Method for filling a machine tool, liquid tank, machining system, control device and computer program product

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for filling a machine tool (200) with an operating liquid. The machine tool (200) comprises a numerical control device (260) and at least one actuator that can be controlled by the control device (260). The method comprises providing a liquid tank (100), that comprises a liquid store (110), which is at least partially filled with the operating liquid, and an outlet (120) for discharging operating liquid from the liquid store (110), introducing the provided liquid tank (100) into a working chamber (220) of the machine tool (200), and transferring at least part of the operating liquid, preferably all of the operating liquid, from the liquid store (110) of the liquid tank (100) introduced into the working chamber (220) through the outlet (120) thereof into the working chamber (220) of the machine tool (200) by means of the at least one actuator of the machine tool (200).

Description

Method for filling a machine tool, liquid tank, machining system, control device and computer program product DESCRIPTION Technical area

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for filling a machine tool, a liquid tank, a machining system and a computer program Background of the invention

[0002] Numerically controlled machine tools are known from the field of automated production and are used for the partially or fully automated machining of workpieces.

[0003] In such workpiece machining, a machining fluid is usually used, which is fed into the working space of the machine tool in which the workpiece machining takes place during the workpiece machining.

[0004] Typically, these machining fluids are so-called cooling lubricants (CL for short), which are used to improve machining of workpieces, particularly with regard to tool wear and machining quality. These cooling lubricants are generally oil-water emulsions that are applied to a machining area, i.e., the area where a tool removes material from a workpiece.

[0005] The use of the machining fluid reduces the friction between the workpiece and the tool and removes the heat that inevitably arises during workpiece machining from the machining area.

[0006] The machining fluid thus serves to cool the tool or workpiece and reduce tool wear. Furthermore, the machining fluid can be used in some machining processes to remove the generated chips by flushing them from the machining area. Furthermore, the machining fluid can have corrosion-inhibiting properties, thereby protecting the tool and / or workpiece from corrosion during or after machining.

[0007] The machining fluid is not self-sustaining with respect to the machine tool, but can be consumed during operation or removed from the machine tool be removed, for example by evaporating the machining fluid or by removing it together with material chips.

[0008] As a result, there may be an undersupply or even a failure of the supply of machining fluid to the machining area, which in turn may lead to a deterioration in machining quality or even damage to the tool and / or the workpiece.

[0009] Furthermore, the concentration of the lubricating components, such as oil, in the coolant can also change, as, for example, only the water in the coolant evaporates, while the oil remains in the machine tool. Although this does not necessarily lead to the aforementioned undersupply, it can change the machining conditions, which in turn can affect the production result.

[0010] In this respect, it should be ensured that the machine tool always has sufficient and consistently composed machining fluid in order to prevent damage to the tool or workpiece and to achieve consistent machining quality.

[0011] In the current state of the art, the machine tool is supplied with or filled with machining fluid via permanently installed lines in the production hall, which are connected to the respective machine tools. In the event of a low fluid level, water or coolant, for example, is supplied to the machine tool via these lines.

[0012] Such an approach requires a corresponding cooling lubricant pipeline network, which must first be laboriously installed in the production hall or machine park. Furthermore, the integration of new machine tools or the relocation of existing machine tools inevitably requires an expansion or adaptation of the pipeline network. Summary

[0013] An object of the present invention is therefore to provide a more flexible and individually adaptable possibility for supplying machine tools with an operating fluid.

[0014] To achieve this object, the method according to claim 1, the liquid tank according to claim 14, the processing system according to claim 26 and the computer program product according to claim 27 are provided.

[0015] The respective dependent claims relate to preferred embodiments, which can be provided individually or in combination.

[0016] According to a first aspect of the invention, a method for filling a machine tool with an operating fluid is provided. The machine tool comprises a numerical control device and at least one actuator controllable by the control device. The method comprises providing a fluid tank comprising a fluid reservoir that is at least partially filled with the operating fluid and an outlet for draining operating fluid from the fluid reservoir, introducing the provided fluid tank into a working space of the machine tool, and transferring at least a portion of the operating fluid, preferably all of the operating fluid, from the fluid reservoir of the fluid tank introduced into the working space through its outlet into the working space of the machine tool by means of the at least one actuator of the machine tool.

[0017] In this way, a method for supplying the machine tool with an operating fluid is provided, in which the machine tool itself (and without manual intervention by a machine operator) can increase its operating fluid level as needed by using its actuator, which is controlled accordingly by the control device.

[0018] The operating fluid is transferred from the fluid tank into the working chamber of the machine tool, through which it enters, for example, a machining fluid system of the machine tool

[0019] This approach makes it possible to completely dispense with the state-of-the-art cooling lubricant line network and also to flexibly position machine tools in the machine park without losing the possibility of at least partially automated supply of operating fluid.

[0020] Preferably, the liquid tank is introduced via a handling device (for example the machine tool itself or an external handling device) so that the entire filling process can be fully automated and without any intervention from the machine operator.

[0021] The use of the at least one controllable actuator of the machine tool for transferring the operating fluid preferably comprises controlling the at least one actuator by the control device, by means of which the at least one actuator is moved (in particular translationally and / or rotationally) and thereby influences the introduced fluid tank via an actuator interface of the fluid tank in order to effect the transfer.

[0022] The movement of the at least one actuator takes place in particular relative to the work space, i.e. it is a translational and / or rotational movement in a reference system fixed to the work space.

[0023] By moving the at least one actuator, the liquid tank itself or at least a part of the liquid tank is preferably moved by the at least one actuator, in particular relative to the working space. As part of the liquid tank, for example, an actuating mechanism (as an actuator interface) of a closure device of the liquid tank can be moved to actuate it, so that the closure device is moved from a position closing the outlet to a position releasing the outlet.

[0024] For example, the liquid tank can be tilted relative to the working chamber in order to empty the operating fluid contained therein from the liquid reservoir through the outlet into the working chamber or, for example, said actuating mechanism of the closure device can be moved by the at least one actuator and thus actuated, whereby the closure device is moved from a position closing the outlet to a position releasing the outlet, so that the operating fluid is emptied from the liquid reservoir into the working chamber.

[0025] The two processes can also be combined, for example by using another controllable actuator of the machine tool to accelerate emptying through the released outlet by tilting.

[0026] Alternatively, the actuator can preferably comprise a tool, wherein the transfer of at least a portion of the operating fluid comprises the tool's removal or machining of an opening in a closure closing the outlet. By way of example and in simplified terms, the fluid tank can be drilled with the tool.

[0027] The term "relative to the workspace" in relation to movements is to be understood as meaning that these are movements in a reference system fixed to the workspace, in which the moving component changes its position and / or its orientation in said reference system. Since the workspace is usually defined by a machine bed of the machine tool, the reference system fixed to the workspace is preferably a machine bed-fixed reference system, so that "relative to the workspace" would be synonymous with "relative to the machine bed".

[0028] Alternatively, the said actuator of the machine tool can also be a signal transmission device which can be coupled to an electrically switchable closure unit of a closure device of the liquid tank (as actuator interface of the liquid tank), wherein as a result of transmitting a first signal of the Signal transmission device to the electrically switchable closure unit, the electrically switchable closure unit opens the outlet and further preferably closes the outlet again as a result of a transmission of a second signal from the signal transmission device to the electrically switchable closure unit.

[0029] In this case, the locking device preferably has an electronic energy storage device to supply the said electrically switchable locking unit

[0030] The operating fluid in question can be any fluid used for the operation of the machine tool in the work area. The fluid tank can be filled with a ready-mixed machining fluid (e.g., a coolant), with one or more individual components of the machining fluid (e.g., water or lubricant), or with additives that are not yet contained in the machining fluid in the machine tool.

[0031] The working space of the machine tool is to be understood as the space or area in which the machining of a workpiece introduced into the working space takes place by a tool operated by the machine tool

[0032] Typically, a machining device of the machine tool and a workpiece carrier or a workpiece pallet carrier of the machine tool are arranged in the workspace, which can be positioned relative to each other via numerically controllable axes. The workspace is preferably at least partially enclosed from the surroundings of the machine tool by means of an enclosure.

[0033] The machining device is designed to receive and operate a tool that can be used to machine a workpiece and can preferably be moved in the work area via a plurality of controllable axes, linear and / or rotary axes, in order to align a received tool with respect to a received workpiece, wherein the workpiece can either be received directly by a workpiece carrier or can be fastened to a workpiece pallet, which in turn can be received by the workpiece pallet carrier.

[0034] In a preferred embodiment, the liquid tank comprises a Closing device that allows the outlet to be opened and closed.

[0035] The version with locking device allows transport of the Fluid tanks with reduced risk of leakage of operating fluid, especially compared to a design with an unsealed outlet.

[0036] In a preferred embodiment, the transfer of at least a portion of the operating fluid from the fluid reservoir of the fluid introduced into the working space comprises Liquid tanks into the working space in turn cause the liquid tank introduced into the working space to rotate relative to the working space.

[0037] The rotation can be a change in orientation, i.e. a transfer from a first stationary angular position to a second stationary angular position, or it can be a continuous rotation with an angular velocity other than zero.

[0038] For example, in the simplest case, the contents of a liquid tank with an unsealed outlet can be emptied by turning or tilting, as a result of which the outlet is tilted or tilted from top to bottom, for example with respect to the Earth's gravitational field.

[0039] In a preferred embodiment, the closure device comprises a valve unit by means of which the outlet can be closed and which is configured to release the outlet for the operating fluid (i.e., to open the outlet) as a result of rotation of the fluid tank relative to an inertial system.

[0040] For example, the valve unit can be a gravity or centrifugal valve.

[0041] The inertial system refers to the earth-fixed reference system with respect to which the earth's gravitational field, i.e. the earth's gravitational force, is defined.

[0042] The closure device preferably comprises an electrically switchable closure unit configured to open the outlet upon receiving a first signal and, more preferably, to close the outlet upon receiving a second signal. Transferring at least a portion of the operating fluid from the fluid reservoir of the fluid tank introduced into the working chamber into the working chamber in turn comprises sending the first signal to the electrically switchable closure unit of the closure device. The electrically switchable closure unit typically comprises an electric drive powered by an electronic energy storage device of the closure device.

[0043] In a preferred embodiment, the closure device comprises an actuating mechanism, upon actuation of which the closure device opens the outlet for the operating fluid, and the transfer of at least part of the operating fluid from the fluid reservoir of the fluid tank introduced into the working space into the working space in turn comprises actuating the actuating mechanism of the closure device of the fluid tank introduced into the working space by means of the at least one actuator, in particular comprising a movement relative to the working space and / or driving the at least one actuator, for example driving a work spindle.

[0044] The actuation of the actuating mechanism is preferably carried out mechanically, i.e. via a mechanical contact, and can be carried out directly or indirectly by the at least one actuator.

[0045] In the case of direct actuation, as already explained above, the actuator can move the actuating mechanism itself, in particular relative to the fluid reservoir. In other words, the fluid reservoir remains stationary in the working chamber, and the at least one actuator merely moves the actuating mechanism.

[0046] In the case of indirect actuation, the at least one actuator can move the entire liquid tank in such a way that the actuating mechanism interacts with an actuating element of the working chamber, for example, a projection or the like, and is thereby actuated. This can be achieved by rotation or translational movement by means of the at least one actuator.

[0047] In a preferred embodiment, the transfer of at least a portion of the operating fluid from the fluid reservoir of the fluid tank introduced into the working space into the working space in turn comprises rotating the fluid tank introduced into the working space relative to the working space by means of the at least one actuator or by means of a further actuator of the machine tool that can be controlled by the control device.

[0048] In the first alternative, for example, in an embodiment with a closure device, this can be opened indirectly by the at least one actuator through rotation, wherein the associated change in orientation preferably simultaneously accelerates emptying or ensures that no residues remain in the liquid reservoir.

[0049] In the second alternative, for example, in an embodiment with a closure device, this can be opened by the at least one actuator and the entire liquid tank can be rotated by the further actuator in order to preferably accelerate emptying by changing the orientation or to ensure that no residues remain in the liquid reservoir.

[0050] In a preferred embodiment, the introduction of the provided liquid tank into the working space in turn comprises a movement of the provided liquid tank into the working space of the machine tool by means of a handling device which is designed to exchange a tool or a workpiece or a workpiece pallet on the machine tool.

[0051] The handling device can, for example, be a handling device of the machine tool or an external handling device.

[0052] Preferably, the handling device is a tool changing device of the machine tool or a workpiece changing device of the machine tool or a workpiece pallet changing device of the machine tool or a driverless transport device (as an external handling device) that is movable relative to the machine tool. Preferably, the handling device can also be a robot, in particular a robot arm, which can be designed as a handling device of the machine tool or as an external handling device.

[0053] In this way, the liquid tank can be introduced automatically using handling devices that are usually already present on the machine tool or external handling devices for use on the machine tool.

[0054] Said workpiece changing device or workpiece pallet changing device (also called pallet changer) is preferably designed to change a workpiece or a workpiece pallet with a workpiece clamped thereon into the work area for subsequent machining, in particular to insert it into a holder of a workpiece carrier of the machine tool or a workpiece pallet carrier of the machine tool in the work area.

[0055] Said tool changing device is preferably designed to exchange a tool for machining a workpiece into a machining device of the machine tool, in particular into a holder of a work spindle of the machining device.

[0056] Said driverless transport device preferably comprises a driverless transport vehicle that can be moved autonomously relative to the machine tool.

[0057] Said robot is preferably designed as a controllable robot arm with a plurality of arm segments that are motor-driven relative to one another. The robot arm preferably comprises an end effector configured to handle the liquid tank, particularly in the form of a gripping device.

[0058] In a preferred embodiment, the introduction of the provided liquid tank into the working space in turn comprises inserting the liquid tank moved into the working space into a receiving device of the machine tool by means of the handling device, wherein the receiving device of the machine tool is designed to receive, in particular to fix, a tool or a workpiece or a workpiece pallet.

[0059] In this way, the fluid tank can be fixed in a holding device that is usually already present on the machine tool in order to facilitate the subsequent transfer of the operating fluid into the working area, especially in the case where the fluid tank itself is to be moved.

[0060] The receiving device is preferably a receptacle for a machining device of the machine tool, or a receptacle for a workpiece carrier of the machine tool, or a workpiece pallet carrier of the machine tool. The machining device preferably comprises a work spindle, and the receiving device can be a receptacle for the work spindle.

[0061] This means that existing interfaces on the machine tools can be used to insert the liquid tank, as the liquid tank has the appropriate mounting interface for the interface. This means that no further interface pairings need to be provided, but existing concepts can be used.

[0062] In an alternative embodiment to the method with insertion, the transfer of at least a part of the operating fluid takes place while the fluid tank introduced into the working space by the method is accommodated in a receiving location of the handling device

[0063] In this case, the liquid tank is merely moved into the working space, but remains in a receiving location of the handling device while the transfer is carried out by means of the at least one actuator. For example, an actuating mechanism of a closure device of a liquid tank held by the handling device in the receiving location can be actuated by the at least one actuator.

[0064] This means that the liquid tank remains in the handling device, which makes it easier to insert the liquid tank and does not require any prior clearance of a holding device.

[0065] In a preferred embodiment, the provision of the liquid tank in turn comprises providing the liquid tank in a storage location of the machine tool, which is preferably a magazine location of a tool magazine of the machine tool or a storage location of a workpiece pallet storage of the machine tool or a setup location of the machine tool. The introduction of the provided liquid tank into the work space further comprises removing the provided liquid tank from the storage location of the machine tool, in particular by means of the handling device, for example the workpiece changing device, the workpiece pallet changing device or the tool changing device.

[0066] In this way, the fluid tank can be provided or stored near the machine tool or near the work area and can be quickly brought into the work area when needed to fill the machine tool with operating fluid.

[0067] This reduces downtime during the filling process and also typically uses existing components of the machine tool to store the liquid tank.

[0068] In a preferred embodiment, the provision of the liquid tank in turn comprises providing the liquid tank in a receiving space of a driverless transport device which is movable relative to the machine tool, and the introduction of the provided liquid tank into the work space further comprises moving the driverless transport device with the liquid tank received in the receiving space to the machine tool.

[0069] In this way, the fluid tank can be provided externally so as not to block potentially limited storage space on the machine tool, but rather to have the fluid tank delivered by the driverless transport device only when needed.

[0070] In a preferred embodiment, the at least one actuator of the machine tool is one of the following actuators: a machining device of the machine tool that is movable relative to the working space of the machine tool and in particular comprises a work spindle, or a workpiece carrier or workpiece pallet carrier that is movable relative to the working space of the machine tool, in particular a machine table of the machine tool; or a controllable axis, in particular a linear or rotary axis, of the protruding machining unit or of the protruding workpiece carrier or of the workpiece pallet carrier.

[0071] According to a second aspect of the invention, a fluid tank is provided for use in a method for filling a machine tool with an operating fluid, in particular in a method according to the first aspect or one of its preferred embodiments. The machine tool comprises a working chamber, at least one actuator, and a control device configured to control the at least one actuator.The liquid tank comprises a liquid reservoir which can be filled with the operating liquid, an outlet for discharging operating liquid from the liquid reservoir, and at least one actuator interface which is adapted to the at least one actuator of the machine tool, wherein the liquid tank is designed to be brought into interaction with the at least one actuator of the machine tool via the at least one actuator interface in such a way that, by means of the at least one actuator, an operating liquid contained in the liquid reservoir can be discharged through the outlet into an environment of the liquid tank.

[0072] In this way, a fluid tank is provided through which the machine tool itself (and without manual intervention by a machine operator) can increase its operating fluid level as needed by using its actuator, which is controlled accordingly by the control device.

[0073] The liquid tank is therefore suitable for use in the process according to the invention and brings with it the respective advantages in an analogous manner.

[0074] The advantageous embodiments described in the course of the description of the method with regard to the liquid tank also apply here, so that any duplicate descriptions are omitted at this point.

[0075] One actuator interface can, for example, be a mounting interface adapted to a mounting device of the machine tool and via which the fluid tank can preferably be moved within the work area (translationally and / or rotationally). Furthermore, it can, for example, be a closure device for the outlet (or a part thereof), which can be actuated via the at least one actuator to open the outlet.

[0076] In a preferred embodiment, the liquid tank comprises a fastening interface which is adapted to a receiving device of the machine tool, wherein the receiving device of the machine tool is designed to receive, in particular to fix, a tool or a workpiece or a workpiece pallet.

[0077] The receiving device is preferably a receptacle for a machining device of the machine tool, or a receptacle for a workpiece carrier of the machine tool, or a workpiece pallet carrier of the machine tool. The machining device preferably comprises a work spindle, and the receiving device can be a receptacle for the work spindle.

[0078] The machining device of the machine tool, which in particular comprises a work spindle, preferably comprises one or more controllable axes, linear and / or rotary axes, via which its holder can be moved relative to the work space. In the case of a work spindle, at least one of said controllable axes is the spindle axis for rotationally driving the holder of the work spindle.

[0079] The workpiece carrier and / or the workpiece pallet carrier, which may be, for example, a machine table of the machine tool, preferably comprises one or more controllable axes, linear and / or rotary axes, via which its holder can be moved relative to the work area. Particularly preferably, it is a swivel rotary table, which may have two non-parallel rotary axes.

[0080] A workpiece pallet is to be understood in particular as a workpiece pallet used in mass production, which usually functions as a universal interface on which a large number of differently shaped workpieces can be fastened or clamped and which comprises a standardised fastening interface that is compatible with a large number of holding devices, each of which has a fastening interface adapted to the fastening interface. Recording interfaces include, for example, recordings of a machine table of a machine tool, a storage space of a pallet storage, etc.

[0081] The mass of such an empty workpiece pallet, i.e., without a secured workpiece, can be at least 15 kg. The mass is preferably between 15 and 5000 kg, and particularly preferably between 100 and 1500 kg. Such masses arise because machining operations using a machine tool typically involve high forces (weight forces with heavy workpieces, machining forces, etc.), which the workpiece pallet must also be able to withstand.

[0082] In a preferred embodiment, the liquid tank comprises a support device to which the liquid reservoir is fastened, in particular in such a way that the fastening can be removed without destruction, wherein the fastening interface is designed as part of the support device.

[0083] This makes it possible to provide a standardized support device on which, for example, differently dimensioned or geometrically designed fluid reservoirs can be mounted. Existing mounting interfaces on machine tools for workpieces, workpiece pallets, or tool holders can be used, as the fluid tank has the appropriate mounting interface. This eliminates the need for additional interface pairings; existing concepts can be used instead.

[0084] In a preferred embodiment, the carrier device is a workpiece pallet in which the fastening interface, which is preferably standardized, is in particular compatible with a plurality of receiving devices, each of which comprises a receiving interface adapted to the fastening interface.

[0085] In a further preferred embodiment, the carrier device is a tool adapter, in particular a tool adapter in the form of a hollow shank taper (HSK), a Morse taper (MK) or a steep taper (SK).

[0086] This means that the liquid tank can essentially be viewed as a type of tool or workpiece pallet and can be accommodated in the corresponding holders without having to adjust them.

[0087] Preferably, the fastening interface described above is the at least one actuator interface via which the actuator, which in this case has the receiving device, can effect the discharge, for example by rotating the actuator in the working space.

[0088] In a preferred embodiment, the liquid tank comprises a closure device by means of which the outlet can be opened and closed.

[0089] In a preferred embodiment, the closure device comprises a valve unit by means of which the outlet can be closed and which is configured to release the outlet for the operating fluid as a result of rotation of the fluid tank relative to an inertial system.

[0090] In a preferred embodiment, the valve unit comprises a centrifugal valve which is configured to automatically release the outlet when a predetermined rotational speed of the liquid tank relative to the inertial system is reached.

[0091] Alternatively, the valve unit comprises a gravity valve which is configured to automatically release the outlet when a predetermined orientation of the liquid tank relative to the inertial system is reached.

[0092] The first of the above embodiments is particularly suitable for a design with a mounting interface adapted to a work spindle. This allows the fluid tank to be accommodated by the work spindle and driven in rotation. Upon reaching a speed or angular velocity specified by the centrifugal valve, the valve opens the outlet and the operating fluid is drained away.

[0093] This design of liquid tanks is preferably used for smaller quantities of operating fluid, for example oils, lubricants or additives.

[0094] The second of the above designs, however, is particularly suitable for a design with a mounting interface adapted to a workpiece or workpiece pallet carrier. For example, the fluid tank can be accommodated in the holder of a machine table and tilted over it. Upon reaching an orientation specified by the gravity valve, the valve opens the outlet, and the operating fluid is drained away.

[0095] This design of liquid tanks is preferably used for larger quantities of operating fluid, for example water or ready-mixed processing fluid.

[0096] The closure device preferably comprises an electrically switchable closure unit configured to open the outlet upon receiving a first signal and, more preferably, to close the outlet upon receiving a second signal. The electrically switchable closure unit typically comprises an electric drive powered by an electronic energy storage device of the closure device. The electrically switchable closure unit is the at least one actuator interface, and the at least one actuator of the machine tool would be a signal transmission device adapted thereto.

[0097] This eliminates the need for mechanical interaction with the fluid tank to drain the operating fluid.

[0098] The signal transmission to the locking unit is preferably wireless.

[0099] In a preferred embodiment, the closure device comprises an actuating mechanism, upon actuation of which the closure device opens the outlet for the operating fluid, wherein the actuating mechanism is preferably the at least one actuator interface

[0100] In an embodiment falling under this embodiment, the liquid tank provided by the invention would correspond to a liquid tank for use in a method for filling a machine tool with an operating fluid, wherein the machine tool comprises a working chamber, at least one actuator and a control device configured to control the at least one actuator, and wherein the liquid tank comprises a liquid reservoir that can be filled with the operating fluid, an outlet for discharging operating fluid from the liquid reservoir, and a closure device via which the outlet can be opened and closed, wherein the closure device comprises an actuating mechanism that can be actuated by the at least one actuator of the machine tool, upon actuation of which the closure device opens the outlet for the operating fluid,so that, through interaction of the at least one actuator of the machine tool with the actuating mechanism, a discharge of an operating fluid contained in the fluid reservoir through the outlet into an environment of the fluid tank can be effected.

[0101] The actuation of the actuating mechanism is preferably carried out mechanically, i.e. via a mechanical contact, and can, as described above, be carried out directly or indirectly by the at least one actuator, wherein the actuating mechanism is actuated in particular by a movement of the at least one actuator relative to the working space and / or by driving the at least one actuator, for example driving a work spindle.

[0102] Alternatively, the actuating mechanism can also be designed magnetically so that it can be actuated via interaction with a magnet.

[0103] In a preferred embodiment, the actuating mechanism is designed as a lever or sliding mechanism, such that the outlet is closed by the closure device in a first position of the lever or sliding mechanism and is opened in a second position of the lever or sliding mechanism.

[0104] In an alternative embodiment, the actuating mechanism is designed as a rotary mechanism with an input shaft, such that the closure device closes the outlet as a result of a rotation of the input shaft relative to the Liquid reservoir opens in a first rotational direction, which preferably requires several revolutions of the input shaft

[0105] The input shaft should preferably be adapted to the work spindle mount so that the work spindle mount can dock onto the input shaft to transmit torque.

[0106] Alternatively, an actuating tool which can be accommodated by the work spindle can be provided for the liquid tank, which acts as an interface between the holder of the work spindle and the input shaft and for this purpose comprises a fastening interface adapted to the holder of the work spindle, for example in the form of a hollow shank taper [HSK], a Morse taper [MK] or a steep taper [SK], as well as a transmission interface adapted to the input shaft, wherein a torque is transmitted from the fastening interface to the transmission interface by means of the actuating tool.

[0107] Preferably, said actuating tool comprises a torque limiter to limit the torque transmitted to the transmission interface in order to prevent the risk of damage to the actuating mechanism.

[0108] In a preferred embodiment, the liquid tank comprises a dosing device, wherein the dosing device is associated with the outlet and is configured to control and / or limit a flow rate of operating liquid flowing through the outlet.

[0109] In this way, a controlled release of the operating fluid can be implemented, for example to avoid exceeding the maximum fill level of the machine tool.

[0110] Preferably, the dosing device is electronically controllable and can preferably be coupled to the control device of the machine tool for control purposes.

[0111] In a preferred embodiment, the liquid tank comprises a flow measuring device, wherein the flow measuring device is associated with the outlet and is configured to measure a flow rate and / or a flow quantity of operating liquid flowing through the outlet.

[0112] In this way, for example, after filling the machine tool, it is possible to track how much operating fluid was transferred or how quickly the filling process took place. Furthermore, when a flow rate of zero is reached, it can be determined that the filling process is complete or the fluid tank is empty.

[0113] Preferably, the flow measuring device can be coupled to the control device of the machine tool for transmitting information about the measured variables. Further preferred the control device is designed to control the at least one actuator of the machine tool as a function of the variable measured by the flow measuring device.

[0114] In a preferred embodiment, the liquid tank comprises a fill level measuring device by means of which a fill level of operating liquid in the liquid reservoir can be measured.

[0115] In this way, for example, the completion of the filling process can be determined or filling of the liquid tank can be initiated if the fill level is too low.

[0116] Preferably, the level measuring device can be coupled to the control device of the machine tool and / or to a central control system of a workshop in which the machine tool is installed in order to transmit information about the measured quantity.

[0117] According to a third aspect of the invention, a machining system is provided which comprises a machine tool comprising a work space, at least one actuator and a control device configured to control the at least one actuator, and a liquid tank according to the first aspect (or one of its preferred embodiments). The at least one actuator interface of the liquid tank is adapted to the at least one actuator of the machine tool in such a way that, by means of the at least one actuator, a discharge of an operating liquid contained in the liquid reservoir through the outlet into an environment of the liquid tank can be effected via interaction with the actuator interface.In the event that the liquid tank is introduced into the working space of the machine tool and the liquid reservoir is at least partially filled with an operating liquid, the control device of the machine tool is configured to control the at least one actuator of the machine tool in such a way that, by interacting with the actuator interface, the actuator causes the operating liquid in the liquid reservoir to be discharged through the outlet into the working space in order to transfer at least part of the operating liquid from the liquid reservoir into the working space of the machine tool.

[0118] In this way, a machining system is provided which can implement the method according to the invention for filling the machine tool, with all the advantages already described.

[0119] Preferably, the machine tool comprises a machining device, which in particular comprises a work spindle. Preferably, the machining device can be controlled by the control device and can be moved relative to the working space of the machine tool.

[0120] The machine tool preferably comprises a workpiece carrier or a workpiece pallet carrier. These are preferably each controllable by the control device and movable relative to the work area of ​​the machine tool.

[0121] Preferably, the at least one actuator is movable relative to the working space, translationally and / or rotationally.

[0122] Preferably, the at least one actuator of the machine tool is a machining device which is movable relative to the working space of the machine tool and which in particular comprises a work spindle, a workpiece carrier or workpiece pallet carrier which is movable relative to the working space of the machine tool, in particular a machine table of the machine tool, or a controllable axis, in particular a linear or rotary axis, of the above machining device or of the above workpiece carrier or of the workpiece pallet carrier.

[0123] The machine tool preferably comprises a plurality of actuators which can be controlled by the control device and which can be one, a plurality of or all of the following actuators: a machining device which can be moved relative to the work space and which in particular comprises a work spindle, a workpiece carrier or workpiece pallet carrier which can be moved relative to the work space of the machine tool, in particular a machine table of the machine tool, a controllable axis, in particular a linear or rotary axis, preferably an axis of the above machining device or of the above workpiece carrier or of the workpiece pallet carrier.

[0124] The machine tool preferably comprises one or more receiving devices for receiving, in particular for securing, a tool or a workpiece or a workpiece pallet. This can be a receiving device for a machining device of the machine tool or a receiving device for a workpiece carrier of the machine tool or a workpiece pallet carrier of the machine tool. The machine tool preferably comprises at least one receiving device for receiving a tool and a receiving device for receiving a workpiece pallet.

[0125] Preferably, the machine tool comprises a tool magazine with a plurality of magazine locations, wherein the liquid tank can be accommodated in one of the magazine locations

[0126] Preferably, the machine tool comprises a workpiece pallet storage with a plurality of storage locations, wherein the liquid tank can be accommodated in one of the storage locations

[0127] Preferably, the machine tool comprises a setup station in which the liquid tank can be accommodated.

[0128] Preferably, the machine tool comprises one or more handling devices, which may be a tool changing device or a workpiece changing device or a workpiece pallet changing device. Preferably, the machine tool comprises at least one workpiece pallet changing device and one tool changing device.

[0129] Preferably, the machining system comprises an external handling device, in particular in the form of a driverless transport device, which is movable relative to the machine tool and comprises a receiving space in which the liquid tank can be accommodated.

[0130] Preferably, the transport device is configured to move the liquid tank accommodated in the receiving location into the working space of the machine tool and is further preferably configured to insert the liquid tank into a receiving device located in the working space, in particular in the case that the liquid tank comprises a fastening interface matching said receiving device.

[0131] Preferably, in an embodiment of the liquid tank with a mounting interface, the mounting interface is adapted to a receptacle of a workpiece pallet carrier of the machine tool.

[0132] In this case, the workpiece pallet carrier is further preferably movable relative to the working space and the control device is designed to move, in particular rotate, the liquid tank inserted into the holder relative to the working space by means of the workpiece pallet carrier in order to transfer the operating liquid.

[0133] Preferably, in an embodiment of the liquid tank with a closure device and actuating mechanism [as at least one actuator interface], the control device is configured to control the at least one actuator for transferring the operating fluid in such a way that the actuator interacts with the actuating mechanism and actuates the latter by moving the at least one actuator relative to the working space or by driving the at least one actuator.

[0134] Preferably, the at least one actuator is a movable machining device with a work spindle, which, as a result of a control by the control device, docks with its holder or an actuating tool received in the holder to the actuating mechanism and moves it relative to the liquid reservoir of the liquid tank for the purpose of actuation.

[0135] Preferably, this movement can be a rotation of an input shaft of the actuating mechanism. For this purpose, the machining system preferably comprises an actuating tool that can be received by the work spindle and acts as an interface between the holder of the work spindle and the input shaft. For this purpose, it comprises a fastening interface adapted to the holder of the work spindle, for example in the form of a hollow shank taper (HSK), a Morse taper (MK) or a steep taper [SK], as well as a transmission interface adapted to the input shaft, wherein Actuating tool transmits a torque from the fastening interface to the transmission interface.

[0136] Preferably, said actuating tool comprises a torque limiter to limit the torque transmitted to the transmission interface in order to prevent the risk of damage to the actuating mechanism.

[0137] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, a computer program product is provided which, when executed by a control device of a machine tool of a machining system according to the third aspect [or one of its preferred embodiments], causes the machining system to execute a method according to the first aspect [or one of its preferred embodiments].

[0138] Further aspects and their advantages as well as more specific embodiments of the aforementioned aspects and embodiments are described below with the aid of the drawings shown in the attached figures.

[0139] Fig. 1 shows a schematic flow diagram of a first embodiment of the method according to the invention.

[0140] Fig. 2 shows a schematic flow diagram of a second embodiment of the method according to the invention.

[0141] Fig. 3 shows a schematic flow diagram of a third embodiment of the method according to the invention.

[0142] Fig. 3 shows a schematic flow diagram of a third embodiment of the method according to the invention.

[0143] Fig. 4 shows schematically a first embodiment of the liquid tank according to the invention in a cross-sectional view.

[0144] Fig. 5 shows schematically a second embodiment of the liquid tank according to the invention in a cross-sectional view.

[0145] Fig. 6A and 6B show a third embodiment of the liquid tank according to the invention in perspective views.

[0146] Fig. 7 shows a fourth embodiment of the liquid tank according to the invention in a perspective view, wherein the liquid tank is introduced into a working space of a machine tool.

[0147] Fig. 8 shows an embodiment of the processing system according to the invention in a perspective view

[0148] It is emphasized that the present invention is in no way limited to the embodiments described below and their implementation features The invention further includes modifications of the above-mentioned embodiments, in particular those resulting from modifications and / or combinations of individual or multiple features of the described embodiments within the scope of protection of the independent claims. Detailed character description

[0149] Figs. 1 to 3 show flow diagrams of different embodiments of the method according to the invention. Although some of the individual steps are identified by the same designations in the figures (S1, S2, etc.), the steps do not necessarily have to be identical.

[0150] Fig. 1 shows a schematic flow diagram of a first embodiment of the method according to the invention.

[0151] In step S1, a liquid tank is provided, which comprises a liquid reservoir which is at least partially filled with the operating liquid, and an outlet for draining operating liquid from the liquid reservoir.

[0152] In step S2, the liquid tank provided in step S1 is introduced into a working space of a machine tool.

[0153] In step S3, at least part of the operating fluid is transferred from the fluid reservoir of the fluid tank introduced into the working space in step S2 through its outlet into the working space of the machine tool by means of at least one actuator of the machine tool.

[0154] Fig. 2 shows a schematic flow diagram of a second embodiment of the method according to the invention.

[0155] In step S1, a liquid tank is provided, which comprises a liquid reservoir which is at least partially filled with the operating liquid, and an outlet for draining operating liquid from the liquid reservoir.

[0156] In step S2, the liquid tank provided in step S1 is introduced into a working space of a machine tool, again comprising the sub-steps S2.1 and S2.2.

[0157] In sub-step S2.1, the liquid tank provided in step S1 is moved into the working space of the machine tool by means of a handling device which is set up for exchanging a tool or a workpiece or a workpiece pallet on the machine tool

[0158] In sub-step S2.2, the liquid tank provided and moved into the working space in step S2.1 is inserted into a receiving device of the machine tool by means of the handling device, wherein the inserted liquid tank is preferably fixed in the receiving device.

[0159] In step S3, at least part of the operating fluid is transferred from the fluid reservoir of the fluid tank introduced into the working space in step S2 through its outlet into the working space of the machine tool by means of at least one actuator of the machine tool, again comprising sub-step S3.1.

[0160] In sub-step S3.1, the liquid tank used in step S2.2 is rotated relative to the working space by means of the at least one actuator of the machine tool, which is correspondingly controlled by a control device of the machine tool.

[0161] Preferably, the liquid tank has an unsealed outlet through which the operating liquid can escape due to gravity when the liquid tank is rotated or tilted.

[0162] Alternatively, the liquid tank may also comprise a closure device by means of which the outlet can be opened and closed, and which comprises a valve unit by means of which the outlet can be closed and which is configured to release the outlet for the operating liquid as a result of rotation of the liquid tank relative to an inertial system.

[0163] Preferably, the receiving device is a receptacle for a workpiece carrier or a workpiece pallet carrier of the machine tool, and the at least one actuator is said workpiece carrier or said workpiece pallet carrier, which can each be rotated together with the receptacle, preferably relative to the work space, in particular via a rotary axis.

[0164] Fig. 3 shows a schematic flow diagram of a third embodiment of the method according to the invention.

[0165] In step S1, a liquid tank is provided which comprises a liquid reservoir which is at least partially filled with the operating liquid, an outlet for discharging operating liquid from the liquid reservoir, and a closure device via which the outlet can be opened and closed, wherein the closure device in turn comprises an actuating mechanism, upon actuation of which the closure device opens the outlet for the operating liquid.

[0166] In step S2, the liquid tank provided in step S1 is introduced into a working space of a machine tool, again comprising the sub-steps S2.1 and S2.2.

[0167] In sub-step S2.1, the liquid tank provided in step S1 is moved into the working space of the machine tool by means of a handling device which is set up for exchanging a tool or a workpiece or a workpiece pallet on the machine tool

[0168] In sub-step S2.2, the liquid tank provided and moved into the working area in step S2.1 is inserted into a holding device of the machine tool by means of the handling device, wherein the inserted liquid tank is preferably fixed in the receiving device.

[0169] In step S3, at least part of the operating fluid is transferred from the fluid reservoir of the fluid tank introduced into the working space in step S2 through its outlet into the working space of the machine tool by means of at least one actuator of the machine tool, again comprising sub-step S3.1.

[0170] In sub-step S3.1, the actuating mechanism of the closure device of the liquid tank used in step S2.2 is actuated by means of the at least one actuator, which is correspondingly controlled by a control device of the machine tool.

[0171] In sub-step S3.2, the liquid tank used in step S2.2 is rotated relative to the working space by means of a further actuator of the machine tool, which is controlled accordingly by the control device of the machine tool.

[0172] The rotation can support the discharge through the outlet opened in sub-step S3.1.

[0173] Preferably, the receiving device is a holder of a workpiece carrier or a workpiece pallet carrier of the machine tool and the further actuator is said workpiece carrier or said workpiece pallet carrier, which can each be rotated together with the holder preferably relative to the work space, in particular via a rotary axis.

[0174] Preferably, the at least one actuator of the machine tool is a machining device that can be moved relative to the working space.

[0175] Fig. 4 shows schematically a first embodiment of the liquid tank 100 according to the invention in a cross-sectional view

[0176] The liquid tank 100 is designed for use in a method for filling a machine tool with an operating fluid and comprises a liquid reservoir 110 which can be filled with the operating fluid (Fig. 4 shows a partially filled liquid reservoir), an outlet 120 for draining operating fluid from the liquid reservoir 110, and at least one actuator interface which is adapted to an actuator of a machine tool, wherein the liquid tank 100 is designed to be brought into interaction with the at least one actuator of the machine tool via the at least one actuator interface in such a way that, by means of the at least one actuator, an operating fluid contained in the liquid reservoir 110 can be drained through the outlet 120 into an environment of the liquid tank 100.

[0177] The liquid tank 100 preferably comprises a closure device 130, via which the outlet 120 can be opened and closed, wherein Fig. 4 shows a closed state

[0178] Preferably, the closure device 130 comprises a valve unit 131, via which the outlet 120 can be closed

[0179] In the embodiment shown, the valve unit is designed, for example, as a centrifugal valve in which valve bodies 131a, held by return elements 131b and displaceably mounted, are pressed outwards in the direction of the arrow by rotation of the liquid tank 100 in order to release the outlet 120.

[0180] Thus, the valve unit 131 is preferably configured to release the outlet 120 for the operating fluid as a result of rotation of the fluid tank 100 relative to an inertial system.

[0181] The liquid tank 100 preferably comprises a support device 140, which includes a mounting interface 141 adapted to a receiving device of a machine tool. The liquid tank 110 is preferably attached to the support device 140.

[0182] In Fig. 4, the carrier device 140 is preferably designed as a tool adapter 143, which can be received by a tool holder of a machine tool and fixed there, in particular by a holder of a work spindle via the fastening interface 141 adapted thereto. By way of example, Fig. 4 schematically shows a tool adapter 143 in which the fastening interface 141 is designed as a steep taper.

[0183] In the embodiment shown, the fastening interface 141 is the at least one actuator interface of the liquid tank 100, via which the discharge can be effected by means of the actuator, here for example by means of the work spindle

[0184] Fig. 4 shows an embodiment of a liquid tank 100 which, for example, allows a machine tool to transfer operating fluid from the liquid tank 100 into its working space by using or controlling one of its actuators and thus without manual intervention by a machine operator.

[0185] Fig. 5 shows schematically a second embodiment of the liquid tank 100 according to the invention in a cross-sectional view

[0186] The liquid tank 100 is designed for use in a method for filling a machine tool with an operating fluid and comprises a liquid reservoir 110 which can be filled with the operating fluid (Fig. 5 shows a partially filled liquid reservoir), an outlet 120 for discharging operating fluid from the liquid reservoir 110, and at least one actuator interface which is adapted to an actuator of a machine tool, wherein the liquid tank 100 is designed, via the at least one actuator interface with the at least one actuator of the machine tool in to be brought into interaction such that by means of the at least one actuator, a discharge of an operating fluid contained in the fluid reservoir 110 through the outlet 120 into an environment of the fluid tank 100 can be effected.

[0187] The liquid tank 100 preferably comprises a closure device 130, via which the outlet 120 can be opened and closed, wherein Fig. 5 shows a closed state

[0188] Preferably, the closure device 130 comprises an actuating mechanism 132, upon actuation of which the closure device 130 opens the outlet 120 for the operating fluid.

[0189] In the illustrated embodiment, the actuating mechanism 132 is mechanically actuated and designed as a sliding mechanism, for example, as a displaceably mounted closure element 132a held by a return element 132b. As a result of actuation, which in this case corresponds to a displacement of the closure element 132a (in the direction of the arrow), an opening of the closure element 132a is brought into line with the outlet, for example, in order to release it.

[0190] Thus, the closure device 130 with actuating mechanism 132 is preferably configured to release or open the outlet 120 for the operating fluid as a result of actuating the actuating mechanism 132.

[0191] The liquid tank 100 preferably comprises a support device 140, which includes a mounting interface 141 adapted to a receiving device of a machine tool. The liquid tank 110 is preferably attached to the support device 140.

[0192] In Fig. 5, the carrier device 140 is preferably designed as a tool adapter 143, which can be received by a tool holder of a machine tool and fixed there, in particular by a holder of a work spindle via the fastening interface 141 adapted thereto. By way of example, Fig. 5 schematically shows a tool adapter 143 in which the fastening interface 141 is designed as a steep taper.

[0193] The actuation of the actuating mechanism 130 can be carried out directly by an actuator of the machine tool, which, for example, moves in the working space of the machine tool when the liquid tank 100 is held stationary and in doing so presses against the actuating mechanism 132 (here against the closure element 132a) and displaces it.

[0194] However, the actuation mechanism can also be actuated indirectly by an actuator of the machine tool. For example, if the liquid tank 100 is accommodated in the exemplary work spindle of the machine tool, the The liquid tank 100 itself can be moved by moving the work spindle within the work space. This allows the actuating mechanism 132 to interact, for example, with an actuating element (not shown here) in the work space to actuate the actuating mechanism 132 by moving the work spindle. Simply put, the work spindle can press the actuating mechanism against a wall or similar object in the work space to actuate it.

[0195] In this respect, both the fastening interface 141 and the actuating mechanism 132 can correspond to the at least one actuator interface of the liquid tank 100, via which the discharge can be effected by means of the actuator

[0196] Fig. 5 shows an embodiment of a liquid tank 100 which, for example, allows a machine tool to transfer operating fluid from the liquid tank 100 into its working space by using or controlling one of its actuators and thus without manual intervention by a machine operator.

[0197] As an alternative to the support devices 140 shown in Figs. 4 and 5 as tool adapters 143, a workpiece pallet can also be used as the support device 140. The remaining structure of the respective liquid tank 100 can remain essentially the same.

[0198] Fig. 6A and 6B show a third embodiment of the liquid tank 100 according to the invention in perspective views.

[0199] Fig. 6A and 6B are described together below, wherein in Fig. 6B a liquid reservoir 110 of the liquid tank 100 is shown transparently

[0200] The liquid tank 100 is designed for use in a method for filling a machine tool with an operating fluid and comprises a liquid reservoir 110 which can be filled with the operating fluid, an outlet 120 for draining operating fluid from the liquid reservoir 110, and at least one actuator interface which is adapted to an actuator of a machine tool, wherein the liquid tank 100 is designed to be brought into interaction with the at least one actuator of the machine tool via the at least one actuator interface in such a way that, by means of the at least one actuator, an operating fluid contained in the liquid reservoir 110 can be drained through the outlet 120 into an environment of the liquid tank 100.

[0201] The liquid tank 100 preferably comprises a closure device 130 via which the outlet 120 can be opened and closed.

[0202] The liquid reservoir 110 is essentially cuboid-shaped and comprises a filler neck 112 for operating fluid and several reinforcing elements 111 on the top side. inside, which, for example, increase the rigidity of the liquid reservoir 110 and serve as bearing points of an actuating mechanism 132 of the closure device 130.

[0203] The closure device 130 comprises an actuating mechanism 132, upon actuation of which the closure device 130 opens the outlet 120 for the operating fluid.

[0204] In the embodiment shown, the actuating mechanism 132 is mechanically actuated and is designed, for example, as a rotation mechanism with an input shaft 132c, such that the closure device 130 opens the outlet 120 as a result of a rotation of the input shaft 132c relative to the liquid reservoir 110 in a first rotation direction

[0205] For example, the input shaft 132c can be rotated by a work spindle of the machine tool to open the outlet 120.

[0206] Preferably, the input shaft 132c has a non-circular profile, for example a hexagonal or octagonal profile, in order to improve torque transmission.

[0207] In the embodiment shown, the actuating mechanism is the at least one actuator interface of the liquid tank 100, via which the discharge can be effected by means of the actuator of the machine tool, here for example by means of the work spindle

[0208] Fig. 6A and 6B show an embodiment of a liquid tank 100 which allows, for example, a machine tool to transfer operating liquid from the liquid tank 100 into its working space by using or controlling one of its actuators and thus without manual intervention by a machine operator.

[0209] Fig. 7 shows a fourth embodiment of the liquid tank 100 according to the invention in a perspective view, wherein the liquid tank is introduced into a working space 220 of a machine tool.

[0210] The liquid tank 100 is essentially based on the one shown in Fig. 6A and 6B Liquid tank, so a further description of the equivalent elements is omitted here.

[0211] The actuating mechanism 130 with input shaft 132c is adapted as at least one actuator interface of the liquid tank to a machining device 250 of the machine tool (as an actuator), in particular to a work spindle 251 of the machining device 250, such that the input shaft 132c can be rotated by means of the machining device 251 or by means of the work spindle in order to release the outlet 120.

[0212] In comparison to the third embodiment shown in Figs. 6A and 6B, the liquid tank 100 comprises a support device 140 to which the liquid reservoir 110 is attached, in particular detachably attached

[0213] The liquid tank 100 preferably comprises a fastening interface designed as part of the carrier device 140, which is adapted to a receiving device 241 for workpiece pallets of the machine tool

[0214] In the embodiment shown, said receiving device 241 for workpiece pallets is a holder of a machine table of the machine tool, here a swivel rotary table 240, via which the receiving device 241 can preferably be moved about two rotary axes relative to the working space 220

[0215] In the embodiment shown, the carrier device 110 is a workpiece pallet 142 which is adapted to a receiving device 241 of the machine tool, in this case to a receptacle of the machine table acting as a tool pallet carrier.

[0216] Fig. 7 shows an embodiment of a liquid tank 100 inserted into a receiving device 241 of a machine tool, which allows, for example, a machine tool to transfer operating liquid from the liquid tank 100 into its working space by using or controlling one of its actuators and thus without manual intervention by a machine operator.

[0217] Fig. 8 shows an embodiment of the processing system 10 according to the invention in a perspective view.

[0218] The machining system 10 includes a machine tool 200 and a liquid tank 100.

[0219] The machine tool 200 comprises a working space 220, at least one actuator and a control device 260 configured to control the at least one actuator.

[0220] Controllable actuators of the machine tool 200 are preferably a machining device 250, which can preferably be moved translationally in two or three spatial directions in the work space 220, or a machine table, preferably a swivel rotary table 240 which has two rotary axes, via which a receiving device 241 for workpiece pallets of the swivel rotary table can be rotated in the work space 220.

[0221] The liquid tank 100 preferably corresponds to the liquid tank 100 described in Fig. 7, which is not described again here, but reference is made to the description of Fig. 7.

[0222] The liquid tank 100 comprises, as the at least one actuator interface, the actuating mechanism designed as a rotation mechanism [see Fig. 7], which is adapted to the machining device 250 of the machine tool 200, as the at least one actuator of the machine tool 200, in such a way that by means of the at least one actuator, a discharge of a liquid stored in the liquid reservoir of the The operating fluid contained in the liquid tank 100 can be discharged through the outlet into an environment of the liquid tank 100. In the event that the liquid tank 100 is introduced into the working space 220 of the machine tool 200, as is the case in Fig. 8, and the liquid reservoir is at least partially filled with an operating fluid, the control device 260 of the machine tool 200 is configured to control the at least one actuator of the machine tool 200 such that, through interaction with the actuator interface, the actuator causes the operating fluid in the liquid reservoir to be discharged through the outlet into the working space 220 in order to transfer at least part of the operating fluid from the liquid reservoir into the working space 220 of the machine tool 200.

[0223] In the embodiment shown, the liquid tank is inserted into the receiving device 241 for workpiece pallets of the swivel rotary table 240 via its fastening interface on the workpiece pallet acting as a carrier device.

[0224] Preferably, the control device 260 is configured to control the processing device 250 for transferring the operating fluid in such a way that it interacts with the actuating mechanism and actuates it.

[0225] In the embodiment shown, this may include, for example, docking a work spindle of the machining device 250 to the input shaft of the actuating mechanism of the liquid tank 100 and rotating the input shaft by means of the work spindle in order to open the outlet of the liquid tank 100.

[0226] Furthermore, the machine tool 200 can preferably comprise a workpiece pallet storage 270, the storage locations of which can be served by a handling device 271 of the machine tool. Thus, workpiece pallets (with or without workpieces) can be removed from the workpiece pallet storage 270 via the handling device 271 and / or deposited there.

[0227] The handling device 271 is preferably also configured for changing workpiece pallets in the work space 220 and can insert or remove workpiece pallets from the receiving device 241 of the swivel rotary table 240.

[0228] The liquid tank 100 in the tool pallet warehouse can be particularly advantageous 270 and, if necessary, are introduced into the working space 220 by the handling device 271 in order to transfer operating fluid into the working space 220 by means of the processing device 250 (as described above).

[0229] Embodiments of the present invention and their advantages have been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying figures.

[0230] It is emphasized again that the present invention is in no way limited to the embodiments and their features described above. The invention further includes modifications of the above-mentioned embodiments, in particular those resulting from modifications and / or combinations of individual or multiple features of the described embodiments within the scope of protection of the independent claims. List of reference symbols processing system liquid tank Liquid storage Reinforcing elements Filler neck Outlet locking device Valve unit a Valve body b Reset element Actuating mechanism a Locking element b Return element c Input shaft carrier device Mounting interface Workpiece pallet (carrier device) Tool adapter (carrier device) machine tool machine bed workspace Machine housing Machine table (swivel rotary table) Holding device for workpiece pallets Processing facility Work spindle Control device Workpiece pallet storage Handling device for changing workpiece pallets

Claims

CLAIMS 1. A method for filling a machine tool [200] with an operating fluid, wherein the machine tool (200) comprises a numerical control device [260] and at least one actuator controllable by the control device (260), the method comprising: Providing a liquid tank (100) comprising a liquid reservoir [110] at least partially filled with the operating liquid, and an outlet (120) for discharging operating liquid from the liquid reservoir (110); and Inserting the provided liquid tank (100) into a working space [220] of the machine tool (200); and Transferring at least part of the operating fluid from the fluid reservoir (110) of the fluid tank (100) introduced into the working space (220) through its outlet (120) into the working space (220) of the machine tool (200) by means of the at least one actuator of the machine tool (200).

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the liquid tank (100) comprises a closure device (130) via which the outlet (120) can be opened and closed.

3. Method according to one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the transfer of at least a portion of the operating fluid from the fluid reservoir (110) of the fluid tank (100) introduced into the working space (220) into the working space (220) in turn comprises: Rotating the liquid tank (100) introduced into the working space (220) relative to the working space (220) by means of the at least one actuator.

4. The method according to claim 2 and claim 3, wherein the closure device (130) comprises a valve unit (131) by means of which the outlet (120) can be closed and which is configured to release the outlet (120) for the operating fluid as a result of rotation of the fluid tank (100) relative to an inertial system.

5. The method according to claim 2, wherein the closure device (130) comprises an actuating mechanism (132), upon actuation of which the closure device (130) opens the outlet (120) for the operating fluid, and the transfer of at least a portion of the operating fluid from the fluid reservoir (110) of the fluid tank (100) introduced into the working space (220) into the working space (220) in turn comprises: Actuating the actuating mechanism (132) of the closure device (130) of the liquid tank (100) introduced into the working space (220) by means of the at least one actuator.

6. The method according to claim 5, wherein the transfer of at least a portion of the operating fluid from the fluid reservoir (110) of the fluid tank (100) introduced into the working space (220) into the working space (220) in turn comprises: Rotating the liquid tank (100) introduced into the working space (220) relative to the working space (220) by means of the at least one actuator or by means of a further actuator of the machine tool (200) controllable by the control device (260).

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the introduction of the provided liquid tank (100) into the working space (220) in turn comprises: Moving the provided liquid tank (100) into the working space (220) of the machine tool (200) by means of a handling device (271) which is designed to exchange a tool or a workpiece or a workpiece pallet on the machine tool (200) 8. The method according to claim 7, wherein the handling device is a tool changing device of the machine tool (200) or a workpiece changing device of the machine tool (200) or a workpiece pallet changing device (271) of the machine tool (200) or a driverless transport device as an external handling device that is movable relative to the machine tool (200), or a robot, in particular a robot arm, which can be designed as a handling device of the machine tool or as an external handling device.

9. Method according to one of claims 7 or 8, wherein the introduction of the provided liquid tank [100] into the working space [220] in turn comprises: Inserting the liquid tank [100] moved into the working space (220) into a receiving device of the machine tool [200] by means of the handling device; wherein the receiving device of the machine tool (200) is designed to receive, in particular to fix, a tool or a workpiece or a workpiece pallet 10. Method according to one of claims 7 or 8, wherein the transfer of at least a part of the operating fluid takes place while the fluid tank [100] introduced into the working space (220) by the method is received in a receiving location of the handling device.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein providing the liquid tank (100) in turn comprises: Providing the liquid tank (100) in a storage location of the machine tool (200), which is preferably a magazine location of a tool magazine of the machine tool (200) or a storage location of a workpiece pallet storage [270] of the machine tool (200) or a setup location of the machine tool (200); and introducing the provided liquid tank (100) into the work space (220) further comprises: Removing the provided liquid tank (100) from the storage location of the machine tool (200).

12. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein providing the liquid tank (100) in turn comprises: Providing the liquid tank (100) in a receiving location of a driverless transport device that is movable relative to the machine tool (200); and introducing the provided liquid tank (100) into the work space (220) further comprises: Moving the driverless transport device with the liquid tank (100) accommodated in the receiving location to the machine tool (200).

13. The method according to one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the at least one actuator of the machine tool (200) is one of the following actuators: a machining device of the machine tool (200) which is movable relative to the work space (220) of the machine tool (200), which in particular comprises a work spindle, or a workpiece carrier or workpiece pallet carrier which is movable relative to the work space (220) of the machine tool (200), in particular a machine table of the machine tool (200); or a controllable axis, in particular a linear or rotary axis, of the above machining device or of the above workpiece carrier or of the workpiece pallet carrier.

14. A liquid tank (100) for use in a method for filling a machine tool (200) with an operating fluid, in particular in a method according to one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the machine tool (200) comprises a working chamber (220), at least one actuator, and a control device (260) configured to control the at least one actuator, wherein the liquid tank (100) comprises: a liquid reservoir (110) that can be filled with the operating fluid; an outlet (120) for draining operating fluid from the liquid reservoir (110); and at least one actuator interface that is adapted to the at least one actuator of the machine tool (200);wherein the liquid tank (100) is designed to be brought into interaction with the at least one actuator of the machine tool (200) via the at least one actuator interface, such that by means of the at least one actuator, a discharge of an operating liquid contained in the liquid reservoir (110) through the outlet (120) into an environment of the liquid tank (100) can be effected.; 15. The liquid tank (100) according to claim 14, wherein the liquid tank (100) comprises a mounting interface (141) adapted to a receiving device of the machine tool (200). wherein the receiving device of the machine tool [200] is designed to receive, in particular to fix, a tool or a workpiece or a workpiece pallet 16. Liquid tank (100) according to claim 15, wherein the liquid tank (100) comprises a support device (140, 142, 143) to which the liquid reservoir (110) is fastened, in particular such that the fastening can be released without destruction, wherein the fastening interface (141) is designed as part of the support device (140, 142, 143).

17. Liquid tank (100) according to claim 16, wherein the carrier device (140, 142, 143) is a workpiece pallet or a tool adapter, in particular a tool adapter in the form of a hollow shank taper (HSK), a Morse taper (MK) or a steep taper (SK).

18. Liquid tank (100) according to one of claims 15 to 17, wherein the fastening interface (141) is the at least one actuator interface.

19. Liquid tank (100) according to one of claims 14 to 18, wherein the liquid tank (100) comprises a closure device (130) via which the outlet (120) can be opened and closed.

20. Liquid tank (100) according to claim 19, wherein the closure device (130) comprises a valve unit (131) via which the outlet (120) can be closed and which is configured to release the outlet (120) for the operating liquid as a result of rotation of the liquid tank (100) relative to an inertial system.

21. Liquid tank (100) according to claim 20, wherein the valve unit (131) comprises a centrifugal valve which is configured to automatically release the outlet (120) upon reaching a predetermined rotational speed of the liquid tank (100) relative to the inertial system, or wherein the valve unit (131) comprises a gravity valve which is configured to automatically release the outlet (120) upon reaching a predetermined orientation of the liquid tank (100) relative to the inertial system.

22. Liquid tank (100) according to claim 19, wherein the closure device (130) comprises an actuating mechanism (132), upon actuation of which the closure device (130) opens the outlet (120) for the operating liquid 23. Liquid tank (100) according to claim 22, wherein the actuating mechanism (132) is designed as a lever or sliding mechanism (132a+132b), such that the outlet (120) is closed by the closure device (130) in a first position of the lever or sliding mechanism and opened in a second position of the lever or sliding mechanism, or wherein the actuating mechanism (132) is designed as a rotary mechanism with an input shaft (132c), such that the closure device (130) opens the outlet (120) as a result of a rotation of the input shaft (132c) relative to the liquid reservoir (110) in a first rotational direction.

24. The liquid tank (100) according to any one of claims 14 to 23, wherein the liquid tank (100) comprises a dosing device and / or a flow measuring device, wherein the dosing device is associated with the outlet (120) and is configured to control and / or limit a flow rate of operating fluid flowing through the outlet (120); and wherein the flow measuring device is associated with the outlet (120) and is configured to measure a flow rate and / or a flow rate of operating fluid flowing through the outlet (120).

25. Liquid tank (100) according to one of claims 14 to 24, wherein the liquid tank (100) comprises a level measuring device by means of which a level of operating liquid in the liquid reservoir (110) can be measured.

26. A machining system (10) comprising: a machine tool (200) comprising a work space (220), at least one actuator, and a control device (260) configured to control the at least one actuator; and a liquid tank (100) according to any one of claims 14 to 25; wherein the at least one actuator interface of the liquid tank (100) is adapted to the at least one actuator of the machine tool (200) in such a way that, by means of the at least one actuator, via interaction with the actuator interface, a discharge of an operating fluid contained in the liquid reservoir (110) through the outlet (120) into an environment of the liquid tank (100) can be effected, and wherein, in the event that the liquid tank (100) is introduced into the working space (220) of the machine tool (200) and the liquid reservoir (110) is at least partially filled with an operating fluid, the control device (260) of the machine tool (200) is configured,to control the at least one actuator of the machine tool (200) in such a way that, through interaction with the actuator interface, it causes the operating fluid in the fluid reservoir (110) to be drained through the outlet (120) into the working space (220) in order to transfer at least part of the operating fluid from the fluid reservoir (110) into the working space (220) of the machine tool (200).

27. A computer program product comprising instructions which, when the computer program product is executed by a control device (260) of a machine tool (200) of a machining system (10) according to claim 26, cause the machining system (10) to execute a method according to one of claims 1 to 14.

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