Machining center and cutting method

Abstract

The objective is to provide a machine tool and cutting method that can efficiently collect chips without them leaking out of the machine tool, even when the workpiece is made of materials such as styrofoam, and that can prevent chips from adhering to the inside of the machining chamber. [Solution] The machine tool comprises a machining chamber equipped with a table 21 and a spindle 22, a dust collector for drawing in air from the machining chamber, the machining chamber having an air intake port for taking in air from the outside, an exhaust port connected to the dust collector for drawing in air from the machining chamber, an exhaust duct 25B connected to the exhaust port and extending toward the table 21, and static eliminators 26A, 26B that spray ion-containing air from their nozzles.

Description

Technical Field

[0005]

[0001] It relates to a machine tool for cutting styrofoam and a cutting method.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, when performing cutting using a machining center (machine tool), chips (metal, carbon, etc.) generated by the machining are generally scraped out from the bottom of the machining chamber of the machine tool to the front of the machine, etc., or discharged and accumulated in a chip basket installed outside by a chip conveyor (horizontal and vertical movement) installed at the bottom and then discarded. (See Patent Documents 1 and 2). However, when the workpiece is styrofoam, since the chips are light, they are difficult to collect when being scraped out as they fly up, or even when trying to discharge them through the chip conveyor, they are too light to be lifted up from the bottom to the external chip basket for discharge.

[0003] As a result, the chips scatter throughout the machining chamber. To collect the scattered chips after the cutting process, the cleaning work after the cutting process is cumbersome. Also, when the chips are charged with static electricity, they tend to adhere to the door and inner wall surface of the machining chamber. After the cutting process, the operator has to clean with air, but at that time, the chips may fly out of the machine tool, and there is a problem that the post-treatment after the cutting process becomes even more cumbersome.

[0004] Therefore, Patent Document 3 discloses a method of efficiently collecting (dust collection) chips by removing the static electricity charged on chips such as resin generated during cutting to prevent adhesion to the surroundings.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

[0006] However, applying the dust collection method while static elimination disclosed in Patent Document 3 to cutting processes using a machining center, for example, a machine tool manufactured by Mori Seiki Co., Ltd., is difficult because the machine tool operates the cutting tool in three dimensions and performs cutting from above or the side of the workpiece fixed on the table. As a result, it is difficult to directly apply the dust collection method shown in Patent Document 3, which involves installing a dust collector directly below the table.

[0007] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a machine tool and a cutting method that can efficiently collect dust without chips leaking out of the machine tool, even when the workpiece is expanded polystyrene, and that can prevent chips from adhering to the processing chamber. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The inventors of this invention have conducted diligent research and have focused on the fact that by using such high-precision machines from Mori Seiki (registered trademark) and digitizing the process, it is possible to significantly reduce the time required and create sophisticated and accurate foam molds compared to existing manual work by skilled craftsmen, thereby considerably increasing productivity. Therefore, the present invention relates to a machine tool having a machining chamber equipped with a table for fixing a workpiece and a spindle for gripping a cutting tool for machining the workpiece, and a dust collector for drawing in air from the machining chamber, wherein the machining chamber has an air intake port for taking in air into the machining chamber, an exhaust port connected to the dust collector for drawing in air from the machining chamber, an exhaust duct connected to the exhaust port and extending toward the table, and a static eliminator that sprays ion-containing air from a nozzle.

[0009] Furthermore, the static eliminator includes a first static eliminator installed on the top surface of the table and a second static eliminator installed along the longitudinal direction of the spindle, wherein the first static eliminator has multiple nozzles directed towards the workpiece in the horizontal or diagonal direction of the table, and the second static eliminator may have a nozzle directed towards the tip of the cutting tool. The exhaust duct may also be formed from a first exhaust duct, one end of which is connected to the exhaust port and the other end located below the table, and a second exhaust duct, one end of which is connected to the exhaust port and the other end located above the table. The exhaust port may include a first exhaust port installed below the table and a second exhaust port installed above the table, wherein the exhaust duct may be formed from a first exhaust duct, one end of which is connected to the first exhaust port and the other end located below the table, and a second exhaust duct, one end of which is connected to the second exhaust port and the other end located above the table.

[0010] Furthermore, the invention of a cutting method is a cutting method using a machine tool having a processing chamber in which a workpiece is cut, a table provided in the processing chamber for fixing the workpiece, a spindle provided in the processing chamber for gripping a cutting tool, an air intake port provided in the processing chamber for taking in air from the outside into the processing chamber, an exhaust port provided in the processing chamber for discharging air from inside the processing chamber to the outside, an exhaust duct connected to the exhaust port for drawing in air from inside the processing chamber, and a static eliminator for spraying ion-containing air toward the workpiece, the cutting method comprising: a first step of taking in air from the air intake port into the processing chamber and simultaneously exhausting the air inside the processing chamber through the exhaust duct and exhaust port; a second step of spraying ion-containing air from the static eliminator toward the workpiece; and a third step of cutting the workpiece while rotating the cutting tool.

[0011] Furthermore, in the invention of the cutting method, the exhaust port has a first exhaust port located below the table and a second exhaust port located above the table, the exhaust duct has a first exhaust duct connected to the first exhaust port with an intake port located below the table and a second exhaust duct connected to the second exhaust port with an intake port located above the table, and the static eliminator may also have a first static eliminator located above the table that sprays ion-containing air toward the workpiece in the horizontal or diagonal direction of the table, and a second static eliminator located along the longitudinal direction of the spindle that sprays ion-containing air toward the tip of the cutting tool. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] The machine tool of the present invention is equipped with an air intake and two exhaust ports in the machining chamber, and two exhaust ducts are connected to each exhaust port. Since the intake ports of each exhaust duct are located in the vertical direction of the table, even when the workpiece is polystyrene foam, the chips can be efficiently collected without leaking out of the machine tool. In addition, a static eliminator that sprays ion-containing air from a nozzle is installed in the machining chamber, which prevents chips generated by cutting from adhering to the inner wall surface of the machining chamber. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0013] [Figure 1] This is a front view of the machine tool 1 of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a right side view of processing chamber 2. [Figure 3] This is a perspective view of processing room 2 from the upper right. [Figure 4] This is a left side view of processing room 2. [Figure 5] This is a perspective view of processing room 2 from the left side. [Figure 6] This is a perspective view of processing room 2 from the front right side. [Figure 7] This is a perspective view of processing room 2 from the front left side. [Figure 8] This is a perspective view of the area around the first exhaust duct 25A inside processing chamber 2. [Figure 9] Front view of the periphery of the second exhaust duct 25B in the processing chamber 2. [Figure 10] Perspective view of the periphery of the second exhaust duct 25B in the processing chamber 2. [Figure 11] Perspective view of the periphery of the first static eliminator 26A in the processing chamber 2. [Figure 12] Perspective view of the periphery of the second static eliminator 26B in the processing chamber 2 from the left side. [Figure 13] Perspective view of the periphery of the second static eliminator 26B in the processing chamber 2 from below. [Figure 14] Schematic perspective view showing the cutting operation status in the processing chamber 2. [Figure 15] Enlarged view of the cutting part shown in Fig. 14. [Figure 16] Flow chart showing the cutting procedure using the machine tool 1 of the present invention.

Embodiments for Carrying out the Invention

[0014] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following, the same elements in all the drawings are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted. Also, in the description in the text, the reference numerals described previously will be used as necessary.

[0015] The front view of the machine tool 1 which is an embodiment of the present invention is shown in Fig. 1, the right side view of the processing chamber 2 which forms a part of the machine tool 1 is shown in Fig. 2, the perspective view of the processing chamber 2 from above is shown in Fig. 3, the left side view of the processing chamber 2 is shown in Fig. 4, and the perspective view of the processing chamber 2 from the left side is shown in Fig. 5 respectively. The machine tool 1 of the present invention is roughly composed of a processing chamber 2 for performing cutting on a workpiece inside as shown in Fig. 1, a control panel 3 for setting and operating cutting conditions and the like in the processing chamber 2, and dust collectors 4 and 5 for collecting chips generated in the processing chamber 2. Hereinafter, the details of the processing chamber 2, the control panel 3, and the dust collectors 4 and 5 will be described.

[0016] <Processing chamber 2> The machining chamber 2 is the central part of the machine tool 1 of the present invention and is where cutting operations are performed. Inside the machining chamber 2, as shown in Figure 3, a table 21 for fixing the workpiece and a spindle 22 for gripping the cutting tool are arranged, and the operator can perform various tasks such as loading and unloading workpieces and cleaning the room after cutting by opening and closing the door (front door) 20. The machining chamber 2 is configured to prevent foreign matter from entering from the outside by having a sealed structure for the door 20, while efficiently removing chips generated inside.

[0017] Therefore, as shown in Figures 1 and 3, the machining chamber 2 incorporates an exhaust system connected to dust collectors 4 and 5 and dust collector ducts D1 and D2. Furthermore, the machining chamber 2 is equipped with an automatic tool changer (not shown) that can automatically switch to the most suitable cutting tool depending on the material and size of the workpiece, by providing multiple types of cutting tools.

[0018] <Control Panel 3> The control panel 3 is a crucial piece of equipment that manages and controls the overall operation of the machine tool 1, specifically integrating the operation of the cutting tool and the movement of the table 21. As shown in Figures 1 and 3, the control panel 3 is equipped with an operation panel, allowing the operator to configure settings according to the task. It also includes safety functions such as collecting data from various sensors installed in the machining chamber 2 and automatically stopping the machine tool 1 in the event of an abnormality. Furthermore, it can be equipped with functions for inputting and modifying machining programs, as well as remote control.

[0019] <Dust collectors 4, 5> As shown in Figure 1, dust collectors 4 and 5 are installed on the side or rear side of the processing chamber 2. They draw in outside air from the air intake 23 shown in Figures 4 and 5, and draw in air from inside the processing chamber 2 from the exhaust ports 24 (24A, 24B) shown in Figures 2 and 3, thereby efficiently removing chips generated by cutting. The installation of dust collectors 4 and 5 prevents chips from accumulating inside the processing chamber 2, playing a role in maintaining the performance of the machine tool 1 for a long period of time. Furthermore, by using a cyclone-type dust collector for dust collector 4 and a cotton-type dust collector for dust collector 5, they can exert suction power even on fine dust and efficiently collect it.

[0020] Next, we will further explain the interior of processing room 2. Figure 6 shows a perspective view from the front right with the door 20 of processing room 2 open, Figure 7 shows a perspective view from the front left with the door 20 of processing room 2 open, Figure 8 shows a perspective view of the area around the first exhaust duct 25A inside processing room 2, Figure 9 shows a front view of the area around the second exhaust duct 25B inside processing room 2, Figure 10 shows a perspective view of the area around the second exhaust duct 25B inside processing room 2, Figure 11 shows a perspective view of the area around the first static eliminator 26A inside processing room 2, Figure 12 shows a front perspective view of the area around the second static eliminator 26B inside processing room 2, and Figure 13 shows a perspective view of the area around the second static eliminator 26B inside processing room 2 from below.

[0021] In addition to the table 21 and spindle 22, the machining chamber 2 is equipped with an air intake port 23 that draws air from outside the machine tool 1 into the machining chamber 2, and exhaust ports 24 (24A, 24B) that discharge the air inside the machining chamber 2 to the outside of the machine tool 1, as shown in Figures 2 to 5. Furthermore, as shown in Figures 6 and 7, exhaust ducts 25 (25A, 25B) connected to the exhaust ports 24 (24A, 24B) are provided to suck up chips scattered around the table 21, and static eliminators 26 (26A, 26B) that spray ion-containing air toward the workpiece. The details of the table 21, spindle 22, air intake port 23, exhaust ports 24 (24A, 24B), exhaust ducts 25 (25A, 25B), and static eliminators 26 (26A, 26B) will be described below.

[0022] (Table 21) The table 21 is a component with a flat surface for fixing the workpiece, and is designed to allow for stable cutting. As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the table 21 is located at the bottom of the machining chamber 2, and fixing devices such as clamps and vises can be used to secure the workpiece. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 7, exhaust ducts 25 (25A, 25B) are located above and below the table 21 in this invention, allowing for efficient removal of chips generated during cutting.

[0023] (Spindle 22) The spindle 22 has a mechanism that grips the cutting tool and rotates it at high speed by incorporating a spindle. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 13, the spindle 22 has a structure that allows it to move vertically or horizontally so that the cutting tool can properly work on the workpiece. This enables precise machining of workpieces of various shapes. Note that the machine tool may also have the spindle 22 moving vertically and in the depth direction and the table 21 moving horizontally, or the spindle 22 moving only vertically.

[0024] (Air supply port 23) As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the air intake 23 is an opening for drawing fresh air into the processing chamber 2 from outside. Inside the processing chamber 2, chips and dust generated during cutting are scattered, so it is necessary to continuously supply clean air. The air intake 23 functions as an opening connecting the outside and inside of the processing chamber 2 and plays a role in controlling the airflow inside the processing chamber 2. In other words, the air drawn in from the air intake 23 creates a flow that directs the chips inside the processing chamber 2 towards the dust collectors 4 and 5 (a large flow that moves from left to right inside the processing chamber 2), thereby effectively removing the chips.

[0025] Furthermore, the outside air taken in through the air intake port 23 appropriately adjusts the pressure inside the processing chamber 2, promoting efficient chip removal. In addition, by maintaining a balance with the air discharged by the dust collectors 4 and 5, negative pressure is created inside the processing chamber 2, which also has the effect of preventing chips and dust generated inside the processing chamber 2 from being discharged to the outside. As a result, high-precision cutting can be achieved without releasing chips generated inside the processing chamber 2 to the outside when the workpiece is removed.

[0026] Furthermore, the air intake port 23 functions in close cooperation with the exhaust port and exhaust duct, which will be described later. The air taken into the processing chamber 2 is drawn into the dust collectors 4 and 5 through the dust collector ducts D1 and D2 shown in Figure 3 from the exhaust port. Therefore, the amount of air flowing in from the air intake port 23 must be balanced with the amount of exhaust air. Maintaining an appropriate balance creates an optimal airflow within the processing chamber 2, leading to efficient chip removal and improved processing accuracy. In addition, as the air taken in from the air intake port 23 passes through the processing chamber 2, it mixes with ion-containing air by the static eliminator, which will be described later, and static electricity is removed. This prevents chip adhesion and deterioration of the surface condition of the workpiece during cutting, and allows for the acquisition of a high-quality machined surface.

[0027] The shape and size of the air intake 23 can be arbitrarily set. For example, if a single large-diameter air intake 23 is provided, a large amount of air can be supplied into the processing chamber 2 at once. Alternatively, by arranging multiple small-diameter air intakes 23, the airflow within the processing chamber 2 can be evenly distributed, creating a stable environment. Thus, the shape, size, and number of air intakes 23 can be arbitrarily changed to optimize the airflow within the processing chamber 2.

[0028] (Exhaust port 24) As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the exhaust port 24 is an opening that guides the air inside the processing chamber 2 to dust collectors 4 and 5 installed outside via dust collector ducts D1 and D2, and is provided with a first exhaust port 24A and a second exhaust port 24B. The first exhaust port 24A is installed below the table 21 as shown in Figure 8, and the second exhaust port 24B is installed above the table 21 as shown in Figures 9 and 10. The first exhaust port 24A is located below the table 21 and can efficiently discharge chips that accumulate around and below the table 21. On the other hand, the second exhaust port 24B is located above the table 21 and plays the role of quickly guiding chips and dust generated during cutting to dust collectors 4 and 5. In this way, the air inside the processing chamber 2 is efficiently discharged through the first and second exhaust ports 24A and 24B installed at two locations, above and below, preventing the accumulation of chips inside the processing chamber 2. Furthermore, multiple wiring and piping ports may be provided near the second exhaust port 24B for wiring and piping of a static eliminator, which will be described later.

[0029] The shape, size, and placement of each exhaust port can be arbitrarily set. For example, by using oval or rectangular openings, air can be concentrated on a specific area, enabling efficient removal. In addition, by installing filters in the exhaust ports, large chips can be removed while reducing the load on the dust collectors 4 and 5.

[0030] Furthermore, the placement of the exhaust port 24 directly affects the airflow within the processing chamber 2, and is therefore designed in consideration of its balance with the aforementioned air intake port 23. Appropriate placement ensures even airflow throughout the processing chamber 2, enabling efficient chip removal. The exhaust port 24 also functions in conjunction with the dust collector ducts D1 and D2 (described later), efficiently sending air from the processing chamber 2 to the dust collectors 4 and 5. The connection between the exhaust port 24 and the exhaust ducts 25 (25A, 25B) requires an appropriate angle and shape to ensure smooth airflow. Additionally, a lower cover can be installed to prevent exhaust duct 25A from entering the chip basket and conveyor at the bottom of the processing chamber, guiding it to the bottom of the receiving tray of this lower cover. This lower cover can also be designed with a slope to facilitate air intake from the exhaust duct 25, allowing it to accumulate at the bottom. Furthermore, to bring the air intake port of the exhaust duct 25 closer to the spindle 22, a duct guide can be installed inside the machine to guide it. This duct guide may have clamps for securing the wiring and piping of the static eliminator, which will be described later.

[0031] Furthermore, after static electricity generated in the processing chamber 2 is removed by the static eliminator described later, the chips are discharged to the dust collectors 4 and 5 through the exhaust ports 24 (24A, 24B). Since the chips from which static electricity has been removed do not reattach to the processing chamber 2 and are efficiently discharged, the cleanliness of the working environment can be maintained.

[0032] (Exhaust duct 25) The exhaust ducts 25 (25A, 25B) are conduits extending from the exhaust ports 24 (24A, 24B) toward the table 21. As shown in Figures 3, 7, and 8, one end of the first exhaust duct 25A is connected to the first exhaust port 24A, and the other end, i.e., the suction port, is located below the table 21. As shown in Figures 9 and 10, one end of the second exhaust duct 25B is connected to the second exhaust port 24B, and the other end, i.e., the suction port, is located above the table 21. This arrangement allows for efficient suction of chips generated in the processing chamber 2 from both above and below the table 21.

[0033] The exhaust ducts 25 (25A, 25B) are designed to smooth the airflow and maximize the suction power of the dust collectors 4 and 5 via the dust collector ducts D1 and D2 shown in Figure 3. In particular, by making the inner surface of the exhaust ducts 25 (25A, 25B) smooth, air resistance is minimized, so that chips are efficiently transported to the dust collectors 4 and 5.

[0034] Furthermore, the diameter and shape of the duct also affect the airflow, allowing for arbitrary design. Exhaust ducts 25 (25A, 25B) come in various types, including straight, curved, and branched designs. Straight ducts allow for smooth airflow and efficient discharge. Curved and branched ducts can be used when installation requires avoiding obstacles such as equipment within the processing room 2.

[0035] Furthermore, by installing filters or valves inside the exhaust ducts 25 (25A, 25B), the airflow can be adjusted and foreign matter can be prevented from entering. In addition, O-rings or other gaskets can be used at the connection point between the exhaust ducts 25 (25A, 25B) and the exhaust ports 24 (24A, 24B) to enhance sealing and joint tightness.

[0036] (Static eliminator 26) The static eliminator 26, also known as an ionizer, is a device for removing static electricity generated in the workpiece during cutting, and has a mechanism for spraying air containing ions. The static eliminator 26 is divided into a first static eliminator 26A and a second static eliminator 26B. The first static eliminator 26A is installed on the upper surface of the table 21 as shown in Figures 6 and 11, and the second static eliminator 26B is installed along the longitudinal direction of the spindle 22 as shown in Figures 6, 12, and 13. The first static eliminator 26A is equipped with multiple nozzles directed horizontally or diagonally to the table 21, and the second static eliminator 26B is equipped with nozzles directed towards the table 21. In this way, the static eliminator 26 efficiently removes static electricity from the workpiece and prevents chips from adhering to the inner wall surface of the machining chamber 2.

[0037] As shown in Figures 6 and 11, the first static eliminator 26A is positioned on the left side of the table 21, in accordance with the airflow from left to right inside the machining chamber 2. By spraying ion-containing air from each nozzle in a horizontal or diagonal direction, it uniformly removes static electricity from the entire workpiece fixed on the table 21. This prevents static electricity generated during cutting from adhering to the table 21 and the inner walls of the machining chamber 2, thereby maintaining machining accuracy.

[0038] The second static eliminator 26B is installed along the longitudinal direction of the spindle 22, as shown in Figures 6, 12, and 13, and sprays ion-containing air toward the tip of the cutting tool T held by the spindle 22. The direction of the spray nozzle of the second static eliminator 26B can also be branched and adjusted to merge with the compressed air sprayed from the air nozzle N, which is standard equipment on the spindle 22, as shown in Figure 13. This removes static electricity generated by friction when the spindle 22 rotates and cuts the workpiece, minimizing the accumulation of static electricity on the workpiece and chips.

[0039] Furthermore, there are various methods for static eliminators 26, including air ionization and radiation ionization. The air ionization method uses electrodes to generate ions in the air and neutralize static electricity; it is highly safe and widely used. On the other hand, the radiation ionization method uses radioactive materials to generate ions in the air, and a higher static elimination effect can be expected.

[0040] Furthermore, the static eliminator can also function in close conjunction with the aforementioned air intake port 23 and exhaust port 24 (24A, 24B). For example, by installing the static eliminator near the air intake port 23, the air taken in from the air intake port 23 is ionized as it passes through the static eliminator and sprayed into the processing chamber 2, thereby efficiently removing static electricity contained in the air. In addition, chips and dust discharged through the exhaust port 24 (24A, 24B) are de-staticized by the static eliminator before being sent to the dust collectors 4 and 5, thus preventing the re-adhesion of chips and dust.

[0041] Figure 14 shows a schematic diagram illustrating the cutting process and airflow inside the machining chamber 2 of the machine tool according to the present invention, and Figure 15 shows an enlarged view of the cutting area shown in Figure 14. In Figure 14, a workpiece W installed in the machining chamber 2 is fixed to the table 21, and a cutting tool T held by the spindle 22 is shown machining the workpiece W. In addition, in order to efficiently discharge chips and dust generated during cutting to the outside of the machine tool, exhaust ducts 25 (25A, 25B) and exhaust ports 24 (24A, 24B) are arranged inside the machining chamber 2, and outside air supplied from the air intake port 23 flows inside the machining chamber 2 and is sent to an external dust collector (not shown) via the exhaust ducts 25 (25A, 25B).

[0042] As shown in Figure 14, the air supplied from the air intake 23 draws in chips and dust generated during cutting and heads towards the external dust collector through the exhaust ducts 25A and 25B. At this time, the airflow F1 from the air intake 23 toward the first exhaust duct 25A serves to suck in chips from the bottom of the table 21, and the airflow F2 from the air intake 23 toward the second exhaust duct 25B sucks in chips from the top of the table 21, and these are then sent to the external dust collector.

[0043] Next, Figure 15 is an enlarged view of the cutting area shown in Figure 14, focusing particularly on the static electricity removal mechanism. As shown in Figure 15, the static eliminator 26A is installed on the table 21, and the static eliminator 26B is installed along the spindle 22. The flow of ion-containing air F11 sprayed from the nozzles of the static eliminators 26 (26A, 26B) effectively removes static electricity generated during cutting, preventing chips from adhering to the machining chamber 2 and the machined surface of the workpiece W. At the same time, the flow of compressed air F12 sprayed from the air nozzle N installed near the spindle 22 as shown in Figure 13 quickly removes chips and dust generated during cutting from the cutting area.

[0044] In other words, the airflow F2 from the air intake 23 toward the second exhaust duct 25B, the airflow F11 containing ions sprayed from the nozzles of the static eliminators 26 (26A, 26B), and the compressed air flow F12 sprayed from the air nozzle N cause the chips generated by the cutting process to be blown up without adhering to the inside of the processing chamber 2, and finally, the air around the cutting position containing the chips is efficiently discharged to the external dust collector via the second exhaust duct 25B by the airflow F13 toward the second exhaust duct 25B.

[0045] At the same time, chips and dust that could not be captured by the second exhaust duct 25B are carried by the airflow F1 from the air intake port 23 shown in Figure 14 toward the first exhaust duct 25A, and are discharged to an external dust collector via the first exhaust duct 25A, which is installed below the table 21 in the processing chamber 2.

[0046] Next, the procedure for performing cutting using the aforementioned machine tool will be explained with reference to the diagrams, with reference to the symbols shown in Figures 1 to 15. Figure 16 shows the procedure (flow chart) for the cutting method using the machine tool of the present invention. In the cutting method using the machine tool of the present invention, after performing preparatory work such as setting the machining program, the cutting process is performed in the following order, as shown in Figure 16: starting the supply and exhaust of air into the machining chamber (first step S001), operating the static eliminator (second step S002), and executing the cutting process (third step S003).

[0047] First, as preparation before starting the cutting process, the machining program is input and set from the control panel 3 or an external device (such as a workstation PC with 3D CAD / CAM installed). The machining program includes the type of cutting tool T to be used, the cutting speed, the feed rate, and the cutting path. Then, the workpiece W is fixed on the table 21 in the machining chamber 2 using fixing fixtures such as clamps and vises. In addition, the cutting tool T specified in the machining program is mounted on the spindle 22.

[0048] If an automatic tool changer is installed in the machining chamber 2, set it to perform tool changes automatically. First, the door 20 of the machining chamber 2 is tightly closed to create a sealed state. This prevents dust and dirt from entering the machining chamber 2 from the outside and stabilizes the conditions inside the machining chamber 2. It also prevents chips generated during cutting from scattering to the outside, ensuring the safety of the workers. The details of each step shown in Figure 16, starting the supply and exhaust of air into the machining chamber (first step S001), activating the static eliminator (second step S002), and performing the cutting process (third step S003), will be explained below.

[0049] <Starting air supply and exhaust into the processing chamber: Step 1 S001> First, by activating the dust collectors 4 and 5, air is drawn into the machining chamber 2 from outside the machine tool 1 via the air intake 23, and at the same time, air from the machining chamber 2 is discharged through the exhaust ports 24 (24A, 24B). The supply of air into the machining chamber 2 plays a role in effectively removing chips and dust generated during cutting by creating airflow within the machining chamber 2. In other words, the air drawn into the machining chamber 2 from the air intake 23 circulates within the machining chamber 2, effectively carrying the chips and dust generated by cutting towards the outside of the machining chamber 2.

[0050] Furthermore, air from the processing chamber 2 is drawn in through exhaust ducts 25A and 25B installed above and below the table 21 and transported through exhaust ports 24A and 24B to dust collectors 4 and 5. By providing two exhaust ducts 25A and 25B above and below the table 21, it is possible to suck up chips from the entire cutting area, keeping the cutting area clean. The first exhaust duct 24A, installed below the table 21, can also efficiently suck up relatively large chips that fall due to gravity.

[0051] Furthermore, the second exhaust duct 25B, installed above the table 21, effectively sucks up fine chips that are stirred up during cutting. Each exhaust duct 25A, 25B, connected to each exhaust port 24A, 24B provided on the inner wall of the machining chamber 2, carries the air and chips sucked in through each exhaust port 24A, 24B to the dust collectors 4, 5. By sending the exhaust from above and below the table 21 to the dust collectors 4, 5 via separate exhaust ducts, the airflow is optimized, resulting in more efficient chip collection.

[0052] <Static eliminator operation: Step 2 S002> In the second step, after the environment inside the processing chamber 2 is set, the static eliminator 26 is activated to remove static electricity. First, the static eliminator (first static eliminator) 26A, which is installed on the table 21, sprays ion-containing air horizontally and diagonally toward the workpiece W fixed on the table 21, uniformly removing static electricity from the entire workpiece W.

[0053] This prevents chip adhesion and improves machining accuracy. In addition, the static eliminator (second static eliminator) 26B, installed along the spindle 22, sprays ion-containing air toward the workpiece W fixed to the table 21 in order to remove static electricity generated by the rotation of the spindle 22. This minimizes the effect of static electricity on the cutting tool T and the workpiece W, enabling stable machining. By effectively positioning these two types of static eliminators 26 (26A, 26B) and spraying ion-containing air from different directions, the effect of static electricity on the workpiece W and the cutting tool T is eliminated.

[0054] <Execution of cutting process: Step 3 S003> After the second step is completed, the spindle 22 rotates based on a command from the control panel 3, and the mounted cutting tool T begins to rotate at high speed. Simultaneously, the table 21 moves to the machining start position according to the machining program, and when the workpiece W performs relative motion with respect to the cutting tool T, and the cutting tool T comes into contact with the workpiece W, the cutting process begins.

[0055] When cutting begins, chips are generated from the workpiece W. These chips not only negatively affect machining quality and tool life, but also worsen the working environment. Therefore, the generated chips are powerfully sucked in by exhaust ducts 25 (25A, 25B) installed above and below the table 21, and transported through exhaust ports 24 (24A, 24B) to dust collectors 4 and 5. By providing exhaust ducts 25 (25A, 25B) above and below the table 21, not only chips that fall due to gravity but also fine chips that are stirred up during machining can be efficiently collected.

[0056] Dust collectors 4 and 5, installed outside the processing chamber 2, collect chips transported through dedicated pipes and separate them from the air inside the processing chamber 2. This keeps the cutting area clean. The machine tool 1 of the present invention combines dust collectors 4 and 5 connected via two exhaust ducts 25A and 25B installed vertically above the table 21 and two exhaust ports 24A and 24B, thereby quickly and reliably removing chips and maintaining a consistently clean processing environment.

[0057] During machining, the machining process can be constantly monitored through the monitor on the control panel 3 and the window in the machining room 2. By paying attention to wear or breakage of the cutting tool T, deformation of the workpiece W, and abnormal vibrations or noises, the operator can immediately stop the machine tool 1 from the control panel 3 if a problem occurs.

[0058] After completing the above steps, once the machining program is finished (cutting is complete), the rotation of the spindle 22 and the movement of the table 21 are stopped, ending the cutting process. The air supply from the air intake 23 and the exhaust from the exhaust ports 24 (24A, 24B) are stopped. The operation of the static eliminator 26 is also stopped. The door 20 of the machining chamber 2 is opened, and the machined workpiece W is removed. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0059] 1 Machine tools 2 Processing room 3. Control Panel 4 (Cyclone type) dust collector 5 (Cotton-type) Dust Collector 20 Doors (Front Door) 21 Tables 22 Main axis 23 Air supply port 24 (24A, 24B) Exhaust port 25 (25A, 25B) Exhaust Duct 26(26A, 26B) Static eliminator D1, D2 Ducts for dust collectors F1 airflow from the air intake to the first exhaust duct Airflow from the F2 intake to the second exhaust duct F11 Airflow containing ions ejected from the static eliminator Flow of compressed air ejected from the F12 air nozzle. F13 Airflow around the machining area towards the second exhaust duct N Air Nozzle W Work material

Claims

1. A machining chamber equipped with a table for fixing the workpiece and a spindle for gripping a cutting tool for machining the workpiece, A dust collector that draws in the air inside the processing chamber, A machine tool having, The aforementioned processing chamber is An air intake port for taking air into the aforementioned processing chamber, By connecting to the dust collector, an exhaust port is provided for drawing in air from the processing chamber, An exhaust duct connected to the exhaust port and extending toward the table, A static eliminator that sprays ion-containing air from a nozzle, A machine tool characterized by having the following features.

2. In the machine tool described in claim 1, The aforementioned static eliminator is The first static eliminator installed on the table, A second static eliminator is installed along the longitudinal direction of the main shaft, Includes, The first static eliminator is equipped with a plurality of nozzles directed towards the workpiece in the horizontal or diagonal direction on the table, The machine tool is characterized in that the second static eliminator has a nozzle directed towards the tip of the cutting tool.

3. In the machine tool described in claim 1, The aforementioned exhaust duct is A first exhaust duct, one end of which is connected to the exhaust port and the other end of which is located below the table, A machine tool characterized by including a second exhaust duct, one end of which is connected to the exhaust port and the other end of which is located above the table.

4. In the machine tool described in claim 3, The aforementioned exhaust port is A first exhaust port is installed below the aforementioned table, A second exhaust port is installed above the aforementioned table, Includes, One end of the first exhaust duct is connected to the first exhaust port, A machine tool characterized in that one end of the second exhaust duct is connected to the second exhaust port.

5. A machining chamber where the workpiece is cut, A table for fixing the workpiece is provided in the processing chamber, A spindle for gripping a cutting tool is provided within the aforementioned machining chamber, The processing chamber is provided with an air intake port that draws air from the outside into the processing chamber, An exhaust port is provided in the processing chamber for discharging the air inside the processing chamber to the outside, An exhaust duct connected to the exhaust port for drawing in air from the processing chamber, A static eliminator that sprays ion-containing air toward the workpiece, A cutting method using a machine tool having, The first step involves drawing air into the processing chamber from the air intake port and simultaneously exhausting the air from the processing chamber through the exhaust duct and the exhaust port. The second step involves spraying ion-containing air from the static eliminator toward the workpiece, A third step involves cutting the workpiece while rotating the cutting tool, A cutting method characterized by having the following features.

6. In the cutting method described in claim 5, The aforementioned exhaust port is A first exhaust port located below the table, A second exhaust port is located above the aforementioned table, It has, The aforementioned exhaust duct is A first exhaust duct connected to the first exhaust port, with its intake port located below the table, A second exhaust duct connected to the second exhaust port, with its intake port located above the table, It has, The aforementioned static eliminator is A first static eliminator is positioned above the table and sprays ion-containing air toward the workpiece in the horizontal or diagonal direction of the table. A second static eliminator is positioned along the longitudinal direction of the main spindle and sprays ion-containing air toward the tip of the cutting tool, A cutting method characterized by having the following features.

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