the work headstock and tool post are located, and the horizontal transport path of the workpiece by the second work transport mechanism may be set within the internal traveling area between the door and the machining equipment installation area.

[0018] In the machining system (5) above, the tool rest and the workpiece headstock are arranged vertically side by side. This makes it easier to leave space within the machining chamber when viewed from above. As a result, it is easier to secure space for installing a second workpiece transport mechanism, at least a portion of which is installed within the machining chamber.

[0019] (6) In the processing system of (1) above, the first work transport mechanism includes a first hand that grips the work, a first horizontal movement mechanism that moves the first hand horizontally, and a first up-down movement mechanism that moves the first hand up and down, and the first horizontal movement mechanism may be provided above the processing chamber and include a first running rail that extends horizontally, and move the first hand along the first running rail.

[0020] According to the machining system of (6) above, the first workpiece transport mechanism passes over the machining chamber and can transport the workpiece from above the machining chamber into the machining chamber.

[0021] (7) In the processing system of (1) above, the machine tool may further include a cover constituting a processing chamber, the cover being provided on the top surface of the processing chamber and including an openable and closable shutter, and the first work transport mechanism may transport the work between the outside of the machine tool and the processing chamber through the shutter.

[0022] According to the machining system of (7) above, by opening the shutter, the first workpiece transport mechanism can transport the workpiece to or from the machining chamber. In addition, by closing the shutter, it is possible to prevent machining chips and coolant from leaking out of the machining chamber when machining the workpiece in the machining chamber.

[0023] (8) In the processing system of (1) above, the machine tool further includes a work spindle provided within the processing chamber and on which a workpiece is attached, and a cover constituting the processing chamber, the cover being provided at the front of the processing chamber and including an openable and closable door, the second work transport mechanism including a second hand that grasps the workpiece and a second horizontal movement mechanism that moves the second hand horizontally, at least a portion of the second horizontal movement mechanism being provided within the processing chamber behind the door and in front of the workpiece spindle, including a second running rail extending horizontally, and may move the second hand along the second running rail.

[0024] Generally, in a workpiece transport mechanism, the traveling rail is a long, large component. The workpiece spindle (together with the workpiece headstock) is also a large component and is often installed near the center of the machining chamber. If the traveling rail were installed above the workpiece spindle (near the center of the machining chamber), the second hand moving along the traveling rail would likely interfere with the workpiece spindle. In contrast, in the machining system described in (8) above, the second traveling rail is installed in the front area of ​​the machining chamber. In other words, the second traveling rail is installed to effectively utilize the space in the machining chamber while avoiding interference between the second hand, which is the moving object, and the workpiece spindle.

[0025] (9) In the processing system of (8) above, the second work transport mechanism may further include an arm supported on the second running rail and extending in the vertical direction, and the arm may include a hand side end to which the second hand is attached and a running rail side end that is closer to the second running rail than the hand side end and on which a fulcrum that serves as the center of rotation of the arm is provided.

[0026] Let's say the arm is configured to move up and down. In this case, in order for the second hand to attach or detach a workpiece to or from the work spindle, the second hand needs to move to above the work spindle. However, as mentioned above, due to space constraints within the machining chamber, it is difficult to install the second traveling rail above the work spindle. In contrast, in the machining system described above in (9), the arm and hand are configured as a pendulum type that rotates around a fulcrum. Therefore, even if the second traveling rail is not installed above the work spindle, the second hand can attach or detach a workpiece to or from the work spindle.

[0027] (10) In the processing system of (1) above, the first work transport mechanism includes a first hand that grips the workpiece and a first horizontal movement mechanism that moves the first hand horizontally, the first horizontal movement mechanism is provided above the processing chamber, includes a first running rail that extends horizontally, and moves the first hand along the first running rail, the second work transport mechanism includes a second hand that grips the workpiece and a second horizontal movement mechanism that moves the second hand horizontally, at least a portion of the second horizontal movement mechanism is provided within the processing chamber, includes a second running rail that extends horizontally, and moves the second hand along the second running rail, and at least a portion of the second running rail may be provided in front of the first running rail.

[0028] In the machining system (10) above, the first traveling rail is provided behind at least a portion of the second traveling rail. That is, the first workpiece transport mechanism that transports workpieces outside the machine tool is provided at a position away from the front of the machine tool. Therefore, according to the machining system, the size of the protective wall that covers the first workpiece transport mechanism can be reduced, and an increase in the size of the machine tool can be suppressed.

[0029] (11) In the machining system of (1) above, the machine tool may further include a work spindle provided in the machining chamber and on which a workpiece is attached, and a control device that controls the operation of the work spindle, the first work transport mechanism, and the second work transport mechanism, and the control device may be configured to perform the following processes (A) and / or (B): (A) A process in which a workpiece outside the machine tool is transported into the machining chamber by a first workpiece transport mechanism and attached to the workpiece spindle, and / or a process in which a workpiece attached to the workpiece spindle in the machining chamber is removed and transported outside the machine tool. (B) A process of transporting a workpiece within the machining chamber and attaching it to the workpiece spindle by the second workpiece transport mechanism, and / or a process of removing the workpiece attached to the workpiece spindle and transporting it within the machining chamber. [Effects of the Invention]

[0030] According to the machine tool of the present invention, it is possible to improve production efficiency in a machine tool that automatically loads and unloads a workpiece. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0031] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a front view of the machining system of the present embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a front view showing the inside of the machining chamber in the machining system of FIG. 1 with the door of the machine tool removed. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III in FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV in FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a right side view showing the arm in the second work transfer mechanism of this embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0032] Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0033] 1 is a front view of a machining system 100 according to this embodiment. The machining system 100 includes a machine tool 1, a first accommodation unit 2, and a first workpiece transport mechanism 3.

[0034] The machine tool 1 is a machine that processes a workpiece. The workpiece has, for example, a cylindrical shape. The machine tool 1 is a multi-tasking machine that has a turning function and a milling function. The machine tool 1 may have only a turning function, or only a milling function. The machine tool 1 may be a machine that can perform not only subtractive processing but also additive processing, for example. The machine tool 1 is not particularly limited as long as it is of a type to which the first and second workpiece transport mechanisms described below can be applied.

[0035] Machine tool 1 is installed on the floor of a facility such as a factory. In this state, machine tool 1 includes a door 191 that can be opened and closed on the front side. Door 191 constitutes part of the exterior of machine tool 1. Door 191 opens and closes a machining chamber in front of machine tool 1 where a workpiece is machined, from the outside of the machine tool. Door 191 is configured so that a workpiece can be carried in and out of the machining chamber from the front of machine tool 1.

[0036] The front of the machine tool 1 refers to the side of the machine tool 1 on which the door 191 is provided, and is also referred to as the front side. The rear of the machine tool 1 refers to the side of the machine tool 1 opposite the front side. Furthermore, the direction from the rear side to the front side of the machine tool 1 is referred to as the front direction, and the direction from the front side to the rear side is referred to as the rear direction. The left side of the machine tool 1 refers to the direction toward the left of the machine tool 1 when viewed from the front, and the right side refers to the direction toward the right of the machine tool 1 when viewed from the front. The up side of the machine tool 1 refers to the direction toward the top (ceiling) of the machine tool 1, and the down side refers to the direction toward the bottom (floor) of the machine tool 1. Hereinafter, the up-down direction of the machine tool 1 will also be referred to as the X direction, the front-to-back direction as the Y direction, and the left-to-right direction as the Z direction.

[0037] Figure 2 is a front view showing the inside of the machining chamber with the machine tool door removed in the machining system of Figure 1. The machine tool 1 includes a machining chamber R, workpiece spindles 11 and 12, workpiece headstocks 13 and 14, and tool rests 15 and 16.

[0038] The machining chamber R is constituted by a cover 192. The cover 192 is also called a splash guard. The cover 192 prevents machining waste, coolant, etc. generated inside the machining chamber R from leaking to the outside. The cover 192 is constituted by a plurality of members. The cover 192 constitutes the machining chamber R, which is substantially shaped like a rectangular parallelepiped. At least a portion of the front of the cover 192 is constituted by a door 191 (see FIG. 1).

[0039] The cover 192 includes a first shutter 193 on the top surface that can be opened and closed. The first shutter 193 opens and closes the inside and outside of the processing chamber R at the top surface of the processing chamber. When the first shutter 193 is open, the right end of the open surface of the top surface of the processing chamber is located to the right of the workpiece spindles 11, 12 in the Z direction (see FIG. 3). When the first shutter 193 is open, the left end of the open surface of the top surface of the processing chamber is located to the left of the workpiece spindles 11, 12 in the Z direction.

[0040] The cover 192 includes an openable and closable second shutter 194 on the right side surface. The second shutter 194 opens and closes the inside and outside of the processing chamber R on the right side surface of the processing chamber R. The second shutter 194 is disposed so as to be positioned in front of the workpiece spindles 11, 12 in the Y direction.

[0041] The work spindles 11 and 12 are provided in the processing chamber R. The work spindle 11 is provided to the left of the work spindle 12. Each of the work spindles 11 and 12 includes a chuck that grips a work (not shown). The work is attached to each of the work spindles 11 and 12 by gripping the work with the chuck. Each of the work spindles 11 and 12 supports the work so that its central axis is parallel to the Z direction. The work spindle 11 is provided so that its rotation axis coincides with the rotation axis of the work spindle 12. Each of the work spindles 11 and 12 is configured to be able to rotate the work around an axis parallel to the Z direction. The work spindle 11 can rotate synchronously with the work spindle 12, or can rotate independently. Each of the work spindles 11 and 12 may grip different workpieces or the same workpiece.

[0042] The work headstocks 13, 14 are provided in the machining chamber R. Each of the work headstocks 13, 14 has a housing shape. The work headstock 13 has a work spindle 11 attached thereto. The work headstock 13 houses a drive device and the like that rotates and drives the work spindle 11. The work headstock 14 has a work spindle 12 attached thereto. The work headstock 14 houses a drive device and the like that rotates and drives the work spindle 12.

[0043] The workpiece headstocks 13, 14 are each supported on a bed provided behind the rear surface of the machining chamber R. In this embodiment, a configuration in which the machine tool 1 includes two workpiece headstocks 13, 14 will be described, but the machine tool 1 may also be configured to include one workpiece headstock. In short, the machine tool 1 may be configured to include at least one workpiece headstock.

[0044] The tool rests 15 and 16 are provided in the machining chamber R. Tools for machining workpieces are attached to the tool rests 15 and 16, respectively. More specifically, the tool rests 15 and 16 include turrets 151 and 161, respectively. The turrets 151 and 161 each include a plurality of tool holders. A corresponding tool is attached to each tool holder. The tool rests 15 and 16 each have a housing shape. The tool rests 15 and 16 each house a drive device that rotates and drives the turrets 151 and 161, etc. The tool rests 15 and 16 are configured so that the tool used can be changed by driving the turrets 151 and 161, respectively.

[0045] The tool rest 15 is provided to the left of the tool rest 16. The tool rest 15 is provided below the workpiece headstocks 13, 14. The tool rest 15 is provided below the rotation axes of the workpiece spindles 11, 12. The tool rest 16 is provided above the workpiece headstocks 13, 14. The tool rest 16 is provided above the rotation axes of the workpiece spindles 11, 12.

[0046] Tool rests 15, 16 are each supported on a bed provided behind the rear surface of processing chamber R. Tool rests 15, 16 are each configured to be movable in the X, Y, and Z directions. Tool rests 15, 16 are also each configured to be rotatable around an axis (also referred to as the B axis) parallel to the Y direction. In this embodiment, a configuration in which machine tool 1 includes two tool rests 15, 16 will be described, but machine tool 1 may also be configured to include one tool rest. In short, machine tool 1 may be configured to include at least one tool rest.

[0047] Although not shown, the bed is a vertical bed provided behind the rear wall of the machining chamber R. The bed includes a plurality of support sections, each of which supports the work headstocks 13, 14 and the tool rests 15, 16. Each support section includes a support surface to which the corresponding member (work headstocks 13, 14, tool rests 15, 16) is attached. The normal direction of each support surface is oriented horizontally (the X direction in this embodiment). The bed also includes support legs connected to each support section. Each support leg extends horizontally (the X direction in this embodiment). In short, the bed supports the work headstocks 13, 14 and the tool rests 15, 16 from the sides.

[0048] The first storage unit 2 is provided outside the machine tool 1. The first storage unit 2 is provided adjacent to the machine tool 1. The first storage unit 2 is provided to the left of the machine tool 1. The first storage unit 2 may be connected to the machine tool 1 or may be separated from it. The first storage unit 2 has a housing shape. The top surface of the first storage unit 2 is open. In this embodiment, the first storage unit 2 stores multiple workpieces before machining. However, the first storage unit 2 may also store multiple workpieces that have been machined. In short, the first storage unit 2 may function as a workpiece stocker, as a workpiece ejection device, or as both. The first storage unit 2 may have a configuration that is capable of storing workpieces, and its structure is not particularly limited.

[0049] The first workpiece transport mechanism 3 transports workpieces between the first accommodation section 2 and the machining chamber R. That is, the first workpiece transport mechanism 3 transports workpieces between the outside and inside of the machine tool 1. The first workpiece transport mechanism 3 takes out a workpiece stored in the first accommodation section 2 and transports it into the machining chamber R. The first workpiece transport mechanism 3 delivers the workpiece to the workpiece spindles 11, 12. The first workpiece transport mechanism 3 may deliver a workpiece to at least one of the workpiece spindles 11, 12. The first workpiece transport mechanism 3 may also receive a workpiece attached to at least one of the workpiece spindles 11, 12. The first workpiece transport mechanism 3 may transport the received workpiece to the first accommodation section 2. In short, the first workpiece transport mechanism 3 may transport a workpiece to be attached to the workpiece spindle, or may transport a workpiece removed from the workpiece spindle, or may perform both of these.

[0050] The first workpiece transport mechanism 3 will now be described in more detail. The first workpiece transport mechanism 3 includes a first hand 31, a first vertical movement mechanism 32, and a first horizontal movement mechanism 33.

[0051] The first hand 31 grips the workpiece to be carried in and / or out of the first storage section 2. The first hand 31 has multiple chuck-type jaws. The first hand 31 grips the workpiece with the multiple jaws. The first hand 31 is configured to be rotatable around an axis (B axis) parallel to the Y direction by a drive device (not shown). However, the configuration of the first hand 31 is not limited to this. The first hand 31 may be configured in any way as long as it is able to grip and transport the workpiece. The first hand 31 is attached to the lower end of the first vertical movement mechanism 32.

[0052] The first vertical movement mechanism 32 includes a vertically moving arm 321 and a drive device 322. The vertically moving arm 321 extends in the X direction. The drive device 322 moves the vertically moving arm 321 in the X direction. The first vertical movement mechanism 32 moves the first hand 31 in the X direction. The first vertical movement mechanism 32 is configured to be able to move the first hand 31 holding a workpiece at least above the upper surface of the processing chamber R (the upper surface of the cover 192). The first vertical movement mechanism 32 is configured to be able to move the first hand 31 holding a workpiece in the X direction at least to the position of the rotation axis of the workpiece spindles 11, 12. The first vertical movement mechanism 32 is configured to be able to move the first hand 31 in the X direction at least to the position of the workpiece accommodated in the first storage unit 2 or a position where the workpiece will be accommodated in the first storage unit 2.

[0053] The first horizontal movement mechanism 33 moves the first hand 31 along the first traveling rail 333. The first horizontal movement mechanism 33 is configured to be able to move the first hand 31 in the Z direction at least to the position of a workpiece accommodated in the first storage unit 2 or to a position where a workpiece is to be accommodated in the first storage unit 2. The first horizontal movement mechanism 33 is configured to be able to move the first hand 31 in the Z direction at least to the position of the first shutter 193. More specifically, the first horizontal movement mechanism 33 includes support columns 331, 332, a first traveling rail 333, and a first traveling platform 334.

[0054] The pillars 331 and 332 are provided on the installation surface of the machine tool 1. The pillars 331 and 332 extend in the X direction. The pillar 331 is provided on the left of the machining chamber R (machine tool 1), and the pillar 332 is provided on the right of the machining chamber R (machine tool 1). The pillars 331 and 332 support a first traveling rail 333.

[0055] The first traveling rail 333 is attached to the upper end of each of the support columns 331, 332. The first traveling rail 333 is provided to connect the support column 331 and the support column 332. The first traveling rail 333 extends in the Z direction. The first traveling rail 333 forms a horizontal transport path for the workpiece by the first workpiece transport mechanism 3. The first traveling rail 333 is provided above the machining chamber R (machine tool 1). A first traveling platform 334 is attached to the first traveling rail 333.

[0056] The first traveling platform 334 is configured to be movable along the first traveling rail 333. That is, the first traveling platform 334 and the first traveling rail 333 form a linear slider. The linear slider may be of a mechanical type or a magnetic type, and is not particularly limited. The first traveling platform 334 supports the first vertical movement mechanism 32.

[0057] With this configuration, the first workpiece transport mechanism 3 moves the first hand 31 in the X direction and the Z direction, and transports the workpiece between the first accommodation section 2 and the machining chamber R.

[0058] The processing system 100 further includes a second accommodation section 4 and a second workpiece transport mechanism 5.

[0059] The second storage section 4 is provided inside the machine tool 1. The second storage section 4 is provided outside the cover 192. The second storage section 4 is provided to the right of the machining chamber R. The second storage section 4 is provided to the right of the second shutter 194. In this embodiment, the second storage section 4 transports machined workpieces. The second storage section 4 may include a conveyor for transporting the workpieces, a bucket for collecting the workpieces, etc. However, the second storage section 4 may also store multiple workpieces before machining. In short, the second storage section 4 may function as a workpiece discharge device, a workpiece stocker, or both.

[0060] The second workpiece transport mechanism 5 transports workpieces between the second accommodation section 4 and the machining chamber R. That is, the second workpiece transport mechanism 5 transports workpieces within the machine tool 1. The second workpiece transport mechanism 5 receives workpieces attached to at least one of the workpiece spindles 11, 12. The second workpiece transport mechanism 5 transports the received workpiece to the second accommodation section 4. The second workpiece transport mechanism 5 may transport a workpiece accommodated in the second accommodation section 4 into the machining chamber R. The second workpiece transport mechanism 5 may hand over a workpiece to at least one of the workpiece spindles 11, 12. In short, the second workpiece transport mechanism 5 may transport a workpiece removed from a workpiece spindle, or may transport a workpiece to be attached to a workpiece spindle, or may perform both of these.

[0061] The second workpiece transport mechanism 5 will be described in further detail. The second workpiece transport mechanism 5 includes a second hand 51, a rotating mechanism 52, and a second horizontal movement mechanism 53.

[0062] The second hand 51 grips the workpiece to be carried in and / or out of the second storage section 4. The second hand 51 has two claws that can move close to and apart. The second hand 51 grips the workpiece with the two claws. However, the configuration of the second hand 51 is not limited to this. The second hand 51 may be configured in any way as long as it is able to grip and transport the workpiece.

[0063] Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV in Fig. 1. The rotation mechanism 52 rotates the second hand 51 around an axis parallel to the Z direction. The rotation mechanism 52 includes an arm 521 and a drive device 522.

[0064] The arm 521 extends in the X direction. The arm 521 includes a hand-side end E1 and a traveling rail-side end E2. The hand-side end E1 corresponds to the lower end of the arm 521. The hand-side end E1 is located below the center of the arm 521 in the X direction. The second hand 51 is attached to the hand-side end E1. The traveling rail-side end E2 corresponds to the upper end of the arm 521. The traveling rail-side end E2 is located above the center of the arm 521 in the X direction. The traveling rail-side end E2 is closer to the second traveling rail 531 than the hand-side end E1. A fulcrum P1, which serves as the rotation center of the arm 521, is provided at the traveling rail-side end E2. The fulcrum P1 is defined by a hole with a central axis parallel to the Z direction. The arm 521 is configured to be rotatable around the fulcrum P1, i.e., around an axis parallel to the Z direction.

[0065] The second workpiece transport mechanism 5 has a basic posture in which the arm 521 is parallel to the X direction. Hereinafter, this basic posture will be referred to as the traveling posture. The arm 521 is configured so that the X direction is its longitudinal direction in the traveling posture. In the traveling posture, the length of the arm 521 in the X direction is longer than the length in the Y direction. In the traveling posture, the length of the arm 521 in the X direction is longer than the length in the Z direction. The length of the arm 521 in the direction from the hand side end E1 toward the traveling rail side end E2 is longer than the lengths in two directions (the Y direction and the Z direction in the figure) perpendicular to the direction from the hand side end E1 toward the traveling rail side end E2. In the traveling posture, the length of the arm 521 in the Y direction is shorter than the distance in the Y direction between the rotation axis of the workpiece spindle 11 and the front face of the machining chamber R. In the traveling posture, the length of the arm 521 in the Y direction is shorter than the distance in the Y direction between the front edge 1931 of the first shutter 193 and the front face of the machining chamber R. The arm 521 is configured so that at least a part of the second hand 51 is located below the rotation axis of the workpiece spindle 11 when in the traveling posture.

[0066] The driving device 522 is connected to the traveling rail side end E2 of the arm 521. The driving device 522 is not particularly limited, but is, for example, a servo motor. The driving device 522 rotates the arm 521 around the fulcrum P1. With this configuration, the rotating mechanism 52 rotates the second hand 51 around an axis parallel to the Z direction. The rotating mechanism 52 is configured to be able to rotate the second hand 51 at least to a position where the center of the second hand 51 (the middle position between the two claws) coincides with the rotation axis of the workpiece spindle 11 in a side view.

[0067] 2, the second horizontal movement mechanism 53 moves the second hand 51 in the horizontal direction. The second horizontal movement mechanism 53 includes a second traveling rail 531 and a second traveling platform 532.

[0068] The second traveling rail 531 extends in the Z direction. The second traveling rail 531 constitutes a horizontal transport path for the workpiece by the second workpiece transport mechanism 5. A portion of the second traveling rail 531 is provided inside the machining chamber R. The left end of the second traveling rail 531 is provided inside the machining chamber R. The right end of the second traveling rail 531 is provided outside the machining chamber R. The second traveling rail 531 penetrates the right side surface of the machining chamber R. At least a portion of the second traveling rail 531 is attached to the upper surface of the machining chamber R. The second traveling rail 531 is provided above the rotation axes of the workpiece spindles 11, 12. The second traveling rail 531 is provided above the turrets 151, 161 of the tool rests 15, 16. The second traveling rail 531 is provided below the upper surface of the cover 192. The second traveling rail 531 is provided below the first traveling rail 333. The second traveling rail 531 is provided in parallel to the first traveling rail 333 .

[0069] Referring to FIG. 4, the second traveling rail 531 is provided in an internal traveling area between the door 191 and the processing equipment installation area. The processing equipment installation area is a space in the processing chamber where the workpiece spindles 11, 12 and tool rests 15, 16 are provided. The internal traveling area is a space provided in front of the processing equipment installation area in the processing chamber. The second traveling rail 531 is provided behind the door 191. The second traveling rail 531 is provided in front of the workpiece spindle 11. The second traveling rail 531 is provided in front of the rotation axis of the workpiece spindle 11. At least a portion of the second traveling rail 531 is provided in front of a leading edge 1931 of the first shutter 193. A second traveling platform 532 is attached to the second traveling rail 531.

[0070] The second traveling platform 532 is configured to be movable along the second traveling rail 531. That is, the second traveling platform 532 and the second traveling rail 531 form a linear slider. The linear slider may be of a mechanical type or a magnetic type, and is not particularly limited. The second traveling platform 532 supports the rotation mechanism 52.

[0071] With this configuration, the second horizontal movement mechanism 53 moves the second hand 51 along the second traveling rail 531. That is, the second horizontal movement mechanism 53 moves the second hand 51 in the Z direction. The second horizontal movement mechanism 53 is configured to be able to move the first hand 31 in the Z direction at least to the position of the workpiece to be accommodated in the second storage unit 4 or to a position where the workpiece is to be accommodated in the second storage unit 4. The second horizontal movement mechanism 53 is configured to be able to move the second hand 51 in the XY plane at least to the position of the workpiece spindle 11.

[0072] FIG. 5 is a right side view showing an arm in the second work transfer mechanism of this embodiment. The second hand 51 is connected to a tube through which a fluid (e.g., air) that operates the claws passes, and to lead wires of a proximity switch that detects the presence or absence of a workpiece. These cables 54 extend from the second hand 51 in the X direction and enter the arm 521 from the traveling rail-side end E2 of the arm 521. Meanwhile, the arm 521 rotates around an axis parallel to the Z axis and centered on the fulcrum P1. Therefore, at the entrance where the cable 54 enters the arm 521, the cable 54 is likely to rub against the edge of the entrance. Therefore, the arm 521 includes a bearing 55 provided at the entrance of the cable 54. The bearing 55 supports the cable 54. This prevents the cable 54 from rubbing against the edge of the entrance even when the arm 521 rotates.

[0073] 2, the machine tool 1 further includes a control device (not shown). The control device controls the operations of the workpiece spindles 11, 12, tool rests 15, 16, first workpiece transport mechanism 3, and second workpiece transport mechanism 5. The control device is made up of a computer including a CPU, RAM, ROM, etc. The control device controls the operation of each component by executing a computer program stored in a recording medium.

[0074] Next, the transportation of a workpiece by the machining system of this embodiment will be described. First, the transportation of a workpiece by the first workpiece transport mechanism 3 will be described. The control device instructs the first workpiece transport mechanism 3 to transport the workpiece accommodated in the first storage unit to the machining chamber R based on input from an operator or a pre-stored computer program. The first workpiece transport mechanism 3 receives the instruction from the control device and grasps the workpiece accommodated in the first storage unit 2. The first workpiece transport mechanism 3 then moves the workpiece in the X direction and lifts it above the upper surface of the cover 192. Next, the first workpiece transport mechanism 3 moves the workpiece in the Z direction and transports it above the first shutter 193. At this time, the workpiece is positioned to the right of the workpiece spindle 11, where it is to be attached. Next, the control device instructs the machine tool 1 to open the first shutter 193. The timing of opening and closing the first shutter 193 is not particularly limited, and it may occur while the first workpiece transport mechanism is transporting a workpiece. Next, the first work transport mechanism 3 lowers the workpiece and transports it through the first shutter 193 into the machining chamber R. The first work transport mechanism 3 stops lowering the workpiece when the position of the workpiece in the Z direction coincides with the workpiece spindle 11. Next, the first work transport mechanism 3 moves the workpiece in the Z direction (the direction approaching the workpiece spindle 11) and attaches it to the workpiece spindle 11. The same applies when attaching a workpiece to the workpiece spindle 12 by the first work transport mechanism 3. Note that when removing the workpiece from the workpiece spindle 11 and transporting it to the first storage section, the above explanation is reversed.

[0075] Next, the transport of the workpiece by the second workpiece transport mechanism 5 will be described. Here, it is assumed that the second hand 51 is initially outside the machining chamber R (the arm 521 is at the right end of the second traveling rail 531). The control device instructs the second workpiece transport mechanism 5 to transport the workpiece attached to the workpiece spindle 11 to the second storage section 4 based on input from the operator or a pre-stored computer program. The control device also instructs the machine tool to open the second shutter 194 provided on the right side of the machining chamber R. In response to the instruction from the control device, the second workpiece transport mechanism 5 moves the second hand 51 in the Z direction while in the traveling posture. The second workpiece transport mechanism 5 stops at a position to the right of the workpiece attached to the workpiece spindle 11. Next, the second workpiece transport mechanism 5 rotates the arm 521 and the second hand 51 around an axis parallel to the Z direction. When the second hand 51 is positioned to the right of the workpiece in the Z direction, the second workpiece transport mechanism 5 stops the rotation of the arm 521 and the second hand 51. The second work transport mechanism 5 moves the arm 521 and the second hand 51 in the Z direction (toward the work) and grips the work. Next, the second work transport mechanism 5 moves the arm 521 and the second hand 51 in the Z direction (toward the work spindle 11) and removes the work from the work spindle 11. Next, the second work transport mechanism 5 rotates the arm 521 and the second hand 51 around an axis parallel to the Z direction to place them in a traveling posture. Next, the second work transport mechanism 5 moves the work in the Z direction, passes through the second shutter 194, and stores it in the second storage unit 4. The same applies when the second work transport mechanism 5 removes the work from the work spindle 12. Note that when removing a work from the second storage unit 4 and attaching it to the work spindle 11, the above explanation is reversed.

[0076] As described above, the machining system 100 of this embodiment is provided with a first workpiece transport mechanism 3 and a second workpiece transport mechanism 5 that is separate from the first workpiece transport mechanism. The first workpiece transport mechanism 3 can transport a workpiece into or out of the machining chamber R of the machine tool 1 independently of the second workpiece transport mechanism 5. For example, suppose that the first workpiece transport mechanism 3 goes to the first storage section 2 to retrieve the next workpiece to be machined while the workpiece spindle 11 is machining a workpiece. During this process, when the workpiece machining by the workpiece spindle 11 is completed, the second workpiece transport mechanism 5 can transport the machined workpiece to the second storage section 4. Therefore, the first workpiece transport mechanism 3 can transport the next workpiece to be machined without waiting for the machining of the current workpiece to be completed.

[0077] Furthermore, when the first workpiece transport mechanism 3 transports the workpiece to the machining chamber R, the first shutter 193, which connects the inside and outside of the machine tool 1, is opened. In this case, the workpiece spindles 11 and 12 stop machining to prevent machining waste from leaking outside the machine. On the other hand, the second workpiece transport mechanism 5 is provided inside the machine tool 1. Therefore, even if the second shutter 194 is opened, machining waste is unlikely to leak outside the machine. The second workpiece transport mechanism 5 can transport the workpiece even while the workpiece spindles 11 and 12 are operating. For example, suppose that the workpiece spindles 11 and 12 are each machining a different workpiece. When the workpiece spindle 11 finishes machining the workpiece, the second workpiece transport mechanism 5 can go to retrieve the machined workpiece, eliminating the need to stop the workpiece spindle 12, which is still machining the workpiece. On the other hand, the first workpiece transport mechanism 3 can go to retrieve the next workpiece to be machined from the first storage section 2.

[0078] As described above, according to the machining system 100 of this embodiment, by combining instructions to the first work transport mechanism 3 and instructions to the second work transport mechanism 5 in various ways, it is possible to shorten the period during which no work is machined in the machining chamber R. Therefore, according to the machining system 100, it is possible to improve the production efficiency of a machine tool that automatically loads and unloads workpieces.

[0079] Furthermore, when the first work transport mechanism 3 that enters the machine from outside and the second work transport mechanism 5 that travels inside the machine are installed together, interference is likely to occur between the first work transport mechanism 3, the second work transport mechanism 5, the work headstocks 13, 14, and the tool rests 15, 16 in the machining chamber R. In contrast, in the machining system 100 of this embodiment, the bed that supports the work headstocks 13, 14 and the tool rests 15, 16 is installed outside the machining chamber R. In addition, the work headstocks 13, 14 and the tool rests 15, 16 are installed side by side in the X direction, i.e., vertically aligned. This allows for more space to be provided for the second work transport mechanism 5 that travels inside the machine tool 1, and interference is unlikely to occur even when the first work transport mechanism 3 and the second work transport mechanism 5 are installed together.

[0080] Furthermore, by arranging the workpiece headstocks 13, 14 and the tool rests 15, 16 in a vertical line from the center to the rear of the machining chamber R in the Y direction, the area in front of the machining chamber R is freed up. The second workpiece transport mechanism 5 is configured to be vertically long (with its longitudinal direction in the X direction) in its traveling position. The second workpiece transport mechanism 5 also uses a pendulum arm 521 and a second hand 51 to attach and detach workpieces to and from the workpiece spindles 11, 12. This makes it possible to utilize the freed up area in front of the machining chamber R, and allows the first workpiece transport mechanism 3 and the second workpiece transport mechanism 5 to coexist without enlarging the size of the machining chamber and, ultimately, the size of the machine tool.

[0081] The above-described embodiments are illustrative in all respects and are not limiting. Modifications and variations are possible for those skilled in the art. The scope of the present invention is defined not by the above-described embodiments but by the claims. Furthermore, the scope of the present invention includes modifications from the embodiments within the scope of the claims and their equivalents.

[0082] For example, in the above-described embodiment, the first traveling rail 333 and the second traveling rail 531 are configured to extend in the Z direction. However, the first traveling rail 333 and the second traveling rail 531 may each be configured to extend in the Y direction, or may extend obliquely with respect to the Y and Z directions in the YZ plane. In short, it is sufficient that the first traveling rail 333 and the second traveling rail 531 extend in the horizontal direction.

[0083] For example, in the above embodiment, the first storage unit 2 is provided on the left side of the machine tool 1, and the second storage unit 4 is provided on the right end of the machine tool 1. However, these locations may be reversed.

[0084] For example, in the above-described embodiment, a configuration has been described in which the second accommodating section 4 is provided inside the machine tool 1 (inside the side surface of the machine tool). However, the second accommodating section 4 may also be provided outside the machine tool 1 (outside the side surface of the machine tool). Also, in the above-described embodiment, a configuration has been described in which the second accommodating section 4 is provided outside the machining chamber R. However, the second accommodating section 4 may also be provided inside the machining chamber R. In this case, the second shutter 194 separating the machining chamber R and the second accommodating section 4 does not need to be provided.

[0085] For example, in the above embodiment, a configuration has been described in which the first work transport mechanism 3 loads or unloads a workpiece from above the processing chamber R. However, the first work transport mechanism 3 may load or unload a workpiece from, for example, the side of the processing chamber R. In this case, the first shutter 193 is provided on the side of the processing chamber R. Also, the first work transport mechanism 3 loads or unloads a workpiece into or from the processing chamber R without lifting the workpiece above the processing chamber R. [Explanation of symbols]

[0086] 100: Processing system 1: Machine tool 11, 12: Work spindle 13,14: Work headstock 15,16: Tool rest 151,161: Turret 191: Door 192: Cover 193: 1st shutter 194: Second shutter 2: First storage section 3: First work transport mechanism 31: First hand 32: 1st vertical movement mechanism 321: Vertical movement arm 322: Drive unit 33: 1st horizontal movement mechanism 331,332: Post 333: First running rail 334: First running platform 4: Second storage section 5: Second work transport mechanism 51: Second hand 52: Rotating mechanism 521: Arm 522: Drive unit 53:Second horizontal movement mechanism 531: Second running rail 532: Second running platform 54: Cable 55: Bearing E1: Hand side end E2: Running rail end P1: Fulcrum R: Processing room

Claims

1. a machine tool including a machining chamber for machining a workpiece; a first workpiece transport mechanism that transports a workpiece between the outside of the machine tool and the machining chamber; a second workpiece transport mechanism at least a portion of which is provided within the processing chamber and which transports a workpiece horizontally within the processing chamber;

2. 10. The processing system of claim 1, the machine tool includes an openable and closable door on the front side of the processing chamber, the first workpiece transport mechanism is configured to transport a workpiece in a horizontal direction outside the processing chamber, A processing system, wherein the horizontal transport path of the workpiece by the second workpiece transport mechanism is set to be parallel to the door side more than the horizontal transport path of the workpiece by the first workpiece transport mechanism.

3. 10. The processing system of claim 1, a first accommodation section provided outside the machine tool and configured to accommodate a workpiece; a second accommodation section provided inside the machine tool and in which a workpiece is accommodated; the first workpiece transport mechanism is configured to transport a workpiece in a horizontal direction outside the machine tool, A machining system, wherein the second workpiece transport mechanism is configured to transport a workpiece in a horizontal direction within the machine tool.

4. 10. The processing system of claim 1, The machine tool further comprises: One or more work spindles are provided in the processing chamber and on which a workpiece is attached; The first workpiece transport mechanism is Transporting a workpiece attached to and / or removed from the workpiece spindle; The second workpiece transport mechanism is A machining system that transports workpieces attached to and / or removed from the workpiece spindle.

5. 3. The processing system according to claim 2, The machine tool further comprises: a work headstock provided in the machining chamber and equipped with a work spindle on which a workpiece is attached; a tool rest that is provided in the machining chamber above or below the workpiece spindle and on which a tool for machining the workpiece is attached, When the machine tool is viewed from above, a horizontal transfer path of the workpiece by the first workpiece transfer mechanism is set within a processing equipment installation area in which the workpiece headstock and the tool rest are arranged within the processing chamber, A processing system, wherein a horizontal transport path of the workpiece by the second workpiece transport mechanism is set in an internal travel area between the door and the processing equipment installation area.

6. 10. The processing system of claim 1, The first workpiece transport mechanism is a first hand that grips a workpiece; a first horizontal movement mechanism that moves the first hand in a horizontal direction; a first vertical movement mechanism that moves the first hand in a vertical direction, The first horizontal movement mechanism a first running rail provided above the processing chamber and extending horizontally, the first hand being moved along the first running rail;

7. 10. The processing system of claim 1, The machine tool further comprises: A cover that configures the processing chamber is included, The cover is a shutter provided on an upper surface of the processing chamber and capable of being opened and closed; The first workpiece transport mechanism is A machining system that transports a workpiece between the outside of the machine tool and the machining chamber through the shutter.

8. 10. The processing system of claim 1, The machine tool further comprises: a work spindle provided in the machining chamber and on which a workpiece is attached; a cover that configures the processing chamber; The cover is a door provided at the front of the processing chamber and capable of being opened and closed; The second workpiece transport mechanism is a second hand that grips the workpiece; a second horizontal movement mechanism that moves the second hand in a horizontal direction, The second horizontal movement mechanism is a second running rail extending horizontally, at least a portion of which is provided in the processing chamber behind the door and in front of the workpiece spindle, and the second hand is moved along the second running rail.

9. 9. The processing system according to claim 8, The second workpiece transport mechanism further includes: an arm supported by the second traveling rail and extending in a vertical direction, The arm a hand-side end portion to which the second hand is attached; a traveling rail side end portion, which is closer to the second traveling rail than the hand side end portion and on which a fulcrum serving as a rotation center of the arm is provided.

10. 10. The processing system of claim 1, The first workpiece transport mechanism is a first hand that grips a workpiece; a first horizontal movement mechanism that moves the first hand in a horizontal direction, The first horizontal movement mechanism a first running rail provided above the processing chamber and extending in a horizontal direction, the first hand being moved along the first running rail; The second workpiece transport mechanism is a second hand that grips the workpiece; a second horizontal movement mechanism that moves the second hand in a horizontal direction, The second horizontal movement mechanism is a second running rail at least a portion of which is provided within the processing chamber and extends horizontally, and the second hand is moved along the second running rail; At least a portion of the second traveling rail is provided ahead of the first traveling rail.

11. 10. The processing system of claim 1, The machine tool further comprises: a work spindle provided in the machining chamber and on which a workpiece is attached; a control device that controls operations of the workpiece spindle, the first workpiece transport mechanism, and the second workpiece transport mechanism, The control device is configured to perform the following processes (A) and / or (B): (A) A process in which the first work transport mechanism transports a workpiece outside the machine tool into the machining chamber and attaches it to the workpiece spindle, and / or a process in which a workpiece attached to the workpiece spindle in the machining chamber is removed and transported outside the machine tool. (B) A process in which the second workpiece transport mechanism transports a workpiece within the machining chamber and attaches it to the workpiece spindle, and / or a process in which the workpiece attached to the workpiece spindle is removed and transported within the machining chamber.

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