Processing System

Abstract

To improve efficiency in processing a work-piece by effectively utilize a first processor while reducing a time for conveying the work-piece.SOLUTION: A processing system comprises a first processor 10 that performs first processing to a work-piece W, a second processor 20 that performs second processing to the work-piece W subjected to the first processing, and a loader device 30 that conveys the work-piece W. The loader device 30 comprises a rail part 31 laid across the first processor 10 and the second processor 20, and a loader main body part 32 that moves along the rail part 31. The loader device 30 conveys the work-piece W subjected to the first processing from the first processor 10 to the second processor 20, and conveys the work-piece W subjected to the second processing from the second processor 20 and returns the work-piece to the first processor 10. The first processor 10 performs predetermined processing different from the first processing to the work-piece W subjected to the second processing.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] A known machining system for machining a workpiece includes a first machining machine such as a parallel twin-axis lathe and a second machining machine such as a machining center, and transports the workpiece between the first and second machining machines using a loader device with a rail section spanning the first and second machining machines (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In the machining system of Patent Document 1, the loader device transfers the workpiece from an inlet section to the first machining machine, and after the workpiece is machined by the first machining machine, the loader device transfers the workpiece from the first machining machine to the second machining machine. The workpiece machined by the second machining machine is transported to an outlet section by the loader device. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6332466 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the processing system described in Patent Document 1, the workpiece processed by the second processing machine is transported to the unloading section. To further process the workpiece, a transport device separate from the loader device must be used to transport the workpiece from the unloading section to another processing machine. This not only requires a transport device to transport the workpiece from the unloading section to the other processing machine, but also takes time to transport the workpiece, reducing the processing efficiency of the workpiece. Furthermore, if the first processing machine is capable of multiple processing operations, the first processing machine cannot be effectively utilized.

[0005] The present invention aims to provide a processing system that can improve the processing efficiency of a workpiece by returning a workpiece processed by a second processing machine to a first processing machine and performing processing on the workpiece different from the processing previously performed by the first processing machine, thereby shortening the workpiece transport time and making effective use of the first processing machine. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A processing system according to an aspect of the present invention is a processing system for processing a workpiece, and includes: a first processing machine capable of performing a first processing on the workpiece; It is installed separately from the first processing machine, The system includes a second processing machine capable of performing a second processing on a workpiece that has undergone a first processing, and a loader device that transports the workpiece. The loader device includes a rail section that is spanned between the first processing machine and the second processing machine, and a loader main body section that moves along the rail section. The loader device transports the workpiece that has undergone the first processing from the first processing machine and hands it over to the second processing machine, and transports the workpiece that has undergone the second processing from the second processing machine and returns it to the first processing machine. The first processing machine performs a predetermined processing different from the first processing on the workpiece that has undergone the second processing. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the above-described processing system, by using a loader device to return a workpiece that has undergone second processing from the second processing machine to the first processing machine, it is possible to increase the workpiece transport speed (shorten the transport time) compared to transporting the workpiece using a robot arm or the like. As a result, by shortening the workpiece transport time, it is possible to improve the workpiece processing efficiency. Furthermore, since the first processing and the predetermined processing are performed in the first processing machine that is capable of performing multiple processing parts (processes), there is no need to use a separate processing machine for the predetermined processing, and the first processing machine can be used effectively. Furthermore, since a separate transport device for returning the workpiece from the second processing machine to the first processing machine is not required, the installation cost of the transport device can be reduced.

[0008] The system may also include a first buffer unit on which workpieces to be transported to the first processing machine or the second processing machine are temporarily placed, the first buffer unit being provided midway along the path along which the loader device transports the workpieces from the first processing machine to the second processing machine, or midway along the path along which the loader device transports the workpieces from the second processing machine to the first processing machine, and the loader device may place the workpieces on the first buffer unit when it is unable to transfer the workpiece to the first processing machine or the second processing machine. With this configuration, the loader device does not need to hold the workpiece and wait until it can transfer the workpiece to the first processing machine or the second processing machine, thereby improving the operating efficiency of the loader device. The system may further include a third processing machine capable of performing a third processing on a workpiece that has been subjected to the first processing or the second processing, a rail section extending to the third processing machine arranged alongside the first processing machine or the second processing machine, a loader device transporting a workpiece that has been subjected to at least one of the first and second processing from the first processing machine or the second processing machine and handing it over to the third processing machine, the third processing machine performing the third processing on the workpiece transported by the loader device, the loader device transporting the workpiece that has been subjected to the third processing from the third processing machine and returning it to the first processing machine, or handing it over to the second processing machine and returning the workpiece that has been subjected to the second processing to the first processing machine, and the first processing machine performing a predetermined processing on the workpiece that has been subjected to the third processing or the workpiece that has been subjected to the second processing after the third processing. With this configuration, even when the third processing machine is installed in addition to the first and second processing machines, the workpiece can be returned from the second processing machine or the third processing machine to the first processing machine in a short time.

[0009] The system may further include a second buffer unit on which workpieces to be transported to the second or third processing machine are temporarily placed, the second buffer unit being located midway along the path along which the loader device transports the workpieces from the second processing machine to the third processing machine, or midway along the path along which the loader device transports the workpieces from the third processing machine to the second processing machine. When the loader device is unable to transfer the workpiece to the second or third processing machine, the workpiece may be placed on the second buffer unit. This configuration eliminates the need for the loader device to hold the workpiece and wait until it can be transferred to the second or third processing machine, thereby improving the operating efficiency of the loader device. The system may also include a measuring device that measures the processed workpieces, with a rail section extending to the measuring device arranged next to the first or second processing machine, and the loader device transporting the processed workpieces to the measuring device. This configuration allows the loader device to transport the workpieces to the measuring device in a short time. The first processing machine may include a first processing unit that processes a workpiece and a second processing unit that processes the workpiece, the first processing unit being capable of performing the first processing, and the second processing unit being capable of performing either the first processing or a predetermined processing, and while the first processing unit is performing the first processing, it may be capable of performing the first processing on another workpiece or performing the predetermined processing on another workpiece. According to this configuration, the first processing unit and the second processing unit perform different processing on different workpieces, thereby enabling efficient processing of the workpieces. Furthermore, the second processing machine may be a hobbing machine that performs hobbing on the workpiece as the second processing, and the first processing machine may perform deburring on the workpiece as the predetermined processing. According to this configuration, the first processing machine can efficiently deburr the workpiece that has been hobbed by the second processing machine. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a front view showing an example of a processing system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a plan view showing an example of a processing system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state in which the loader device grips a workpiece in the loading section. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state in which the loader device has handed over the workpiece to the first processing machine (first processing unit). [Figure 5] 10 is a diagram showing a state in which the loader device has gripped the next workpiece from the loading section; FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state in which the loader device grips the workpiece after the first processing. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state in which the loader device has handed over the workpiece to the second processing machine. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state in which the loader device has gripped the next workpiece after the first processing. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state in which the loader device grips the workpiece after the second processing. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state in which the loader device has returned the workpiece to the first processing machine (second processing section). [Figure 11] 10 is a diagram showing a state in which the loader device has gripped the next workpiece from the loading section; FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state in which the loader device is gripping a workpiece after predetermined processing. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state in which the loader device has handed over the workpiece to the measuring device. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a front view showing an example of a processing system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a front view showing an example of a processing system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation of the processing system according to the third embodiment. [Figure 17] 16A to 16C are diagrams showing an example of the operation of the machining system. [Figure 18] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating another example of the operation of the machining system according to the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the content described below. In addition, in order to explain the embodiments, the drawings are shown with appropriate scale changes, such as enlarging or emphasizing some parts, and the shape, dimensions, etc. may differ from those of the actual product. In each of the following drawings, directions in the drawings will be explained using an XYZ coordinate system. In this XYZ coordinate system, a plane parallel to the horizontal plane is defined as the XY plane. One direction in this XY plane is referred to as the X direction, and a direction perpendicular to the X direction is referred to as the Y direction. Furthermore, a direction perpendicular to the XY plane is referred to as the Z direction. In the following explanation, the X direction, Y direction, and Z direction will be explained assuming that the direction indicated by the arrow in the drawing is the + direction, and the direction opposite to the arrow is the - direction.

[0012] [First embodiment] FIG. 1 is a front view showing an example of a processing system 100 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a plan view showing an example of the processing system 100 according to the first embodiment. The processing system 100 performs a plurality of processes on a workpiece W. Note that in FIGS. 1 and 2, the same reference numerals are used for the workpieces W on which each process has been performed. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the processing system 100 includes a control unit 1, a carry-in unit 2, a carry-out unit 3, a first processing machine 10, a second processing machine 20, a loader device 30, and a measuring machine 40. The control unit 1 controls the processing system 100 in an integrated manner. The control unit 1 will be described in detail later. In this embodiment, the carry-in unit 2, the carry-out unit 3, the measuring machine 40, the first processing machine 10, and the second processing machine 20 are arranged in this order from the -X side along the X direction.

[0013] The carry-in unit 2 and the carry-out unit 3 are arranged on the -X side of the measuring machine 40 (i.e., the -X side of the first processing machine 10). The carry-in unit 2 carries in the unmachined workpiece W to be processed in the processing system 100. The workpiece W to be processed in the first processing machine 10 is placed on the carry-in unit 2. A fixed table (placement table) is used for the carry-in unit 2, but is not limited to this form. For example, the carry-in unit 2 may be a form such as a conveyor or a rotary table that transports the workpiece W to a position where the loader device 30 can receive it.

[0014] The unloading unit 3 unloads the machined workpiece W that has been machined in the processing system 100. A fixed table (mounting table) is used as the unloading unit 3, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the unloading unit 3 may be a conveyor, a rotary table, or the like that transports the workpiece W from a position where a loader device 30 (described later) can place it to the outside of the processing system 100. In this embodiment, the processing system 100 is provided with one loading unit 2 and one unloading unit 3, but the present invention is not limited to this, and at least one of the loading unit 2 and the unloading unit 3 may be provided in plurality.

[0015] The first processing machine 10 is disposed between the measuring machine 40 and the second processing machine 20 in the X direction. The first processing machine 10 is, for example, a parallel two-axis lathe. The first processing machine 10 can perform a first processing and a predetermined processing on the workpiece W. The first processing is, for example, cutting processing (turning, drilling, tapping, etc.) on the workpiece W. The predetermined processing is, for example, deburring processing on the workpiece W processed by the second processing machine 20. The first processing machine 10 has a first processing unit 10A and a second processing unit 10B. The first processing unit 10A and the second processing unit 10B are arranged side by side in the X direction, and in this embodiment, the first processing unit 10A is arranged on the -X side of the second processing unit 10B. The first processing unit 10A can perform cutting processing, which is the first processing, on the workpiece W. The second processing unit 10B can selectively perform cutting processing, which is the first processing, on the workpiece W, and deburring processing, which is the second processing on the workpiece W.

[0016] The first machining unit 10A has a spindle 13 that holds and rotates the workpiece W, and a turret 15 that serves as a tool rest. The spindle 13 is arranged along the Y direction. The spindle 13 is rotatably supported around an axis parallel to the Y direction by a bearing or the like (not shown), and is rotated by a drive unit (not shown). A chuck 13a is provided at the end of the spindle 13 on the -Y side. The chuck 13a has multiple gripping jaws, and holds or releases the workpiece W by moving the gripping jaws in the radial direction of the spindle 13 by a chuck drive unit (not shown).

[0017] The turret 15 is disposed on the -X side of the spindle 13, away from the axial direction of the spindle 13. The turret 15 can be rotated around an axis parallel to the Y direction by a drive unit (not shown). The turret 15 can also be moved in the X and Y directions by a drive unit (not shown). The turret 15 has a plurality of holding portions on its peripheral surface for holding the tool T1. All or some of these holding portions each hold a tool T1. The tool T1 is replaceable with respect to each holding portion. As the tool T1, in addition to a turning tool or the like that performs cutting, which is the first processing, on the workpiece W, rotary tools such as a drill, end mill, and tap may be used. By rotating the turret 15, a desired tool T1 from the plurality of tools T1 is selected for the first processing on the workpiece W.

[0018] The second machining section 10B has a spindle 14 that holds and rotates the workpiece W, and a turret 16 that serves as a tool rest. The spindle 14 is arranged along the Y direction. Therefore, the above-mentioned spindles 13 and 14 are arranged parallel to each other. The spindles 13 and 14 are also arranged side by side in the X direction. The spindle 14 is rotatably supported around an axis parallel to the Y direction by a bearing or the like (not shown), and is rotated by a drive unit (not shown). A chuck 14a is provided at the end of the spindle 14 on the -Y side. The chuck 14a has multiple gripping jaws that are moved radially of the spindle 14 by a chuck drive unit (not shown) to hold or release the workpiece W.

[0019] The turret 16 is disposed on the +X side of the spindle 14, away from the axial direction of the spindle 14. The turret 16 can rotate around an axis parallel to the Y direction by a drive unit (not shown). The turret 16 can also move in the X and Y directions by a drive unit (not shown). The turret 16 has a plurality of holding portions on its peripheral surface for holding the tool T3. All or some of these holding portions each hold a tool T3. The tool T3 is replaceable with respect to each holding portion. As the tool T3, in addition to a turning tool or the like that performs cutting, which is the first processing, on the workpiece W, rotary tools such as drills, end mills, and taps may be used. The tool T3 also includes a deburring tool that performs deburring, which is a predetermined processing, on the workpiece W. By rotating the turret 15, a desired tool T3 from the plurality of tools T3 is selected for processing the workpiece W. For example, when a first machining operation (for example, turning) is performed on the workpiece W, a turning tool is selected as the tool T3, and when a predetermined machining operation (deburring) is performed on the workpiece W, a deburring tool is selected as the tool T3.

[0020] The first processing unit 10A and the second processing unit 10B can be operated simultaneously. The operation of the first processing unit 10A and the operation of the second processing unit 10B are independently controlled by the control unit 1. For example, while the first processing unit 10A is performing a first processing (cutting) on the workpiece W, the second processing unit 10B can perform either the first processing (cutting) or a predetermined processing (deburring) on the workpiece W.

[0021] In the present embodiment, a parallel two-axis lathe has been described as an example of the first machining device 10, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a lathe with a single spindle may be used as the first machining device 10. In this case, it is sufficient that the first machining device 10 is provided with a mechanism for switching between a tool T1 for performing the first machining and a tool T3 for performing the second machining on the workpiece W held by the single spindle. Furthermore, in the above description, the first machining unit 10A and the second machining unit 10B use turrets 15 and 16 to select the tools T1 and T3, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, comb-shaped tool rests may be used instead of the turrets 15 and 16.

[0022] The second processing machine 20 is arranged alongside the first processing machine 10 in the X direction and on the +X side of the first processing machine 10. The second processing machine 20 is capable of performing a second processing on the workpiece W that has been subjected to the first processing by the first processing machine 10. In this embodiment, the second processing machine 20 is a hobbing machine. The hobbing machine performs hobbing on the workpiece W as the second processing. The second processing machine 20 has a workpiece placing section 21, a processing section 22, a workpiece holding section 23, and a transfer section 24.

[0023] The workpiece W that has been machined by the first processing machine 10 is transported and placed on the workpiece placement unit 21 by the loader device 30. The processing unit 22 is equipped with a tool T2 that performs hobbing on the workpiece W. The workpiece holding unit 23 holds the workpiece W to be hobbed. The workpiece holding unit 23 is equipped with, for example, a chuck for holding the workpiece W. The chuck is opened and closed to hold or release the workpiece W. The transfer unit 24 transfers the workpiece W placed on the workpiece placement unit 21 to the workpiece holding unit 23. The transfer unit 24 also transfers the workpiece W held by the workpiece holding unit 23 to the workpiece placement unit 21.

[0024] In this second processing machine 20, the workpiece W placed on the workpiece placement unit 21 is transferred to the workpiece holding unit 23 by the transfer unit 24, and the workpiece W held in the workpiece holding unit 23 is hobbed using the tool T3 of the processing unit 22. When hobbing, one or both of the workpiece holding unit 23 and the processing unit 22 move, thereby performing hobbing on a predetermined portion of the workpiece W. Note that the form of the hobbing machine is not limited to the configuration described above, and any form can be applied. Furthermore, the second processing machine 20 is not limited to a hobbing machine. For example, the second processing machine 20 may be a lathe, a machining center, a milling machine, or the like.

[0025] The loader device 30 transports the workpiece W between the carry-in section 2, the carry-out section 3, the first processing machine 10, the second processing machine 20, and the measuring machine 40. The loader device 30 has a rail section 31 and a loader main body section 32. The rail section 31 is arranged along the X direction above the carry-in section 2, the carry-out section 3, the first processing machine 10, the second processing machine 20, and the measuring machine 40 by a plurality of supports 31a. That is, the rail section 31 is bridged between the first processing machine 10 and the second processing machine 20. The carry-in section 2, the carry-out section 3, the first processing machine 10, the second processing machine 20, and the measuring machine 40 are arranged side by side in the X direction below the rail section 31. The -X side end portion of the rail section 31 is arranged above the carry-in section 2. The +X side end portion of the rail section 31 is arranged above the second processing machine 20.

[0026] The loader main body 32 moves along the rail portion 31. The loader main body 32 includes an X slider 33, a Y slider 34, a lifting rod 35, and a loader head 36. The X slider 33 is movable in the X direction along the rail portion 31 and is moved in the X direction by an X drive unit (not shown). The Y slider 34 is movable in the Y direction along a Y guide (not shown) provided on the X slider 33 and is moved in the Y direction by a Y drive unit (not shown). The lifting rod 35 is movable up and down along a lifting guide (not shown) provided on the Y slider 34 and is raised and lowered by an lifting drive unit (not shown). The loader head 36 is provided at the lower end of the lifting rod 35 and includes a chuck 36a that can grip the workpiece W. The loader head 36 includes two chucks 36a and can switch the gripped workpiece W between a position facing downward (-Z side) and a position facing the +Y side, for example, by a swivel joint or the like.

[0027] The loader device 30, with the loader main body 32 having the above-described configuration, is capable of gripping the workpiece W placed on the carry-in section 2, placing the workpiece W on the carry-out section 3, transferring the workpiece W to and from the first processing machine 10, transferring the workpiece W to and from the second processing machine 20, and transferring the workpiece W to and from the measuring machine 40. Note that the loader main body 32 is not limited to the above-described configuration. The loader main body 32 can have any configuration as long as it moves along the rail section 31 and is capable of the above-described operations.

[0028] The measuring machine 40 measures the dimensions of the workpiece W machined by the first processing machine 10 or the second processing machine 20. The measuring machine 40 is arranged next to the first processing machine 10 or the second processing machine 20. In this embodiment, the measuring machine 40 is arranged between the discharge unit 3 and the first processing machine 10 in the X direction. That is, the measuring machine 40 is arranged on the opposite side of the second processing machine 20 across the first processing machine 10. The measuring machine 40 has a mounting table 41 and a sensor unit 42. The workpiece W to be measured is transported and mounted on the mounting table 41 by the loader device 30. The sensor unit 42 measures the dimensions of the entire or part of the workpiece W mounted on the mounting table 41. The sensor unit 42 measures the dimensions of the workpiece W without contacting or by contacting the workpiece W. The sensor unit 42 measures the three-dimensional shape of the workpiece W, for example, by irradiating it with detection light and detecting the reflected light. Furthermore, the measuring machine 40 may be disposed between the first processing machine 10 and the second processing machine 20, or may be disposed on the +X side of the second processing machine 20. Whether or not to dispose the measuring machine 40 is optional. The processing system 100 does not have to be provided with the measuring machine 40.

[0029] The control unit 1 controls the overall operation of the first processing machine 10, the second processing machine 20, the loader device 30, and the measuring machine 40. The control unit 1 controls the operation of each unit based on a predetermined program stored in a storage unit (not shown). The control unit 1 controls the processing and transport destination of the workpiece W. For example, the control unit 1 transports the workpiece W to the first processing machine 10 to perform a first processing, then transports the workpiece W to the second processing machine 20 to perform a second processing, and then transports the workpiece W back to the first processing machine 10 to perform a predetermined processing. The control unit 1 also compares the measurement results of the workpiece W sent from the measuring machine 40 with the design values to determine whether the dimensions of the workpiece W are within the tolerance. If the dimensions of the workpiece W are outside the tolerance, the control unit 1 returns the workpiece W to the first processing machine 10 or the second processing machine 20 to process it again if it can be processed again. If it cannot be processed again, the control unit 1 places the workpiece W in the discharge unit 3 as a defective product.

[0030] Note that some of the operations of the first processing machine 10, the second processing machine 20, the loader device 30, and the measuring machine 40 may be manually performed by an operator. Note that the first processing machine 10, the second processing machine 20, the loader device 30, and the measuring machine 40 may each be provided with a separate control unit. In this case, these separate control units are integrated to form the control unit 1. The control unit 1 is also provided with a communication unit (not shown). The operating status of the processing system 100, etc. may be transmitted to a higher-level management device, etc., via this communication unit, and predetermined programs, design data, etc. may be transmitted from the higher-level management device to the control unit 1.

[0031] The operation of the machining system 100 configured as described above will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 to 12. The operation of the machining system 100 is controlled by the control unit 1. First, the loader head 36 of the loader device 30 is placed above (on the +Z side of) the loading section 2. At this time, an unmachined workpiece W is placed in advance in the loading section 2. In the following description, the unmachined workpiece W will be simply referred to as workpiece W. From this state, the loader head 36 descends together with the lifting rod 35. In addition, the loader head 36 is in a state in which the empty chuck 36a faces downward (in the -Z direction). FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a state in which the loader device 30 grips the workpiece W in the loading section 2. As shown in FIG. 3, the loader head 36 descends to the upper side of the workpiece W and closes the chuck 36a to grip the workpiece W with the chuck 36a.

[0032] Next, the loader head 36 rises while holding the workpiece W, moves in the +X direction by the X slider 33 to above the spindle 13 of the first processing unit 10A, and then descends to a height where the workpiece W faces the spindle 13. During, before, or after this descent, the loader head 36 drives the swivel joint to switch the workpiece W from a downward orientation to an orientation facing the +Y side. As a result, the workpiece W faces the spindle 13. Next, the loader head 36 moves in the +Y direction by the Y slider 34, bringing the workpiece W closer to the spindle 13. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the state in which the loader device 30 has delivered the workpiece W to the first processing machine 10 (first processing unit 10A). As shown in FIG. 4, the chuck 13a of the spindle 13 is closed to grip the workpiece W, and the chuck 36a is opened to release the workpiece W, whereby the workpiece W is delivered from the loader head 36 to the spindle 13.

[0033] Next, the loader head 36 is moved in the -Y direction by the Y slider 34, and then rises together with the lifting rod 35. Next, the loader head 36 is moved in the -X direction by the X slider 33 to above the loading section 2, and then descends. The next workpiece W is placed in the loading section 2. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a state in which the loader device 30 has grasped the next workpiece W in the loading section 2. As shown in FIG. 5, the loader head 36 descends to above the workpiece W, and then grasps the workpiece W to be machined next with the chuck 36a. As shown in FIG. 5, in the first processing section 10A, cutting, which is the first processing, is performed on the workpiece W by the tool T1 of the turret 15. Hereinafter, the workpiece W that has been subjected to the first processing will be referred to as workpiece W1.

[0034] The loader head 36, while holding the workpiece W, moves in the +X direction by the X slider 33 to above the spindle 13 of the first processing unit 10A, and then the empty chuck 36a descends to a height where it faces the spindle 13. Next, the loader head 36 moves in the +Y direction by the Y slider 34, bringing the empty chuck 36a closer to the workpiece W1 after the first processing. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the state in which the loader device 30 holds the workpiece W1 after the first processing. As shown in FIG. 6, the chuck 36a is closed to hold the workpiece W1, and the chuck 13a of the spindle 13 is opened to release the workpiece W1, whereby the workpiece W1 is transferred from the spindle 13 to the loader head 36.

[0035] Next, loader head 36 moves in the +Y direction by Y slider 34, and then drives the swivel joint to position workpiece W1 facing downward and switch the position of the next workpiece W to facing the +Y side. Next, loader head 36 moves in the +Y direction by Y slider 34 to bring the next workpiece W closer to spindle 13, and then closes chuck 13a of spindle 13 to grip workpiece W, and opens chuck 36a to release workpiece W, thereby transferring the next workpiece W from loader head 36 to spindle 13.

[0036] Next, the loader head 36 rises while holding the workpiece W1, moves in the +X direction by the X-slider 33 to above the workpiece placement section 21 of the second processing machine 20, and then descends together with the lifting rod 35. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a state in which the loader device 30 has handed over the workpiece W1 to the second processing machine 20. As shown in FIG. 7, the loader head 36 places the workpiece W1 on the workpiece placement section 21, and then opens the chuck 36a to release the workpiece W1. As a result, the workpiece W1 is handed over from the loader head 36 to the second processing machine 20. Note that, as shown in FIG. 7, in the first processing section 10A, the tool T1 of the turret 15 performs cutting, which is the first processing, on the next workpiece W.

[0037] Next, the loader head 36 rises and then moves in the -X direction by the X slider 33 to above the spindle 13 of the first processing unit 10A, and then descends to a height where the empty chuck 36a faces the spindle 13. Next, the loader head 36 moves in the +Y direction by the Y slider 34, bringing the empty chuck 36a closer to the workpiece W1 after the first processing. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the state in which the loader device 30 has gripped the next workpiece W1 after the first processing. As shown in FIG. 8, the chuck 36a is closed to grip the workpiece W1, and the chuck 13a of the spindle 13 is opened to release the workpiece W1, so that the next workpiece W1 is transferred from the spindle 13 to the loader head 36.

[0038] As shown in FIG. 8, in the second processing machine 20, the workpiece W1 on the workpiece placement unit 21 is transferred to the workpiece holding unit 23 by the transfer unit 24. The workpiece W1 held by the workpiece holding unit 23 is subjected to hobbing, which is the second processing, on the workpiece W1 by the tool T2 of the processing unit 22. Hereinafter, the workpiece W1 on which the second processing has been performed will be referred to as workpiece W2. After the hobbing is completed, the workpiece W2 held by the workpiece holding unit 23 is placed on the workpiece placement unit 21 by the transfer unit 24.

[0039] Next, the loader head 36 rises while holding the workpiece W1, moves in the +X direction by the X-slider 33 to above the workpiece placement unit 21 of the second processing machine 20, and then descends together with the lifting rod 35. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the loader device 30 gripping the workpiece W2 after the second processing. As shown in FIG. 9, the loader head 36 descends to above the workpiece W2 and then closes the empty chuck 36a to grip the workpiece W2. Next, the loader head 36 rises slightly and then drives the swivel joint to position the workpiece W2 facing the +Y side and switch the gripped workpiece W1 to a position facing downward. Next, the loader head 36 places the next workpiece W1 on the workpiece placement unit 21, then opens the chuck 36a to release the workpiece W1. As a result, the next workpiece W1 is transferred from the loader head 36 to the second processing machine 20. Note that the second processing machine 20 performs the same operations as described above.

[0040] Next, the loader head 36, while holding the workpiece W2, moves in the -X direction by the X slider 33 to above the spindle 14 of the second processing unit 10B, and then descends to a height where the workpiece W2 faces the spindle 14. Next, the loader head 36 moves in the +Y direction by the Y slider 34, bringing the workpiece W2 closer to the spindle 14. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state in which the loader device 30 has returned the workpiece W2 to the first processing machine 10 (second processing unit 10B). As shown in FIG. 10, the chuck 14a of the spindle 14 is closed to hold the workpiece W2, and the chuck 36a is opened to release the workpiece W2, whereby the workpiece W2 is transferred from the loader head 36 to the spindle 14. That is, in this embodiment, the workpiece W2 that has undergone the second processing by the second processing machine 20 is returned to the first processing machine 10 that previously performed the first processing.

[0041] Next, the loader head 36 is moved in the -Y direction by the Y slider 34, and then rises together with the lifting rod 35. Next, the loader head 36 is moved in the -X direction by the X slider 33 to above the loading section 2, and then descends to grip the next workpiece W with the chuck 36a. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the loader device 30 gripping the next workpiece W in the loading section 2. As shown in FIG. 11, the loader head 36 rises while holding the workpiece W, and moves in the +X direction by the X slider 33. Note that, as shown in FIG. 11, in the second processing section 10B, the tool T3 of the turret 16 performs a predetermined processing, i.e., deburring, on the workpiece W2. Hereinafter, the workpiece W2 that has undergone the predetermined processing will be referred to as workpiece W3.

[0042] Next, the loader head 36, while holding the workpiece W, moves in the +X direction by the X-slider 33 to above the spindle 14 of the second processing unit 10B, and then the empty chuck 36a descends to a height where it faces the spindle 14. If the first processing of the workpiece W has already been completed in the first processing unit 10A, the loader head 36 may first have the spindle 13 hold the workpiece W and hold the workpiece W1 after the first processing. Next, the loader head 36 moves in the +Y direction by the Y-slider 34, bringing the empty chuck 36a closer to the workpiece W3. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing the loader device 30 holding the workpiece W3 after the predetermined processing. As shown in FIG. 12, the chuck 36a is closed to hold the workpiece W3, and the chuck 14a of the spindle 14 is opened to release the workpiece W3, thereby transferring the workpiece W3 from the spindle 14 to the loader head 36.

[0043] Next, the loader head 36 moves in the -Y direction by the Y slider 34, and then rises together with the lifting rod 35. Next, the loader head 36 moves in the -X direction by the X slider 33 to above the measuring device 40, and then descends together with the lifting rod 35. At this time, the loader head 36 drives the swivel joint to switch the workpiece W3 from a position facing the +Y side to a position facing downward. Figure 13 is a diagram showing the state in which the loader device 30 has handed over the workpiece W3 to the measuring device 40. As shown in Figure 13, the loader head 36 places the workpiece W3 on the mounting table 41, and then opens the chuck 36a to release the workpiece W3. As a result, the workpiece W3 is handed over from the loader head 36 to the measuring device 40.

[0044] In the measuring machine 40, the sensor unit 42 measures the dimensions of all or part of the workpiece W3 on the mounting table 41. The measurement results are sent to the control unit 1. The control unit 1, for example, compares the measurement results with design values to determine whether the dimensions of the workpiece W3 are within the tolerances. If the dimensions of the workpiece W3 are outside the tolerances, the control unit 1 determines whether the workpiece W3 can be machined again. If the control unit 1 determines that the workpiece W3 can be machined again, it may transport the workpiece W3 to the first processing machine 10 or the second processing machine 20 again to perform the first processing or the second processing (including any subsequent predetermined processing). Note that if the control unit 1 determines that the workpiece W3 cannot be machined again, it transports the workpiece W3 to the discharge unit 3 as a defective product.

[0045] In the above description, the dimensions of the workpiece W3 after a predetermined machining are measured by the measuring machine 40, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the workpiece W1 after the first machining or the workpiece W2 after the second machining may be transported to the measuring machine 40, and the dimensions of the workpiece W1 after the first machining or the dimensions of the workpiece W2 after the second machining may be measured. The control unit 1 may store the design values of the workpiece W1 after the first machining or the design values of the workpiece W2 after the second machining in a memory unit or the like, and compare each dimension with the design value to determine whether or not re-machining is required for the first machining or the second machining.

[0046] Next, the loader head 36 grips the workpiece W3 on the mounting table 41 with the chuck 36a, then rises, and moves in the -X direction by the X-slider 33 to above the unloading section 3. Next, the loader head 36 places the workpiece W3 on the unloading section 3, and then opens the chuck 36a to release the workpiece W3. As a result, the workpiece W3 is transferred from the loader head 36 to the unloading section 3. Next, if the loader head 36 is gripping the workpiece W with another chuck 36a, it transfers the workpiece W1 to the first processing unit 10A as described above. Also, if the loader head 36 is gripping the workpiece W1 with another chuck 36a, it transfers the workpiece W2 to the second processing machine 20 as described above.

[0047] By repeating the above operations, the plurality of unmachined workpieces W placed in the loading section 2 undergo the first machining, the second machining, and the predetermined machining to become workpieces W3, after which their dimensions are measured and the workpieces are successively transported to the unloading section 3. According to the processing system 100, the loader device 30 transports the workpieces W that have undergone the second machining from the second machining machine 20 and returns them to the first machining machine 10. This shortens the time required to transport the workpieces W compared to transporting them using a robot arm or the like, thereby improving the processing efficiency of the workpieces W. Furthermore, since the first machining machine 10 performs both the cutting process, which is the first machining, and the deburring process, which is the predetermined machining, there is no need to use a separate machine for the deburring process, and the first machining machine 10 can be effectively utilized. Furthermore, there is no need to transport the workpieces W2 that have undergone the second machining to another machining machine using a separate transport device.

[0048] [Second embodiment] A processing system 200 according to the second embodiment will be described. FIG. 14 is a front view showing an example of the processing system 200 according to the second embodiment. Note that the same components as those in the first embodiment described above are given the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted or simplified. As shown in FIG. 14, the processing system 200 includes a first processing machine 10, a second processing machine 20, a loader device 30, a measuring machine 40, and a first buffer unit 50. Note that the configurations of the first processing machine 10, the second processing machine 20, the loader device 30, and the measuring machine 40 are the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0049] The first buffer unit 50 temporarily holds the workpiece W1 that has undergone a first processing by the first processing unit 10A of the first processing machine 10 and is to be transported to the second processing machine 20, or the workpiece W2 that has undergone a second processing by the second processing machine 20 and is to be transported to the second processing unit 10B of the first processing machine 10. The first buffer unit 50 is a position where the workpieces W1 and W2 can be transferred by the loader device 30, and is provided midway along the path along which the workpiece W1 is transferred from the first processing machine 10 to the second processing machine 20, or midway along the path along which the workpiece W2 is transferred from the second processing machine 20 to the first processing machine 10, by the loader device 30. In this embodiment, the first buffer unit 50 is provided between the first processing machine 10 and the second processing machine 20 in the X direction. The first buffer unit 50 may be, for example, a table capable of carrying multiple workpieces W1 and W2. The first buffer unit 50 may have any shape and arrangement. For example, the first buffer unit 50 may be arranged on the −X side of the first processing machine 10 or on the +X side of the second processing machine 20. Furthermore, the number of first buffer units 50 is not limited to one, and multiple first buffer units may be arranged.

[0050] The control unit 1 determines whether the workpiece W1 can be delivered to the second processing machine 20 and whether the workpiece W2 can be delivered to the second processing unit 10B based on the operating status of the second processing unit 10B (first processing machine 10) and the second processing machine 20, respectively. If the control unit 1 determines that the workpieces W1 and W2 cannot be delivered, it controls the loader device 30 to place the workpieces W1 and W2 on the first buffer unit 50. Note that the first buffer unit 50 may contain a mixture of the workpiece W1 that has undergone the first processing and the workpiece W2 that has undergone the second processing. The control unit 1 stores the types and positions of the workpieces W1 and W2 in a memory unit or the like provided in the processing system 200. If the control unit 1 confirms that the second processing unit 10B or the second processing machine 20 is available, it controls the loader device 30 to transport the workpiece W1 to the second processing machine 20 or the workpiece W2 to the second processing unit 10B based on the information stored in the memory unit.

[0051] The first buffer unit 50 may also be equipped with a sensor that detects the placed workpieces W1 and W2. For example, if an operator intervenes by removing (taking away) the workpieces W1 and W2 placed on the first buffer unit 50, the control unit 1 obtains a detection result from the sensor that the workpiece W1 or W2 is no longer present, and stores in the storage unit described above that the workpiece W1 or W2 is no longer present in the first buffer unit 50. The control unit 1 executes subsequent processing based on the status that the removed workpiece W1 or W2 is no longer present in the first buffer unit 50. In this way, the control unit 1 has the function of managing the workpieces W1 and W2 placed on the first buffer unit 50, so that when the loader device 30 goes to retrieve the workpiece W1 or W2, it is possible to avoid an error that causes the loader device 30 to stop operating due to an inability to grip the workpiece W1 or W2.

[0052] In this way, according to the processing system 200, when the second processing or the predetermined processing takes a long time, the workpieces W1, W2 can be temporarily placed on the first buffer unit 50, thereby preventing the loader device 30 from waiting for a long time while holding the workpieces W1, W2, and improving the transport efficiency of the workpieces W. Note that the control unit 1 may also cause the measuring machine 40 to transport the workpieces W1, W2 placed on the first buffer unit 50 and measure the dimensions of the workpieces W1, W2.

[0053] [Third embodiment] A processing system 300 according to the third embodiment will be described. FIG. 15 is a front view showing an example of the processing system 300 according to the third embodiment. Note that the same components as those in the first and second embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted or simplified. As shown in FIG. 15, the processing system 300 includes a first processing machine 10, a second processing machine 20, a loader device 30, a measuring machine 40, a first buffer unit 50, a third processing machine 60, and a second buffer unit 70. The configurations of the first processing machine 10, the second processing machine 20, the loader device 30, and the measuring machine 40 are the same as those in the first embodiment. The configuration of the first buffer unit 50 is the same as that in the second embodiment.

[0054] The third processing machine 60 is capable of performing a third processing on the workpiece W1 that has been subjected to the first processing, or the workpiece W2 that has been subjected to the second processing. The third processing machine 60 includes a processing unit 61 that performs the third processing on the workpieces W1 and W2. Hereinafter, the workpiece W1 that has been subjected to the third processing after the first processing will be referred to as a workpiece W1a (not shown), and the workpiece W2 that has been subjected to the third processing after the second processing will be referred to as a workpiece W2a. The third processing machine 60 is disposed next to the first processing machine 10 or the second processing machine 20. In this embodiment, the third processing machine 60 is disposed on the +X side of the second processing machine 20. That is, the third processing machine 60 is disposed on the opposite side of the first processing machine 10 with the second processing machine 20 in between. Note that the third processing machine 60 is not limited to being disposed on the +X side of the second processing machine 20, and may be disposed on, for example, the -X side of the second processing machine 20 or the -X side of the first processing machine 10. The third processing machine 60 may be, for example, a lathe, a machining center, a milling machine, or the like.

[0055] The rail portion 31 of the loader device 30 is stretched over the third processing machine 60. The loader device 30 transports the workpieces W1, W2 that have been subjected to at least one of the first processing and the second processing from the first processing machine 10 or the second processing machine 20 and hands them over to the third processing machine 60. The loader device 30 transports the workpieces W1a, W2a that have been subjected to the third processing from the third processing machine 60 and returns them to the first processing machine 10 (second processing unit 10B), or returns the workpiece W2a that has been handed over to the second processing machine 20 and then subjected to the second processing to the first processing machine 10 (second processing unit 10B). The second processing unit 10B of the first processing machine 10 performs a predetermined processing on the workpiece W2a that has been subjected to the third processing or the workpiece W2a that has been subjected to the second processing after the third processing.

[0056] The second buffer section 70 temporarily holds the workpiece W1 that is to be first processed by the first processing section 10A of the first processing machine 10 and transported to the third processing machine 60, or the workpiece W2 that is to be second processed by the second processing machine 20 and transported to the third processing machine 60, and the workpiece W1a that is to be third processed by the third processing machine 60 and transported to the second processing machine 20. Note that in Fig. 15, the workpiece W2 is shown in the second buffer section 70, and other parts are not shown.

[0057] The second buffer unit 70 is a position where the workpieces W1 and W2 can be transferred by the loader device 30, and is provided midway along the path along which the loader device 30 transports the workpiece W2 from the second processing machine 20 to the third processing machine 60, or midway along the path along which the loader device 30 transports the workpiece W1a from the third processing machine 60 to the second processing machine 20. In this embodiment, the second buffer unit 70 is provided between the second processing machine 20 and the third processing machine 60 in the X direction. The second buffer unit 70 is, for example, a table on which multiple workpieces W1, W2, and W1a can be placed. The second buffer unit 70 may have any shape and location. For example, the second buffer unit 70 may be provided on the -X side of the second processing machine 20 or the +X side of the third processing machine 60. The number of second buffer units 70 is not limited to one, and multiple second buffer units may be provided. In addition, the first buffer section 50 temporarily holds the workpiece W1 that is to be first processed by the first processing section 10A of the first processing machine 10 and transported to the second processing machine 20, or the workpiece W2a that is to be third processed by the third processing machine 60 and transported to the second processing section 10B of the first processing machine 10.

[0058] The control unit 1 determines whether the workpieces W1 and W1a can be delivered to the second processing machine 20, whether the workpieces W1 and W2 can be delivered to the third processing machine 60, and whether the workpiece W2a can be delivered to the second processing unit 10B, based on the operating conditions of the second processing unit 10B (first processing machine 10), the second processing machine 20, and the third processing machine 60. If the control unit 1 determines that the workpieces W1 and W2 cannot be delivered to the third processing machine 60, it controls the loader device 30 to place the workpieces W1 and W2 on the second buffer unit 70. If the control unit 1 determines that the workpiece W1a cannot be delivered to the second processing machine 20, it controls the loader device 30 to place the workpiece W1a on the second buffer unit 70. If the control unit 1 determines that the workpiece W2a cannot be delivered to the second processing unit 10B, it controls the loader device 30 to place the workpiece W1a on the first buffer unit 50.

[0059] The second buffer unit 70 may contain a mixture of the first-machined workpiece W1, the second-machined workpiece W2, and the third-machined workpiece W1a. The control unit 1 stores the types and positions of the workpieces W1, W2, and W1a in a memory unit or the like provided in the machining system 300. When the control unit 1 confirms that the second machining unit 10B, the second machining machine 20, or the third machining machine 60 is available, it controls the loader device 30 to transport the workpieces W1 and W2 to the third machining machine 60 or the workpiece W1a to the second machining machine 20, based on the information stored in the memory unit.

[0060] The second buffer unit 70 may also be equipped with a sensor that detects the placed workpieces W1, W2, and W1a. For example, if an operator intervenes by removing one of the workpieces W1, W2, and W1a from the second buffer unit 70, the control unit 1 obtains a detection result from the sensor that one of the workpieces W1, W2, and W1a is missing, and stores in the storage unit described above that the workpiece W1, W2, and W1a is no longer in the second buffer unit 70. The control unit 1 executes subsequent processing based on the status that the removed workpieces W1, W2, and W1a are no longer in the second buffer unit 70. In this way, the control unit 1 has the function of managing the workpieces W1, W2, and W1a placed in the second buffer unit 70, thereby preventing the loader device 30 from stopping operation.

[0061] Furthermore, the first buffer unit 50 may contain a mixture of the first-processed workpiece W1 and the third-processed workpiece W2a. The control unit 1 stores the types and positions of the workpieces W1 and W2a in a memory unit or the like provided in the processing system 300. When the control unit 1 confirms that the second processing unit 10B or the second processing machine 20 is available, the control unit 1 controls the loader device 30 to transport the workpiece W1 to the second processing machine 20 or the workpiece W2a to the second processing unit 10B based on the information stored in the memory unit. Note that the control unit 1 may also have a function for managing the first buffer unit 50, as in the second embodiment.

[0062] The operation of the machining system 300 configured as above will be described with reference to Figs. 16 to 18. The operation of the machining system 300 is controlled by the control unit 1. Fig. 16 is a diagram showing an example of the operation of the machining system 300 according to the third embodiment. As shown in Fig. 16, the loader device 30 delivers to the third processing machine 60 a workpiece W1 that has undergone a first machining process by the first processing unit 10A, or a workpiece W2 that has undergone a second machining process on the workpiece W1 by the second processing machine 20. Fig. 16 shows the state in which the workpiece W2 has been delivered.

[0063] In the third processing machine 60, the processing unit 61 performs third processing on the transported workpieces W1 and W2. The third processing is, for example, cutting. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of the operation of the processing system 300, following FIG. 16. As shown in FIG. 17, the loader device 30 transports the third-processed workpiece W2a to the second processing unit 10B of the first processing machine 10. That is, after the second processing is performed by the second processing machine 20, the loader device 30 returns the third-processed workpiece W2a to the first processing machine 10 (second processing unit 10B). The third-processed workpiece W1a will be described later. The second processing unit 10B performs deburring, which is a predetermined processing, on the workpiece W2a.

[0064] Next, the loader device 30 transports the predetermined machined workpiece W3a from the second processing unit 10B to the measuring machine 40, and after the measuring machine 40 has completed measuring the dimensions of the workpiece W3a, transports the workpiece W3a from the measuring machine 40 to the unloading unit 3. Note that when the control unit 1 determines based on the measurement results from the measuring machine 40 that the dimensions of the workpiece W3a are out of tolerance and that re-machining is possible, the loader device 30 may transport the workpiece W3a to the first processing machine 10, the second processing machine 20, or the third processing machine 60, and have the workpiece W3a machined again.

[0065] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing another example of the operation of the machining system 300. As shown in FIG. 18, after the third machining operation is performed on the workpiece W1 by the third machining machine 60, the loader device 30 transports the workpiece W1a that has been subjected to the third machining operation to the second machining machine 20. The second machining machine 20 performs the second machining operation, i.e., hobbing, on the transported workpiece W1a. Next, the loader device 30 transports the workpiece W2a that has been subjected to the second machining operation to the second machining unit 10B of the first machining machine 10. That is, the loader device 30 returns the workpiece W2a that has been subjected to the second machining operation by the second machining machine 20 to the first machining machine 10 (the second machining unit 10B). Thereafter, the workpiece W3a that has been subjected to the predetermined machining operation by the second machining unit 10B is transported by the loader device 30 to the measuring machine 40, and then transported from the measuring machine 40 to the unloading unit 3, as described above.

[0066] As described above, according to the processing system 300, even when a third processing machine 60 is installed in addition to the first processing machine 10 and the second processing machine 20, the workpiece W can be returned to the first processing machine 10 or the second processing machine 20 in a short time. Furthermore, by selecting the return destination of the workpiece W, the workpiece W can be processed efficiently. Furthermore, if the second processing, the third processing, or a predetermined processing takes a long time, the workpieces W1, W2, and W1a can be temporarily placed on the second buffer unit 70, and further the workpiece W2a can be temporarily placed on the first buffer unit 50. This prevents the loader device 30 from having to wait for a long time while holding the workpieces W1, W2, W1a, and W2a, and improves the efficiency of transporting the workpieces W.

[0067] In the above description, the second-machined workpiece W2 is subjected to the third machining by the third machining machine 60, and then the second machining unit 10B performs the predetermined machining (see FIGS. 16 and 17). However, this is not limiting. For example, the workpiece W2a may be returned from the third machining machine 60 to the second machining machine 20, and then the second machining by the second machining machine 20, and then transported to the second machining unit 10B for the predetermined machining. The machining system 300 is a system in which one workpiece W is machined and processed by multiple machines (such as the first machining machine 10, the second machining machine 20, the third machining machine 60, and the measuring machine 40), and the multiple machines have multiple machining processes, and the machining processes can be combined and executed in any order so that the workpiece W is optimally machined. Furthermore, the processing system 300 is characterized in that when the workpieces W cannot be processed in order due to circumstances in the processing process or the machine, the first buffer unit 50 or the second buffer unit 70 is used to automatically store or discharge the workpieces W, thereby preventing a drop in productivity. In this processing system 300, the loader device 30 follows up to transport the workpieces W to the appropriate location.

[0068] Although the embodiments have been described above, the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the scope described in the above embodiments. One or more of the requirements described in the above embodiments may be omitted. Furthermore, the requirements described in the above embodiments may be combined as appropriate. Furthermore, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and improvements can be made to the above embodiments. Such modifications and improvements also fall within the technical scope of the present invention. Furthermore, the order of operations shown in the claims, specification, and drawings may be performed in any order, as long as the results of a previous operation are not used in a subsequent operation. For convenience, the use of terms such as "first" and "continue" in the claims and specification does not imply that the operations must be performed in that order.

[0069] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the loader device 30 has been described with reference to an example configuration in which one loader main body 32 is arranged on the rail portion 31, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration. For example, a configuration in which multiple loader main bodies 32 are arranged on the rail portion 31 may also be used. In this case, the control unit 1 may control the operation of each of the multiple loader main bodies 32 so that the operations of each do not interfere with each other. Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the processing systems 100, 200, and 300 have been described with reference to an example configuration in which the first processing machine 10 is arranged on the -X side of the second processing machine 20, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration, and the first processing machine 10 may also be arranged on the +X side of the second processing machine 20. [Explanation of symbols]

[0070] T1, T2, T3...tool W...Work 1. Control unit 2. Loading area 3. Unloading section 10...1st processing machine 10A...1st processing section 10B...2nd processing section 20...2nd processing machine 30 Loader device 31 Rail section 32 Loader body 40 Measuring Instrument 50 First buffer section 60...Third processing machine 70 Second buffer section 100, 200, 300... Processing system

Claims

1. A machining system for machining a workpiece, a first processing machine capable of performing a first processing on a workpiece; a second processing machine that is installed separately from the first processing machine and is capable of performing a second processing on the workpiece that has been subjected to the first processing; a loader device that transports the workpiece, The loader device a rail portion spanning the first processing machine and the second processing machine; a loader body portion that moves along the rail portion, The loader device The workpiece on which the first processing has been performed is transported from the first processing machine and delivered to the second processing machine; The workpiece on which the second processing has been performed is transported from the second processing machine and returned to the first processing machine; A machining system in which the first machining device performs a predetermined machining operation different from the first machining operation on the workpiece on which the second machining operation has been performed.

2. a first buffer unit on which a workpiece to be transported to the first processing machine or the second processing machine is temporarily placed, the first buffer unit is provided in the middle of a path along which the loader device transports the workpiece from the first processing machine to the second processing machine, or in the middle of a path along which the loader device transports the workpiece from the second processing machine to the first processing machine, 2. The processing system according to claim 1, wherein the loader device places the workpiece on the first buffer section when the workpiece cannot be transferred to the first processing machine or the second processing machine.

3. a third processing machine capable of performing a third processing on a workpiece that has been subjected to the first processing or the second processing; the rail portion is bridged over to the third processing machine arranged next to the first processing machine or the second processing machine, the loader device transports the workpiece, on which at least one of the first processing and the second processing has been performed, from the first processing machine or the second processing machine and hands it over to the third processing machine; the third processing machine performs the third processing on the workpiece transported by the loader device, the loader device transports the workpiece on which the third processing has been performed from the third processing machine and returns it to the first processing machine, or passes it to the second processing machine and returns the workpiece on which the second processing has been performed to the first processing machine; 3. The machining system according to claim 1, wherein the first machining device performs the predetermined machining on a workpiece on which the third machining has been performed or on a workpiece on which the second machining has been performed after the third machining.

4. a second buffer unit on which a workpiece to be transported to the second processing machine or the third processing machine is temporarily placed, the second buffer unit is provided in the middle of a path along which the loader device transports the workpiece from the second processing machine to the third processing machine, or in the middle of a path along which the loader device transports the workpiece from the third processing machine to the second processing machine, 4. The processing system according to claim 3, wherein the loader device places the workpiece on the second buffer section when the workpiece cannot be transferred to the second processing machine or the third processing machine.

5. Equipped with a measuring device to measure the processed workpiece, the rail portion is bridged over to the measuring machine arranged next to the first processing machine or the second processing machine, The machining system according to claim 1 , wherein the loader device transports a machined workpiece to the measuring machine.

6. The first processing machine is a first processing unit that processes the workpiece; a second processing unit that processes the workpiece, The first processing unit is capable of performing the first processing, 6. The machining system according to claim 1, wherein the second machining unit is capable of performing either the first machining or the predetermined machining, and when the first machining unit is performing the first machining, the second machining unit is capable of performing the first machining on another workpiece or the predetermined machining on another workpiece.

7. The second processing machine is a hobbing machine that performs hobbing on a workpiece as the second processing, The machining system according to claim 1 , wherein the first processing machine performs deburring on a workpiece as the predetermined processing.

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