Tool conveyance device and processing system

Abstract

A tool conveyance device (1) comprises: a tool stocker (11) that is provided juxtaposed with a processing machine 2 and accommodates a plurality of tools (T) in a placed state side by side; a first tool conveyance mechanism (12) that moves the tools to a plurality of stock positions (P2) where the tools (T) to be accommodated in the tool stocker (11) are to be placed and to a conveyance standby position (P3) where a tool (T) to be attached to and detached from a main shaft (22) is to be placed; and a second tool conveyance mechanism (13) that moves the tool to the conveyance standby position (P3) and to a tool replacement position (P4) which is a position shifted in the horizontal direction with respect to the conveyance standby position (P3) and at which the tool is delivered to the main shaft (22). The second tool conveyance mechanism (13) is configured to convey the tool between the conveyance standby position (P3) and the tool replacement position (P4) via a conveyance chamber (28) formed inside the processing machine.

Description

Tool transport device and machining system

[0001] The present invention relates to a tool transport device.

[0002] Long tools, which are longer than general tools, are known as tools used in processing machines. Long tools often cannot be stored in the tool magazine provided in the processing machine. Therefore, when using long tools, a long tool stocker for storing the long tools is provided in the processing machine, separate from the tool magazine. The long tools stored in the long tool stocker are transferred to a spindle or the like in a processing chamber by a tool transport device. Such a tool transport device is disclosed, for example, in Patent Document 1.

[0003] The tool transport device of Patent Document 1 includes a plurality of holding members each of which holds a long tool and functions as a long tool stocker, and a plurality of air cylinders corresponding to each holding member for moving the long tool in the longitudinal direction. The air cylinders move the long tool together with the holding members to the tool change position. When the spindle in the machining chamber comes to pick up the long tool, the long tool at the tool change position is chucked to the spindle.

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-193033

[0005] The tool transport device of Patent Document 1 is provided in a space around the spindle that chucks the workpiece of a processing machine. Accordingly, a long tool stocker for storing long tools is also provided in a space around the spindle, i.e., inside the processing machine. Therefore, due to the size of the processing machine, the number of long tools that can be stored is limited. Furthermore, to transfer tools to the spindle of the processing machine, each of the multiple holding members is provided with an air cylinder, i.e., a tool transport mechanism. Therefore, despite simply transporting tools in one axial direction, the tool transport device has a complex structure and a large number of parts.

[0006] An object of the present invention is to facilitate an increase in the number of long tools that can be accommodated and to transport the long tools with a simple structure.

[0007] (1) A tool transport device of the present invention is a tool transport device used in a processing machine including a processing chamber for processing a workpiece and a spindle provided in the processing chamber and for detachably holding a tool, the tool transport device comprising: a tool stocker provided adjacent to the processing machine and for storing a plurality of tools arranged in a loaded state; a first tool transport mechanism for moving the tool to a plurality of stock positions at which the tools stored in the tool stocker are loaded and to a transfer standby position at which a tool to be attached to or detached from the spindle is loaded; and a second tool transport mechanism for moving the tool to the transfer standby position and to a tool exchange position which is a position horizontally shifted from the transfer standby position and for transferring the tool to the spindle, the second tool transport mechanism being configured to transport the tool between the transfer standby position and the tool exchange position via a transport chamber formed in the processing machine.

[0008] In the above-described tool transport device, a tool stocker for storing tools is provided separately from the processing machine, i.e., outside the processing machine. A tool stocker provided outside the processing machine can easily accommodate a larger space for storing tools than a tool stocker provided inside the processing machine. Therefore, a tool stocker provided outside the processing machine can accommodate a larger number of tools of various sizes and shapes. This configuration is particularly effective when the tools are long tools that cannot be stored in the tool magazine inside the processing machine. Furthermore, in the above-described tool transport device, the first tool transport mechanism transfers various tools stored in the tool stocker to the second tool transport mechanism. The second tool transport mechanism transfers tools to the spindle of the processing machine. That is, the transport mechanisms for transferring tools to the spindle of the processing machine are consolidated into a single transport mechanism, the second tool transport mechanism. Therefore, there is no need to provide a separate tool transport mechanism for each of multiple tools to transfer tools to the spindle of the processing machine. Therefore, the above-described tool transport device can increase the number of long tools that can be stored and transport long tools with a simple structure.

[0009] (2) In the tool transport device of (1) above, the tool stocker may store the plurality of tools arranged in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the tools.

[0010] (3) In the tool transport device of (1) above, the tool stocker may store the plurality of tools in a line in the front-to-rear direction of the processing machine so that the longitudinal direction of each tool is parallel to the left-to-right direction of the processing machine.

[0011] (4) In the tool transport device of (1) above, the first tool transport mechanism may move the tool to the plurality of stock positions and the transport standby position shifted from each of the plurality of stock positions in a direction in which the tools stored in the tool stocker are arranged.

[0012] (5) In the tool transport device of (1) above, the first tool transport mechanism may move the tool to the plurality of stock positions and the transport standby positions shifted in the front-to-rear direction of the processing machine from each of the plurality of stock positions.

[0013] According to the tool transport devices (2) to (5) above, the storage space in the tool stocker can be used more efficiently than in a configuration in which a plurality of tools are arranged in the longitudinal direction.

[0014] (6) In the tool transport device of (1) above, the second tool transport mechanism may move the tool to the transport standby position and the tool exchange position shifted from the transport standby position in the longitudinal direction of the tool stored in the tool stocker.

[0015] (7) In the tool transport device of (1) above, the second tool transport mechanism may move the tool to the transport standby position and the tool change position shifted from the transport standby position in the left-right direction of the processing machine.

[0016] Generally, in a processing machine, the equipment for operating the spindle is located behind (on the rear side of) the processing chamber, and a door for loading and unloading workpieces is located in front of (on the front side of) the processing chamber. The area below the processing chamber is close to the floor of the factory. Although there may be space above the processing chamber, loading tools from above the processing chamber would require a tool transport device with a larger vertical size. In contrast, the tool transport devices described in (6) and (7) utilize the space in the left-right direction of the processing machine to transport tools from a tool stocker to the processing machine. In other words, the tool transport devices described above are easily applicable not only to dedicated processing machines but also to general-purpose processing machines.

[0017] (8) In the tool transport device of (1) above, a direction in which the first tool transport mechanism moves the tool may intersect a direction in which the second tool transport mechanism moves the tool.

[0018] When the direction in which the first tool transportation mechanism moves a tool is the same as the direction in which the second tool transportation mechanism moves a tool, the tool transportation device is likely to become large in that direction. In contrast, in the tool transportation device of (8) above, the direction in which the first tool transportation mechanism moves a tool is different from the direction in which the second tool transportation mechanism moves a tool. Therefore, this tool transportation device prevents the tool transportation device from becoming large. Preferably, in a top view, the direction in which the first tool transportation mechanism moves a tool intersects with the direction in which the second tool transportation mechanism moves a tool. More preferably, in a top view, the direction in which the first tool transportation mechanism moves a tool is perpendicular to the direction in which the second tool transportation mechanism moves a tool.

[0019] (9) In the tool transport device of (1) above, the first tool transport mechanism and the second tool transport mechanism may be provided at a position lower than a ceiling of the processing machine.

[0020] For example, consider a case where tools are loaded into a transport chamber in a processing machine from above. In this case, the tool transport device needs to move the tools stored in a tool stocker to a position higher than the ceiling of the processing machine. One example of such a transport method is transporting tools using a gantry loader. In this case, guide rails need to be installed above the processing machine, which tends to increase the vertical size of the tool transport device. In contrast, in the tool transport device described in (9) above, the first and second tool transport mechanisms that transport the tools are installed at positions lower than the ceiling of the processing machine. Therefore, this tool transport device can prevent the tool transport device from increasing in size in the vertical direction.

[0021] (10) In the tool transport device of (1) above, the tool transport device may further include a plurality of bases on which the plurality of tools are placed, respectively; and a locking mechanism that detachably connects each of the plurality of bases to the first tool transport mechanism.

[0022] In the tool transport device of (10) above, the first tool transport mechanism does not directly hold the tool. The first tool transport mechanism moves the tool by moving the base. The first tool transport mechanism and the base are detachably connected by a locking mechanism. Therefore, regardless of the size or shape of the tool, the shapes of the objects transferred between the first tool transport mechanism and the second tool transport mechanism can be made uniform, making it easy to simplify each tool transport mechanism.

[0023] (11) In the tool transport device of (1) above, the tool transport device may further include a plurality of bases on which the plurality of tools are placed, respectively, and the first tool transport mechanism may be connected to the bases from the side on which the tools are placed, and may move the bases to move the tools.

[0024] With this arrangement, adjacent bases can be arranged adjacent to each other in the tool stocker. Therefore, the above-described tool transport device can further increase the number of tools that can be stored in the tool stocker. In other words, when the first tool transport mechanism transports tools by clamping both side surfaces of the base with a pair of hands having claws, a gap must be formed between the bases to allow the claws to enter, and the stock position must be set so that there is an installation gap between the bases. In contrast, the tool transport device described in (11) above is connected between the tool placement side of the base and the first tool transport mechanism, so there is no need to provide such a gap, and the space in the tool stocker can be used to the maximum extent.

[0025] (12) In the tool transport device of (1) above, the tool transport device may further include a plurality of bases on which the plurality of tools are placed, respectively, and the second tool transport mechanism may be connected to the bases from the side opposite to the side on which the tools are placed, and may move the bases to move the tools.

[0026] In the tool transport device of (12) above, the second tool transport mechanism is connected to the base from below. Therefore, a transport mechanism such as a conveyor can be used as the second tool transport mechanism. The second tool transport mechanism does not need to be equipped with a lifting mechanism or the like for moving the tool in the vertical direction. Therefore, the tool transport device described above can prevent the tool transport device from becoming too large in the vertical direction.

[0027] (13) In the tool transport device of (1) above, the first tool transport mechanism may move the tool to a set position where the tool is put into and taken out of the tool stocker, in addition to the stock position and the transport standby position.

[0028] For example, if a tool stocker does not have the function of loading and unloading tools from the outside, the tools stored in the tool stocker are first attached to the spindle of the processing machine. The tool transport mechanism then receives the tools from the spindle and transports them to the tool stocker. In contrast, the tool transport device described above in (13) allows tools to be loaded and unloaded from the tool stocker without going through the spindle. Therefore, this tool transport device makes it easy to load tools into the tool stocker.

[0029] (14) In the tool transport device of (1) above, the processing machine may include a first fixing portion that fixes the first tool transport mechanism and a second fixing portion that fixes the second tool transport mechanism, and the processing machine, the first tool transport mechanism, and the second tool transport mechanism may be configured to be separable from the tool stocker by fixing the first tool transport mechanism and the second tool transport mechanism to the processing machine by the first fixing portion and the second fixing portion.

[0030] To automatically transfer tools between the second tool transport mechanism and the spindle of the processing machine at the tool change position, the position of the second tool transport mechanism relative to the processing machine is important. Assume that the second tool transport mechanism is fixed to a tool stocker. In this case, when assembling the tool transport mechanism, an alignment operation is required to make the processing machine recognize the tool change position. Similarly, assume that the first tool transport mechanism is fixed to the processing machine and the second tool transport mechanism is fixed to a tool stocker. In this case, an alignment operation is required to make the first tool transport mechanism recognize the transport standby position. In the tool transport device described in (14) above, both the first tool transport mechanism and the second tool transport mechanism are fixed to the processing machine. Therefore, if the tool transport device is shipped with the first tool transport mechanism and the second tool transport mechanism attached to the processing machine, for example, the above-mentioned alignment operation is not required when assembling the tool transport device at the delivery destination. Therefore, this tool transport device facilitates the assembly of the tool transport device.

[0031] (15) In the tool transport device of (1) above, the tool stocker is provided adjacent to the side of the processing machine, and when the processing machine is divided into upper and lower halves at the center of the height of the processing machine, the area where the tool stocker overlaps with the upper part of the processing machine in a side view may be larger than the area where the tool stocker overlaps with the lower part of the processing machine.

[0032] (16) In the tool transport device of (1) above, the tool stocker may include a tool storage housing that stores the plurality of tools, and support legs that support the tool storage housing, and the support legs may be configured to form a space below the tool storage housing.

[0033] (17) In the tool transport device of (16) above, the processing machine further includes a chip transport device that transports chips generated by processing the workpiece, and the chip transport device may include a discharge section that is provided in a space below the tool storage housing and discharges the chips from the processing machine.

[0034] Generally, a discharge port of a chip transport device, a chip storage bucket, etc. are often provided next to the bottom of a processing machine. In the tool transport devices (15) to (17) above, the tool stocker is installed adjacent to the top of the processing machine. That is, the space above the discharge port of the chip transport device is used to store tools. This makes it easy to expand the tool stocker in the front-to-rear direction, for example. Therefore, this tool transport device can further increase the number of tools that can be stored in the tool stocker.

[0035] (18) In the tool transport device of (1) above, the plurality of stock positions may be arranged in a line in the front-to-rear direction of the processing machine, and the distance in the front-to-rear direction between the frontmost stock position and the rearmost stock position may be longer than the distance in the front-to-rear direction of the processing chamber.

[0036] (19) In the tool transport device of (1) above, the plurality of stock positions may be arranged in a line in the front-to-rear direction of the processing machine, and the transport standby position may be arranged forward of at least one stock position and rearward of at least one stock position.

[0037] Tools transported by the second tool transport mechanism are transferred to the spindle of the processing machine. In the processing machine, various devices, such as devices for operating the spindle, are located behind the spindle in the machining chamber. Due to the location of these devices, the processing machine protrudes further rearward than the spindle position (the position where the spindle is at its rearmost position). Assume that a transfer standby position where tools are transferred between the spindle and the second tool transport mechanism is located behind all stock positions. In this case, all tools are stored at the transfer standby position, i.e., in front of the second tool transport mechanism. This means that no stock positions are provided next to the portion of the processing machine that protrudes rearward beyond the second tool transport mechanism. In contrast, the tool transport devices described above in (18) and (19) have at least one stock position provided in front of and behind the transfer standby position. This configuration also effectively utilizes the space next to the portion of the processing machine that protrudes rearward beyond the second tool transport mechanism. In other words, the tool transport device described above effectively utilizes the longitudinal length of the processing machine to store tools in the tool stocker. Therefore, according to this tool transport device, it is possible to increase the number of tools that can be stored in the tool stocker while preventing the tool transport device from becoming larger.

[0038] (20) A machining system according to the present invention includes the tool transport device according to any one of (1) to (19) above and the machining machine.

[0039] According to the tool transport device of the present invention, it is possible to increase the number of long tools that can be accommodated and transport the long tools with a simple structure.

[0040] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of a machining system according to this embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic view showing the structure of a processing machine according to this embodiment. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a tool transport device according to this embodiment as seen from the front. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a tool transport device according to this embodiment as seen from the right side. FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a configuration in which a tool stocker according to this embodiment is separated from a processing machine. FIG. 6 is a view showing tools stored in a tool stocker according to this embodiment. FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing a first tool transport mechanism in the tool transport device according to this embodiment. FIG. 8 is a view showing a locking mechanism that connects the first tool transport mechanism and a base in the tool transport device according to this embodiment.

[0041] Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0042] 1 is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of a machining system according to this embodiment. The machining system 100 includes a tool transport device 1, a processing machine 2, and a control device (not shown). In the machining system 100, tools used by the processing machine 2 are stored in the tool transport device 1. The tool transport device 1 transports the stored tools and passes them to the processing machine 2. The tool transport device 1 transports and stores tools passed from the processing machine 2. Each component will be described in detail below.

[0043] <Configuration> [Processing Machine] The processing machine 2 is a machine that processes a workpiece. The processing machine 2 is a multi-tasking machine that has a turning function and a milling function. The processing machine 2 may be, for example, a machine that can perform not only subtractive processing but also additive processing, and may be of a type to which a tool transport device described below can be applied.

[0044] The processing machine 2 includes an openable and closable door 295. The door 295 constitutes part of the exterior of the processing machine 2. The door 295 opens and closes a processing chamber where a workpiece is processed from the outside of the processing machine 2. The door 295 is configured to allow a workpiece to be loaded into and unloaded from the processing chamber. The door 295 is provided on the front of the processing machine 2. Hereinafter, the front of the processing machine 2 refers to the side of the processing machine 2 on which the door 295 is provided. The back of the processing machine 2 refers to the side of the processing machine 2 opposite the front. Furthermore, the direction from the back to the front of the processing machine 2 is referred to as the forward direction, and the direction from the front to the back is referred to as the rear direction. In the processing machine 2, the left direction refers to the direction toward the left of the processing machine 2 when viewed from the front, and the right direction refers to the direction toward the right of the processing machine 2 when viewed from the front. In the processing machine 2, the upward direction refers to the direction toward the top (ceiling) of the processing machine 2 when viewed from the front, and the downward direction refers to the direction toward the bottom (floor) of the processing machine 2 when viewed from the front.

[0045] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the processing machine of this embodiment. The processing machine 2 includes a processing chamber 21 for processing a workpiece and a spindle 22 provided in the processing chamber. The processing chamber 21 is a space for processing the workpiece. The processing chamber 21 is formed with a splash guard or the like. The spindle 22 detachably holds a tool via a tool holder. The spindle 22 is rotatably held by a spindle head (not shown). The spindle head is held by a column (not shown) erected at the rear end of a bed 29 of the processing machine 2 so as to be movable in the up-down direction (also referred to as the X direction) and the front-back direction (also referred to as the Y direction). The column is supported on the upper surface of the rear end of the bed so as to be movable in the left-right direction (also referred to as the Z direction). With this configuration, the spindle 22 is movable in the up-down direction, the front-back direction, and the left-right direction. The spindle 22 is also rotatable around a rotation axis (also referred to as the B axis) parallel to the front-back direction.

[0046] The processing machine 2 further includes a workpiece spindle 23 and an auxiliary workpiece spindle 24. The workpiece spindle 23 and the auxiliary workpiece spindle 24 are provided in the processing chamber 21. The workpiece spindle 23 and the auxiliary workpiece spindle 24 are provided on a bed 29. The workpiece spindle 23 and the auxiliary workpiece spindle 24 each include a chuck that grips an end of the workpiece. The workpiece spindle 23 and the auxiliary workpiece spindle 24 support the workpiece so that its central axis is parallel to the left-right direction.

[0047] The processing machine 2 further includes a standard tool magazine 25, a standard tool changer 26, and a chip transport device 27. The standard tool magazine 25 stores a plurality of tools 251 to be attached to the spindle 22. The standard tool magazine 25 is provided inside the processing machine 2. The standard tool magazine 25 is provided adjacent to the machining chamber 21. At least a portion of the standard tool magazine 25 is provided to the left of the machining chamber 21. The standard tool changer 26 is a magazine-type automatic tool changer. The standard tool changer 26 is provided inside the processing machine 2. The standard tool changer 26 transfers tools between the standard tool magazine 25 and the spindle 22. The chip transport device 27 transports chips generated when the workpiece is machined. The chip transport device 27 transports chips generated in the machining chamber 21 to the outside of the processing machine 2. The chip transport device 27 extends in the left-right direction from the machining chamber 21. A part of the machining chip transport device 27 is provided inside the processing machine 2, and the remainder is provided outside the processing machine 2. The machining chip transport device 27 includes a receiving section 271 that receives machining chips. The receiving section 271 is provided below the processing chamber 21. The machining chip transport device 27 includes a discharge section 272 that discharges machining chips. The discharge section 272 is provided outside the processing machine 2. The discharge section 272 protrudes outward from the lower part of the right side surface of the processing machine 2. The discharge section 272 includes, for example, a discharge port 2721. The discharge section 272 includes, for example, a bucket 2722 that stores machining chips discharged from the discharge port.

[0048] A transfer chamber 28 is provided within the processing machine 2. The transfer chamber 28 is provided adjacent to the tool stocker 11. The transfer chamber 28 is provided so as to protrude from the exterior surface (right side surface) of the processing machine 2 into the processing chamber 21. The transfer chamber 28 is provided so as to protrude from the ceiling of the processing chamber 21 into the processing chamber 21. The transfer chamber 28 is provided in the upper right part of the processing machine 2. A tool T to be delivered to the spindle 22 is transported to the transfer chamber 28 by a second tool transport mechanism 13, which will be described later.

[0049] 3 is a cross-sectional view of the tool transport device 1 according to the present embodiment, taken along a plane perpendicular to the front-rear direction, as viewed from the front. The tool transport device 1 includes a tool stocker 11, a first tool transport mechanism 12, and a second tool transport mechanism 13.

[0050] [Tool Stocker] The tool stocker 11 stores a plurality of tools T arranged in a loaded state. Here, the tools T are long tools known as long tools. The tools T are too large to be stored in the standard tool magazine 25 of the processing machine 2. For example, the longitudinal dimension of the tool T is larger than the front-rear or left-right dimensions of the storage section in the standard tool magazine 25 where the tools are stored.

[0051] The tool stocker 11 is provided adjacent to the processing machine 2. More specifically, the tool stocker 11 is provided to the right of the processing machine 2. However, the tool stocker 11 may also be provided to the left of the processing machine 2. The tool stocker 11 is provided so as to be connected to the processing machine 2. However, the tool stocker 11 may also be provided at a predetermined distance from the processing machine 2. The predetermined distance is not particularly limited and may be set appropriately depending on the product specifications, etc.

[0052] The tool stocker 11 includes support legs 111 and a tool storage housing 112. The support legs 111 are installed on the floor of the facility where the tool transport device 1 and the processing machine 2 are installed. The support legs 111 support the tool storage housing 112. The support legs 111 are configured to form a space below the tool storage housing 112. With the tool storage housing 112 supported upward by the support legs 111, an equipment storage space is formed below the tool storage housing 112. As a result, the discharge section 272 of the chip transport device 27, which is located on the right side of the processing machine 2, can be arranged. In other words, even if the tool transport device 1 is added as an option to the processing machine 2, the overall footprint does not change significantly. Furthermore, because the tool storage housing 112 is located above the discharge section 272, the entire front-to-rear width of the processing machine 2 can be utilized. Therefore, it is possible to increase the number of tools T that can be stored inside, even when the processing machine 2 is placed horizontally. The support legs 111 have, for example, a frame structure. As an example, the support legs 111 are configured with at least four support posts. Each support post supports a corner of the lower surface of the tool storage housing 112.

[0053] The tool storage housing 112 is provided on the support legs 111. The tool storage housing 112 has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. The tool storage housing 112 forms a tool storage chamber for storing tools therein. The tool storage housing 112 has a front surface, a back surface, an upper surface, a lower surface, and a right side surface, and the left side surface of the tool storage housing 112 is open.

[0054] The tool storage housing 112 is provided adjacent to the upper right portion of the processing machine 2. The tool storage housing 112 is connected to the right side surface of the processing machine 2. The tool storage housing 112 is provided adjacent to the transfer chamber 28 formed inside the processing machine 2. The tool storage housing 112 is provided at a predetermined height from the lower ends (floor) of the support legs 111. The tool storage housing 112 is provided at a higher position than the chip transport device 27 (see FIG. 2 ) of the processing machine 2. At least a part of the discharge section 272 of the chip transport device 27 of the processing machine 2 is provided below the tool storage housing 112.

[0055] FIG. 4 is a right-side cross-sectional view of the tool transport device 1 according to this embodiment. This figure shows the tool transport device 1 cut along a plane perpendicular to the left-right direction and viewed from the right side. The tool storage housing 112 has a length in the front-rear direction sufficient to accommodate multiple tools T. The length of the tool storage housing 112 in the front-rear direction is longer than the length of the machining chamber 21 in the front-rear direction. The front surface 1121 of the tool storage housing 112 is located in front of the center of the processing machine 2 in the front-rear direction. The front surface 1121 of the tool storage housing 112 is located at substantially the same position as the front door of the processing machine 2 in the front-rear direction. The rear surface 1122 of the tool storage housing 112 is located behind the center of the processing machine 2 in the front-rear direction. The rear surface 1122 of the tool storage housing 112 is located behind the rear surface of the machining chamber 21 in the front-rear direction. However, the size of the tool storage housing 112 described in this embodiment is merely an example. The size of the tool storage housing 112 may be changed as appropriate depending on the type, number, size, etc. of the tools to be stored. A drawer 1123 is provided on the front surface 1121 of the tool storage housing 112. The drawer 1123 is movable in the front-rear direction. The drawer 1123 can be pulled out in front of the front surface 1121 of the tool storage housing 112. The drawer 1123 can store tools T that are put in from outside the tool stocker 11. Here, the outside of the tool stocker 11 refers to the outside of the machining system 100. The outside of the tool stocker 11 does not refer to the machining machine 2.

[0056] The multiple tools T are arranged so that their longitudinal directions are parallel to the left-right direction. The multiple tools T are arranged side by side. The multiple tools T are housed lined up in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of each tool. The multiple tools T are housed lined up in the front-rear direction.

[0057] 5 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the tool stocker 11 separated from the processing machine 2. The tool stocker 11 is configured to be separable from the processing machine 2, the first tool transport mechanism 12, and the second tool transport mechanism 13.

[0058] [Base] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing tools stored in the tool stocker 11 of this embodiment. (A) in the figure is a view of a tool T as seen from the right side. To store tools in the tool stocker 11, the tool transport device 1 includes multiple bases 14. Since the multiple bases 14 have the same configuration, the following description will focus on one base. The base 14 has a plate shape with the longitudinal direction extending left-right. The base 14 is configured to support the tool T on its upper surface. The method of supporting the tool by the base 14 is not particularly limited. For example, as shown in (B) in the figure, the base 14 includes multiple supports 141 that support the tool T. The support 141 is located on the upper surface of the base 14, and at least two or more supporters 141 are arranged longitudinally on the tool placement surface side. The support 141 is, for example, generally V-shaped and is configured to be detachable from the base 14. The first support supports a first end of the tool. The second support supports a second end of the tool. For example, the longitudinal position of the support 141 on the upper surface of the base 14 can be changed as needed depending on the weight and length of the tool. The multiple supports 141 are configured so that the position, size, shape, etc. can be changed as needed depending on the tool to be supported. In this embodiment, the upper surface of the base 14 is connected to a first tool transport mechanism 12 (described later), and the lower surface of the base 14 is connected to a second tool transport mechanism 13 (described later).

[0059] [First tool transport mechanism] Figure 7 is a perspective view showing the first tool transport mechanism in the tool transport device of this embodiment. The first tool transport mechanism 12 transports tools in the front-to-rear direction of the processing machine 2 within the tool storage housing 112. The first tool transport mechanism 12 is provided in the upper right part of the processing machine 2. The first tool transport mechanism 12 is provided so that at least a portion thereof protrudes from the processing machine 2. The first tool transport mechanism 12 is provided so that at least a portion thereof protrudes from the processing machine 2 in the left-to-right direction. The first tool transport mechanism 12 is provided at a position lower than the ceiling 291 of the processing machine 2. The first tool transport mechanism 12 can move the tool T in the up-down direction and the front-to-back direction. More specifically, the first tool transport mechanism 12 includes a front-to-back movement mechanism 121, a vertical movement mechanism 122, and a transport arm 123.

[0060] The front-rear movement mechanism 121 moves the transport arm 123 in the front-rear direction. The front-rear movement mechanism 121 is, for example, a slider. However, the front-rear movement mechanism 121 is not limited to a slider. The front-rear movement mechanism 121 may be configured to move the transport arm 123 in the front-rear direction. The front-rear movement mechanism 121 includes a guide rail 1211, a slide table 1212, and a drive unit 1213. The guide rail 1211 is provided at the upper right portion of the processing machine 2. The guide rail 1211 extends in the front-rear direction. In the front-rear direction, both ends of the guide rail 1211 are fixed to the processing machine 2 via first fixing portions 293. The first fixing portion 293 may be, for example, a frame supporting each device of the processing machine 2, a splash guard, or the like, or may be fixed to the frame. Therefore, by fixing the guide rail 1211 to the first fixing portion 293, the guide rail 1211 is positioned relative to each device of the processing machine 2. As will be described later, the second tool transport mechanism 13 is also fixed to the processing machine 2, not to the tool stocker. Since each transport mechanism related to transporting the tool T is fixed to the processing machine 2 in this manner, the position of each device can be easily adjusted even when a tool stocker 11 for long tools is added to the processing machine 2 as an option. That is, stationary functional parts of the tool transport device 1 are concentrated in the tool storage housing 112, while movable parts that require alignment are fixed to the processing machine 2. Therefore, after alignment is complete, the tool transport device 1 can be assembled simply by covering the exposed parts of each transport mechanism with the tool storage housing 112. This facilitates adding an optional function. The slide table 1212 is attached slidably along the guide rails 1211. The slide table 1212 has a plate shape. The slide table 1212 extends downward from the guide rails. The slide table 1212 moves back and forth along the guide rails 1211. The slide table 1212 is moved by the drive unit 1213. The driving device 1213 is, for example, a servo motor. However, the driving device 1213 is not limited to this. The driving device 1213 may be any device that can move the slide base 1212. The driving device 1213 may be various motors such as a linear motor, a hydraulic device, a pneumatic device, or other actuators.

[0061] The vertical movement mechanism 122 moves the transport arm 123 in the vertical direction. The vertical movement mechanism 122 includes a guide rail 1221 and an elevator device 1222. The guide rail 1221 is attached to a slide base 1212 of the front-rear movement mechanism 121. The guide rail 1221 extends in the vertical direction. The elevator device 1222 is attached to the slide base 1212 of the front-rear movement mechanism 121. The elevator device 1222 is a hydraulic device. However, the elevator device 1222 is not limited to this. It is sufficient that the elevator device 1222 is able to move the transport arm 123 in the vertical direction. The elevator device 1222 may be any type of motor, slider, pneumatic device, other actuator, etc.

[0062] The transport arm 123 is movably attached to a guide rail 1221 of the vertical movement mechanism 122. The transport arm 123 includes an arm portion 1231 and multiple claw portions 1232. The arm portion 1231 extends in the left-right direction. The left end of the arm portion 1231 is movably attached to the guide rail 1221. The upper portion of the arm portion 1231 is attached to the lifting device 1222. The multiple claw portions 1232 are provided at the lower portion of the arm portion 1231. The multiple claw portions 1232 extend downward from the arm portion 1231. In this embodiment, four claw portions 1232 are provided. Two of the claw portions 1232 are provided at the tip (right end) of the arm portion 1231 with a predetermined distance between them in the front-rear direction. The remaining two claw portions 1232 are provided at positions a predetermined distance from the tip of the arm portion 1231 in the left-right direction. The remaining two claws 1232 are also provided at a predetermined interval in the front-rear direction. The interval between two adjacent claws 1232 in the front-rear direction is greater than the diameter of the tool T. The multiple claws 1232 are provided so as to straddle the tool T. However, the multiple claws 1232 do not come into contact with the tool T. The multiple claws 1232 are configured so as to be attachable to and detachable from the base 14 via the locking mechanism 15. The multiple claws 1232 are connected so as to be inserted into the base 14 via the locking mechanism 15.

[0063] [Locking Mechanism] Figure 8 is a diagram showing a locking mechanism that connects the first tool transport mechanism and the base in the tool transport device of this embodiment. Referring to (A) in the figure, the locking mechanism 15 detachably connects the base 14 and the first tool transport mechanism 12 (claw portion 1232). The locking mechanism 15 is, for example, a catch cylinder. That is, the locking mechanism 15 is provided between the claw portion 1232 of the first tool transport mechanism 12 and the upper surface of the base, and includes a recess 151 and a protrusion 152. Note that in this embodiment, the recess 151 is provided on the upper surface of the base 14, and the protrusion 152 is provided on the claw portion 1232.

[0064] The recess 151 is provided in the base 14. The recess 151 has a hole shape. The recess 151 opens to the upper surface of the base 14. The recess 151 includes a reduced diameter portion 1511 on its inner circumferential surface.

[0065] The protrusion 152 is provided at the lower end of the claw 1232. The protrusion 152 protrudes downward from the lower end of the claw 1232. The protrusion 152 includes a cylinder 1521, a pressure device 1522, a piston 1523, an elastic member 1524, and a plurality of balls 1525. The upper end of the cylinder 1521 is fixed to the claw 1232. The upper end of the cylinder 1521 is connected to the pressure device 1522. The pressure device 1522 is a pneumatic device, an electric actuator, or the like. The lower end of the cylinder 1521 is configured to be insertable into the recess 151. A plurality of balls 1525 are provided at the lower end of the cylinder 1521. The plurality of balls 1525 are configured to be able to protrude from the outer circumferential surface of the cylinder 1521. A piston 1523 is provided inside the cylinder 1521. The piston 1523 is configured to be able to move along the axial direction of the cylinder 1521. The piston 1523 is connected to an elastic member 1524 provided in the cylinder 1521. The elastic member 1524 is, for example, a spring. A rod portion of the piston 1523 is configured so that a part of the rod portion is reduced in diameter.

[0066] Referring to FIG. 1B, when the claw portion 1232 and the base 14 are connected, i.e., when the protrusion 152 of the locking mechanism 15 is inserted into the recess 151, the pressure device 1522 is activated. The pressure device 1522 presses the piston 1523 downward in the cylinder 1521. As a result, the reduced diameter portion of the piston is positioned inside the plurality of balls 1525. The plurality of balls 1525 are able to move inward and retract inward from the outer circumferential surface of the cylinder 1521. This allows the protrusion 152 to be inserted into the recess 151. When the protrusion 152 is inserted into the recess 151, the pressure device 1522 is deactivated, and the piston 1523 is pushed up by the elastic member 1524. As a result, the plurality of balls 1525 are pushed outward and protrude from the outer circumferential surface of the cylinder 1521, as shown in FIG. 1A. The protruding portions of the plurality of balls 1525 are restricted from moving upward by the reduced diameter portion 1511 of the recess 151. This allows the first tool transport mechanism 12 to move the base 14 via the lock mechanism 15, thereby moving the tool T.

[0067] 4 , the first tool transport mechanism 12 moves the tool T to a set position P1, a stock position P2, and a transfer standby position P3. The first tool transport mechanism 12 is configured to transport the tool T between the set position P1 and the stock position P2. The first tool transport mechanism 12 is configured to transport the tool T between the stock position P2 and the transfer standby position P3. The first tool transport mechanism 12 may be configured to transport the tool T between the set position P1 and the transfer standby position P3.

[0068] [Set Position] The set position P1 is a position where a tool T is placed into the tool stocker 11 from outside the tool stocker 11. The set position P1 is provided within the tool stocker 11 (tool storage housing 112). The set position P1 is provided to be aligned in the front-rear direction with the stock position P2 and the transport standby position P3. More specifically, the front-rear spacing between the set position P1, the stock position P2, and the transport standby position P3 is set constant. When the base 14 with the tool T placed thereon is set at each position, the long sides of the base 14 are adjacent to each other with almost no gap between them. Here, "almost no gap between them" means that there is only a gap smaller than the width dimension of the claw portion 1232 of the first tool transport mechanism 12. The set position P1 is provided in front of the stock position P2 and the transport standby position P3. The set position P1 is set above the drawer 1123 that is pushed into the tool storage housing 112 of the tool stocker 11. The tool T is placed at the set position P1 via the base 14. More specifically, the worker pulls out the drawer 1123 from the tool storage housing 112 to the front, and sets the base 14 on which the tool T is placed on the drawer 1123. After setting the drawer 1123, the worker pushes the drawer 1123 into the tool storage housing 112, whereby the tool T on the base 14 is placed at the set position P1.

[0069] [Stock Position] The stock position P2 is a position where a tool T stored in the tool stocker 11 is placed. Since the tool stocker 11 can store multiple tools, multiple stock positions P2 are provided. More specifically, the tool T placed at the stock position P2 is a tool that will not be used in the current machining process or the next machining process, and is a standby tool. Each stock position P2 is provided within the tool stocker 11 (tool storage housing 112). The stock positions P2 are arranged side by side in the front-to-rear direction. The front-to-rear distance between the frontmost stock position P2 and the rearmost stock position P2 is longer than the front-to-rear distance of the machining chamber 21 (the distance between the inner surface of the door forming the front of the machining chamber 21 and the wall forming the back of the machining chamber 21). A base 14 can be placed on each stock position P2. A tool T is placed on each stock position P2 via the base 14.

[0070] [Transfer Standby Position] The transfer standby position P3 is a position where a tool T to be attached to or detached from the spindle 22 is placed. That is, the transfer standby position P3 is a position where a tool T to be attached to the spindle 22 is placed, and a position where a tool T to be removed from the spindle 22 and stored in the tool stocker 11 is placed. In this embodiment, the transfer standby position P3 is a position where a tool T removed from the spindle 22 is temporarily placed until it is transported to the stock position P2 by the first tool transport mechanism 12. The transfer standby position P3 is also a position where a tool T at the stock position P2 is temporarily placed until it is transported to the spindle 22. The tool T removed from the spindle 22 is transported to the transfer standby position P3 and then placed at the stock position P2. The transfer standby position P3 is provided in the tool stocker 11 (tool storage housing 112). However, the transfer standby position P3 may also be provided in the transport chamber 28 formed in the processing machine 2. One transfer standby position P3 is provided. The transport standby position P3 is provided at a position offset from each stock position P2 in the direction in which the tools T stored in the tool stocker 11 are lined up (front-rear direction). The transport standby position P3 is provided midway between the multiple stock positions P2 lined up in the front-rear direction. The transport standby position P3 is provided forward of at least one stock position P2. The transport standby position P3 is provided rearward of at least one stock position P2. The transport standby position P3 is provided between two adjacent stock positions P2 in the front-rear direction. The transport standby position P3 is provided in the center of the tool storage housing 112 in the front-rear direction. However, the position at which the transport standby position P3 is provided is not particularly limited. The transport standby position P3 may be located at any position different from the stock positions P2. The transport standby position P3 is provided in a part of the second tool transport mechanism 13. The transport standby position P3 corresponds to the end (right end) of the second tool transport mechanism 13 extending in the left-right direction on the tool stocker 11 side.

[0071] [Second Tool Transport Mechanism] Referring to FIG. 3 , the second tool transport mechanism 13 is a conveyor. The second tool transport mechanism 13 includes a transport table 131 and a left-right movement mechanism 132. As shown in FIG. 5 , the second tool transport mechanism 13 is provided below the first tool transport mechanism 12, and is configured so that the transport direction intersects with the first tool transport mechanism 12 at a twisted position by 90 degrees. The second tool transport mechanism 13 mainly transports tools T between a transport standby position P3 of the tool stocker 11 and a tool exchange position P4 where the tool spindle 22 and tool exchange are performed. Furthermore, while the first tool transport mechanism 12 is connected to the upper surface side of the base 14 to transport tools T, the second tool transport mechanism 13 is connected to the lower surface side of the base 14 to transport tools T.

[0072] The transport table 131 has a plate shape. The transport table 131 is configured so that the base 14 can be placed thereon. The transport table 131 supports the base 14 placed on the transport table 131. The transport table 131 is configured so that the base 14 placed on the transport table 131 can be removed from the transport table 131. The transport table 131 includes a restriction mechanism that restricts movement of the base 14 relative to the transport table 131. The restriction mechanism is, for example, a positioning pin. The transport table 131 is attached to a left-right movement mechanism 132.

[0073] The left-right movement mechanism 132 moves the conveyance platform 131 left-right. The left-right movement mechanism 132 extends left-right. The left-right movement mechanism 132 is fixed to the processing machine 2 via a second fixing part (not shown). The second fixing part is also fixed to a frame or the like that supports each device of the processing machine 2, and the left-right movement mechanism 132 is positioned relative to each device of the processing machine 2 by fixing the left-right movement mechanism 132 to the second fixing part. The left-right movement mechanism 132 includes a transmission device 1321 and a drive device 1322. The transmission device 1321 extends left-right. The transmission device 1321 supports the conveyance platform 131. The transmission device 1321 is a chain, a belt, or the like. The drive device 1322 drives the transmission device 1321. The drive device 1322 is, for example, a servo motor. The drive device 1322 is not limited to a servo motor and may be any device capable of moving the conveyance platform 131. Note that the left-right movement mechanism 132 is not limited to this configuration. The left-right movement mechanism 132 only needs to be able to move the conveyance table 131. The left-right movement mechanism 132 may be any of various actuators, pneumatic devices, hydraulic devices, etc. The left-right movement mechanism 132 moves the conveyance table 131 between the right end on the conveyance standby position P3 side and the left end on the tool exchange position P4 side. When the conveyance table 131 is positioned at the right end, the tool T on the base 14 attached to the top of the conveyance table 131 is positioned at the conveyance standby position P3, and the top surfaces of the multiple bases 14 placed in the tool stocker 11 are configured to be approximately flush.

[0074] At least a portion of the second tool transport mechanism 13 configured as described above is provided inside the processing machine 2. At least a portion of the second tool transport mechanism 13 is provided in the upper right portion of the processing machine 2. The second tool transport mechanism 13 is provided so as not to protrude from the transport chamber 28 of the processing machine 2 into the processing chamber 21. The second tool transport mechanism 13 is provided so as to protrude partially from the processing machine 2 toward the tool stocker 11. The second tool transport mechanism 13 is provided so as to protrude partially from the right side surface 292 of the processing machine 2. The second tool transport mechanism 13 is provided so as to penetrate the right side surface 292 of the processing machine 2. The second tool transport mechanism 13 passes through an opening provided in the right side surface 292 of the processing machine 2 and protrudes to the right side of the processing machine 2.

[0075] The second tool transport mechanism 13 is provided at a position lower than the ceiling 291 of the processing machine 2. A portion of the second tool transport mechanism 13 is provided within the tool stocker 11. The right end of the second tool transport mechanism 13 is provided within the tool stocker 11. The left end of the second tool transport mechanism 13 is provided within the processing machine 2. The left end of the second tool transport mechanism 13 is provided within the transport chamber 28 of the processing machine 2. The left end of the second tool transport mechanism 13 is provided to the right of the shutter 281 that separates the processing chamber and the transport chamber. The second tool transport mechanism 13 is configured so that when the tool T is located at the tool change position P4, at least a portion of the tool T protrudes into the processing chamber 21. The second tool transport mechanism 13 is configured so that the tip end (left end) of the tool T protrudes into the processing chamber 21. The base end of the tool T is attached to the spindle 22. The tool changing position P4 may be provided in the transfer chamber 28, and when the tool T is placed at the tool changing position P4, its base end does not have to be exposed inside the machining chamber 21. For example, the tip end of the spindle 22 may enter the transfer chamber 28 to attach and detach the tool T to and from the base end of the tool T.

[0076] [Tool Changing Position] The tool changing position P4 is a position where the tool T is attached to or detached from the spindle 22. The tool changing position P4 is provided within the machining chamber 21. The tool changing position P4 is provided at a position shifted from the transfer standby position P3 in the longitudinal direction (left-right direction) of the tool T stored in the tool stocker 11. That is, the second tool transport mechanism 13 moves the tool T to the transfer standby position P3 and the tool changing position P4, which is a position shifted horizontally from the transfer standby position P3. The second tool transport mechanism 13 is configured to transport the tool T between the transfer standby position P3 and the tool changing position P4 via a transport chamber 28 formed within the processing machine 2. In other words, the second tool transport mechanism 13 is configured to be able to move the tool T back and forth between the transfer standby position P3 and the tool changing position P4.

[0077] [Control Device] A control device (not shown) controls the operations of the first tool transport mechanism 12 and the second tool transport mechanism 13. The control device may also control the operation of the processing machine 2. The control device is configured by a computer including a CPU, RAM, ROM, etc. The control device controls the operation of each component of the processing system 100 by executing a computer program stored in a recording medium.

[0078] <Operation> Next, a description will be given of the operation of the machining system 100. First, a case where the tool transport device 1 moves the tool T from the set position P1 to the stock position P2 will be described.

[0079] Referring to Fig. 4, first, the operator opens the drawer 1123 of the tool stocker 11 and places the tool T in the drawer. The operator then closes the drawer 1123 containing the tool. This places the tool T at the set position P1. The operator then operates the operation panel. A signal indicating that the tool has been stored in the drawer 1123 is input to the operation panel. The tool may be placed at the set position P1 either manually or mechanically.

[0080] Next, the control device controls the first tool transport mechanism 12 based on input from the operation panel. The first tool transport mechanism 12 moves the tool T placed at the set position P1 to the stock position P2. More specifically, the transport arm 123 of the first tool transport mechanism 12 waits at an initial position. The initial position is not particularly limited. For example, the initial position is above the transport standby position P3. Next, the transport arm 123 moves in the forward and backward directions based on instructions from the control device. The transport arm 123 stops above the set position P1. Next, the transport arm 123 descends and connects to the base placed at the set position P1. Next, the transport arm 123 rises while holding the base supporting the tool T and stops at a predetermined height. Next, the transport arm 123 moves in the forward and backward directions and up and down directions to place the base at the predetermined stock position P2. This moves the tool T from the set position P1 to the stock position P2.

[0081] Next, we will explain the case where the tool transport device 1 transfers the tool T stored in the tool stocker 11 to the spindle of the processing machine 2, i.e., moves it from the stock position P2 to the tool exchange position P4 via the transport standby position P3.

[0082] First, the operator inputs an instruction to attach the tool T to the spindle of the processing machine into the operation panel. The control device controls the first tool transport mechanism 12 based on the input from the operation panel. The first tool transport mechanism 12 moves appropriately in the vertical and longitudinal directions based on the instruction from the control device. The first tool transport mechanism 12 moves the tool T placed at the stock position P2 to the transport standby position P3.

[0083] 3 , after the tool T is placed at the transfer standby position P3, the control device controls the second tool transfer mechanism 13. The second tool transfer mechanism 13 moves left and right based on instructions from the control device. The second tool transfer mechanism 13 moves the tool T located at the transfer standby position P3 to the tool change position P4. The control device opens the shutter 281 of the transfer chamber 28 before the tool T reaches the tool change position P4.

[0084] Next, the control device controls the spindle 22 of the processing machine 2. The spindle 22 moves in the up-down, left-right, and front-rear directions as appropriate based on instructions from the control device. The spindle 22 also rotates around an axis (axis B) parallel to the front-rear direction as appropriate based on instructions from the control device. The spindle 22 holds a tool located at tool change position P4 based on instructions from the control device.

[0085] By operating the machining system 100 in this manner, the tool T stored in the tool stocker 11 is attached to the spindle 22. When the tool T attached to the spindle 22 is removed and stored in the tool stocker 11, the operations described above are reversed.

[0086] As described above, in the tool transportation device 1 of this embodiment, the tool stocker 11 for storing tools T is provided outside the processing machine 2. Therefore, the tool stocker 11 can store a larger number of tools T of various sizes and shapes than a tool stocker provided inside the processing machine. Furthermore, in the tool transportation device 1, the transport mechanisms for transferring tools T to the spindle 22 of the processing machine 2 are consolidated into a single transport mechanism, the second tool transportation mechanism 13. Therefore, the tool transportation device 1 can increase the number of tools T (long tools) that can be stored and transport long tools with a simple structure.

[0087] Furthermore, in the tool transport device 1, the multiple claws 1232 of the first tool transport mechanism 12 are connected by the locking mechanism 15 so as to be inserted into the base 14 from above. The multiple claws 1232 are released from the base 14 by being pulled out upward by the locking mechanism 15. With this configuration, compared to a configuration in which the base is clamped by hands with claws configured to move close to and away from each other, it is possible to minimize and / or substantially eliminate gaps between the bases 14 through which the claws can enter. Therefore, the tool transport device 1 makes maximum effective use of the space in the tool stocker 11.

[0088] Furthermore, in the tool transportation device 1, the first tool transportation mechanism 12 and the second tool transportation mechanism 13 involved in the transportation of the tools T are fixed to the processing machine 2, not to the tool stocker 11. This makes it easy to adjust the positions of each device of the processing machine 2 and the first and second tool transportation mechanisms 12, 13. Therefore, with the tool transportation device 1, it is easy to add the tool stocker 11 as an optional function.

[0089] The above-described embodiments are illustrative in all respects and are not limiting. Modifications and variations are possible for those skilled in the art. The scope of the present invention is defined not by the above-described embodiments but by the claims. Furthermore, the scope of the present invention includes modifications from the embodiments within the scope of the claims and their equivalents.

[0090] For example, in the above embodiment, the first tool transport mechanism 12 moves a tool provided at the set position P1. However, the set position P1 does not have to be provided in the tool transport device 1. In this case, the second tool transport mechanism 13 and the first tool transport mechanism 12 may move a tool attached to the spindle 22 of the processing machine 2 to the tool stocker 11 and place it at a stock position.

[0091] In the above embodiment, the transfer standby position P3 is provided in the tool stocker 11. However, the transfer standby position P3 may be provided in the transfer chamber 28 formed in the processing machine 2. In this case, the first tool transfer mechanism 12 moves the tool placed at the stock position P2 in the tool stocker 11 to the transfer standby position P3 in the transfer chamber 28 of the processing machine 2. The same applies to the tool change position P4. That is, in the above embodiment, the tool change position P4 is provided in the machining chamber 21. However, the tool change position P4 may be provided in the transfer chamber 28. In this case, the transfer chamber 28 is configured so that at least a portion of the spindle 22 can enter the transfer chamber 28. The tool T is attached to and detached from the spindle 22 in the transfer chamber 28.

[0092] In the above embodiment, the locking mechanism 15 connects the first tool transport mechanism 12 and the base 14. However, the connection between the first tool transport mechanism 12 and the base 14 is not limited to the locking mechanism 15. The first tool transport mechanism 12 and the base 14 may be connected by, for example, a hand having claws that can move toward and away from each other. Furthermore, the first tool transport mechanism 12 may directly grip a tool.

[0093] 100: Machining system 1: Tool transport device 2: Processing machine 11: Tool stocker 111: Support leg 112: Tool storage case 12: First tool transport mechanism 121: Front-rear movement mechanism 122: Up-down movement mechanism 123: Transport arm 13: Second tool transport mechanism 131: Transport table 132: Left-right movement mechanism 14: Base 15: Locking mechanism 151: Recess 152: Convex 21: Machining chamber 22: Spindle 23: Auxiliary workpiece spindle 24: Auxiliary workpiece spindle 25: Standard tool magazine 26: Standard tool changer 27: Machining chip transport device 28: Transport chamber 291: Ceiling of processing machine 292: Right side of processing machine 293: Fixing part P1: Set position P2: Stock position P3: Transfer standby position P4: Tool change position T: Tool (long tool)

Claims

1. A tool transfer device used in a processing machine including a processing chamber for processing a workpiece and a main shaft provided in the processing chamber for detachably holding a tool, the tool transfer device comprising: a tool stocker provided beside the processing machine for storing a plurality of tools side by side in a mounted state; a first tool transfer mechanism for moving a tool to a plurality of stock positions on which each of the tools stored in the tool stocker is mounted and a transfer standby position on which the tool to be attached to and detached from the main shaft is mounted; and a second tool transfer mechanism for moving a tool to a tool exchange position which is a position horizontally shifted with respect to the transfer standby position and at which the tool is delivered to the main shaft, wherein the second tool transfer mechanism is configured to transfer the tool between the transfer standby position and the tool exchange position via a transfer chamber formed in the processing machine, and the first tool transfer mechanism is a tool transfer device for moving a tool to the transfer standby position shifted in the front-rear direction of the processing machine from each of the plurality of stock positions and the plurality of stock positions.

2. The tool transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the tool stocker stores the plurality of tools side by side in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction thereof.

3. The tool transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the tool stocker stores the plurality of tools side by side in the front-rear direction of the processing machine such that the longitudinal direction of each tool is parallel to the left-right direction of the processing machine.

4. The tool transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the first tool transfer mechanism is a tool transfer device for moving a tool to the transfer standby position shifted in the direction in which the tools stored in the tool stocker are aligned from each of the plurality of stock positions and the plurality of stock positions.

5. The tool transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the second tool transfer mechanism is a tool transfer device for moving a tool to the tool exchange position shifted in the longitudinal direction of the tool stored in the tool stocker from the transfer standby position and the transfer standby position.

6. The tool transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the second tool transfer mechanism is a tool transfer device for moving a tool to the tool exchange position shifted in the left-right direction of the processing machine from the transfer standby position and the transfer standby position.

7. The tool transfer device according to claim 1, wherein a direction in which the first tool transfer mechanism moves the tool intersects a direction in which the second tool transfer mechanism moves the tool.

8. The tool transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the first tool transfer mechanism and the second tool transfer mechanism are provided at a position lower than the ceiling of the processing machine.

9. The tool transfer device according to claim 1, further comprising: a plurality of bases on which the plurality of tools are respectively placed; and a locking mechanism that detachably connects each of the plurality of bases to the first tool transfer mechanism.

10. The tool transfer device according to claim 1, further comprising a plurality of bases on which the plurality of tools are respectively placed, wherein the first tool transfer mechanism is connected to the base from a side where the tool is placed on the base and moves the tool by moving the base.

11. The tool transfer device according to claim 1, further comprising a plurality of bases on which the plurality of tools are respectively placed, wherein the second tool transfer mechanism is connected to the base from the opposite side of the side where the tool is placed on the base and moves the tool by moving the base.

12. The tool transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the first tool transfer mechanism moves the tool to a set position for loading and unloading the tool into and from the tool stocker in addition to the stock position and the transfer standby position.

13. The tool transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the processing machine includes a first fixing portion for fixing the first tool transfer mechanism and a second fixing portion for fixing the second tool transfer mechanism, and by fixing the first tool transfer mechanism and the second tool transfer mechanism to the processing machine by the first fixing portion and the second fixing portion, the processing machine, the first tool transfer mechanism, and the second tool transfer mechanism are configured to be separable from the tool stocker.

14. The tool transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the tool stocker is provided so as to be adjacent to a side surface of the processing machine, and when the processing machine is divided vertically at the center of its height, in a side view, the area where the tool stocker overlaps with the upper part of the processing machine is larger than the area where the tool stocker overlaps with the lower part of the processing machine.

15. The tool transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the tool stocker includes a tool storage housing that houses the plurality of tools, and support legs that support the tool storage housing, and the support legs are configured to form a space under the tool storage housing.

16. The tool transfer device according to claim 15, wherein the processing machine further includes a machining waste transfer device that transfers machining waste generated by machining the workpiece, and the machining waste transfer device is provided in a space under the tool storage housing and includes a discharge portion that discharges the machining waste from the processing machine.

17. The tool transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of stock positions are provided side by side in the front-rear direction of the processing machine, and the front-rear distance between the foremost stock position and the rearmost stock position is longer than the front-rear distance of the processing chamber.

18. The tool transfer device according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of stock positions are provided side by side in the front-rear direction of the processing machine, and the transfer standby position is provided in front of at least one stock position and behind at least one stock position.

19. A processing system including the tool transfer device according to any one of claims 1 to 18 and the processing machine.

Images