Machining Center and Machining Method

Abstract

An object of the present invention is to provide a machine tool and a cutting method that can efficiently collect dust without chips leaking outside the machine tool even when the workpiece is made of polystyrene foam or the like, and can prevent the chips from adhering to the inside of the processing chamber. 【Solution means】A machine tool having a processing chamber equipped with a table 21 and a spindle 22, and a dust collector for sucking air inside the processing chamber. The processing chamber has an air supply port for taking in air from the outside, an exhaust port for sucking air inside the processing chamber by connecting to the dust collector, an exhaust duct 25B connected to the exhaust port and extending toward the table 21, and static eliminators 26A and 26B for injecting air containing ions from injection ports.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a machine tool for cutting expanded polystyrene and a cutting method.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, when performing cutting using a machining center (machine tool), chips (such as metal and carbon) 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 expanded polystyrene, 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 are scattered throughout the machining chamber, and in order to collect the scattered chips after the cutting process, the cleaning work after the cutting process is complicated. Also, when the chips are charged, they tend to adhere to the door and inner wall surface of the machining chamber, and after the cutting process, the operator has to clean them with air. However, at this time, the chips may fly out of the machine tool, resulting in further complication of the post-treatment after the cutting process.

[0004] Therefore, Patent Document 3 discloses a method of efficiently collecting (dust collecting) 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

Patent Document 3

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] However, in order to apply the method of dust collection while removing static electricity disclosed in Patent Document 3 to machining operations using a machining center, for example, a machine tool manufactured by Mori Seiki Co., Ltd., since the machine tool operates a cutting tool three-dimensionally and performs machining from above or the side of the workpiece fixed on the table, as a result, it was difficult to directly apply the method of dust collection by installing a dust collector directly below the table shown in Patent Document 3.

[0007] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a machine tool and a machining method capable of efficiently collecting dust without chips leaking outside the machine tool even when the workpiece is polystyrene foam, and preventing chips from adhering to the machining chamber.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0008] As a result of intensive research by the inventors of the present application, by using such a high-precision machine of Mori Seiki Co., Ltd. and digitizing it, it is clear that the time is shortened compared to the manual work by existing craftsmen, and it is possible to create a delicate and accurate foam mold, and attention was paid to the fact that it is possible to increase the productivity considerably. Therefore, the present invention is a machine tool having a machining chamber including a table for fixing a workpiece and a spindle for gripping a cutting tool for machining the workpiece, and a dust collector for sucking air in the machining chamber, wherein the machining chamber has an air supply port for taking air into the machining chamber, an exhaust port for sucking air in the machining chamber by connecting to the dust collector, an exhaust duct connected to the exhaust port and extending toward the table, and a static eliminator for injecting air containing ions from an injection port.

[0009] Furthermore, the static eliminator includes a first static eliminator installed on the upper surface of the table and a second static eliminator installed along the longitudinal direction of the main shaft. The first static eliminator is provided with a plurality of injection ports directed toward the workpiece to be machined in the horizontal or diagonal direction of the table. The second static eliminator may be provided with an injection port directed toward the tip of the cutting tool. Also, one end of the exhaust duct is connected to the exhaust port, and the other end may be formed by a first exhaust duct located below the table and a second exhaust duct with one end connected to the exhaust port and the other end located above the table. Regarding the exhaust port, it includes a first exhaust port installed below the table and a second exhaust port installed above the table. The exhaust duct may be formed by a first exhaust duct with one end connected to the first exhaust port and the other end located below the table and a second exhaust duct with one end connected to the second exhaust port and the other end located above the table.

[0010] Also, regarding the invention of the machining method, a machining method using a machine tool having a machining chamber for machining a workpiece inside, a table provided in the machining chamber for fixing the workpiece, a main shaft provided in the machining chamber for gripping a cutting tool, an air supply port provided in the machining chamber for taking in air from the outside into the machining chamber, an exhaust port provided in the machining chamber for discharging the air inside the machining chamber to the outside, an exhaust duct connected to the exhaust port for sucking the air inside the machining chamber, and a static eliminator for injecting air containing ions toward the workpiece, the machining method includes a first step of taking in air from the air supply port into the machining chamber and simultaneously exhausting the air inside the machining chamber through the exhaust duct and the exhaust port, a second step of injecting air containing ions toward the workpiece from the static eliminator, and a third step of machining the workpiece while rotating the cutting tool.

[0011] In the invention of the cutting method, the exhaust port has a first exhaust port disposed below the table and a second exhaust port disposed above the table, the exhaust duct is connected to the first exhaust port, and has a first exhaust duct with a suction port located below the table and a second exhaust duct connected to the second exhaust port with a suction port located above the table. The static eliminator is disposed above the table and may have a first static eliminator that injects air containing ions toward the workpiece in the horizontal or diagonal direction of the table, and a second static eliminator disposed along the longitudinal direction of the spindle that injects air containing ions toward the tip of the cutting tool.

Advantages of the Invention

[0012] The machine tool of the present invention is provided with an air supply port and two exhaust ports in the processing chamber, and two exhaust ducts are connected to each exhaust port. Since the suction ports of the exhaust ducts are located in the vertical direction of the table, even when the workpiece is made of polystyrene foam, chips can be efficiently collected without leaking outside the machine tool. In addition, since a static eliminator that injects air containing ions from an injection port is also installed in the processing chamber, it has the effect of preventing chips generated by cutting from adhering to the inner wall surface of the processing chamber.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0013]

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Figure 16

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 above 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 from above of the same processing chamber 2 is shown in Fig. 3, the left side view of the same processing chamber 2 is shown in Fig. 4, and the perspective view from the left side of the same processing chamber 2 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 etc. 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 the place where machining is performed. Inside the machining chamber 2, as shown in Fig. 3, a table 21 for fixing the workpiece and a spindle 22 for gripping the cutting tool are arranged. The operator can perform various operations such as loading and unloading the workpiece and cleaning the inside of the chamber after machining 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 making the door 20 airtight and to efficiently remove the chips generated inside.

[0017] Therefore, as shown in Figs. 1 and 3, a dust collection system connected to dust collectors 4, 5 and dust collector ducts D1, D2 is incorporated in the machining chamber 2. Inside the machining chamber 2, there is also provided an automatic tool changer (not shown) equipped with multiple types of cutting tools, which can automatically exchange the optimal cutting tool according to the material and size of the workpiece.

[0018] <Control panel 3> The control panel 3 is an important device for managing and controlling the operation of the entire machine tool 1. Specifically, it integrally manages the operation of the cutting tool and the movement of the table 21. As shown in Figs. 1 and 3, the control panel 3 is equipped with an operation panel, allowing the operator to make settings according to the work. It also collects data from various sensors installed inside the machining chamber 2 and has a safety function to automatically stop the machine tool 1 in case of an abnormality. In addition, functions such as inputting and modifying machining programs and remote operation can also be provided.

[0019] <Dust collectors 4, 5> The dust collectors 4 and 5 are installed on the side or rear side of the processing chamber 2 as shown in FIG. 1, take in external air into the processing chamber 2 from the air inlet 23 shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, and suck the air in the processing chamber 2 from the exhaust ports 24 (24A, 24B) shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, so as to efficiently remove the chips generated by the cutting process. By installing the dust collectors 4 and 5, it is possible to prevent chips from accumulating inside the processing chamber 2 and play a role in maintaining the performance of the machine tool 1 for a long time. In addition, by setting the type of the dust collector 4 as a cyclone type dust collector and the type of the dust collector 5 as a cotton batting type dust collector, it is possible to exert a suction force on fine dust and collect it efficiently.

[0020] Next, the inside of the processing chamber 2 will be further described. FIG. 6 shows a perspective view from the front right side with the door 20 of the processing chamber 2 open, FIG. 7 shows a perspective view from the front left side with the door 20 of the processing chamber 2 open, FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of the periphery of the first exhaust duct 25A in the processing chamber 2, FIG. 9 shows a front view of the periphery of the second exhaust duct 25B in the same processing chamber 2, FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of the periphery of the second exhaust duct 25B in the same processing chamber 2, FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of the periphery of the first static eliminator 26A in the processing chamber 2, FIG. 12 shows a perspective view from the front of the periphery of the second static eliminator 26B in the processing chamber 2, and FIG. 13 shows a perspective view from below of the periphery of the second static eliminator 26B in the processing chamber 2.

[0021] In addition to the table 21 and the spindle 22, the processing chamber 2 is provided with an air inlet 23 for taking in air from the outside of the machine tool 1 into the inside of the processing chamber 2 as shown in FIGS. 2 to 5, and exhaust ports 24 (24A, 24B) for discharging the air inside the processing chamber 2 to the outside of the machine tool 1. Further, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, exhaust ducts 25 (25A, 25B) connected to the exhaust ports 24 (24A, 24B) for sucking in chips scattered near the table 21, and static eliminators 26 (26A, 26B) for injecting air containing ions toward the workpiece are provided. Hereinafter, the details of the table 21, the spindle 22, the air inlet 23, the exhaust ports 24 (24A, 24B), the exhaust ducts 25 (25A, 25B), and the static eliminators 26 (26A, 26B) will be described.

[0022] (Table 21) Table 21 is a component with a flat surface for fixing the workpiece, and is designed to enable stable cutting. As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, Table 21 is arranged at the lower part in the machining chamber 2, and fixtures such as clamps and vises for fixing the workpiece can be used. Further, in the present invention, as shown in FIG. 7, exhaust ducts 25 (25A, 25B) are arranged above and below Table 21, and chips generated during cutting can be efficiently removed.

[0023] (Spindle 22) The spindle 22 has a mechanism for gripping a cutting tool and rotating the cutting tool at high speed by incorporating a spindle. Further, as shown in FIG. 13, the spindle 22 has a structure that can move in the vertical direction or the horizontal direction so that the cutting tool can appropriately perform work on the workpiece. Thereby, precise machining can be performed on workpieces of various shapes. Note that the machine tool in which the spindle 22 moves in the vertical direction and the depth direction, and the table 21 moves in the horizontal direction, or the machine tool in which the spindle 22 moves only in the vertical direction may be used.

[0024] (Air inlet 23) The air inlet 23 is an opening for taking fresh air from the outside of the machining chamber 2 into the inside of the machining chamber 2 as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5. In the machining chamber 2, chips and dust generated during cutting are scattered, so it is necessary to continuously supply clean air. The air inlet 23 functions as an opening connecting the outside and the inside of the machining chamber 2 and plays a role in controlling the air flow in the machining chamber 2. That is, the air taken in from the air inlet 23 creates a flow that directs the chips in the machining chamber 2 toward the dust collectors 4 and 5 (a large flow from the left side to the right side inside the machining chamber 2), and the chips can be effectively removed.

[0025] In addition, the outside air taken in through the air supply port 23 appropriately adjusts the pressure inside the processing chamber 2 and promotes the efficient discharge of chips. Also, by maintaining balance with the air discharged by the dust collectors 4 and 5, a negative pressure is generated 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 discharging the chips generated inside the processing chamber 2 when taking out the workpiece.

[0026] Furthermore, the air supply port 23 functions in close relation to the exhaust port and the exhaust duct described later. Since the air taken into the processing chamber 2 is sucked from the exhaust port through the dust collector ducts D1 and D2 shown in Fig. 3 into the dust collectors 4 and 5, the inflow rate of air from the air supply port 23 needs to be balanced with the exhaust volume. By maintaining an appropriate balance, an optimal air flow is generated inside the processing chamber 2, achieving efficient removal of chips and improvement of processing accuracy. Also, when the air taken in from the air supply port 23 passes through the processing chamber 2, it mixes with the air containing ions by the static eliminator described later, and static electricity is removed. As a result, adhesion of chips during cutting and deterioration of the surface state of the workpiece can be prevented, and a high-quality cutting surface can be obtained.

[0027] Note that the shape and size of the air supply port 23 can be arbitrarily set. For example, when providing a single large-diameter air supply port 23, a large amount of air can be supplied into the processing chamber 2 at once. Also, by arranging a plurality of small-diameter air supply ports 23, the air flow inside the processing chamber 2 can be evenly dispersed, creating a stable environment. Thus, the shape, size, and quantity of the air supply port 23 can be arbitrarily changed to optimize the air flow inside the processing chamber 2.

[0028] (Exhaust port 24) The exhaust port 24 is an opening for guiding the air in the processing chamber 2 to the dust collectors 4 and 5 installed outside through the dust collector ducts D1 and D2 as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, 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 FIG. 8, and the second exhaust port 24B is installed above the table 21 as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10. The first exhaust port 24A is arranged below the table 21 and can efficiently discharge the chips collected around and below the table 21. On the other hand, the second exhaust port 24B is arranged above the table 21 and serves to quickly guide the chips and dust generated during the cutting process to the dust collectors 4 and 5. In this way, the air in the processing chamber 2 is efficiently discharged through the first and second exhaust ports 24A and 24B installed at two locations, upper and lower, preventing the chips from staying inside the processing chamber 2. Also, there may be a plurality of wiring and piping ports for wiring and piping the static eliminator described later near the second exhaust port 24B.

[0029] The shape, size, arrangement position, etc. of each exhaust port can be arbitrarily set. For example, by adopting an elliptical or rectangular opening, air can be concentratedly sucked in a specific area, enabling efficient removal. Also, by providing a filter at the exhaust port, large chips can be removed while reducing the load on the dust collectors 4 and 5.

[0030] Furthermore, since the arrangement of the exhaust port 24 directly affects the air flow in the processing chamber 2, it is designed in consideration of the balance with the above-described air supply port 23. With an appropriate arrangement, a uniform air flow is generated throughout the processing chamber 2, enabling efficient removal of chips. Also, the exhaust port 24 functions in cooperation with the dust collector ducts D1 and D2 described later, and plays a role of efficiently sending the air in the processing chamber 2 to the dust collectors 4 and 5. The connection portion between the exhaust port 24 and the exhaust duct 25 (25A, 25B) requires an appropriate angle and shape to smooth the air flow. Also, a lower cover is installed in the exhaust duct 25A so as not to enter the chip basket and the conveyor at the bottom inside the processing chamber, and it can also be guided to the bottom of the receiving tray portion of the lower cover. This lower cover can also be made to accumulate easily at the bottom by providing an inclined surface so as to be easily sucked from the exhaust duct 25. Furthermore, since the exhaust duct 25 brings the air inlet closer to the vicinity of the main shaft 22, a duct guide can also be installed and guided inside the machine. This duct guide may have a clamp for fixing the wiring and piping of the static eliminator described later.

[0031] Also, after the 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 the static electricity has been removed do not adhere to the processing chamber 2 again and are efficiently discharged, the cleanliness of the working environment can be maintained.

[0032] (Exhaust duct 25) The exhaust ducts 25 (25A, 25B) are pipelines extending from the exhaust ports 24 (24A, 24B) in the direction of the table 21. As shown in FIGS. 3, 7, and 8, one end side of the first exhaust duct 25A is connected to the first exhaust port 24A, and the other end side, that is, the suction port, is located below the table 21. As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, one end side of the second exhaust duct 25B is connected to the second exhaust port 24B, and the other end side, that is, the suction port, is located above the table 21. With this arrangement, the chips generated in the processing chamber 2 can be efficiently sucked from both above and below the table 21.

[0033] The exhaust ducts 25 (25A, 25B) are designed to smooth the air flow and maximize the suction force of the dust collectors 4 and 5 through the dust collector ducts D1 and D2 shown in Fig. 3. In particular, by smoothing the inner surface of the exhaust ducts 25 (25A, 25B), the air resistance is minimized, so that the chips are efficiently conveyed to the dust collectors 4 and 5.

[0034] Also, since the thickness and shape of the duct also affect the air flow, they can be arbitrarily designed. Further, the exhaust ducts 25 (25A, 25B) come in various types such as linear, curved, and branched types. The linear duct has a smooth air flow and enables efficient discharge. The curved and branched ducts can be applied when installing while avoiding obstacles such as the equipment in the processing chamber 2.

[0035] Furthermore, by providing a filter or a valve in the exhaust ducts 25 (25A, 25B), the air flow rate can be adjusted and the entry of foreign substances can be prevented. Note that for the exhaust ducts 25 (25A, 25B), packing such as an O-ring can also be used to strengthen the sealing and the adhesion of the joint part at the connection part with the exhaust ports 24 (24A, 24B).

[0036] (Static eliminator 26) The static eliminator 26, also called an ionizer, is a device for removing static electricity generated by the workpiece during cutting, and has a mechanism for injecting 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 Figs. 6 and 11, and the second static eliminator 26B is installed along the longitudinal direction of the main shaft 22 as shown in Figs. 6, 12, and 13. Also, the first static eliminator 26A is provided with a plurality of injection ports directed in the horizontal or diagonal direction of the table 21, and the second static eliminator 26B is provided with an injection port directed toward the table 21. In this way, the static eliminator 26 efficiently removes static electricity from the workpiece and prevents the chips from adhering to the inner wall surface of the processing chamber 2.

[0037] The first static eliminator 26A is arranged on the left side of the table 21 in accordance with the air flow from the left side to the right side inside the processing chamber 2 as shown in FIGS. 6 and 11, and by injecting the air containing ions from each injection port in the lateral direction (horizontal direction) or the diagonal direction, the static electricity is uniformly removed over the entire workpiece fixed on the table 21. Thereby, it prevents the static electricity generated during the cutting process from being adsorbed on the inner wall surface of the table 21 and the processing chamber 2, and exhibits the effect of maintaining the processing accuracy.

[0038] The second static eliminator 26B is installed along the longitudinal direction of the main shaft 22 as shown in FIGS. 6, 12, and 13, and injects the air containing ions toward the tip of the cutting tool T held by the main shaft 22. Further, the direction of the injection port of the second static eliminator 26B can also be branched and adjusted in a form that merges with the compressed air injected from the air nozzle N standardly equipped on the main shaft 22 as shown in FIG. 13. Thereby, it can remove the static electricity generated by the friction when the main shaft 22 rotates to cut the workpiece, and minimize the charging of static electricity to the workpiece and chips.

[0039] Also, there are various methods for the static eliminator 26, such as the air ionization method and the radiation ionization method. The air ionization method is a method of generating ions in the air using electrodes to neutralize static electricity, and it is highly safe and widely used. On the other hand, the radiation ionization method is a method of generating ions in the air using radioactive substances, and a higher static elimination effect can be expected.

[0040] In addition, the static eliminator can also function in close association with the aforementioned air supply port 23 and exhaust ports 24 (24A, 24B). For example, by installing the static eliminator near the air supply port 23, the air taken in from the air supply port 23 is ionized when passing through the static eliminator and injected into the processing chamber 2, thereby efficiently removing the static electricity contained in the air. Also, after the chips and dust discharged through the exhaust ports 24 (24A, 24B) are statically eliminated by the static eliminator and then sent to the dust collectors 4 and 5, it also has the effect of preventing the reattachment of chips and dust.

[0041] Fig. 14 shows a schematic diagram of the cutting operation status and air flow inside the machining chamber 2 of the machine tool according to the present invention, and Fig. 15 shows an enlarged view of the cutting part shown in Fig. 14. In Fig. 14, the workpiece W installed in the machining chamber 2 is fixed to the table 21, and the cutting tool T held by the spindle 22 is shown machining the workpiece W. Also, in order to efficiently discharge chips and dust generated during cutting outside the machine tool, exhaust ducts 25 (25A, 25B) and exhaust ports 24 (24A, 24B) are arranged in the machining chamber 2. The outside air supplied from the air supply port 23 flows through the machining chamber 2 and is sent through the exhaust ducts 25 (25A, 25B) to a dust collector (not shown) outside.

[0042] As shown in Fig. 14, the air supplied from the air supply port 23 entrains chips and dust generated during cutting and heads towards the dust collector outside through the exhaust ducts 25A and 25B. At this time, the air flow F1 from the air supply port 23 towards the first exhaust duct 25A serves to suck the chips under the table 21, and the air flow F2 from the air supply port 23 towards the second exhaust duct 25B sucks the chips above the table 21 and sends them respectively to the dust collector outside.

[0043] Next, Fig. 15 is an enlarged view of the cutting part shown in Fig. 14, focusing particularly on the electrostatic removal mechanism. As shown in Fig. 15, the static eliminator 26A is installed on the table 21, and the static eliminator 26B is installed along the spindle 22. By forming an air flow F11 containing ions ejected from the ejection ports of the static eliminators 26 (26A, 26B), the static electricity generated during cutting is effectively removed, preventing chips from adhering to the inside of the machining chamber 2 and the machining surface of the workpiece W. At the same time, the air flow F12 of compressed air ejected from the air nozzle N installed near the spindle 22 shown in Fig. 13 quickly removes chips and dust generated during cutting from the cutting area.

[0044] That is, due to the air flow F2 from the air supply port 23 towards the second exhaust duct 25B, the air flow F11 containing ions injected from the injection ports of the static eliminators 26 (26A, 26B), and the compressed air flow F12 injected from the air nozzle N, the chips generated by the cutting process will rise without adhering to the inside of the processing chamber 2 or the like. Finally, the air around the cutting position including the chips will be efficiently discharged to an external dust collector via the second exhaust duct 25B by the air flow F13 towards the second exhaust duct 25B.

[0045] At the same time, the chips and dust that could not be captured by the second exhaust duct 25B ride on the air flow F1 from the air supply port 23 towards the first exhaust duct 25A shown in FIG. 14, and are discharged to an external dust collector via the first exhaust duct 25A installed below the table 21 of the processing chamber 2.

[0046] Next, the procedure for performing cutting using the above-described machine tool will be described with reference to the drawings while referring to the reference numerals shown in FIGS. 1 to 15. The procedure (flow chart) of the cutting method using the machine tool of the present invention is shown in FIG. 16. The cutting method using the machine tool of the present invention performs cutting in the order of starting air supply and exhaust into the processing chamber (first step S001), operating the static eliminator (second step S002), and executing cutting (third step S003) as shown in FIG. 16 after performing preparatory work such as setting a machining program.

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

[0048] When an automatic tool changer is provided in the machining chamber 2, it should be set so that tool change is performed automatically. First, firmly close the door 20 of the machining chamber 2 to make it airtight. This prevents dust and dirt from entering from the outside of the machining chamber 2, stabilizes the state inside the machining chamber 2, prevents chips generated during cutting from scattering outside, and protects the safety of the operator. Hereinafter, the details of each step of the start of air supply and exhaust into the machining chamber (first step S001), the operation of the static eliminator (second step S002), and the execution of cutting (third step S003), as shown in FIG. 16, will be described.

[0049] <Start of air supply and exhaust into the machining chamber: First step S001> First, by operating the dust collectors 4 and 5, air is taken into the machining chamber 2 from the outside of the machine tool 1 through the air supply port 23, and at the same time, the air inside the machining chamber 2 is discharged from 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 an air flow inside the machining chamber 2. That is, the air taken into the machining chamber 2 from the air supply port 23 effectively transports chips and dust generated by cutting towards the outside of the machining chamber 2 while circulating inside the machining chamber 2.

[0050] Also, the air inside the machining chamber 2 is sucked from the exhaust ducts 25A and 25B installed above and below the table 21 and is carried to the dust collectors 4 and 5 through the exhaust ports 24A and 24B. By providing two exhaust ducts 25A and 25B above and below the table 21 respectively, it is possible to suck chips from the entire cutting area and keep the cutting area clean. The first exhaust duct 24A installed below the table 21 can also efficiently suck relatively large chips that fall by gravity.

[0051] In addition, the second exhaust duct 25B installed above the table 21 effectively sucks up the fine chips that fly up during the cutting process. Each exhaust duct 25A, 25B connected to each exhaust port 24A, 24B provided on the inner wall surface of the processing chamber 2 transports the air and chips sucked through each exhaust port 24A, 24B to the dust collectors 4, 5. By sending the exhaust air from above and below the table 21 to the dust collectors 4, 5 through independent exhaust ducts respectively, the air flow is optimized and more efficient chip collection is carried out.

[0052] <Operation of the static eliminator: Second step S002> In the second step, after the environment in the processing chamber 2 is adjusted, the static eliminator 26 is activated to remove static electricity. First, the static eliminator (first static eliminator) 26A installed on the table 21 injects air containing ions in the horizontal or diagonal direction toward the workpiece W fixed on the table 21, and uniformly removes static electricity over the entire workpiece W.

[0053] This prevents the adhesion of chips and improves the machining accuracy. In addition, the static eliminator (second static eliminator) 26B installed along the spindle 22 injects air containing ions toward the workpiece W fixed on the table 21 in order to remove the static electricity generated by the rotation of the spindle 22. This minimizes the influence of static electricity on the cutting tool T and the workpiece W, and enables stable machining. By effectively arranging these two types of static eliminators 26 (26A, 26B) and injecting air containing ions from different directions respectively, the influence of static electricity on the workpiece W and the cutting tool T is eliminated.

[0054] <Execution of cutting process: Third step S003> After the second step is completed, based on the command from the control panel 3, the spindle 22 rotates and the mounted cutting tool T starts to rotate at high speed. At the same time, the table 21 moves to the machining start position according to the machining program, and when the workpiece W makes a relative movement with respect to the cutting tool T and the cutting tool T contacts the workpiece W, the cutting process is started.

[0055] When machining starts, chips are generated from the workpiece W. These chips not only have an adverse effect on machining quality and tool life but also cause deterioration of the working environment. Therefore, the generated chips are strongly sucked from the exhaust ducts 25 (25A, 25B) installed above and below the table 21 and conveyed to the dust collectors 4 and 5 through the exhaust ports 24 (24A, 24B). By providing the exhaust ducts 25 (25A, 25B) above and below the table 21, not only the chips that fall due to gravity but also the fine chips that fly up during machining can be efficiently dust-collected.

[0056] The dust collectors 4 and 5 installed outside the machining chamber 2 collect the chips conveyed through a dedicated pipe and separate them from the air in the machining chamber 2. Thereby, the cutting area is kept clean. The machine tool 1 of the present invention combines two exhaust ducts 25A, 25B installed in the vertical direction of the table 21 and the dust collectors 4 and 5 connected via two exhaust ports 24A, 24B, so that chips can be removed quickly and surely, and a clean machining environment can always be maintained.

[0057] During machining, the machining situation can always be monitored through the monitor of the control panel 3 or the window in the machining chamber 2. Pay attention to the wear and breakage of the cutting tool T, the deformation of the workpiece W, abnormal vibration and noise, etc. If a problem occurs, the operator can immediately stop the machine tool 1 from the control panel 3.

[0058] After the above steps, when the machining program ends (machining is completed), the rotation of the spindle 22 and the movement of the table 21 are stopped, and the machining is terminated. The air supply from the air supply port 23 and the exhaust from the exhaust ports 24 (24A, 24B) are stopped. Also, the operation of the static eliminator 26 is stopped. The door 20 of the machining chamber 2 is opened, and the machined workpiece W is taken out.

Explanation of reference numerals

[0059] 1 Machine tool 2 Machining chamber 3 Control panel 4 (Cyclone type) dust collector 5 (Felt type) dust collector 20 Doors (front door) 21 Table 22 Spindle 23 Air inlet 24 (24A, 24B) Exhaust port 25 (25A, 25B) Exhaust duct 26 (26A, 26B) Static eliminator D1, D2 Ducts for dust collector F1 Air flow from the air inlet towards the first exhaust duct F2 Air flow from the air inlet towards the second exhaust duct F11 Air flow containing ions ejected from the static eliminator F12 Air flow of compressed air ejected from the air nozzle F13 Air flow of the air around the cutting position towards the second exhaust duct N Air nozzle W Workpiece

Claims

1. A processing chamber that can be an enclosed space equipped with a table for fixing polystyrene foam and a main shaft for holding a cutting tool for cutting the polystyrene foam; A dust collector that sucks air from within the processing chamber; A machining center having The processing chamber includes: An air intake port for taking air into the processing chamber; an exhaust port that is connected to the dust collector to draw in air within the processing chamber; an exhaust duct connected to the exhaust port and extending toward the table without being integrated with the cutting tool; a static eliminator that injects air containing ions from an injection port; having The static eliminator is A first static eliminator installed on the table; A second static eliminator disposed along the longitudinal direction of the main shaft; Including, The first static eliminator has a plurality of jets directed toward the polystyrene foam in a horizontal or oblique direction of the table, The second static eliminator is installed along the longitudinal direction of the spindle and has a nozzle directed toward the tip of the cutting tool to remove static electricity generated by friction when cutting the polystyrene foam as the spindle rotates.

2. 2. The machining center according to claim 1, The exhaust duct is a first exhaust duct having one end connected to the exhaust port and the other end located below the table; a second exhaust duct having one end connected to the exhaust port and the other end located above the table.

3. 3. The machining center according to claim 2, The exhaust port is A first exhaust port installed below the table; A second exhaust port installed above the table; Including, One end of the first exhaust duct is connected to the first exhaust port, One end of the second exhaust duct is connected to the second exhaust port.

4. A processing room where polystyrene foam cutting is performed, a table provided in the processing chamber for fixing the polystyrene foam; A spindle provided in the processing chamber and configured to hold a cutting tool; An air supply 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 inside the processing chamber to the outside; an exhaust duct connected to the exhaust port for sucking air from within the processing chamber; a static eliminator that injects air containing ions toward the polystyrene foam; having The static eliminator is A first static eliminator installed on the table; A second static eliminator disposed along the longitudinal direction of the main shaft; Including, The first static eliminator has a plurality of jets directed toward the polystyrene foam in a horizontal or oblique direction of the table, The second static eliminator is installed along the longitudinal direction of the spindle, and has a nozzle directed toward a tip of the cutting tool so as to eliminate static electricity generated by friction when the polystyrene foam is cut by the rotation of the spindle. A cutting method using a machining center, a first step of taking in air from the air supply port into the processing chamber and simultaneously exhausting the air from the processing chamber through the exhaust duct and the exhaust port; a second step of spraying air containing ions from the static eliminator toward the polystyrene foam; a third step of cutting the polystyrene foam while rotating the cutting tool; A cutting method comprising the steps of:

5. The cutting method according to claim 4, The exhaust port is A first exhaust port disposed below the table; A second exhaust port disposed above the table; having The exhaust duct is a first exhaust duct connected to the first exhaust port and having an inlet located below the table; a second exhaust duct connected to the second exhaust port and having an inlet located above the table; having The static eliminator is a first static eliminator that is disposed above the table and that sprays air containing ions toward the polystyrene foam in a horizontal or oblique direction of the table; a second static eliminator disposed along a longitudinal direction of the spindle and configured to inject air containing ions toward a tip end of the cutting tool; A cutting method comprising the steps of:

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