Friction Stir Welding Fixture, Machine Tool, and Workpiece Processing Method

Abstract

Provided are a friction stir welding jig, a machine tool, and a workpiece processing method that enable friction stir welding while efficiently cooling a workpiece as a joining object. 【Solution means】The friction stir welding jig includes a backing member that receives a pressing force from a friction stir welding tool via a first workpiece as a joining object and supports the first workpiece, a holding member that holds the first workpiece, and at least one nozzle that is disposed on the backing member and discharges a coolant toward the first workpiece.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a friction stir welding jig, a machine tool, and a workpiece processing method.

Background Art

[0002] A friction stir welding apparatus equipped with a cooling means is known.

[0003] As a related technique, Patent Document 1 discloses a friction welding method. In the friction welding method described in Patent Document 1, a metal rod made of a material harder than the material of the workpiece is inserted into the welded portion of the workpiece. Support means detachably provided on the back surface of the welded portion of the workpiece supports the load by the metal rod. FIG. 6 of Patent Document 1 shows a state where friction welding is performed in a water tank.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a friction stir welding jig, a machine tool, and a workpiece processing method capable of performing friction stir welding while efficiently cooling a workpiece as a joining object.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] Embodiments of the present invention relate to the following friction stir welding jig, machine tool, and workpiece processing method.

[0007] (1) A backrest member that receives a pressing force from a friction stir welding tool through a first workpiece as a joining object and supports the first workpiece, A holding member that holds the first workpiece, At least one nozzle that is disposed on the backing member and discharges a coolant toward the first workpiece, and comprises a friction stir welding jig. (2) The at least one nozzle includes a spray nozzle that diffuses the coolant toward the first workpiece. The friction stir welding jig according to (1) above. (3) The at least one nozzle is attached to a side surface of the backing member. The friction stir welding jig according to (1) or (2) above. (4) A supply flow path for supplying the coolant to the at least one nozzle is formed inside the backing member. The friction stir welding jig according to any one of (1) to (3) above. (5) The backing member has a first support column having a first end that contacts the first workpiece, and a second support column having a second end that contacts the first workpiece, and when a direction in which the first workpiece is pressed by the friction stir welding tool is defined as a first direction, a position of the first end is different from a position of the second end in a direction along the first direction. The friction stir welding jig according to any one of (1) to (4) above. (6) Further includes a base that supports the backing member, the backing member has a support end that contacts the first workpiece, and when a direction in which the first workpiece is pressed by the friction stir welding tool is defined as a first direction, a relative position of the support end with respect to the base is adjustable in the first direction. The friction stir welding jig according to any one of (1) to (4) above. (7) The holding member holds a side wall of the first workpiece, and the backing member supports an end wall of the first workpiece. The friction stir welding jig according to any one of (1) to (6) above. (8) The holding member (8) The holding member a first holding member that holds a first portion of the first workpiece; a second holding member that holds a second portion of the first workpiece; and includes the backing member is disposed so as to cross a space between the first holding member and the second holding member The friction stir welding jig according to any one of (1) to (7) above. (9) The friction stir welding jig further includes a detachment prevention member that prevents the second workpiece from detaching from the first workpiece, the detachment prevention member is position-changeable between an advancing position in contact with the second workpiece and a retracted position away from the second workpiece The friction stir welding jig according to any one of (1) to (8) above. (10) A friction stir welding jig in which a first workpiece as a joining object is fixed and includes at least one nozzle that discharges a coolant toward the first workpiece, a support device that supports the friction stir welding jig, a processing head including a spindle and a support body that rotatably supports the spindle about a first axis, a rotation drive device that rotates the spindle about the first axis, a moving device that relatively moves the processing head with respect to the support device, a supply device that supplies the coolant to the at least one nozzle and includes the friction stir welding jig receives a pressing force from a friction stir welding tool through the first workpiece, a backing member that supports the first workpiece, a holding member that holds the first workpiece, and the at least one nozzle disposed on the backing member and includes a machine tool. (11) Further includes a wall surrounding a processing area where friction stir is performed The machine tool according to (10) above. (12) Includes a control device that controls the rotation drive device and the moving device, The control device A joining mode in which the first workpiece and the second workpiece are friction stir joined using the friction stir joining tool, A cutting mode in which at least one of the first workpiece and the second workpiece is cut using a cutting tool, and can be selectively executed The machine tool according to the above (10) or (11). (13) A step of attaching the first workpiece to the friction stir joining jig so that the first workpiece as a joining object is held by a holding member of the friction stir joining jig, A step of joining the first workpiece and the second workpiece by friction stirring in a state where the backing member of the friction stir joining jig receives a pressing force from the friction stir joining tool through the first workpiece, A step of discharging a coolant from at least one nozzle disposed in the backing member to the first workpiece during execution of the friction stirring, and comprises A workpiece processing method. (14) The first workpiece has an end wall supported by the backing member, During execution of the friction stirring, the coolant is discharged from the at least one nozzle toward substantially the entire inner surface of the end wall excluding a portion of the inner surface of the end wall that contacts the backing member. The workpiece processing method according to the above (13). (15) During execution of the friction stirring, the coolant is applied only to the first workpiece among the first workpiece and the second workpiece. The workpiece processing method according to the above (13) or (14). [Advantages of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a friction stir joining jig, a machine tool, and a workpiece processing method that enable friction stir joining while efficiently cooling a workpiece as a joining object. [Brief Description of the Drawings]

[0009]

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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Hereinafter, with reference to the drawings, the friction stir welding jig 4, the machine tool 1, and the workpiece processing method in the embodiment will be described. In the following description of the embodiment, parts and members having the same function are denoted by the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions of the parts and members denoted by the same reference numerals are omitted.

[0011] (Definition of Terms) In this specification, the direction in which the joining object W (more specifically, the first workpiece W1 as the joining object) is pressed by the friction stir welding tool T1 is defined as the first direction DR1. Further, the direction opposite to the first direction DR1 is defined as the second direction DR2.

[0012] The first direction DR1 may be the downward direction (more specifically, the vertically downward direction) or the lateral direction (more specifically, the horizontal direction). For example, when the machine tool 1 is a vertical machining center, the first direction DR1 is the downward direction (more specifically, the vertically downward direction). For example, when the machine tool 1 is a horizontal machining center, the first direction DR1 is the lateral direction (more specifically, the horizontal direction).

[0013] (First Embodiment) Referring to FIGS. 1 to 34, the friction stir welding jig 4A and the machine tool 1A in the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view schematically showing the friction stir welding jig 4A in the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view schematically showing a state in which the first workpiece W1 is attached to the friction stir welding jig 4A. FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view schematically showing a state in which the first workpiece W1 and the second workpiece W2 are supported by the friction stir welding jig 4A. FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view schematically showing a state in which the joining mode M1 is being executed. FIG. 5 is a view schematically showing the machine tool 1A in the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view schematically showing the friction stir welding jig 4A in the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view schematically showing a state in which the first workpiece W1 and the second workpiece W2 are supported by the friction stir welding jig 4A in the first modification of the first embodiment. FIG. 8 is a schematic perspective view schematically showing the friction stir welding jig 4A in the first embodiment. FIGS. 9 and 10 are schematic cross-sectional views schematically showing a state in which the joining mode M1 is being executed. FIG. 11 is a schematic perspective view schematically showing the friction stir welding jig 4A in the second modification of the first embodiment. FIG. 12 is a schematic perspective view schematically showing a state in which the first workpiece W1 and the second workpiece W2 are supported by the friction stir welding jig 4A in the second modification of the first embodiment. FIGS. 13 to 16 are schematic perspective views schematically showing a state in which the joining mode M1 is being executed. FIG. 17 is a schematic perspective view schematically showing an example of the first workpiece W1. FIG. 18 is a schematic perspective view schematically showing a state in which the lid CB is attached to the case 7. FIG. 19 is a schematic perspective view schematically showing a state in which the cover 8 is arranged on the case 7. FIG. 20 is a schematic cross-sectional view schematically showing a state in which the cover 8 is arranged on the case 7. FIG. 21 is a schematic cross-sectional view schematically showing a state in which the first workpiece W1 is supported by the backing member 40. FIG. 22 is a schematic cross-sectional view schematically showing a modification of the supply flow path 44 formed inside the backing member 40. FIG. 23 is a schematic cross-sectional view schematically showing a state in which the height of the first end 42a-1 of the first support column 42-1 can be adjusted. FIG. 24 is a schematic cross-sectional view schematically showing a state in which the height of the second end 42a-2 of the second support column 42-2 can be adjusted.FIG. 25 is a schematic perspective view schematically showing a friction stir welding jig 4A in a second modification of the first embodiment. FIGS. 26 and 27 are schematic front views schematically showing a part of a machine tool 1A in the first embodiment. FIGS. 28 and 29 are schematic perspective views schematically showing the machine tool 1A in the first embodiment. FIG. 30 is a schematic perspective view schematically showing a state in which a cutting mode M2 is being executed. FIG. 31 is a diagram schematically showing a state in which a control device 3 can control a plurality of controlled devices. FIGS. 32 and 33 are schematic front views schematically showing a part of the machine tool 1A in the first embodiment. FIG. 34 is a diagram for explaining a first path PA.

[0014] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the friction stir welding jig 4A in the first embodiment includes a backing member 40, a holding member 50, and at least one nozzle 61.

[0015] The backing member 40 supports a joining object W (more specifically, a first workpiece W1 as a joining object). In the example shown in FIG. 2, a state in which the first workpiece W1 as a joining object is supported by the backing member 40 is shown. Further, FIG. 3 shows a state in which a second workpiece W2 is placed on the first workpiece W1.

[0016] As illustrated in FIG. 4, the backing member 40 receives a pressing force from the friction stir welding tool T1 via the joining object W (more specifically, the first workpiece W1 as a joining object). In other words, when the joining object W is friction stir welded by the friction stir welding tool T1, the backing member 40 supports the joining object W (more specifically, the first workpiece W1 as a joining object) against the pressing force received by the joining object W from the friction stir welding tool T1.

[0017] As illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, the holding member 50 holds the joining object W (more specifically, the first workpiece W1 as a joining object).

[0018] As illustrated in FIG. 4, at least one nozzle 61 is disposed on the backing member 40. Further, at least one nozzle 61 discharges the coolant L1 toward the joining object W (more specifically, the first workpiece W1 as the joining object).

[0019] The friction stir welding jig 4A in the first embodiment includes a backing member 40 that supports the first workpiece W1 as the joining object. The backing member 40 suppresses the deflection of the first workpiece W1 due to the pressing force from the friction stir welding tool T1.

[0020] The friction stir welding jig 4A in the first embodiment includes a holding member 50 that holds the first workpiece W1. The holding member 50 prevents the displacement of the first workpiece W1 during the execution of friction stir welding.

[0021] In the friction stir welding jig 4A in the first embodiment, at least one nozzle 61 is disposed on the backing member 40. Therefore, during the execution of friction stir welding, the first workpiece W1 is efficiently cooled by the coolant L1 discharged from at least one nozzle 61. Further, since at least one nozzle 61 is disposed on the backing member 40 that supports the first workpiece W1, it is not necessary to separately provide a structure for supporting the at least one nozzle 61 from the backing member 40. Further, compared with the case where the joining object is cooled in a water tank (see FIG. 6 of Patent Document 1), the preparation of the friction stir welding jig 4A is easy. Also, the preparation time until friction stir welding is executed can be shortened.

[0022] In the example shown in FIG. 4, since at least one nozzle 61 is disposed on the backing member 40, when the position of the first workpiece W1 with respect to the friction stir welding jig 4A is determined (more specifically, when the first workpiece W1 is held by the holding member 50), the position of at least one nozzle 61 with respect to the first workpiece W1 is determined. Therefore, it is easy to set the position of at least one nozzle 61 with respect to the first workpiece W1.

[0023] As illustrated in FIG. 5, the machine tool 1A in the first embodiment includes a friction stir welding jig 4A, a support device 11, a processing head 15, a rotational drive device 16, a moving device 17, and a supply device 12.

[0024] An object to be joined W (more specifically, a first workpiece W1 as an object to be joined) is fixed to the friction stir welding jig 4A. The friction stir welding jig 4A includes (1) a backing member 40 that receives a pressing force from the friction stir welding tool T1 via the first workpiece W1 as an object to be joined and supports the first workpiece W1, (2) a holding member 50 that holds the first workpiece W1, and (3) at least one nozzle 61 that is disposed on the backing member 40 and discharges a coolant L1 toward the first workpiece.

[0025] The support device 11 supports the friction stir welding jig 4A. The support device 11 may include a table 111 to which the friction stir welding jig 4A is attached.

[0026] The processing head 15 includes a spindle 151 and a support 153 that rotatably supports the spindle 151 about a first axis AX1. The spindle 151 is capable of holding the friction stir welding tool T1.

[0027] The rotational drive device 16 rotates the spindle 151 about the first axis AX1. The rotational drive device 16 may include a motor 16m that rotates the spindle 151 about the first axis AX1. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the processing head 15 includes the motor 16m described above.

[0028] The moving device 17 relatively moves the processing head 15 with respect to the support device 11. The moving device 17 may include a processing head moving device 171 that moves the processing head 15. Alternatively, or additionally, the moving device 17 may include a table moving device 178 that moves the table 111.

[0029] The supply device 12 supplies the coolant L1 to at least one nozzle 61. At least one nozzle 61 discharges the coolant L1 toward the first workpiece W1 when the friction stir welding tool T1 friction stirs the first workpiece W1.

[0030] The machine tool 1A in the first embodiment has the same effect as the friction stir welding jig 4A in the first embodiment.

[0031] (Optional additional configuration) Subsequently, with reference to FIGS. 1 to 34, the friction stir welding jig 4A in the first embodiment and optional additional configurations that can be adopted in the machine tool 1A will be described.

[0032] (Nozzle 61) In the example shown in FIG. 4, at least one nozzle 61 injects the coolant L1 toward the workpiece W (more specifically, the first workpiece W1 as the workpiece to be joined).

[0033] In the example shown in FIG. 4, at least one nozzle 61 includes a spray nozzle SN that diffuses the coolant L1 toward the workpiece W (more specifically, the first workpiece W1 as the workpiece to be joined). When the spray nozzle SN is adopted, the first workpiece W1 can be cooled over a wide range. Therefore, the number of nozzles 61 required for cooling the first workpiece W1 can be reduced. Also, it is not necessary to move at least one nozzle 61 corresponding to the position where the friction stirring is performed.

[0034] As illustrated in FIG. 6, the spray nozzle SN may be configured to diffuse the coolant L1 in a fan shape. Alternatively, the spray nozzle SN may be configured to diffuse the coolant L1 in a conical shape.

[0035] In the example shown in FIG. 1, the backing member 40 has the first support column 42-1. The backing member 40 may have the second support column 42-2.

[0036] In the example described in FIG. 4, at least one nozzle 61 includes a first nozzle 61a disposed on the backing member 40 (more specifically, the first support column 42-1). The first nozzle 61a may be a first spray nozzle SN1 that diffuses the coolant L1 toward the object to be joined W (more specifically, the first workpiece W1 as the object to be joined).

[0037] In the example described in FIG. 1, at least one nozzle 61 includes a second nozzle 61b. The second nozzle 61b may be a second spray nozzle that diffuses the coolant L1 toward the object to be joined (more specifically, the first workpiece W1 as the object to be joined).

[0038] In the example described in FIG. 1, the second nozzle 61b is disposed on the first support column 42-1. Alternatively, or additionally, the friction stir welding jig 4A may include a nozzle 61d (see FIG. 7) disposed on the second support column 42-2 (more specifically, the side surface of the second support column 42-2). The nozzle 61d disposed on the second support column 42-2 discharges the coolant L1 toward the first workpiece W1.

[0039] In the example described in FIG. 1, at least one nozzle 61 (for example, the spray nozzle SN) is attached to the side surface 43 of the backing member 40.

[0040] The side region of the backing member 40 is usually a dead space. When at least one nozzle 61 is attached to the side surface 43 of the backing member 40, at least one nozzle 61 can be disposed in the above-described dead space.

[0041] In the example described in FIG. 1, the friction stir welding jig 4A is disposed on the backing member 40 and includes at least two nozzles (61a, 61b) that discharge the coolant L1 toward the first workpiece W1. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the friction stir welding jig 4A may include a first nozzle 61a disposed on the first side surface of the backing member 40 (more specifically, the first side surface 43a of the first support column 42-1). Further, the friction stir welding jig 4A may include a second nozzle 61b disposed on the second side surface of the backing member 40 (more specifically, the second side surface 43b of the first support column 42-1).

[0042] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the friction stir welding jig 4A may be disposed on the backing member 40 and include at least three nozzles (61a, 61b, 61c) that discharge the coolant L1 toward the first workpiece W1. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the friction stir welding jig 4A may include a third nozzle 61c disposed on the third side surface of the backing member 40 (more specifically, the third side surface 43c of the first support column 42-1). In the example described in FIG. 1, the third side surface 43c is the surface opposite to the second side surface 43b.

[0043] In the example described in FIG. 10, a supply passage 44 for supplying the coolant L1 to at least one nozzle 61 is formed inside the backing member 40.

[0044] Even when the backing member 40 is provided with a cavity, the cavity is not usually utilized as a flow path. When the supply passage 44 is formed inside the backing member 40, the internal region of the backing member is utilized as the supply passage 44. Further, when the supply passage 44 is formed inside the backing member 40, the side region of the backing member 40 is simplified. For example, instead of disposing a hose for supplying the coolant L1 in the side region of the backing member 40, the supply passage 44 may be formed inside the backing member 40.

[0045] As illustrated in FIG. 10, assume a case where heat generated by friction stir is transmitted from the first workpiece W1 to the backing member 40. In this case, when the coolant L1 flows through the supply passage 44 inside the backing member 40, the temperature rise of the backing member 40 is suppressed. When the temperature rise of the backing member 40 is suppressed, the temperature rise of the region G of the first workpiece W1 that contacts the backing member 40 is also suppressed.

[0046] (Coolant L1) The coolant L1 is, for example, a water-soluble coolant liquid. The main component of the water-soluble coolant liquid is, for example, water. The water-soluble coolant liquid may contain a water-soluble oil agent (for example, a water-soluble cutting oil agent or a water-soluble grinding oil agent) and / or a surfactant.

[0047] The coolant L1 may be a liquid having the same composition as the cutting fluid applied to the workpiece (for example, the first workpiece W1 or other workpieces) when the workpiece (for example, the first workpiece W1 or other workpieces) is being machined.

[0048] In the example shown in FIG. 10, the nozzle 61 discharges the coolant L1 from the backing member 40 to the first workpiece W1. Additionally, as illustrated in FIG. 11, the machine tool 1A may include a nozzle 62 that discharges the coolant to the first workpiece W1 from a member other than the backing member.

[0049] In this specification, a plurality of nozzles arranged in the backing member 40 are defined as the first group of nozzles 61, and a plurality of nozzles arranged in a member other than the backing member 40 are defined as the second group of nozzles 62. In the example shown in FIG. 11, the friction stir welding jig 4 includes the first group of nozzles 61 arranged in the backing member 40 and the second group of nozzles 62 arranged in a member other than the backing member 40 (for example, the base 64).

[0050] As illustrated in FIG. 13, the nozzles 62 of the second group discharge the coolant L1 onto the outer surface of the first workpiece W1. The nozzles 62 of the second group may discharge the coolant L1 onto the outer side surface Wt of the first workpiece W1. Alternatively, or additionally, the nozzles 62 of the second group may discharge the coolant L1 onto the second workpiece W2.

[0051] (the first workpiece W1 and the second workpiece W2) In the example described in FIG. 3, the friction stir welding jig 4A supports the first workpiece W1 and the second workpiece W2 joined to the first workpiece W1 by friction stir welding. In the example described in FIG. 9, the friction stir welding jig 4A supports the second workpiece W2 via the first workpiece W1. More specifically, the backing member 40 supports the first workpiece W1, and the first workpiece W1 supports the second workpiece W2.

[0052] In the example described in FIG. 9, the first workpiece W1 has an end wall 73 supported by the backing member 40.

[0053] In the example described in FIG. 9, the first workpiece W1 as the object to be joined is the case 7. The first workpiece W1 (more specifically, the case 7) is joined to the second workpiece W2 by friction stir welding.

[0054] In the example described in FIG. 9, the second workpiece W2 is the cover 8. In the example described in FIG. 9, the case 7 is the first object to be joined, and the cover 8 is the second object to be joined. The first object to be joined (for example, the case 7) and the second object to be joined (for example, the cover 8) are joined by friction stir welding.

[0055] In the example described in FIG. 17, the case 7 has a side wall 71 and an end wall 73. Further, the case 7 has a recess 74 defined by the side wall 71 and the end wall 73. In the example described in FIG. 17, the end wall 73 is a bottom wall 730 defining the bottom of the recess 74. In the example described in FIG. 17, the side wall 71 and the end wall 73 are formed by integral molding. Alternatively, the end wall 73 may be attached to the side wall 71. In the example described in FIG. 17, the case 7 has a box shape.

[0056] In the example described in FIG. 17, the side wall 71 includes a first side wall 71-1 and a second side wall 71-2. The second side wall 71-2 is disposed opposite to the first side wall 71-1.

[0057] The side wall 71 may include a first side wall 71-1, a second side wall 71-2, a third side wall 71-3, and a fourth side wall 71-4. In the example described in FIG. 17, the third side wall 71-3 connects the first side wall 71-1 and the second side wall 71-2. In the example described in FIG. 17, the fourth side wall 71-4 connects the first side wall 71-1 and the second side wall 71-2. Also, the fourth side wall 71-4 is disposed opposite to the third side wall 71-3.

[0058] The side wall 71 may have a protrusion (for example, a flange portion 72) held by the holding member 50. In the example described in FIG. 9, the first side wall 71-1 has a first flange portion 72-1 held by the first holding member 51a. Also, the second side wall 71-2 has a second flange portion 72-2 held by the second holding member 51b. In the example described in FIG. 17, each of the first flange portion 72-1 and the second flange portion 72-2 constitutes a part of the flange portion 72.

[0059] In the example described in FIG. 9, the first direction DR1 coincides with the direction from the end wall 73 toward the internal space SP of the recess 74.

[0060] In the example described in FIG. 9, the end wall 73 is a wall disposed at the end of the side wall 71 on the second direction DR2 side. In the example described in FIG. 9, the end wall 73 is connected to the end of the first side wall 71-1 on the second direction DR2 side and is also connected to the end of the second side wall 71-2 on the second direction DR2 side.

[0061] In the example described in FIG. 17, the case 7 has a recess 74 capable of receiving a cooling object. The cooling object received in the recess 74 is, for example, an electric device that generates heat when an electric current flows through it. The case 7 may be an automotive part (for example, a part of an electric vehicle) mounted on an automobile with the electric device housed therein. The electric device that generates heat when an electric current flows through it is, for example, housed in the recess 74 in a state of being in contact with the end wall 73.

[0062] The object to be cooled (more specifically, an electric device) received in the recess 74 is, for example, an inverter (more specifically, a device having a circuit for converting a direct current into an alternating current), a converter (more specifically, an AC-DC converter for converting an alternating current into a direct current, or a DC-DC converter for converting a direct voltage into another direct voltage), a battery, a charger for charging the battery, a control unit such as an engine control unit, or a substrate on which a plurality of electronic components are arranged.

[0063] The case 7 is, for example, a cast part. The side wall 71, the end wall 73, and the recess 74 may be formed by casting. Alternatively, the side wall 71, the end wall 73, and the recess 74 may be formed by cutting a block with a cutting tool.

[0064] The case 7 may include a mounting portion 75 to which a lid CB (see FIG. 18) covering the recess 74 can be attached. In the example shown in FIG. 17, the mounting portion 75 has a hole portion 75h into which a bolt is inserted. The mounting portion 75 may be formed by casting. The outer shape of the mounting portion 75 may be formed by casting, and the hole portion 75h of the mounting portion 75 may be formed by machining (more specifically, drilling).

[0065] As illustrated in FIG. 18, after the above-described object to be cooled is housed in the recess 74, the lid CB is fixed to the case 7. The lid may be fixed to the case 7 by inserting a bolt into the hole portion 75h (see FIG. 17). Alternatively, the lid may be fixed to the case 7 by friction stir welding.

[0066] As illustrated in FIG. 19, the case 7 may have a groove portion 73v formed on the outer surface 73t of the end wall 73. In the examples shown in FIGS. 17 and 19, the groove portion 73v is disposed on the opposite side of the recess 74 with respect to the end wall 73. More specifically, the groove portion 73v is formed on the outer surface 73t of the end wall 73, and the inner surface 73n of the end wall 73 defines the bottom surface of the recess 74.

[0067] The groove portion 73v of the end wall 73 may be formed by casting. Alternatively, the groove portion 73v may be formed by cutting the end wall 73 with a cutting tool. As illustrated in FIG. 19, the groove portion 73v may be subdivided by at least one rib 73p.

[0068] The case 7 may include a first port 79a that is continuous with the groove portion 73v. The case 7 may include a first port 79a that is continuous with the groove portion 73v and a second port 79b that is continuous with the groove portion 73v. When the coolant L1 may enter the groove portion 73v from the first port 79a, the first port 79a may be covered with a lid during friction stir welding. When the coolant L1 may enter the groove portion 73v from the second port 79b, the second port 79b may be covered with a lid during friction stir welding.

[0069] The case 7 is, for example, made of metal. The main component of the material of the case 7 is, for example, aluminum. In other words, the case 7 is made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy.

[0070] In the example shown in FIG. 19, the cover 8 covers at least a part of the outer surface 73t of the end wall 73 of the case 7. In the example shown in FIG. 19, the cover 8 covers the groove portion 73v of the end wall 73.

[0071] In the example shown in FIG. 19, the cover 8 has a flat plate shape. Alternatively, the cover 8 may have a concave portion or a convex portion.

[0072] The cover 8 is, for example, made of metal. The main component of the material of the cover 8 is, for example, aluminum. In other words, the cover 8 is made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy.

[0073] As illustrated in FIG. 20, the end wall 73 of the case 7 may have a stepped portion 731 disposed opposite to the outer edge portion 81 of the cover 8. In this case, the stepped portion 731 of the end wall 73 and the outer edge portion 81 of the cover 8 may be configured to be butt-joined by friction stir.

[0074] In the example shown in FIG. 20, in the state where the case 7 is inverted, the case 7 is supported by the backing member 40. Some of the plurality of struts 42 may support the end wall 73 of the case 7 in the vicinity of the side wall 71.

[0075] (Backing member 40) In the example shown in FIG. 9, the backing member 40 has a first strut 42-1 that supports the object to be joined W (more specifically, the first workpiece W1 as the object to be joined). The backing member 40 may have a plurality of struts 42 including the first strut 42-1 and the second strut 42-2. Each of the plurality of struts 42 receives the pressing force from the friction stir joining tool T1 via the object to be joined (more specifically, the first workpiece W1 as the object to be joined). In other words, when the first workpiece W1 is friction stirred by the friction stir joining tool T1, each of the plurality of struts 42 supports the first workpiece W1 against the pressing force received by the first workpiece W1 from the friction stir joining tool T1.

[0076] In the example shown in FIG. 8, the number of the struts 42 that the backing member 40 has is nine. Alternatively, the number of the struts 42 that the backing member 40 has may be one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, or ten or more. In the example shown in FIG. 8, when viewed in the direction along the first direction DR1 (more specifically, in plan view), the first strut 42-1 is surrounded by the other plurality of struts 42.

[0077] In the example shown in FIG. 9, the backing member 40 has a first support column 42-1 and a second support column 42-2. In the example shown in FIG. 9, the first support column 42-1 extends along the second direction DR2, and the second support column 42-2 extends along the second direction DR2. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the backing member 40 has a third support column 42-3 and a fourth support column 42-4. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the third support column 42-3 extends along the second direction DR2, and the fourth support column 42-4 extends along the second direction DR2. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the backing member 40 has a fifth support column 42-5 and a sixth support column 42-6. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the fifth support column 42-5 extends along the second direction DR2, and the sixth support column 42-6 extends along the second direction DR2.

[0078] In the example shown in FIG. 21, the first support column 42-1 has a first end 42a-1 that contacts the first workpiece W1 (for example, the inner surface 73n of the end wall 73). In the example shown in FIG. 21, the second support column 42-2 has a second end 42a-2 that contacts the first workpiece W1 (for example, the inner surface 73n of the end wall 73).

[0079] In the example shown in FIG. 21, the position of the first end 42a-1 is different from the position of the second end 42a-2 in the direction along the first direction DR1. More specifically, the second end 42a-2 is located on the first direction DR1 side (more specifically, the lower side) of the first end 42a-1. In the example shown in FIG. 21, the first direction DR1 is downward. In the example shown in FIG. 21, the height of the second end 42a-2 is lower than the height of the first end 42a-1.

[0080] When the position of the first end 42a-1 is different from the position of the second end 42a-2 in the direction along the first direction DR1 (more specifically, when the height of the first end 42a-1 is different from the height of the second end 42a-2), the plurality of support columns 42 including the first support column 42-1 and the second support column 42-2 can preferably support the first workpiece W1 having a relatively complex shape.

[0081] In the example shown in FIG. 21, a first supply passage 44-1 for supplying the coolant L1 to the first nozzle 61a is formed inside the first support column 42-1. As illustrated in FIG. 21, a second supply passage 44-2 for supplying the coolant L1 to the second nozzle 61b (see FIG. 8) may be formed inside the first support column 42-1. As illustrated in FIG. 7, a third supply passage 44-3 for supplying the coolant L1 to another nozzle 61d may be formed inside the second support column 42-2.

[0082] As illustrated in FIG. 22, a part of the first supply passage 44-1 for supplying the coolant L1 to the first nozzle 61a and a part of the second supply passage 44-2 for supplying the coolant L1 to the second nozzle 61b may be shared.

[0083] In the example shown in FIG. 21, the friction stir welding jig 4A includes a base 64 that supports the backing member 40. In the example shown in FIG. 21, the base 64 supports a plurality of support columns 42 including the first support column 42-1 and the second support column 42-2. The base 64 can be attached to the support device 11 of the machine tool 1A. Further, the base 64 can be removed from the support device 11 of the machine tool 1A.

[0084] In the example shown in FIG. 21, the backing member 40 has a support end 40e that contacts the first workpiece W1 (for example, the inner surface of the case 7). In the example shown in FIG. 23, the relative position of the support end 40e with respect to the base 64 can be adjusted in the first direction DR1. Further, the relative position of the support end 40e with respect to the base 64 can be adjusted in the second direction DR2. When the relative position of the support end 40e with respect to the base 64 can be adjusted in the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2, the position of the support end 40e can be finely adjusted in response to the manufacturing error of the first workpiece W1. Alternatively, when the object supported by the friction stir welding jig 4A is switched from the first workpiece W1 to another workpiece that is different from the first workpiece W1 in shape, the relative position of the support end 40e with respect to the base 64 may be adjusted. In other words, the relative position of the support end 40e with respect to the base 64 may be adjustable so that the backing member 40 can be used for a plurality of types of workpieces.

[0085] In the example described in FIG. 23, the relative position of the first end 42a-1 of the first support column 42-1 with respect to the base 64 can be adjusted in the first direction DR1 (and the second direction DR2). In the example described in FIG. 24, the relative position of the second end 42a-2 of the second support column 42-2 with respect to the base 64 can be adjusted in the first direction DR1 (and the second direction DR2).

[0086] As illustrated in FIG. 23, the first support column 42-1 may be telescopic. More specifically, the first support column 42-1 may include a first portion 421-1 fixed to the base 64 and a second portion 421-2 that is relatively movable in the second direction DR2 (for example, upward) with respect to the first portion 421-1. In the example described in FIG. 23, the above-described first end 42a-1 is disposed on the second portion 421-2. Also, the above-described first nozzle 61a is disposed on the second portion 421-2.

[0087] When the first support column 42-1 extends, the position of the first end 42a-1 of the first support column 42-1 is adjusted in a direction away from the base 64 (in other words, in the second direction DR2). When the first support column 42-1 contracts, the position of the first end 42a-1 of the first support column 42-1 is adjusted in a direction approaching the base 64 (in other words, in the first direction DR1).

[0088] The first support column 42-1 may include a first spring 64-1 that biases the second portion 421-2 in the second direction DR2 (for example, upward). Alternatively, or additionally, the first support column 42-1 may include a fluid pressure cylinder (for example, an air cylinder or a hydraulic cylinder) that moves the second portion 421-2 in the second direction DR2 (for example, upward).

[0089] In the example described in FIG. 23, when the second portion 421-2 is pressed by the first workpiece W1 (for example, the case 7), the first spring 64-1 contracts. Thus, the height of the second portion 421-2 is automatically adjusted to accommodate the shape of the first workpiece W1 or the manufacturing error of the first workpiece W1.

[0090] As illustrated in FIG. 22, the first support column 42-1 may include a first fixing member 65-1 that fixes the relative position of the second portion 421-2 with respect to the first portion 421-1. In this case, after the height of the second portion 421-2 is adjusted, the height of the second portion 421-2 can be fixed using the first fixing member 65-1.

[0091] In the example described in FIG. 9, when the first workpiece W1 is held by the holding member 50, the first fixing member 65-1 is disposed on the first direction DR1 side of the first workpiece W1. In this case, in a state where the first workpiece W1 is held by the holding member 50, the operator can easily access the first fixing member 65-1. In the example described in FIG. 9, in the direction along the first direction DR1, the first fixing member 65-1 is disposed between the lower base 641 and the upper base 646.

[0092] As illustrated in FIG. 24, the second support column 42-2 may be telescopic. More specifically, the second support column 42-2 may include a third portion 421-3 fixed to the base 64 and a fourth portion 421-4 that is relatively movable in a second direction DR2 (for example, upward) with respect to the third portion 421-3. In the example described in FIG. 24, the second end 42a-2 described above is disposed on the fourth portion 421-4.

[0093] When the second support column 42-2 extends, the position of the second end 42a-2 of the second support column 42-2 is adjusted in a direction away from the base 64 (in other words, in the second direction DR2). When the second support column 42-2 contracts, the position of the second end 42a-2 of the second support column 42-2 is adjusted in a direction approaching the base 64 (in other words, in the first direction DR1).

[0094] The second support column 42-2 may include a second spring 64-2 that biases the fourth portion 421-4 in the second direction DR2 (for example, upward). Alternatively, or additionally, the second support column 42-2 may include a fluid pressure cylinder (for example, an air cylinder or a hydraulic cylinder) that moves the fourth portion 421-4 in the second direction DR2 (for example, upward).

[0095] As illustrated in FIG. 22, the second support column 42-2 may include a second fixing member 65-2 that fixes the relative position of the fourth portion 421-4 with respect to the third portion 421-3. In this case, after the height of the fourth portion 421-4 is adjusted, the height of the fourth portion 421-4 can be fixed using the second fixing member 65-2.

[0096] In the example described in FIG. 9, when the first workpiece W1 is held by the holding member 50, the second fixing member 65-2 is disposed on the first direction DR1 side with respect to the first workpiece W1. In this case, in a state where the first workpiece W1 is held by the holding member 50, the operator can easily access the second fixing member 65-2. In the example described in FIG. 9, in the direction along the first direction DR1, the second fixing member 65-2 is disposed between the lower base 641 and the upper base 646.

[0097] When the plurality of support columns 42 include the third support column 42-3 and the fourth support column 42-4, each of the third support column 42-3 and the fourth support column 42-4 may be telescopic. When the plurality of support columns 42 include the fifth support column 42-5 and the sixth support column 42-6, each of the fifth support column 42-5 and the sixth support column 42-6 may be telescopic.

[0098] In the example described in FIG. 4, the backing member 40 supports the end wall of the first workpiece W1 (for example, the end wall 73 of the case 7). In the example described in FIG. 4, the end wall of the first workpiece W1 can be friction stir welded in a state where the end wall of the first workpiece W1 is supported by the backing member 40. More specifically, in a state where the end wall 73 of the case 7 is supported by the backing member 40, the end wall 73 of the case 7 and the cover 8 can be friction stir welded.

[0099] (Base 64) In the example described in FIG. 25, the base 64 includes a lower base 641 and an upper base 646. The base 64 also includes a plurality of connecting columns 647 that connect the lower base 641 and the upper base 646. In the example described in FIG. 25, the lower base 641 is disposed on the first direction DR1 side of the upper base 646. A through hole portion 646h (see FIG. 8) through which the backing member 40 passes may be formed in the upper base 646.

[0100] In the example described in FIG. 25, the lower base 641 supports the backing member 40. In the example described in FIG. 25, a holding member 50 is disposed on the upper base 646.

[0101] In the example described in FIG. 26, the base 64 (more specifically, the lower base 641) is attached to the support device 11 (more specifically, the table 111). In the example described in FIG. 26, the machine tool 1A includes a fixing member F that fixes the base 64 (more specifically, the lower base 641) to the support device 11 (more specifically, the table 111). The fixing member F is, for example, a bolt F1. In the example described in FIG. 25, the base 64 (more specifically, the lower base 641) includes a mounting hole portion 64h. The base 64 may be fixed to the table 111 by a bolt F1 inserted into the mounting hole portion 64h.

[0102] As illustrated in FIG. 25, a second group of nozzles 62 may be supported on the base 64 (more specifically, the upper base 646).

[0103] (Holding member 50) In the example described in FIG. 4, the holding member 50 holds the side wall of the first workpiece W1 (for example, the side wall 71 of the case 7). In the example described in FIG. 4, with the side wall 71 of the first workpiece W1 held by the holding member 50, the end wall 73 of the first workpiece W1 can be friction stir welded. More specifically, with the side wall 71 of the case 7 held by the holding member 50, the end wall 73 of the case 7 and the cover 8 can be friction stir joined.

[0104] In the example shown in FIG. 9, the holding member 50 includes a first holding member 51a that holds the first portion of the first workpiece W1 (more specifically, the first side wall 71-1 of the case 7), and a second holding member 51b that holds the second portion of the first workpiece W1 (more specifically, the second side wall 71-2 of the case 7).

[0105] In the example shown in FIG. 9, the backing member 40 is disposed so as to cross the space SP1 between the first holding member 51a and the second holding member 51b.

[0106] In the example shown in FIG. 9, the support end 40e of the backing member 40 is located on the second direction DR2 side (more specifically, the upper side) of the holding member 50. More specifically, the first end 42a-1 of the first support column 42-1 is located on the second direction DR2 side (more specifically, the upper side) of the first holding member 51a and the second holding member 51b. Also, the second end 42a-2 of the second support column 42-2 is located on the second direction DR2 side (more specifically, the upper side) of the first holding member 51a and the second holding member 51b.

[0107] In the example shown in FIG. 9, the first holding member 51a has a first movable portion 513a that is positionally changeable with respect to a first fixed portion 511a (for example, a part of the upper base 646). When the first movable portion 513a moves toward the first fixed portion 511a, the first portion of the first workpiece W1 (more specifically, the first side wall 71-1 of the case 7) is clamped between the first fixed portion 511a and the first movable portion 513a. The first movable portion 513a may be screwed to a first screw member SB1. In this case, when the first screw member SB1 is relatively rotated with respect to the first movable portion 513a, the first movable portion 513a moves toward the first fixed portion 511a. Alternatively, the first holding member 51a may be provided with a fluid pressure cylinder (for example, an air cylinder or a hydraulic cylinder) that moves the first movable portion 513a toward the first fixed portion 511a.

[0108] In the example shown in FIG. 9, the second holding member 51b has a second movable portion 513b that is positionally changeable relative to the second fixing portion 511b (for example, another part of the upper base 646). As the second movable portion 513b moves toward the second fixing portion 511b, the second portion of the first workpiece W1 (more specifically, the second side wall 71-2 of the case 7) is clamped between the second fixing portion 511b and the second movable portion 513b. The second movable portion 513b may be screwed onto the second screw member SB2. In this case, as the second screw member SB2 is rotated relative to the second movable portion 513b, the second movable portion 513b moves toward the second fixing portion 511b. Alternatively, the second holding member 51b may include a fluid pressure cylinder (for example, an air cylinder or a hydraulic cylinder) that moves the second movable portion 513b toward the second fixing portion 511b.

[0109] In the example shown in FIG. 8, the friction stir welding jig 4A is disposed around the backing member 40 and includes four or more holding members 50 that hold the first workpiece W1. More specifically, ten holding members 50 that hold the first workpiece W1 are disposed around the backing member 40. The number of holding members 50 disposed around the backing member 40 may be four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, or eleven or more.

[0110] In the example shown in FIG. 8, the holding members 50 (for example, the first holding member 51a and the second holding member 51b) are supported by the base 64 (more specifically, the upper base 646).

[0111] (Detachment prevention member 67) In the example shown in FIG. 13, the friction stir welding jig 4A includes a detachment prevention member 67 that prevents the second workpiece W2 (for example, the cover 8) from detaching from the first workpiece W1 (for example, the case 7). In the examples shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, the detachment prevention member 67 is positionally changeable between an advanced position P1 where it contacts the second workpiece W2 (for example, the cover 8) and a retracted position P2 where it is separated from the second workpiece W2 (for example, the cover 8).

[0112] The friction stir joining jig 4A may include an actuator 68 that moves the detachment prevention member 67 between the above-described advanced position P1 and the above-described retracted position P2. The actuator 68 may move the detachment prevention member 67 from the above-described advanced position P1 to the above-described retracted position P2 in response to receiving a first operation command from the control device 3. Further, the actuator 68 may move the detachment prevention member 67 from the above-described retracted position P2 to the above-described advanced position P1 in response to receiving a second operation command from the control device 3.

[0113] As illustrated in FIG. 12, the detachment prevention member 67 may include a first detachment prevention member 67-1 and a second detachment prevention member 67-2. The friction stir joining jig 4A may include a first actuator 68-1 that moves the first detachment prevention member 67-1 between a first advanced position P1-1 where it contacts the second workpiece W2 (e.g., the cover 8) and a first retracted position P2-1 where it is separated from the second workpiece W2 (e.g., the cover 8). Further, the friction stir joining jig 4A may include a second actuator 68-2 that moves the second detachment prevention member 67-2 between a second advanced position P1-2 where it contacts the second workpiece W2 (e.g., the cover 8) and a second retracted position P2-2 where it is separated from the second workpiece W2 (e.g., the cover 8).

[0114] In the example described in FIG. 12, the detachment prevention member 67 (e.g., the first detachment prevention member 67-1 and the second detachment prevention member 67-2) is supported by the base 64 (more specifically, the upper base 646).

[0115] (Machine tool 1A) In the example described in FIG. 26, the machine tool 1A includes a friction stir joining jig 4A to which the joining object W (more specifically, the first workpiece W1 as the joining object) is fixed, a support device 11, a processing head 15, a rotation drive device 16, a moving device 17, and a supply device 12 (not shown in FIG. 26). Since the friction stir joining jig 4A has been described, repetitive descriptions of the friction stir joining jig 4A are omitted.

[0116] The support device 11 supports the friction stir welding jig 4A. The support device 11 may include a table 111 to which the friction stir welding jig 4A is attached.

[0117] The processing head 15 includes a spindle 151 and a support 153 that rotatably supports the spindle 151 around the first axis AX1. The spindle 151 can hold the friction stir welding tool T1.

[0118] The rotation drive device 16 rotates the spindle 151 around the first axis AX1. The rotation drive device 16 may include a motor 16m that rotates the spindle 151 around the first axis AX1. In the example described in FIG. 26, the processing head 15 includes the above-described motor 16m.

[0119] The moving device 17 relatively moves the processing head 15 with respect to the support device 11. The moving device 17 may include a processing head moving device 171 that moves the processing head 15. In the examples described in FIGS. 26 and 27, the processing head moving device 171 can move the processing head 15 in a direction (Z direction) substantially parallel to the vertical direction. The processing head moving device 171 may move the processing head 15 in a direction substantially parallel to the horizontal plane.

[0120] The moving device 17 may include a table moving device 178 that moves the table 111. In the examples described in FIGS. 26 and 27, the table moving device 178 can move the table 111 in a direction substantially parallel to the horizontal plane. In the examples described in FIGS. 26 and 27, the table moving device 178 includes an X-axis moving device 178a that moves the table 111 in a direction along the X-axis substantially parallel to the horizontal plane. The table moving device 178 may include a Y-axis moving device 178b that moves the table 111 in a direction along the Y-axis perpendicular to both the vertical direction and the X-axis.

[0121] The supply device 12 (not shown in Fig. 26) supplies the coolant L1 to at least one nozzle 61. At least one nozzle 61 discharges the coolant L1 toward the first workpiece W1 when the friction stir welding tool T1 friction stirs the first workpiece W1.

[0122] (Wall 21 and door 23) As illustrated in Figs. 28 and 29, the machine tool 1A may include a wall 21 surrounding the processing area RG1 where friction stirring is performed. The wall 21 prevents the coolant L1 from scattering outside the processing area RG1 where friction stirring is performed. The wall 21 surrounds the friction stir welding jig 4. Also, the wall 21 surrounds the lower end portion 15g (see Fig. 26) of the processing head 15. In the examples described in Figs. 28 and 29, the wall 21 surrounds the table 111.

[0123] As illustrated in Figs. 28 and 29, an opening OP through which the first workpiece W1 (e.g., case 7) and the second workpiece W2 (e.g., cover 8) can pass may be formed in the wall 21. In the examples described in Figs. 28 and 29, the machine tool 1A includes a door 23 that opens and closes the opening OP formed in the wall 21. The wall 21 and the door 23 surround the processing area RG1 and prevent the coolant L1 from scattering outside the processing area RG1.

[0124] (Supply device 12) In the example described in Fig. 29, the machine tool 1A includes a supply device 12 that supplies the coolant L1 to at least one nozzle 61. The supply device 12 supplies the coolant L1 to the first group of nozzles 61 arranged on the backing member 40. The supply device 12 may supply the coolant L1 to the second group of nozzles 62 arranged on a member other than the backing member 40 (e.g., the upper base 646).

[0125] In the example described in Fig. 29, the supply device 12 includes a pump 121 that supplies the coolant L1 toward at least one nozzle 61. The supply device 12 may include a valve 123 arranged between at least one nozzle 61 and the pump 121.

[0126] (Circulation of coolant L1) As illustrated in FIG. 29, the machine tool 1A may include a circulation passage 13 for circulating the coolant L1 and a tank 141 for storing the coolant L1.

[0127] The circulation passage 13 includes a passage 131 that supplies the coolant L1 from the tank 141 to at least one nozzle 61.

[0128] The circulation passage 13 includes a return passage 138 that returns the coolant L1 in the machining region RG1 where the above-described friction stirring is performed to the tank 141. When the machining region RG1 is surrounded by the wall 21, the recovery of the coolant L1 can be performed smoothly.

[0129] (Chiller 143) The machine tool 1A may include a chiller 143 for lowering the temperature of the coolant L1. In the example shown in FIG. 29, the chiller 143 receives the coolant L1 from the tank 141 and lowers the temperature of the received coolant L1. The coolant L1 with the lowered temperature is returned to the tank 141.

[0130] (Cutting tool T2) As illustrated in FIG. 30, the machine tool 1A may be capable of cutting at least one of the first workpiece W1 (e.g., case 7) and the second workpiece W2 (e.g., cover 8) using the cutting tool T2. More specifically, the spindle 151 may be capable of holding the cutting tool T2.

[0131] For example, when burrs are generated from at least one of the first workpiece W1 (e.g., case 7) and the second workpiece W2 (e.g., cover 8) by the friction stir welding tool T1, the burrs may be removed using the cutting tool T2 (e.g., milling tool T2-1).

[0132] The cutting tool T2 attached to the spindle 151 may be a boring tool T2-2 (see Fig. 26). After the first workpiece W1 (e.g., case 7) and the second workpiece W2 (e.g., cover 8) are friction stir welded, a hole may be formed in the first workpiece W1 (e.g., case 7) and / or the second workpiece W2 (e.g., cover 8) using the cutting tool T2 (e.g., boring tool T2-2). For example, the hole 75h (see Fig. 17) of the attachment portion 75 may be formed using the boring tool T2-2.

[0133] The cutting tool T2 attached to the spindle 151 may be a tapping tool. After the first workpiece W1 (e.g., case 7) and the second workpiece W2 (e.g., cover 8) are friction stir welded, a thread may be formed in a hole (e.g., a hole formed in the first workpiece W1) using the cutting tool T2 (e.g., tapping tool).

[0134] After the first workpiece W1 (e.g., case 7) and the second workpiece W2 (e.g., cover 8) are friction stir welded, the side wall 71 of the case 7 or the inner surface of the case 7 may be cut using the cutting tool T2.

[0135] In the first embodiment, friction stirring is performed while the coolant L1 is applied to the first workpiece W1. Therefore, distortion of the first workpiece W1 due to the heat generated by friction stirring is suppressed. For this reason, the machine tool 1A can accurately machine at least one of the first workpiece W1 and the second workpiece W2 following the friction stir welding of the first workpiece W1 and the second workpiece W2.

[0136] (Tool changer 19) As illustrated in Figs. 26 and 27, the machine tool 1A may include a tool changer 19. The tool changer 19 can replace the friction stir welding tool T1 held by the spindle 151 with a cutting tool T2 (e.g., milling tool T2-1, boring tool T2-2, tapping tool, etc.).

[0137] In the example described in FIG. 27, the tool changer 19 includes a tool changing arm 191, an arm rotating device 194 that rotates the tool changing arm 191, and an arm moving device 196 that linearly moves the tool changing arm 191. The arm rotating device 194 rotates the tool changing arm 191 around the second axis AX2. Further, the arm moving device 196 moves the tool changing arm 191 in a direction parallel to the second axis AX2.

[0138] In the example described in FIG. 27, the tool changing arm 191 can simultaneously hold the friction stir welding tool T1 and the cutting tool T2. In the example described in FIG. 27, the tool changing arm 191 has a first gripping portion 191a that grips the friction stir welding tool T1 and a second gripping portion 191b that grips the cutting tool T2.

[0139] Alternatively, the tool change may be performed manually. Also, when the machine tool 1A is a machine that can only perform friction stirring, the tool change is omitted.

[0140] (Control device 3) As illustrated in FIG. 26, the machine tool 1A may include a control device 3 that controls the rotation driving device 16 and the moving device 17. Additionally, the control device 3 may control the supply device 12. Alternatively, or additionally, the control device 3 may control the tool changer 19. Alternatively, or additionally, the control device 3 may control an actuator 68 (more specifically, a first actuator 68-1, a second actuator 68-2, etc.) that moves the anti-disengagement member 67.

[0141] In the example described in FIG. 31, the control device 3 includes a hardware processor 30 (hereinafter simply referred to as "processor 30"), a memory 32, a communication circuit 34, an input device 36, and a display 37. The processor 30, the memory 32, the communication circuit 34, the input device 36, and the display 37 are connected to each other via a bus 38. In the example described in FIG. 31, the input device 36 includes a touch panel 36t on the display 37. In other words, the display 37 is a display with a touch panel 36t. The input device 36 may include buttons, switches, levers, pointing devices, and / or a keyboard.

[0142] The memory 32 is a storage medium readable by the processor 30 of the control device 3. The memory 32 may be, for example, a non-volatile or volatile semiconductor memory such as RAM, ROM, flash memory, a magnetic disk, or other forms of memory.

[0143] The memory 32 stores data DA and a processing program PM. By executing the processing program PM stored in the memory 32 by the processor 30 of the control device 3, the control device 3 generates a control command. Further, the communication circuit 34 transmits the control command to the controlled devices (more specifically, the rotation drive device 16, the moving device 17, the supply device 12, the tool changer 19, the actuator 68, etc.). Thus, by executing the processing program PM by the processor 30, the control device 3 can control the controlled devices (more specifically, the rotation drive device 16, the moving device 17, the supply device 12, the tool changer 19, the actuator 68, etc.).

[0144] (Bonding mode M1) As illustrated in FIG. 32, the control device 3 is capable of executing the joining mode M1. The joining mode M1 is a mode in which the first workpiece W1 and the second workpiece W2 are friction stir joined using the friction stir joining tool T1. More specifically, the joining mode M1 is a mode in which the friction stir joining tool T1 in a rotating state is relatively moved with respect to the first workpiece W1 and the second workpiece W2 so that the first workpiece W1 and the second workpiece W2 are friction stir joined. The first workpiece W1 is, for example, the case 7 described above, and the second workpiece W2 is, for example, the cover 8 described above.

[0145] When executing the joining mode M1, the control device 3 transmits a first rotation command R1 to the rotation driving device 16. The rotation driving device 16 that receives the first rotation command R1 rotates the spindle 151 that holds the friction stir joining tool T1 around the first axis AX1.

[0146] When executing the joining mode M1, the control device 3 transmits a first movement command S1 to the moving device 17. The moving device 17 that receives the first movement command S1 relatively moves the rotating friction stir joining tool T1 along a first path PA (see FIG. 34) specified by the machining program PM with respect to the first workpiece W1 and the second workpiece W2.

[0147] The first path PA may include a boundary PA1 between the first workpiece W1 and the second workpiece W2. In this case, the first workpiece W1 and the second workpiece W2 are butted and joined by friction stir. More specifically, the first path PA may include a boundary PA1-1 between the step portion 731 (see FIG. 20) of the case 7 and the outer edge portion 81 (see FIG. 20) of the cover 8. In this case, the step portion 731 of the case 7 and the outer edge portion 81 of the cover 8 are butted and joined by friction stir.

[0148] As can be understood from FIGS. 19 and 34, the first path PA may include a path PA2 along the region where the first workpiece W1 and the second workpiece W2 overlap. In this case, the first workpiece W1 and the second workpiece W2 are lap joined by friction stir welding. When the first workpiece W1 is the case 7 and the second workpiece W2 is the cover 8, the case 7 and the cover 8 are lap joined by friction stir welding. In the example shown in FIG. 34, the first path PA includes a path PA2-1 passing through the central portion 83 of the cover 8. In this case, the case 7 and the central portion 83 of the cover 8 are lap joined by friction stir welding.

[0149] In the example shown in FIG. 10, at least one of the plurality of support columns 42 (for example, the first support column 42-1) is located vertically below the central portion 83 of the cover 8. More specifically, when the case 7 and the central portion 83 of the cover 8 are lap joined, at least one of the plurality of support columns 42 supports the end wall 73 of the case 7 vertically below the friction stir welding tool T1.

[0150] In the example shown in FIG. 34, the first path PA includes both the boundary PA1 between the first workpiece W1 and the second workpiece W2 and a path PA2-1 passing through the central portion 83 of the second workpiece W2. In this case, the first workpiece W1 and the second workpiece W2 are butted and joined by friction stir welding, and the first workpiece W1 and the central portion 83 of the second workpiece W2 are lap joined by friction stir welding.

[0151] As illustrated in FIG. 10, the joining mode M1 may include friction stir welding the case 7 and the cover 8 such that a flow path 91 (for example, a refrigerant flow path through which refrigerant flows) is formed by the groove portion 73v formed in the end wall 73 of the case 7 and the cover 8.

[0152] When the joining mode M1 is executed, at least one nozzle 61 (for example, the first nozzle 61a and / or the second nozzle 61b) applies the coolant L1 to the first workpiece W1 (for example, the end wall 73 of the first workpiece W1). More specifically, at least one nozzle 61 (for example, the first nozzle 61a and / or the second nozzle 61b) injects the coolant L1 onto the first workpiece W1 (for example, the end wall 73 of the first workpiece W1).

[0153] When the joining mode M1 is executed, at least one nozzle 61 may be configured to discharge the coolant L1 such that the coolant L1 reaches substantially the entire inner surface 73n of the end wall 73, excluding the portion of the inner surface 73n of the end wall 73 that contacts the backing member 40, as described above. As illustrated in FIG. 13, when the joining mode M1 is executed, the second group of nozzles 62 may discharge the coolant L1 onto the outer surface of the first workpiece W1.

[0154] As illustrated in FIG. 32, when the joining mode M1 is executed, the control device 3 may transmit a supply command U1 to the supply device 12. The supply device 12 (for example, the pump 121 and / or the valve 123) that receives the supply command U1 supplies the coolant L1 to at least one nozzle 61 (for example, the first nozzle 61a and / or the second nozzle 61b). At least one nozzle 61 (for example, the first nozzle 61a and / or the second nozzle 61b) discharges the coolant L1 supplied by the supply device 12 onto the first workpiece W1 (for example, the inner surface 73n of the end wall 73 of the first workpiece W1).

[0155] Alternatively, the supply device 12 (for example, the pump 121 and / or the valve 123) may be manually operated by an operator. More specifically, the machine tool 1A may include a manual switch for operating the supply device 12.

[0156] During the execution of the friction stir described above, the coolant L1 may be applied only to the first workpiece W1 (e.g., case 7) among the first workpiece W1 (e.g., case 7) and the second workpiece W2 (e.g., cover 8). When the coolant L1 does not reach the second workpiece W2, the coolant L1 does not enter the gap between the first workpiece W1 and the second workpiece W2.

[0157] As illustrated in FIG. 13, the execution of the joining mode M1 may be started in a state where the above-described detachment prevention member 67 is located at the advancing position P1 in contact with the second workpiece W2 (e.g., cover 8). More specifically, in a state where the above-described detachment prevention member 67 is located at the advancing position P1 in contact with the second workpiece W2 (e.g., cover 8), the friction stir of the first workpiece W1 (e.g., case 7) and the second workpiece W2 (e.g., cover 8) by the friction stir joining tool T1 may be started. In this case, when the friction stir is started, the second workpiece W2 is prevented from detaching from the first workpiece W1.

[0158] As illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14, the joining mode M1 may include moving the detachment prevention member 67 from the above-described advancing position P1 to the above-described retracting position P2 (in other words, the retracting position P2 away from the second workpiece W2). More specifically, during the execution of the joining mode M1, the control device 3 may transmit a first operation command A1 (see FIG. 31) to the actuator 68 so that the detachment prevention member 67 moves from the above-described advancing position P1 to the above-described retracting position P2. The actuator 68 that receives the first operation command A1 moves the detachment prevention member 67 from the above-described advancing position P1 to the above-described retracting position P2.

[0159] As illustrated in FIGS. 14 and 16, the joining mode M1 may include moving the detachment prevention member 67 from the above-described retracted position P2 to the above-described advanced position P1. More specifically, when the joining mode M1 is executed, the control device 3 may transmit a second operation command to the actuator 68 so that the detachment prevention member 67 moves from the above-described retracted position P2 to the above-described advanced position P1. The actuator 68 that receives the second operation command moves the detachment prevention member 67 from the above-described retracted position P2 to the above-described advanced position P1.

[0160] As illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14, the control device 3 may transmit a first operation command A1 to the actuator 68 so that the detachment prevention member 67 moves from the above-described advanced position P1 to the above-described retracted position P2 in response to the friction stir welding tool T1 approaching the detachment prevention member 67. The control device 3 may determine whether the friction stir welding tool T1 is approaching the detachment prevention member 67 based on the machining program PM. Alternatively, the control device 3 may determine whether the friction stir welding tool T1 is approaching the detachment prevention member 67 based on a signal from a proximity sensor.

[0161] As illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14, the control device 3 may control the first actuator 68-1 so that the first detachment prevention member 67-1 moves to the first retracted position P2-1 while the second detachment prevention member 67-2 is located at the second advanced position P1-2 in response to the friction stir welding tool T1 approaching the first detachment prevention member 67-1.

[0162] As illustrated in FIGS. 15 and 16, the control device 3 may control the second actuator 68-2 so that the second detachment prevention member 67-2 moves to the second retracted position P2-2 while the first detachment prevention member 67-1 is located at the first advanced position P1-1 in response to the friction stir welding tool T1 approaching the second detachment prevention member 67-2.

[0163] In the example described in FIG. 10, the joining mode M1 is executed with the friction stir joining tool T1 positioned above the backing member 40. When the machine tool 1A is a horizontal machining center, the joining mode M1 may be executed with the height of the friction stir joining tool T1 being substantially the same as the height of the backing member 40.

[0164] (Cutting mode M2) As illustrated in FIGS. 16 and 30, the control device 3 may be capable of selectively executing the joining mode M1 and the cutting mode M2. The cutting mode M2 is a mode in which at least one of the first workpiece W1 and the second workpiece W2 is cut using the cutting tool T2. More specifically, the cutting mode M2 is a mode in which the rotating cutting tool T2 is relatively moved with respect to the first workpiece W1 and the second workpiece W2 so that at least one of the first workpiece W1 and the second workpiece W2 is cut. The first workpiece W1 is, for example, the case 7 described above, and the second workpiece W2 is, for example, the cover 8 described above.

[0165] In the example described in FIG. 27, the spindle 151 can selectively hold the friction stir joining tool T1 and the cutting tool T2. When the joining mode M1 is executed, the spindle 151 holds the friction stir joining tool T1, and when the cutting mode M2 is executed, the spindle 151 holds the cutting tool T2.

[0166] As illustrated in FIG. 33, when the cutting mode M2 is executed, the control device 3 transmits a second rotation command R2 to the rotation drive device 16. The rotation drive device 16 that receives the second rotation command R2 rotates the spindle 151 that holds the cutting tool T2 around the first axis AX1.

[0167] When the cutting mode M2 is executed, the control device 3 transmits a second movement command S2 to the movement device 17. The movement device 17 that receives the second movement command S2 relatively moves the rotating cutting tool T2 along the second path PB specified by the machining program PM with respect to the first workpiece W1 and the second workpiece W2.

[0168] The second path PB may overlap with the above-described first path PA. For example, the rotating cutting tool T2 (e.g., the milling tool T2-1) may move relative to the first workpiece W1 and the second workpiece W2 along the second path PB that overlaps with the above-described first path PA, so that the burrs generated during friction stirring may be removed by the cutting tool T2 (e.g., the milling tool T2-1).

[0169] The second path PB may include a path parallel to the first direction DR1. For example, the rotating cutting tool T2 (e.g., the drilling tool T2-2) may move along the second path PB, so that a hole may be formed in the first workpiece W1 (e.g., the case 7) and / or the second workpiece W2 (e.g., the cover 8) by the cutting tool T2 (e.g., the drilling tool T2-2). Alternatively, or additionally, the rotating cutting tool T2 (e.g., the tapping tool) may move along the second path PB, so that a thread may be formed in the above-described hole (e.g., the hole formed in the first workpiece W1) by the cutting tool T2 (e.g., the tapping tool).

[0170] During the execution of the cutting mode M2, cutting fluid may be applied to the cutting tool T2. The cutting fluid applied to the cutting tool T2 may be supplied from the above-described tank 141. The cutting fluid may be a liquid having the same composition as the coolant L1 discharged from at least one nozzle 61 during the execution of friction stirring. Alternatively, the cutting mode M2 may be executed without applying cutting fluid to the cutting tool T2 (dry cutting).

[0171] As illustrated in FIG. 30, the cutting mode M2 may be executed in a state where the above-described detachment prevention member 67 is located at the retracted position P2 away from the second workpiece W2 (e.g., the cover 8). More specifically, at least one of the first workpiece W1 (e.g., the case 7) and the second workpiece W2 (e.g., the cover 8) may be cut by the cutting tool T2 in a state where the above-described detachment prevention member 67 is located at the retracted position P2 away from the second workpiece W2 (e.g., the cover 8).

[0172] When the machine tool 1A does not have the function of cutting a workpiece using a cutting tool, or when it is not necessary to cut the first workpiece W1 and the second workpiece W2, etc., the above-described cutting mode M2 is omitted.

[0173] (Tool change mode M3) In the example shown in FIG. 27, the control device 3 can execute the tool change mode M3. The tool change mode M3 is a mode in which the friction stir welding tool T1 held by the spindle 151 is replaced with the cutting tool T2.

[0174] More specifically, after the execution of the above-described joining mode M1, the control device 3 transmits a tool change command C1 to the tool changer 19 so that the friction stir welding tool T1 held by the spindle 151 is replaced with the cutting tool T2. The tool changer 19 that receives the tool change command C1 replaces the friction stir welding tool T1 held by the spindle 151 with the cutting tool T2. After the execution of the tool change mode M3, the above-described cutting mode M2 is executed.

[0175] Alternatively, the tool change may be performed manually. More specifically, the operator may manually perform the operation of removing the friction stir welding tool T1 from the spindle 151 and the operation of attaching the cutting tool T2 to the spindle 151. In this case, the above-described tool change mode M3 is omitted.

[0176] (Second Embodiment) Referring to FIGS. 35 to 40, the friction stir welding jig 4B and the machine tool 1B in the second embodiment will be described. FIG. 35 is a schematic perspective view schematically showing the friction stir welding jig 4B in the second embodiment. FIG. 36 is a schematic perspective view schematically showing a state in which the first workpiece W1 and the second workpiece W2 are supported by the friction stir welding jig 4B. FIG. 37 is a schematic front view schematically showing a part of the machine tool 1B in the second embodiment. FIG. 38 is a schematic cross-sectional view schematically showing a state in which the joining mode M1 is being executed. FIG. 39 is a schematic perspective view schematically showing an example of the first workpiece W1. FIG. 40 is a schematic perspective view schematically showing a state in which the second workpiece W2 and the third workpiece W3 are arranged on the first workpiece W1.

[0177] In the second embodiment, the description will focus on the differences from the first embodiment. On the other hand, in the second embodiment, repeated descriptions of matters already described in the first embodiment will be omitted. Therefore, in the second embodiment, even if not explicitly described, it goes without saying that the matters already described in the first embodiment can be applied to the second embodiment.

[0178] As illustrated in FIGS. 35 and 36, the friction stir welding jig 4B in the second embodiment includes: (1) a backing member 40 that receives a pressing force from a friction stir welding tool via the first workpiece W1 as a joining object and supports the first workpiece W1; (2) a holding member 50 that holds the first workpiece W1; and (3) at least one nozzle 61 that is disposed on the backing member 40 and discharges a coolant toward the first workpiece W1.

[0179] As illustrated in FIG. 37, the machine tool 1B in the second embodiment includes: (1) a friction stir welding jig 4B having at least one nozzle 61 for discharging a coolant L1 toward a first workpiece W1 fixed as a joining object; (2) a support device 11 for supporting the friction stir welding jig 4B; (3) a machining head 15 including a spindle 151 and a support 153 for rotatably supporting the spindle 151 around a first axis AX1; (4) a rotation drive device 16 for rotating the spindle 151 around the first axis AX1; (5) a moving device 17 for relatively moving the machining head 15 with respect to the support device 11; and (6) a supply device 12 for supplying the coolant L1 to at least one nozzle 61. The friction stir welding jig 4B includes: (1) a backing member 40 that receives a pressing force from a friction stir welding tool T1 through the first workpiece W1 and supports the first workpiece W1; (2) a holding member 50 for holding the first workpiece W1; and (3) at least one nozzle 61 disposed on the backing member 40.

[0180] Therefore, the friction stir welding jig 4B and the machine tool 1B in the second embodiment exhibit the same effects as the friction stir welding jig 4A and the machine tool 1A in the first embodiment.

[0181] (Optional additional configuration) Subsequently, with reference to FIGS. 35 to 40, optional additional configurations that can be adopted in the friction stir welding jig 4B and the machine tool 1B in the second embodiment will be described.

[0182] (First workpiece W1 and second workpiece W2) As illustrated in FIG. 38, the first workpiece W1 has an end wall 73 supported by the backing member 40.

[0183] In the example described in FIG. 39, the first workpiece W1 as the object to be joined is the case 7. The first workpiece W1 (more specifically, the case 7) is joined to the second workpiece W2 by friction stir welding. The first workpiece W1 may be a workpiece other than a case. The first workpiece W1 is, for example, a cast part. The first workpiece W1 is made of metal. The main component of the material of the first workpiece W1 is, for example, aluminum. In other words, the first workpiece W1 is made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy.

[0184] In the example described in FIG. 38, the second workpiece W2 is the cover 8. In the example described in FIG. 38, the case 7 is the first object to be joined, and the cover 8 is the second object to be joined. The first object to be joined (for example, the case 7) and the second object to be joined (for example, the cover 8) are joined by friction stir welding. The second workpiece W2 may be a workpiece other than a cover. The second workpiece W2 is made of metal. The main component of the material of the second workpiece W2 is, for example, aluminum. In other words, the second workpiece W2 is made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy. As illustrated in FIG. 40, the objects to be joined may include a third workpiece W3 (for example, the second cover 8-2) in addition to the first workpiece W1 and the second workpiece W2.

[0185] In the example described in FIG. 39, the case 7 has a recess 74 defined by a side wall 71 and an end wall 73. In the example described in FIG. 38, the first direction DR1 coincides with the direction from the end wall 73 toward the internal space SP of the recess 74.

[0186] In the example described in FIG. 39, the case 7 has a recess 74 capable of receiving a cooling object. The cooling object received in the recess 74 is, for example, an electrical device that generates heat when an electric current flows through it. The case 7 may be an automotive part (for example, a part of an electric vehicle) mounted on an automobile with the electrical device housed therein. The electrical device that generates heat when an electric current flows through it is, for example, housed in the recess 74 in a state of being in contact with the end wall 73.

[0187] The object to be cooled (more specifically, an electric device) received in the recess 74 is, for example, an inverter (more specifically, a device having a circuit for converting a direct current into an alternating current), a converter (more specifically, an AC-DC converter for converting an alternating current into a direct current, or a DC-DC converter for converting a direct voltage into another direct voltage), a battery, a charger for charging the battery, a control unit such as an engine control unit, or a substrate on which a plurality of electronic components are arranged.

[0188] As illustrated in FIG. 40, the first workpiece W1 may have a protrusion 77 held by the holding member 50. The first workpiece W1 may have a hole 77h into which a part of the holding member 50 is inserted. In the example shown in FIG. 40, the hole 77h is formed in the protrusion 77.

[0189] As illustrated in FIG. 40, the case 7 may have a groove 73v formed in the outer surface 73t of the end wall 73. The groove 73v of the end wall 73 may be formed by casting. Alternatively, the groove 73v may be formed by cutting the end wall 73 with a cutting tool.

[0190] The case 7 may include a first port 79a connected to the groove 73v. The cover 8 may include a second port 89b connected to the groove 73v. The first port 79a, the groove 73v, and the second port 89b constitute a part of a refrigerant flow path through which a refrigerant for cooling the object to be cooled (more specifically, an electric device) received in the recess 74 passes.

[0191] In the example shown in FIG. 38, the cover 8 covers at least a part of the outer surface 73t of the end wall 73 of the case 7. In the example shown in FIG. 38, the cover 8 covers the groove 73v of the end wall 73.

[0192] (Friction Stir Welding Fixture 4B) In the example shown in FIG. 38, the backing member 40 has a first support column 42-1 that contacts the first workpiece W1. The first support column 42-1 receives the pressing force from the friction stir welding tool T1 via the first workpiece W1 and supports the first workpiece W1.

[0193] In the example described in FIG. 38, the backing member 40 has a second support column 42-2 that contacts the first workpiece W1. The second support column 42-2 receives the pressing force from the friction stir welding tool T1 via the first workpiece W1 and supports the first workpiece W1.

[0194] In the example described in FIG. 38, the base 64 attached to the support device 11 and the first support column 42-1 are integrally formed. The base 64, the first support column 42-1, and the second support column 42-2 may be integrally formed.

[0195] In the example described in FIG. 38, at least one nozzle 61 is a spray nozzle SN that diffuses the coolant L1 toward the first workpiece W1. The friction stir welding jig 4B may include a first nozzle 61a disposed on the backing member 40 and a second nozzle 61b disposed on the backing member 40.

[0196] In the example described in FIG. 38, the first nozzle 61a is attached to the side surface 43 of the backing member 40 (more specifically, the side surface of the first support column 42-1). Also, the second nozzle 61b is attached to the side surface 43 of the backing member 40 (more specifically, the side surface of the second support column 42-2).

[0197] In the example described in FIG. 38, a supply channel 44 for supplying the coolant L1 to at least one nozzle 61 is formed inside the backing member 40. More specifically, in the example described in FIG. 38, a first supply channel 44-1 for supplying the coolant L1 to the first nozzle 61a is formed inside the first support column 42-1. Also, a second supply channel 44-2 for supplying the coolant L1 to the second nozzle 61b is formed inside the second support column 42-2.

[0198] In the example shown in FIG. 35, the friction stir welding jig 4B includes a base 64 attached to the support device 11 of the machine tool, and the base 64 has a bottom wall 648 and side walls 649. In the example shown in FIG. 35, the first support column 42-1 is disposed inside the side wall 649. Also, the second support column 42-2 is disposed inside the side wall 649.

[0199] In the examples shown in FIGS. 35 and 36, the friction stir welding jig 4B includes a holding member 50 that holds the first workpiece W1, and the holding member 50 includes bolts BT.

[0200] In the examples shown in FIGS. 35 and 36, the first workpiece W1 is fixed to the friction stir welding jig 4B by inserting the bolts BT into both a hole 77h formed in the first workpiece W1 and a hole 649h (more specifically, a hole 649h formed in the side wall 649) formed in the friction stir welding jig 4B. Alternatively, the holding member 50 may be a clamp-type holding member (see FIG. 4).

[0201] The friction stir welding jig 4B may include a detachment prevention member 67 (see FIG. 13) that prevents the second workpiece W2 from detaching from the first workpiece W1.

[0202] (Work processing method) With reference to FIGS. 1 to 41, the work processing method in the embodiment will be described. FIG. 41 is a flowchart showing an example of the work processing method in the embodiment.

[0203] As illustrated in FIG. 26 or FIG. 37, in the first step ST1, the friction stir welding jig 4 is fixed to the support device 11 (for example, the table 111) of the machine tool 1. The first step ST1 is a fixing process. The machine tool 1 may be the machine tool 1A in the first embodiment, the machine tool 1B in the second embodiment, or other machine tools. Since the components of the machine tool (1A, 1B) have been described in the first embodiment or the second embodiment, repeated descriptions of the components of the machine tool (1A, 1B) are omitted.

[0204] In the fixing process (the first step ST1), the friction stir welding jig 4 fixed to the support device 11 (for example, the table 111) includes a backing member 40 and a holding member 50.

[0205] In the fixing process (the first step ST1), the friction stir welding jig 4 fixed to the support device 11 (for example, the table 111) may be the friction stir welding jig 4A in the first embodiment, the friction stir welding jig 4B in the second embodiment, or other friction stir welding jigs. Since the components of the friction stir welding jig (4A, 4B) have been described in the first embodiment or the second embodiment, repeated descriptions of the components of the friction stir welding jig (4A, 4B) are omitted.

[0206] The fixing process (the first step ST1) may include fixing the friction stir welding jig 4 to the support device 11 via a fixing member F (refer to FIG. 26 or FIG. 37), such as a bolt F1. Alternatively, or additionally, the fixing process (the first step ST1) may include fixing the friction stir welding jig 4 to the support device 11 via a chuck.

[0207] If the friction stir welding jig 4 is already fixed to the support device 11 (for example, the table 111) of the machine tool 1, the first step ST1 is omitted.

[0208] As illustrated in FIG. 26 or FIG. 37, in the second step ST2, the workpiece W to be joined is attached to the friction stir welding jig 4. The second step ST2 is an attachment step. In the example described in FIG. 12, the attachment step (second step ST2) includes attaching the first workpiece W1 as the workpiece to be joined to the friction stir welding jig 4. The first workpiece W1 attached to the friction stir welding jig 4 in the attachment step (second step ST2) may be the case 7 or other workpieces.

[0209] The attachment step (second step ST2) includes attaching the first workpiece W1 to the friction stir welding jig 4 such that the first workpiece W1 is held by the holding member 50 of the friction stir welding jig 4. In the example described in FIG. 11 or FIG. 35, the holding member 50 includes a first holding member 51a and a second holding member 51b.

[0210] The attachment step (second step ST2) may include attaching the first portion of the first workpiece W1 (for example, the first side wall 71-1 of the case 7) to the first holding member 51a and attaching the second portion of the first workpiece W1 (for example, the second side wall 71-2 of the case 7) to the second holding member 51b. In the example described in FIG. 9, the first holding member 51a has a first movable portion 513a. In the example described in FIG. 9, the first portion of the first workpiece W1 is clamped by the first fixed portion 511a and the first movable portion 513a. In the example described in FIG. 9, the second holding member 51b has a second movable portion 513b. In the example described in FIG. 9, the second portion of the first workpiece W1 is clamped by the second fixed portion 511b and the second movable portion 513b. Each of the first fixed portion 511a and the second fixed portion 511b may be constituted by a part of the upper base 646.

[0211] Alternatively, as illustrated in FIG. 36, the attachment step (second step ST2) may include attaching the first workpiece W1 to the friction stir welding jig 4 via the bolt BT.

[0212] In the example described in FIG. 23, the friction stir welding jig 4 includes a base 64. The workpiece processing method in the embodiment may include a step of adjusting the relative position of the support end 40e of the backing member 40 with respect to the base 64 in a direction parallel to the first direction DR1 (adjustment step). The adjustment step may be executed before the first workpiece W1 (for example, the case 7) is attached to the friction stir welding jig 4, or may be executed after the first workpiece W1 (for example, the case 7) is attached to the friction stir welding jig 4.

[0213] By executing the adjustment step, the end wall 73 of the first workpiece W1 is preferably supported by the support end 40e of the backing member 40.

[0214] As illustrated in FIG. 23, when the backing member 40 includes the first support column 42-1, the adjustment step may include extending or contracting the first support column 42-1. As illustrated in FIG. 24, when the backing member 40 includes the second support column 42-2, the adjustment step may include extending or contracting the second support column 42-2.

[0215] When the relative position of the support end 40e of the backing member 40 with respect to the base 64 cannot be adjusted, or when there is no need to adjust the relative position of the support end 40e of the backing member 40 with respect to the base 64, the adjustment step is omitted.

[0216] As illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, the workpiece processing method in the embodiment may include arranging the second workpiece W2 on the first workpiece W1 after the first workpiece W1 is attached to the friction stir welding jig 4. More specifically, after the first workpiece W1 is attached to the friction stir welding jig 4, the second workpiece W2 may be placed on the first workpiece W1.

[0217] Alternatively, the workpiece processing method in the embodiment may include attaching the first workpiece W1 to the friction stir welding jig 4 with the second workpiece W2 placed on the first workpiece W1.

[0218] In the example described in FIG. 19 or FIG. 40, the first workpiece W1 is the case 7, and the second workpiece W2 is the cover 8 that covers a part of the case 7. The cover 8 may cover the groove portion 73v formed on the outer surface 73t of the end wall 73 of the case 7.

[0219] As illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13, in the workpiece processing method according to the embodiment, after the execution of the second step ST2 (more specifically, after the first workpiece W1 and the second workpiece W2 are supported by the friction stir welding jig 4), the position of the detachment prevention member 67 is changed from the retracted position P2 away from the second workpiece W2 (for example, the cover 8) to the advanced position P1 in contact with the second workpiece W2 (for example, the cover 8) (position change step). When the detachment prevention member 67 does not exist, or when it is not necessary to use the detachment prevention member 67, the position change step is omitted.

[0220] In the third step ST3, the first workpiece W1 (for example, the case 7) and the second workpiece W2 (for example, the cover 8) are joined by friction stirring. The third step ST3 is a joining step.

[0221] As illustrated in FIG. 10 or FIG. 38, the joining step (the third step ST3) is executed in a state where the backing member 40 of the friction stir welding jig 4 receives a pressing force from the friction stir welding tool T1 through the first workpiece W1 (for example, the case 7).

[0222] More specifically, the joining step (the third step ST3) includes rotating the friction stir joining tool T1 while the backing member 40 of the friction stir joining jig 4 is receiving a pressing force from the friction stir joining tool T1 via the first workpiece W1 (for example, the case 7). The joining step (the third step ST3) may include relatively moving the friction stir joining tool T1 along the first path PA with respect to the first workpiece W1 while the backing member 40 of the friction stir joining jig 4 is receiving a pressing force from the friction stir joining tool T1 via the first workpiece W1 (for example, the case 7). Since the first path PA has been described in the first embodiment, a repeated description of the first path PA will be omitted.

[0223] As illustrated in FIG. 10 or FIG. 38, in the fourth step ST4, the coolant L1 is discharged from at least one nozzle 61 disposed in the backing member 40 to the first workpiece W1 (for example, the case 7). More specifically, the coolant L1 is sprayed from at least one nozzle 61 disposed in the backing member 40 to the first workpiece W1 (for example, the case 7). The fourth step ST4 is a cooling step. The coolant L1 is, for example, a water-soluble coolant liquid. The main component of the water-soluble coolant liquid is, for example, water. The water-soluble coolant liquid may include a water-soluble oil agent (for example, a water-soluble cutting oil agent or a water-soluble grinding oil agent) and / or a surfactant.

[0224] The cooling step (the fourth step ST4) is performed during the execution of the joining step (the third step ST3). In other words, during the execution of the above-described friction stirring, the coolant L1 is discharged from at least one nozzle 61 disposed in the backing member 40 to the first workpiece W1 (for example, the case 7).

[0225] The cooling step (the fourth step ST4) may be started before the start of the joining step (the third step ST3). Alternatively, the cooling step (the fourth step ST4) may be started simultaneously with the joining step (the third step ST3). The cooling step (the fourth step ST4) may be started manually or based on a command from the control device 3.

[0226] The execution of the cooling process (fourth step ST4) may be stopped after the completion of the joining process (third step ST3). Alternatively, the execution of the cooling process (fourth step ST4) may be stopped simultaneously with the completion of the joining process (third step ST3). The execution of the cooling process (fourth step ST4) may be stopped manually or based on a command from the control device 3.

[0227] During the execution of friction stir welding, by applying the coolant L1 to the first workpiece W1, distortion of the first workpiece W1 due to the heat generated by friction stir welding is suppressed.

[0228] As illustrated in FIG. 7 or FIG. 38, during the execution of the above-described friction stir welding, the coolant L1 may be discharged from at least one nozzle 61 toward substantially the entire inner surface 73n of the end wall 73 of the first workpiece W1, excluding the portion in contact with the backing member 40. In other words, the coolant L1 may be discharged from at least one nozzle 61 so as to reach substantially the entire inner surface 73n of the end wall 73, excluding the portion in contact with the backing member 40.

[0229] When the coolant L1 reaches substantially the entire inner surface 73n of the end wall 73, excluding the portion in contact with the backing member 40, distortion of the first workpiece W1 due to the heat generated by friction stir welding is suppressed regardless of the position where friction stir welding is performed by the friction stir welding tool T1. Therefore, it is not necessary to move at least one nozzle 61 in accordance with a change in the position where friction stir welding is performed by the friction stir welding tool T1.

[0230] During the execution of the friction stir described above, the coolant L1 may be applied only to the first workpiece W1 (e.g., the case 7) among the first workpiece W1 (e.g., the case 7) and the second workpiece W2 (e.g., the cover 8). In other words, during the execution of the friction stir described above, the coolant L1 may be applied to the first workpiece W1 (e.g., the case 7) without reaching the second workpiece W2 (e.g., the cover 8). When the coolant L1 does not reach the second workpiece W2, the coolant L1 does not enter the gap between the first workpiece W1 and the second workpiece W2.

[0231] In the example described in FIG. 9 or FIG. 38, at least one nozzle 61 discharges the coolant L1 into the recess 74 of the case 7. Thus, the case 7 prevents the coolant L1 from reaching the second workpiece W2 (e.g., the cover 8).

[0232] Additionally, as illustrated in FIG. 13, the cooling step (the fourth step ST4) may include discharging the coolant L1 from the second group of nozzles 62 onto the outer surface of the first workpiece W1. When the coolant is applied to the outer surface of the first workpiece W1 in addition to the inner surface of the first workpiece W1, the thermal deformation of the first workpiece W1 due to friction stir is further prevented.

[0233] As illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14, the workpiece processing method in the embodiment may include a step of retracting the first detachment prevention member 67-1 (retraction step) so that the first detachment prevention member 67-1 moves away from the second workpiece W2 (e.g., the cover 8) during the execution of the joining step (the third step ST3) (in other words, during the execution of the friction stir described above). The retraction step may include retracting the first detachment prevention member 67-1 so that the first detachment prevention member 67-1 moves away from the second workpiece W2 (e.g., the cover 8) in response to the friction stir joining tool T1 approaching the first detachment prevention member 67-1.

[0234] As illustrated in FIGS. 14 and 15, in the embodiment, the workpiece processing method may include a step of advancing the first detachment prevention member 67-1 toward the second workpiece W2 (e.g., the cover 8) so that the first detachment prevention member 67-1 contacts the second workpiece W2 (e.g., the cover 8) during the execution of the joining step (the third step ST3) (in other words, during the execution of the above-described friction stir). The advancing step may include advancing the first detachment prevention member 67-1 toward the second workpiece W2 (e.g., the cover 8) in response to the friction stir joining tool T1 leaving the above-described first advancing position P1-1.

[0235] More specifically, the retracting step may include retracting the first detachment prevention member 67-1 so that the first detachment prevention member 67-1 moves away from the second workpiece W2 (e.g., the cover 8) while the second detachment prevention member 67-2 is maintained at the above-described second advancing position P1-2 in response to the friction stir joining tool T1 approaching the first detachment prevention member 67-1 (see FIGS. 13 and 14). Further, the retracting step may include retracting the second detachment prevention member 67-2 so that the second detachment prevention member 67-2 moves away from the second workpiece W2 (e.g., the cover 8) while the first detachment prevention member 67-1 is maintained at the above-described first advancing position P1-1 in response to the friction stir joining tool T1 approaching the second detachment prevention member 67-2 (see FIGS. 15 and 16).

[0236] The joining step (the third step ST3) may include joining the case 7 and the cover 8 by friction stir so that a flow path 91 (e.g., a refrigerant flow path through which refrigerant flows) is formed by the groove portion 73v formed in the end wall 73 of the case 7 and the cover 8.

[0237] In the workpiece processing method according to the embodiment, after the execution of the joining step (in other words, after the friction stir joining of the first workpiece W1 and the second workpiece W2 is completed), the position of the detachment prevention member 67 may be changed from the advancing position P1 in contact with the second workpiece W2 (for example, the cover 8) to the retracted position P2 away from the second workpiece W2 (for example, the cover 8) (second position changing step). When the detachment prevention member 67 does not exist, or when it is not necessary to use the detachment prevention member 67, the second position changing step is omitted.

[0238] The workpiece processing method according to the embodiment may include a step of replacing the friction stir joining tool T1 held by the spindle 151 with the cutting tool T2. In the example shown in FIG. 27, in the fifth step ST5, the friction stir joining tool T1 held by the spindle 151 is replaced with the cutting tool T2. The fifth step ST5 is a tool changing step.

[0239] The tool changing step (fifth step ST5) includes removing the friction stir joining tool T1 from the spindle 151 and attaching the cutting tool T2 to the spindle 151. The replacement of the friction stir joining tool T1 held by the spindle 151 with the cutting tool T2 may be performed using the tool changing device 19. Alternatively, the replacement of the friction stir joining tool T1 held by the spindle 151 with the cutting tool T2 may be performed manually. When tool changing is not necessary, the fifth step ST5 is omitted.

[0240] The workpiece processing method according to the embodiment may include a step of cutting at least one of the first workpiece W1 (for example, the case 7) and the second workpiece W2 (for example, the cover 8). In the example shown in FIG. 30, in the sixth step ST6, at least one of the first workpiece W1 (for example, the case 7) and the second workpiece W2 (for example, the cover 8) is cut by the cutting tool T2. The sixth step ST6 is a cutting step.

[0241] In the example described in FIG. 30, the cutting process (sixth step ST6) is executed after the execution of the joining process. In other words, the cutting process is executed after the joining of the first workpiece W1 and the second workpiece W2 is completed. In this case, after the execution of the joining process (third step ST3) and before the execution of the cutting process (sixth step ST6), the friction stir welding tool T1 held by the spindle 151 is replaced with the cutting tool T2.

[0242] In the example described in FIG. 30, the cutting process (sixth step ST6) includes cutting a part of the joining region JR between the end wall 73 of the case 7 and the cover 8.

[0243] As illustrated in FIG. 30, the cutting process (sixth step ST6) may include removing burrs generated during friction stirring by the cutting tool T2 (for example, the milling tool T2-1).

[0244] Alternatively, or additionally, the cutting process (sixth step ST6) may include forming a hole (for example, the hole 75h of the mounting portion 75) in the first workpiece W1 (for example, the case 7) and / or the second workpiece W2 (for example, the cover 8) by the cutting tool T2 (for example, the drilling tool T2-2). Alternatively, or additionally, the cutting process (sixth step ST6) may include forming a thread in the above-mentioned hole (for example, the hole formed in the first workpiece W1) by the cutting tool T2 (for example, the tap tool).

[0245] Alternatively, or additionally, the cutting process (sixth step ST6) may be executed before the execution of the joining process (third step ST3). Further alternatively, the cutting process (sixth step ST6) may be omitted.

[0246] In the workpiece processing method according to the embodiment, the first workpiece W1 is held by the holding member 50 of the friction stir welding jig 4. Therefore, displacement of the first workpiece W1 is prevented during the execution of friction stir welding.

[0247] In the workpiece processing method according to the embodiment, during the execution of friction stirring, the coolant L1 is applied to the first workpiece W1. Therefore, the distortion of the first workpiece W1 due to the heat generated by friction stirring is suppressed.

[0248] In the workpiece processing method according to the embodiment, the application of the coolant L1 to the first workpiece W1 is performed using at least one nozzle 61 disposed on the backing member 40. Therefore, it is not necessary to prepare the at least one nozzle 61 separately from the friction stir welding jig 4.

[0249] Also, since at least one nozzle 61 is disposed on the backing member 40, when the position of the first workpiece W1 with respect to the friction stir welding jig 4A is determined (more specifically, when the first workpiece W1 is held by the holding member 50), the position of at least one nozzle 61 with respect to the first workpiece W1 is determined. Therefore, it is easy to set the position of at least one nozzle 61 with respect to the first workpiece W1.

[0250] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments or each modification, and it is obvious that each embodiment or each modification can be appropriately deformed or changed within the scope of the technical idea of the present invention. Also, various techniques used in each embodiment or each modification are applicable to other embodiments or other modifications as long as no technical contradiction occurs. Furthermore, any additional configuration in each embodiment or each modification can be appropriately omitted.

[0251] For example, in the examples described in FIGS. 9 and 38, only the first workpiece W1 is in contact with the backing member 40. In other words, when the first workpiece W1 and the second workpiece W2 are friction stirred, the backing member 40 is configured to be in contact with only the first workpiece W1 among the first workpiece W1 and the second workpiece W2. Alternatively, as illustrated in FIG. 42, when the first workpiece W1 and the second workpiece W2 are friction stirred, the backing member 40 may be configured to be in contact with each of the first workpiece W1 and the second workpiece W2.

Description of Reference Numerals

[0252] 1, 1A, 1B... machine tools, 3... control device, 4, 4A, 4B... friction stir welding fixtures, 7... case, 8... cover, 8-2... second cover, 11... support device, 12... supply device, 13... circulation flow path, 15... processing head, 15g... lower end, 16... rotational drive device, 16m... motor, 17... moving device, 19... tool changing device, 21... wall, 23... door, 30... processor, 32... memory, 34... communication circuit, 36... input device, 36t... touch panel, 37... display, 38... bus, 40... backing member, 40e... support end, 42... support column, 42-1... first support column, 42-2... second support column, 42-3... third support column, 42-4... fourth support column, 42-5... fifth support column, 42-6... sixth support column, 42a-1... first end, 42a-2... second end, 43... side surface, 43a... first side surface, 43b... second side surface, 43c... third side surface, 44... supply flow path, 44-1... first supply flow path, 44-2... second supply flow path, 44-3... third supply flow path, 50... holding member, 51a... first holding member, 51b... second holding member, 61... nozzle, 61a... first nozzle, 61b... second nozzle, 61c... third nozzle, 61d... nozzle, 62... nozzle, 64... base, 64-1... first spring, 64-2... second spring, 64h... mounting hole portion, 65-1... first fixing member, 65-2... second fixing member, 67... detachment prevention member, 67-1... first detachment prevention member, 67-2... second detachment prevention member, 68... actuator, 68-1... first actuator, 68-2... second actuator, 71... side wall, 71-1... first side wall, 71-2... second side wall, 71-3... third side wall, 71-4... fourth side wall, 72... flange portion, 72-1... first flange portion, 72-2... second flange portion, 73... end wall, 73n... inner surface, 73p... rib, 73t... outer surface, 73v... groove portion, 74... recess, 75... mounting portion, 75h... hole, 77... protruding portion, 77h... hole, 79a... first port, 79b... second port, 81... outer edge portion, 83... central portion, 89b... second port, 91... flow path, 111... table, 121... pump, 123... valve, 131... flow path, 138... return flow path, 141... tank, 143... chiller, 151... spindle, 153... support, 171... processing head moving device, 178... table moving device, 178a... X-axis moving device, 178b... Y-axis moving device, 191... tool changing arm, 191a... first gripping portion, 191b... second gripping portion, 194... arm rotating device, 196... arm moving device421-1... Part 1, 421-2... Part 2, 421-3... Part 3, 421-4... Part 4, 511a... First fixing part, 511b... Second fixing part, 513a... First movable part, 513b... Second movable part, 641... Lower base, 646... Upper base, 646h... Through-hole part, 647... Connecting support column, 648... Bottom wall, 649... Side wall, 649h... Hole part, 730... Bottom wall, 731... Step part, A1... First operation command, AX1... First axis, AX2... Second axis, BT... Bolt, C1... Tool change command, CB... Cover, DA... Data, DR1... First direction, DR2... Second direction, F... Fixing member, F1... Bolt, G... Region of the first workpiece that contacts the backing member, JR... Joint region, L1... Cooling liquid, M1... Joining mode, M2... Cutting mode, M3... Tool change mode, OP... Opening, P1... Advancing / retreating position, P1-1... First advancing / retreating position, P1-2... Second advancing / retreating position, P2... Retreating position, P2-1... First retreating position, P2-2... Second retreating position, PA... First path, PA1... Boundary between the first workpiece and the second workpiece, PA1-1... Boundary between the step part of the case and the outer edge part of the cover, PA2... Path along the region where the first workpiece and the second workpiece overlap, PA2-1... Path passing through the central part of the cover, PB... Second path, PM... Machining program, R1... First rotation command, R2... Second rotation command, RG1... Machining region, S1... First movement command, S2... Second movement command, SB1... First threaded member, SB2... Second threaded member, SN... Spray nozzle, SN1... First spray nozzle, SP... Internal space, SP1... Space between the first holding member and the second holding member, T1... Friction stir welding tool, T2... Cutting tool, T2-1... Milling tool, T2-2... Drilling tool, U1... Supply command, W... Object to be joined, W1... First workpiece, W2... Second workpiece, W3... Third workpiece, Wt... Outer side surface,

Claims

1. A backing member that receives a pressing force from a friction stir welding tool via a first workpiece as a joining object and supports the first workpiece, a holding member that holds the first workpiece, and at least one nozzle disposed on the backing member and discharging a coolant toward the first workpiece comprising a friction stir welding jig.

2. The at least one nozzle includes a spray nozzle that diffuses the coolant toward the first workpiece The friction stir welding jig according to claim 1.

3. The at least one nozzle is attached to a side surface of the backing member The friction stir welding jig according to claim 1.

4. A supply flow path for supplying the coolant to the at least one nozzle is formed inside the backing member The friction stir welding jig according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The backing member has a first support column having a first end in contact with the first workpiece, and a second support column having a second end in contact with the first workpiece and when a direction in which the first workpiece is pressed by the friction stir welding tool is defined as a first direction, a position of the first end is different from a position of the second end in a direction along the first direction The friction stir welding jig according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

6. further comprises a base that supports the backing member, the backing member has a support end in contact with the first workpiece, and when a direction in which the first workpiece is pressed by the friction stir welding tool is defined as a first direction, a relative position of the support end with respect to the base is adjustable in the first direction The friction stir welding jig according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

7. The holding member holds a side wall of the first workpiece, and the backing member supports an end wall of the first workpiece The friction stir welding jig according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

8. The holding member includes a first holding member that holds a first portion of the first workpiece, and a second holding member that holds a second portion of the first workpiece and the backing member is disposed so as to cross a space between the first holding member and the second holding member The friction stir welding jig according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

9. The second workpiece further comprises a detachment prevention member that prevents the second workpiece from detaching from the first workpiece, ​ ​ The anti-disengagement member is capable of changing its position between an advanced position in contact with the second workpiece and a retracted position away from the second workpiece. The friction stir welding jig according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

10. A friction stir welding jig including a first workpiece as a joining object fixed thereto and at least one nozzle for discharging a coolant toward the first workpiece, a support device for supporting the friction stir welding jig, a processing head including a spindle and a support body for rotatably supporting the spindle about a first axis, a rotation drive device for rotating the spindle about the first axis, a moving device for relatively moving the processing head with respect to the support device, and a supply device for supplying the coolant to the at least one nozzle are provided. The friction stir welding jig includes a backing member that receives a pressing force from a friction stir welding tool via the first workpiece and supports the first workpiece, a holding member that holds the first workpiece, and the at least one nozzle disposed on the backing member is provided. Machine tool.

11. further includes a wall surrounding a processing area where friction stirring is performed The machine tool according to claim 10.

12. includes a control device for controlling the rotation drive device and the moving device, The control device includes a joining mode in which the first workpiece and the second workpiece are friction stir welded using the friction stir welding tool, and a cutting mode in which at least one of the first workpiece and the second workpiece is cut using a cutting tool and can be selectively executed. The machine tool according to claim 10 or 11.

13. A step of attaching the first workpiece to the friction stir welding jig such that the first workpiece as a joining object is held by a holding member of the friction stir welding jig, a step of joining the first workpiece and the second workpiece by friction stirring while the backing member of the friction stir welding jig receives a pressing force from a friction stir welding tool via the first workpiece, and a step of discharging a coolant from at least one nozzle disposed on the backing member toward the first workpiece during execution of the friction stirring are provided. Workpiece processing method.

14. The first workpiece has an end wall supported by the backing member, and during execution of the friction stirring, the coolant is discharged from the at least one nozzle toward substantially the entire inner surface of the end wall excluding a portion of the inner surface of the end wall that contacts the backing member. The workpiece processing method according to claim 13.

15. During the execution of the friction stir, the coolant is applied only to the first workpiece among the first workpiece and the second workpiece. The workpiece processing method according to claim 13 or 14.

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