Container unit

Abstract

A container unit (100A) comprises: a container (110) that includes a bottom part (111); a skid (7) that is supported at three points separated from each other by the bottom part (111); and a machine tool (120A) that is placed on the skid (7) and is accommodated within the container (110).

Description

Container Unit

[0001] The present invention relates to a container unit.

[0002] For example, containers are known as a means for transporting machine tools manufactured in a factory to a delivery destination. Such a container is disclosed in Patent Document 1. In Patent Document 1, the machine tool housed in the container is transported to the destination, and then the machine tool is removed from the container and set up at the destination.

[0003] Patent No. 4612221

[0004] However, when receiving an order for a large quantity of processed products or an order for a wide variety of processed products, it may be impossible to manufacture the processed products within the specified period using only the installed machine tools. In such cases, it may be possible to introduce new machine tools, but it may not be possible to secure space to install the machine tools.

[0005] The present invention provides a container unit, a container, a machine tool, a skid, etc. as set forth in the claims.

[0006] A container unit according to the present invention comprises a container including a bottom, a skid supported by the bottom at three points spaced apart from one another, and a machine tool placed on the skid and housed in the container.

[0007] According to the present invention, it becomes possible to operate a machine tool in a variety of locations.

[0008] 10 and 11. A perspective view of a container unit. A diagram schematically showing the interior of a container unit. A perspective view showing a container, a machine tool, and a skid. A perspective view of the skid as seen from the back side. A side view of the vicinity of a support section on the skid. A schematic view showing the arrangement of first to third support sections on the skid. A diagram showing the back side of a skid according to a modified example. A diagram showing the machining area of ​​a machine tool. A top view showing the internal structure of a container unit in embodiment 2 of the present invention. A front view showing the first side of the first container in FIG. 9. Another front view showing the first side of the first container in FIG. 9. A front view showing a modified example of the first side of the first container in FIGS. 10 and 11. A top view showing a modified example of the internal structure of the container unit in FIG. 9.

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. (Embodiment 1) FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a container unit. The container unit 100 is configured by connecting three containers 1, 2, and 3, each having a roughly rectangular parallelepiped shape. The container unit 100 includes container 1, which houses a machine tool 4, and containers 2 and 3, which are arranged on either side of container 1. Containers 1, 2, and 3 are transported individually and connected at their destinations. Container 1 is transported with machine tool 4 housed therein. After container 1 is installed at its destination, machine tool 4 operates while housed within container 1. Operation of machine tool 4, loading and unloading of materials and products, maintenance, and the like are performed by workers inside containers 2 and 3. In this embodiment, a case in which container unit 100 is installed outdoors is described; however, container unit 100 may also be installed indoors. Below, the container unit 100 of this embodiment will be described in more detail.

[0010] Containers 1, 2, and 3 are of the same standard and have the same outer frame dimensions and structure. Containers 1, 2, and 3 are arranged so that the sides with the largest areas face each other. The containers are connected via connecting members. The connecting members are, for example, corner casts, and can connect and separate the corners of the abutting containers.

[0011] Containers 1, 2, and 3 have a frame structure that forms a roughly rectangular parallelepiped shape, with walls provided on some of their surfaces. More specifically, container 1 has walls on its top, bottom, front, and rear surfaces. Container 1 has walls on a portion of its left side and right side. In this specification, the longitudinal direction of container 1 is defined as the rear, and the side of container 1 where the loading / unloading opening for machine tools 4 is provided is defined as the rear, and the opposite side is defined as the front. The vertical direction is defined as the up-down direction. The direction perpendicular to the vertical direction and the front-to-back direction is defined as the left-to-right direction, with left and right defined from the perspective of an observer facing forward. Container 2 has walls on its top, bottom, front, rear, and left side. Container 2 has a wall on a portion of its right side. On the left side of container 2, there is an entrance / exit 21 through which workers enter and exit, and a loading entrance 22 through which materials, processed products, and various supplies are loaded and unloaded. Walls are provided on the top, bottom, front, rear, and right side of container 3. A wall is also provided on part of the left side of container 3. Ventilation holes and the like are also provided in the walls of each container as appropriate. In this way, containers 1, 2, and 3 are connected to form a substantially closed space.

[0012] Figure 2 is a diagram schematically showing the interior of the container unit. A machine tool 4 is housed in the container 1. The machine tool 4 is a multi-tasking machine that has a turning function in addition to a milling function. However, the type of machine tool 4 is not particularly limited. The machine tool 4 may be a turning center that has only a turning function, or a machining center that has only a milling function. The machine tool 4 may also be an additional processing device that performs additional processing.

[0013] The machine tool 4 includes a first cover 42 that opens and closes a machining area 41 where a material is machined. The machine tool 4 is arranged so that the first cover 42 faces the container 2. The first cover 42 is a sliding door that can slide forward and backward. When closed, the first cover 42 makes the machining area 41 a closed space and isolates it from the outside of the machine tool 4. Hereinafter, the closed state of the first cover 42 will also be referred to as the first state. When open, the first cover 42 makes the machining area 41 a space that is open to the outside of the machine tool 4. Hereinafter, the open state of the first cover 42 will also be referred to as the second state. In the second state, the machine tool 4 has a first opening 411. The first opening 411 is formed when the first cover 42 is in the second state. The first opening 411 exposes the machining area 41 to the outside of the machine tool 4 when the first cover is in the second state, and is covered by the first cover 42 when the first cover is in the first state.

[0014] The machine tool 4 includes a functional unit 44 that moves in at least one direction. The functional unit 44 is, for example, a tool post on which tools are attached. The functional unit 44 moves, for example, in the left-right and front-rear directions. The machine tool 4 also includes an operation panel 43 provided next to the first cover 42. Operator P1 inputs instructions to the operation panel 43 to cause the machine tool 4 to perform various operations. The machine tool 4 also includes a maintenance unit 45 that houses the drive mechanism for the moving parts, various electronic devices, etc. The maintenance unit 45 is located to the right of the machining area 41. The maintenance unit 45 is covered with a cover. The maintenance unit 45 is configured so that an operator can perform maintenance work by removing the cover. The machine tool 4 is arranged so that its longitudinal direction is aligned with the longitudinal direction of the container 1. The machine tool 4 is arranged close to the rear of the container 1.

[0015] The container 1 is configured so that its longitudinal length (front-rear direction) is longer than the longitudinal length (front-rear direction) of the machine tool 4. The container 1 includes a passageway 11 provided in front of the machine tool 4. The passageway 11 is provided within a predetermined distance from the front end of the container 1 toward the interior of the container, and is a space through which a worker P2 can pass. The passageway 11 is provided in a portion of the container 1 where the machine tool 4 is not provided. That is, the container 1 includes a machine tool installation section 12 where the machine tool 4 is provided, and the passageway 11 through which the worker P2 passes. The passageway 11 extends in the left-right direction from the left end to the right end of the container 1. The passageway 11 connects the container 2 and the container 3 provided on the left and right sides of the container 1. That is, the passageway 11 allows the worker to move back and forth between the container 2 and the container 3.

[0016] Container 1 is configured so that its length in the left-right direction is slightly longer than the length in the left-right direction of machine tool 4. In other words, there is substantially no space provided on the left and right sides of machine tool 4 within container 1 for workers to pass through or work in. Container 2 is provided to the left of container 1, and container 3 is provided to the right.

[0017] Containers 2 and 3 are containers in which work is performed to operate machine tool 4 and manufacture processed products while housed in container 1. The work referred to here includes, for example, operation of the machine tool by an operator, carrying in and out of materials to processing area 41, and maintenance of machine tool 4. Other work may also include, for example, inspection of processed products and additional processing such as polishing. In short, containers 2 and 3 are containers in which at least some of the work performed outside machine tool 4 in the series of operations from material to manufacturing processed products is performed.

[0018] In this embodiment, in the container 2, the worker P1 operates the operation panel 43 of the machine tool 4. The worker P1 also carries materials into the machining area 41 and carries out machined products from the machining area 41. To perform these operations, the container 2 includes a work space S2. The work space S2 is provided in a predetermined range in front of the first cover 42 and the operation panel 43 of the machining area 41 in the container 2, and is a space where the worker can perform his or her work. The work space S2 is provided in a position where at least a portion of the work space S2 overlaps with the first cover 42 and the operation panel 43 of the machining area 41 in a side view (left-right view). The work space S2 is provided within a predetermined distance from the right end of the container 2 in a top view. The container 2 may be provided with a tool storage section 23 used in the machine tool 4, a holder storage section 24 for storing a holder for attaching a tool to the machine tool 4, and the like, at positions different from the work space S2. That is, the container 2 may include, in addition to the work space S2, a storage space for storing various equipment.

[0019] In the container 3, a worker P3 performs work on the maintenance unit 45 of the machine tool 4. In order to perform maintenance work, the container 3 includes a work space S3. The work space S3 is provided in a predetermined range located to the right of the maintenance unit 45 in the container 3, and is a space where the worker can perform work. The work space S3 is provided in a position where at least a portion of it overlaps with the maintenance unit 45 in a side view. The work space S3 is provided within a predetermined distance from the left end of the container 3 in a top view. The container 3 may be provided with a workbench 31 for inspecting processed products and the like in a position different from the work space S3. That is, the container 3 may include storage spaces for storing various fixtures in addition to the work space S3.

[0020] The container 1 has a left side portion (first side portion) having a second cover 5 that separates the container 1 from the container 2, and a left side surface 51. The left side surface 51 forms part of the left side portion of the container 1. The left side surface 51 is formed by a wall, and is provided in a range from the rear end of the container 1 to behind the processing area 41 and the operation panel 43. The portion of the left side portion of the container 1 where the left side surface 51 (wall) is not provided is open.

[0021] The second cover 5 forms part of the left side of the container 1. The second cover 5 is a sliding door that moves left and right. In the closed state, the second cover 5 is configured to cover the machining area 41 and the operation panel 43. Hereinafter, the closed state of the second cover will also be referred to as the third state. In the third state, the second cover 5 is located forward of the front ends of the machining area 41 and the operation panel 43. On the other hand, in the open state, the second cover 5 exposes the machine tool 4 to the outside of the container 1. Hereinafter, the open state of the second cover 5 will also be referred to as the fourth state. In the fourth state, the left side of the container 1 has a second opening 52. The second opening 52 is formed when the second cover 5 is in the open state. In the fourth state, the second cover 5 is configured not to cover the machining area 41 and the operation panel 43. In the fourth state, the second cover 5 is located rearward of the rear ends of the machining area 41 and the operation panel 43. The second cover 5 is configured to expose the machining area 41 and the operation panel 43 to the work space S2 in the container 2 in the fourth state. That is, the second opening 52 is covered by the second cover 5 when the second cover 5 is in the third state, and is exposed to the outside of the container 1 when the second cover 5 is in the fourth state. With this configuration, the second cover 5 allows the worker P1 located in the work space S2 to access the first cover 42 and the operation panel 43. The second cover 5 may open and close the passage portion 11 in the container 1.

[0022] The container 1 has a right side portion (second side portion) having a third cover 6 that separates the container 1 from the container 3, and a right side surface 61. The right side surface 61 forms part of the right side of the container 1. The right side surface 61 is made up of a wall and is provided in a range from the rear end of the container 1 to behind the maintenance section 45. The portion of the right side of the container 1 where the right side surface 61 (wall) is not provided is open.

[0023] The third cover 6 constitutes a part of the right side of the container 1. The third cover 6 is a sliding door that moves left and right. The third cover 6 is configured to cover the maintenance unit 45 in the closed state. Hereinafter, the closed state of the third cover will also be referred to as the fifth state. In the fifth state, the third cover 6 is located forward of the front end of the maintenance unit 45. On the other hand, in the open state, the third cover 6 exposes the machine tool 4 to the outside of the container 1. Hereinafter, the open state of the third cover 6 will also be referred to as the sixth state. In the sixth state, the right side of the container 1 has a third opening 62. The third opening 62 is formed when the third cover 6 is in the open state. In the sixth state, the third cover 6 is configured not to cover the maintenance unit 45. In the sixth state, the third cover 6 is located rearward of the rear end of the maintenance unit 45. In the sixth state, the third cover 6 is configured to expose the maintenance unit 45 to the work space S3 in the container 3. That is, the third opening 62 is covered by the third cover 6 when the third cover 6 is in the fifth state, and is exposed to the outside of the container 1 when the third cover 6 is in the sixth state. With this configuration, the third cover 6 allows a worker P3 located in the work space S3 to access the maintenance section 45. The third cover 6 may open and close the passage 11 in the container 1.

[0024] 3 is a perspective view showing a container, a machine tool, and a skid. The container 1 includes connection portions 13, 14 for connecting to a machine that transports the container 1. The connection portions 13 are provided at the four corners of the top surface of the container 1. For example, wires are attached to these connection portions 13, and the container 1 is transported by a crane lifting the wires. The connection portions 14 are also provided on frame members 15 that form the bottom surface of the container 1. For example, the forks of a forklift are passed through these connection portions 14, allowing the container 1 to be transported.

[0025] The machine tool 4 is placed on the container 1 via a skid 7. The container 1 includes a bottom that supports the skid 7. The container 1 may include a reinforcing portion that reinforces the bottom. The reinforcing portion is, for example, a metal plate, a reinforcing rib, or the like. The skid 7 is a roughly rectangular plate-like member. The skid 7 functions as a support base that directly supports the machine tool 4 within the container 1. The skid 7 also functions as a moving base that carries and moves the machine tool 4 when the machine tool 4 is carried in or out of the container 1. Although not shown, a guide rail is provided between the skid 7 and the container 1 when the machine tool 4 is carried in or out.

[0026] 4 is a perspective view of the skid 7 as seen from the back side. The skid 7 includes a mounting portion 74 on which a machine tool is placed. The mounting portion 74 has a generally rectangular plate shape. The upper surface of the mounting portion 74, i.e., the surface that supports the machine tool, is flat. Reinforcing ribs 75 are provided on the back surface (lower surface) of the mounting portion 74. In this embodiment, the reinforcing ribs 75 have a lattice shape.

[0027] The skid 7 further includes a first support portion 71, a second support portion 72, and a third support portion 73 attached to the mounting portion 74. The first support portion 71, the second support portion 72, and the third support portion 73 abut against the bottom of the container and support the mounting portion 74. The first support portion 71 is provided at one of the four corners of the mounting portion 74. The second support portion 72 is provided at the corner opposite the first support portion 71 on the short side of the mounting portion 74. The third support portion 73 is provided near the center of a short side different from the short side on which the first support portion 71 and the second support portion 72 are provided. The first support portion 71, the second support portion 72, and the third support portion 73 are each provided so as to form the vertices of a triangle when viewed from above, i.e., when viewed in the normal direction to the top surface of the mounting portion.

[0028] 5 is a side view of the vicinity of the support portion of the skid. The first support portion 71 extends as a whole from the mounting portion 74 toward the bottom of the container 1. The first support portion 71 is composed of a base 711, a bolt 712, and a nut 713. The base 711 abuts against the bottom of the container 1. The base 711 is fixed to the mounting portion 74 by the bolt 712 and the nut 713. Furthermore, by loosening the nut 713, the base 711 moves toward or away from the mounting portion 74. In other words, the first support portion 71 is configured to allow the height of the mounting portion 74 to be adjusted. The second support portion 72 and the third support portion 73 are configured in the same manner as the first support portion.

[0029] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing the arrangement of the first to third support parts on the skid. The first support part 71, the second support part 72, and the third support part 73 form a triangle T surrounding the center of gravity G of the machine tool 4 in a top view. Here, the center of gravity G represents the center of gravity position when the machine tool 4 is not operating. The machine tool 4 is configured such that its functional parts (e.g., tool rest) move left and right, and the center of gravity position moves left and right and forward and backward while the machine tool 4 is operating. In the figure, the center of gravity that moves as the functional parts of the machine tool 4 move forward and backward is shown as G1, and the center of gravity that moves as the functional parts of the machine tool 4 move left and right is shown as G2. The first support part 71, the second support part 72, and the third support part 73 form a triangle T surrounding the range of movement of the center of gravity G of the machine tool, which moves as the functional parts of the machine tool 4 move. Furthermore, a plurality of supported parts 46 that contact the skid 7 are provided on the bottom surface of the machine tool 4. The first support portion 71 , the second support portion 72 , and the third support portion 73 form a triangle T so as to surround at least a portion of each of the multiple supported portions 46 .

[0030] As described above, in the container unit 100, the machine tool 4 is accommodated in the container 1, so that the machine tool 4 can be transported to any location. Furthermore, by opening the first cover 42 of the machine tool 4 and the second cover 5 of the container 1, the machining area 41 is exposed to the outside of the container 1. This allows, for example, an operator to perform work in the machining area 41 of the machine tool 4. Therefore, with this container unit, the machine tool can be transported to various locations and operated at those locations.

[0031] The container 1 also includes a first side and a second side opposite the first side, and the second side has a third cover 6 that is movable between a fifth state in which the machine tool 4 is separated from the outside of the container 1 and a sixth state in which the machine tool 4 is exposed to the outside of the container 1 via a third opening 62. By placing the third cover 6 in the open state, an operator can perform maintenance on the maintenance unit 45. On the other hand, by placing the third cover 6 in the closed state, it is possible to prevent an operator from accidentally touching the maintenance unit 45 while the machine tool 4 is operating, for example.

[0032] Furthermore, the machine tool 4 is housed in the container 1 via the skid 7. As described above, the container 1 is transported to various locations, and the machine tool 4 is operated at each location. Therefore, the condition of the installation surface at the location where the container 1 is installed varies each time. For example, if the installation surface is uneven, a load is applied to the bottom of the container 1, which is likely to cause undulations in the bottom. Suppose the skid 7 has four or more support parts, and, for example, three of the support parts support the placement part at the same height, while the other support parts support the placement part at different heights due to undulations in the bottom. In this case, undulations will also occur in the placement part 74 supported by each support part, following the undulations in the bottom.

[0033] If swells occur on the placing portion 74, a load is applied to the machine tool 4 placed on the placing portion 74, causing slight deformation overall. If the precision required for the machined product is not particularly high, this slight deformation of the machine tool does not pose a particular problem. However, for a machined product that requires precision in the micrometer range, for example, this slight deformation of the machine tool may affect the precision of the machined product. In this case, it is possible to adjust the height of the support portion that is causing the swell and suppress the swell on the placing portion. However, for a container 1 that operates machine tools in various locations, it is not efficient to adjust the height of the support portion each time it is moved to another location.

[0034] To address this issue, the skid of container 1 includes three support portions 71, 72, and 73. Geometrically, a plane is defined by three points, so if the three support portions 71, 72, and 73 support mounting portion 74, even if the bottom of container 1 is undulated, no undulations will occur on mounting portion 74, and the flatness of mounting portion 74 will be maintained. Therefore, with container 1, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the accuracy of the machined product even if machine tool 4 is operated in various locations with different installation surface conditions.

[0035] <Modification> Fig. 7 is a diagram showing the back surface of a skid according to a modification. In the above embodiment, a configuration in which the reinforcing ribs of the skid 7 are formed in a grid pattern has been described. However, the configuration of the reinforcing rib 75 is not limited to this. For example, the reinforcing rib 75 may be provided so as to connect the first support portion 71 and the third support portion 73. The reinforcing rib 75 may be provided so as to connect the second support portion 72 and the third support portion 73. In other words, the reinforcing rib 75 may be provided so as to form at least one side of a triangle formed by the three support portions.

[0036] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the skid 7 has been described as including three support portions 71, 72, and 73. This means that the three support portions 71, 72, and 73 support the mounting portion 74 while the machine tool 4 is in operation. Therefore, when the machine tool 4 is not in operation, four or more support portions may support the mounting portion 74. In this case, before the machine tool 4 is operated, the support portions other than the first to third support portions 71, 72, and 73 are adjusted in height so as not to support the mounting portion 74, or are removed.

[0037] The skid 7 may also include three or more mounting portions to which the support portions can be attached. For example, in this example, the skid 7 includes eight mounting portions 76. The first to third support portions 71, 72, and 73 are attached to any three mounting portions selected from these eight mounting portions 76.

[0038] Additionally, in the above embodiment, a configuration has been described in which there is no work space in container 1, and work spaces S2 and S3 are provided in containers 2 and 3. However, a work space may be provided in container 1. In other words, if the size of container 1 is large enough for the size of machine tool 4, the empty space in container 1 may be used as a work space. In this case, container unit 100 does not need to include containers 2 and 3.

[0039] In addition, in the above embodiment, the case where the operation panel is operated, materials are carried in, and processed products are carried out in the container 2 has been described. However, the operations performed in the container 2 are not limited to these. Other operations may be performed in the container 2 as needed. The same applies to the container 3.

[0040] Additionally, in the above-described embodiment, the container unit 100 is described as having two containers 2 and 3. However, the number of containers is not particularly limited. The container unit may have one container, or two or more containers. Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the containers 1, 2, and 3 are described as having the same size. However, the containers 1 and 2 and 3 may have different sizes.

[0041] In addition, in the above-described embodiment, the second and third covers 5, 6 are described as sliding doors. However, the second and third covers 5, 6 are not particularly limited. The second and third covers 5, 6 may be hinged doors, shutters, or the like.

[0042] Additionally, the container unit 100 may include an outlet into which the power plug of the machine tool 4 is inserted. The container unit 100 may include a power supply that supplies power to the machine tool 4. The container unit 100 may include a wireless communication device that transmits and receives electronic data. The electronic data is, for example, a machining program to be executed by the machine tool 4.

[0043] <Other Techniques> In addition to the above-described embodiment, an invention relating to suppression of accumulation of chips in the machining area of ​​a machine tool will be disclosed below.

[0044] In machine tools, the machining area where materials are processed is composed of a cover. This cover needs to have a certain strength for safety reasons, for example, to prevent the cutting tool from flying out of the machining area if it becomes detached during machining. Furthermore, in machine tools, the bottom of the machining area is inclined and a chip conveyor is installed below the bottom to discharge chips generated during machining from the machining area. However, depending on the location of the machining area, chips may not be discharged and may accumulate.

[0045] Furthermore, machine tools are sometimes required to be able to perform machining while housed within a container. An example of the container is the container 1 described above. When a machine tool is housed in a container, the external shape of the machine tool needs to be changed according to the shape of the container. When designing a machine tool with priority given to machining performance, the size of the machine tool tends to be large. When a machine tool is housed in a container, it is preferable that the size of the machine tool is small. Therefore, the machine tool needs to be redesigned so that its size does not increase. One example of this is the need to design the machine tool so that metal powder, metal chips, etc. do not accumulate in the machining area. The following invention aims to suppress the accumulation of chips in the machining area of ​​a machine tool while ensuring the strength of the machining area.

[0046] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the machining area of ​​a machine tool. The machine tool 200 is a turning center that performs turning on a workpiece. It is assumed that the machine tool 200 is configured to be capable of machining while housed in a container. However, the machine tool 200 is not limited to a configuration capable of machining while housed in a container, and may be configured to be capable of machining without being housed in a container. The machine tool 200 includes a spindle 201 that holds a workpiece, a tailstock 202 that holds the workpiece together with the spindle 201, a tool rest 203 that holds a tool, and a coolant spray unit 204 that sprays coolant toward a cutting section where the workpiece and tool come into contact. The cutting section is the portion where the workpiece and tool come into contact and is located between the spindle 201 and the tailstock 202. When viewing the machine tool 200 from the front, the vertical direction is the X-axis direction, the front-to-back direction is the Y-axis direction, and the left-to-right direction is the Z-axis direction. The X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction are perpendicular to one another.

[0047] The spindle 201 is provided so as to protrude into the machining region R from the left side surface thereof. The spindle 201 includes a chuck and holds one end of the workpiece via the chuck. The spindle 201 is supported by a headstock (not shown). The headstock houses a drive mechanism for rotating the spindle, etc. The drive mechanism rotates the spindle 201 around an axis parallel to the Z direction.

[0048] The tailstock 202 is disposed opposite the spindle 201 in the Z direction. The tailstock 202 includes a chuck (not shown) and holds the other end of the workpiece via the chuck. The tailstock 202 holds the workpiece so as to allow the workpiece to rotate. A drive mechanism and the like that move the tailstock 202 in the Z direction are housed inside the tailstock 202.

[0049] The tool rest 203 includes a turret 2031 that can rotate around an axis parallel to the Z direction. The turret 2031 has a roughly cylindrical shape. A plurality of tools are provided via holders at circumferentially spaced intervals on the outer periphery of the turret 2031. The tool rest 203 is configured to be movable in the Z direction by a drive mechanism (not shown) or the like. The tool rest 203 is also configured to be movable diagonally downward from the back to the front of the machining region R.

[0050] The coolant spraying unit 204 is provided so as to hang down from the upper surface of the machining area. The coolant spraying unit 204 includes a nozzle that sprays coolant toward the cutting area.

[0051] In this type of machine tool 200, the spindle 201 is rotated to bring the tool rest 203 closer to the rotating workpiece, thereby cutting the workpiece. This generates chips. Because the bottom and rear surfaces of the machining area R are inclined relative to the horizontal, chips fall toward the bottom of the machining area R and are collected by a chip conveyor installed below the machining area R. However, chips that hit the left side of the machining area R, for example, may not be collected by the chip conveyor and may accumulate in the machining area R. More specifically, although the left side is inclined downward relative to the horizontal, the boundary between the left side and the bottom is angular, making it difficult for chips to fall. Therefore, chips that hit the left side may accumulate near the corner between the left side and the bottom. When chips accumulate beyond a certain amount, cleaning work becomes necessary. Therefore, there is a demand for a machine tool that is less likely to accumulate chips in the machining area even when cutting.

[0052] Therefore, machine tool 200 is configured such that the surfaces of areas in machining region R where chips are likely to accumulate are coated with ceramics to make it easier for the chips to slide off. Additionally, areas where chips are less likely to accumulate but where strength is required for safety reasons are constructed from highly impact-resistant stainless steel. Each component will be described in detail below.

[0053] The machining region R includes an impact-resistant section 205 in a portion requiring strength. The impact-resistant section 205 is indicated by cross-hatching in the figure. The impact-resistant section 205 does not include any other components that cover the machining region R; the impact-resistant section 205 itself serves as a cover for the machining region R. The impact-resistant section 205 must also ensure its own strength and be capable of discharging chips. Therefore, the impact-resistant section 205 is made of stainless steel. The surface of the impact-resistant section 205 is unpainted. The impact-resistant section 205 is composed of a portion of the bottom surface of the machining region R (bottom section 2051) and a portion of the rear surface (rear section 2052). The impact-resistant section 205 is inclined at a predetermined angle or more to allow chips to fall naturally. The bottom section 2051 of the impact-resistant section 205 is inclined downward from the rear to the front. The bottom section 2051 is inclined, for example, 15 degrees or more from the horizontal. The rear portion 2052 of the impact-resistant portion 205 is inclined downward from the front to the rear. The rear portion 2052 is inclined, for example, at an angle of 45 degrees or more from the horizontal direction.

[0054] The impact resistant portion 205 is provided within a predetermined distance in the Z direction (both + and - directions) from the cutting processing portion. At least a part of the impact resistant portion 205 is located inside the processing region R from the tip of the spindle 201. At least a part of the impact resistant portion 205 is located inside the processing region R from the standby position of the tool rest 203, that is, from the tip of the tool rest 203 when the machine tool 200 is not operating. At least a part of the impact resistant portion 205 is located behind the front end of the bottom surface of the processing region R. At least a part of the impact resistant portion 205 is located forward of the rear end of the bottom surface of the processing region R.

[0055] The machining region R includes a ceramic-coated portion 206 that is ceramic-coated to allow chips to slide off. The ceramic-coated portion 206 is indicated by single hatching in the figure. The ceramic-coated portion 206 is provided on the surface of another member that previously served as a cover for the machining region R, and is provided in a location where strength does not need to be ensured solely by the ceramic-coated portion. In other words, the ceramic-coated portion 206 is provided on the surface of a cover made of aluminum, mild steel, resin, or the like, and provides chip discharge properties. The ceramic-coated portion 206 is composed of a portion of the bottom surface (bottom portion 2061) of the machining region R, a portion of the left side surface (side portion 2062), and a portion of the rear surface (rear portion 2063). The ceramic-coated portion 206 is provided adjacent to the impact-resistant portion 205. The ceramic-coated portion 206 is provided closer to the spindle 201 than the impact-resistant portion 205. The ceramic-coated portion 206 may be configured separately from the impact-resistant portion 205 or may be configured integrally with the impact-resistant portion 205.

[0056] The ceramic-coated portion 206 is provided around a corner 207 (indicated by a thick line in the figure) which is the boundary between the left side surface and the bottom surface of the processing region R and the boundary between the left side surface and the rear surface of the processing region R. The ceramic-coated portion 206 includes at least a portion of the corner 207. The ceramic-coated portion 206 is provided on both sides of the corner 207 in the Z direction. In the ceramic-coated portion 206, the side portion 2062 and the bottom portion 2061 are connected via the corner 207. In the ceramic-coated portion 206, the side portion 2062 and the rear portion 2063 are connected via the corner 207. In the ceramic-coated portion 206, the bottom portion 2061 and the rear portion 2063 are connected via the boundary between the bottom surface and the rear surface of the processing region R.

[0057] The ceramic-coated portion 206 is inclined at a predetermined angle or more so that chips fall naturally. A bottom 2061 of the ceramic-coated portion 206 is inclined downward from the rear to the front. The bottom 2061 is inclined, for example, by 15 degrees or more from the horizontal. The bottom 2061 is provided on the same plane as the bottom 2051 of the impact-resistant portion 205. A side portion 2062 of the ceramic-coated portion 206 forms a substantially vertical surface. A rear portion 2063 of the ceramic-coated portion 206 is inclined downward from the front to the rear. The rear portion 2063 is inclined, for example, by 45 degrees or more from the horizontal.

[0058] The ceramic coated portion 206 within the machining region R may be provided on at least a part of a flat or curved surface that forms the machining region R. The flat or curved surface may intersect with the relative velocity vector of the tool as viewed from the workpiece during removal machining.

[0059] The ceramic coating portion 206 in the machining region R may be provided at a connection between the first surface and the second surface that form the machining region R. The ceramic coating portion 206 may be provided at a corner 207 that connects the left side surface and the bottom surface of the machining region R, or at a corner 207 that connects the left side surface and the rear surface of the machining region R, or at a connection that connects the bottom surface and the rear surface of the machining region R. The first surface and the second surface may be formed by separate cover parts, or may be formed by an integrated cover part. The first surface and the second surface may be parallel to each other or non-parallel to each other.

[0060] The ceramic coating portion 206 is formed by applying paint containing ceramic particles to the processing region R. The ceramic coating portion 206 is a paint whose main component is siloxane. However, the ceramic coating portion 206 is not limited to this, and may be a paint whose main component is a common ceramic such as silica, alumina, or titanium oxide. The ceramic coating portion 206 has a smaller surface roughness than the impact-resistant portion 205. The ceramic coating portion 206 has a smaller surface roughness than other portions in the processing region R. The ceramic coating portion 206 has the smallest surface roughness in the processing region R.

[0061] In this way, in machine tool 200, ceramic coating portion 206 is provided in a location in machining region R where chips are likely to accumulate, i.e., near corner 207. Therefore, compared to conventional machine tools that do not have ceramic coating portions, chips slide off more easily and are less likely to accumulate. In addition, impact-resistant portions 205 made of stainless steel are provided on the bottom and rear surfaces of machining region R because strength is required. In short, for covers that constitute the machining region inside the machine tool, stainless steel is used for covers that require strength as individual components from a safety perspective, while covers that do not require strength as individual components have a ceramic paint coating formed on their surfaces. Therefore, machine tool 200 can prevent chips from accumulating in machining region R while ensuring the strength of machining region R in the machine tool.

[0062] The ceramic coating portion 206 may be provided in a location other than next to the above-described impact-resistant portion 205. For example, the ceramic coating portion 206 may be provided on at least a part of the upper surface 2021 of the tailstock 202. This is because the tailstock 202 is close to the cutting portion, and the upper surface 2021 of the tailstock 202 is often flat.

[0063] Furthermore, within the machining region R, there are areas that do not require high strength and where chips are less likely to accumulate. Such areas are, for example, the rear portion 2022 on the right side surface of the tailstock 202. It is desirable to apply minimal surface treatment, such as rust prevention treatment, to such areas.

[0064] In the above description, the machine tool 200 is a turning center. However, the machine tool is not limited to this. There is no particular limitation on the type of machine tool as long as it is capable of performing cutting work.

[0065] In the above description, the impact resistant portion 205 is made of stainless steel. However, the impact resistant portion 205 is not limited to this. The impact resistant portion 205 may be made of a metal having strength equal to or greater than that of stainless steel.

[0066] (Embodiment 2) Fig. 9 is a top view showing the internal structure of a container unit according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. The container unit according to this embodiment basically has the same structure as container unit 100 according to Embodiment 1. Hereinafter, the description of the overlapping structure will not be repeated.

[0067] 9 and later-described FIG. 13, a first direction 210 and a second direction 220 are indicated by arrows. The first direction 210 is a direction parallel to the horizontal direction and corresponds to the front-rear direction in embodiment 1. The second direction 220 is a direction perpendicular to the first direction 210 and parallel to the horizontal direction and corresponds to the left-right direction in embodiment 1.

[0068] Referring to Fig. 9, the container unit 100A in this embodiment has a container 110. The container 110 is a rectangular parallelepiped box that can be transported by ship, rail, truck, or the like. The container 110 is made of metal. The size of the container 110 complies with the International Standards Organization (ISO).

[0069] The container 110 has a bottom 111 and side portions 112. The bottom 111 forms the bottom portion of the container 110. The side portions 112 rise from the periphery of the bottom 111. The side portions 112 include a first side portion 112a, a second side portion 112b, a third side portion 112c, and a fourth side portion 112d. The first side portion 112a and the second side portion 112b face each other in the short-side direction of the container 110 when viewed from above. The third side portion 112c and the fourth side portion 112d face each other in the long-side direction of the container 110 when viewed from above. The sides 112 of the first side portion 112a and the second side portion 112b have a larger area than the sides 112 of the third side portion 112c and the fourth side portion 112d.

[0070] The container unit 100A has a plurality of containers 110. The plurality of containers 110 are arranged in a plane. The plurality of containers 110 are connected to one another. The container unit 100A further has connecting members 115. The plurality of containers 110 are connected to one another using the connecting members 115. The type of connecting member 115 is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, a type that connects the sides of adjacent containers 110, or a type that connects the corners of adjacent containers 110.

[0071] The multiple containers 110 are arranged parallel to one another in a top view. The multiple containers 110 are arranged such that the longitudinal direction of each container 110 in a top view corresponds to a first direction 210 and the lateral direction of each container 110 in a top view corresponds to a second direction 220. The multiple containers 110 are lined up in a row in the second direction 220.

[0072] The plurality of containers 110 include a first container 110S, a second container 110T, and a third container 110U. The second container 110T, the first container 110S, and the third container 110U are arranged in the second direction 220 in the listed order.

[0073] The first side 112a of the first container 110S and the second side 112b of the second container 110T are overlapped with each other. The second side 112b of the first container 110S and the first side 112a of the third container 110U are overlapped with each other. The third sides 112c of the second container 110T, the first container 110S, and the third container 110U face outward from the container unit 100A and are connected to each other, extending in the second direction 220. The fourth sides 112d of the second container 110T, the first container 110S, and the third container 110U face outward from the container unit 100A and are connected to each other, extending in the second direction 220.

[0074] A first side 112a of the second container 110T faces the outside of the container unit 100A. The first side 112a of the second container 110T is provided with the entrance / exit 21 and the carry-in entrance 22 described in the first embodiment. A third side 112c of the second container 110T is provided with doors for opening and closing the entrance / exit 21 and the carry-in entrance 22.

[0075] The second side 112b of the third container 110U faces the outside of the container unit 100A. The above-mentioned entrance / exit 21 and / or entrance 22 may be provided on a fourth side 112d of the third container 110U.

[0076] The overall length of the container unit 100A in the second direction 220 is longer than the overall length of the container unit 100A in the first direction 210.

[0077] The arrangement of the multiple containers 110 shown in FIG. 9 is an example and is not particularly limited. For example, the number of containers 110 included in the container unit 100A may be two, or four or more. The multiple containers 110 may be arranged in the first direction 210, or may be arranged in both the first direction 210 and the second direction 220. The overall length of the container unit 100A in the second direction 220 may be equal to or less than the overall length of the container unit 100A in the first direction 210. By combining multiple containers 110 including containers 110 arranged so that the first direction 210 corresponds to the longitudinal direction and the second direction 220 corresponds to the lateral direction in a top view, and containers 110 arranged so that the first direction 210 corresponds to the lateral direction and the second direction 220 corresponds to the longitudinal direction in a top view, the container unit 100A may have an L-shape, a T-shape, an H-shape, or the like in a top view.

[0078] The container unit 100A further includes a machine tool 120A. The machine tool 120A is housed in the container 110. The machine tool 120A is a cutting machine. The machine tool 120A may be a turning center having a turning function, a machining center having a milling function, or a multi-tasking machine having a milling function and a turning function.

[0079] The machine tool 120A is housed in a first container 110S. The machine tool 120A corresponds to the machine tool 4 in the first embodiment. The first container 110S corresponds to the container 1 in the first embodiment.

[0080] The machine tool 120A is disposed so that a door 134 (an opening formed by a first opening 132) described below faces the first side 112a of the first container 110S in the second direction 220. In this embodiment, there is not enough space on the bottom 111 between the machine tool 120A and the first side 112a of the first container 110S to allow an operator to stand.

[0081] The container unit 100A may have a plurality of machine tools 120A. The plurality of machine tools 120A may be the same type of machine tools or may be different types of machine tools. The machine tool 120A may be housed in at least one container 110 of the plurality of containers 110.

[0082] Machine tool 120A has a cover body 133 and a door 134. Door 134 corresponds to first cover 42 in the first embodiment. Cover body 133 and door 134 define a machining region R and also form the external appearance of machine tool 120A. Machining region R is a space where machining of a workpiece is performed, and is sealed by cover body 133 and door 134 to prevent foreign matter such as chips or coolant generated during workpiece machining from leaking outside of machining region R.

[0083] The cover body 133 has a first opening 132. The door 134 is attached to the first opening 132. The door 134 is movable between a first state in which the door 134 closes the opening formed by the first opening 132 and a second state in which the door 134 opens the opening formed by the first opening 132. The door 134 is slidable in a first direction 210. When the door 134 moves to the first state, the machining area R is sealed. When the door 134 moves to the second state, the machining area R becomes accessible from the outside through the opening formed by the first opening 132.

[0084] Machine tool 120A further has a chip conveyor 141 and a chip bucket 142. Chip conveyor 141 discharges chips generated as a result of workpiece machining in machining region R toward chip bucket 142. Chip bucket 142 stores chips discharged from machining region R via chip conveyor 141. Chip bucket 142 is a cart capable of transporting chips.

[0085] The chip conveyor 141 and the chip bucket 142 face the first side 112a of the first container 110S in the second direction 220. The chip bucket 142 is provided at a position offset in the first direction 210 from the door 134 (first opening 132) and the operation panel 43. The operation panel 43 is provided between the opening formed by the first opening 132 and the chip bucket 142 in the first direction 210.

[0086] Second container 110T and third container 110U correspond to container 2 and container 3 in embodiment 1, respectively. Second container 110T accommodates tool storage section 23 and holder storage section 24 described in embodiment 1 as storage section 150 for storing workpieces, tools, or tool holders. Third container 110U accommodates workbench 31 described in embodiment 1, tool presetter 151 for measuring tools used in machine tool 120A, and tip storage shelf 152 for storing tips to be attached to tools.

[0087] Each of the first container 110S, the second container 110T, and the third container 110U further accommodates an air conditioning unit 153. The air conditioning unit 153 is provided along the third side portion 112c of each container 110. The passage 11 described in the first embodiment is provided between the air conditioning unit 153 of the first container 110S and the machine tool 120A.

[0088] The container unit 100A further includes a skid 7. The skid 7 is supported at three points spaced apart by the bottom 111 of the container 110 (first container 110S). The structure of the skid 7 is as described in the first embodiment. Although the description in the first embodiment partially overlaps with the structure of the skid 7, the following description will be given.

[0089] 3 to 7 , the skid 7 has a first support portion 71, a second support portion 72, and a third support portion 73. The skid 7 is supported by the bottom 111 of the container 110 (first container 110S) at three points, where the first support portion 71, the second support portion 72, and the third support portion 73 are located. The skid 7 is configured so that only the three points, the first support portion 71, the second support portion 72, and the third support portion 73, abut against the bottom 111 of the container 110 (first container 110S). The first support portion 71 and the second support portion 72 are spaced apart from each other in a second direction 220 shown in FIG. 9 . The first support portion 71 and the second support portion 72 and the third support portion 73 are spaced apart from each other in a first direction 210 shown in FIG. 9 . The third support portion 73 is disposed between the first support portion 71 and the second support portion 72 in the second direction 220 .

[0090] The distance between the first support portion 71 and the second support portion 72 and the third support portion 73 in the first direction 210 is longer than the distance between the first support portion 71 and the second support portion 72 in the second direction 220 .

[0091] As shown in FIG. 6 , the machine tool 120A (4) is placed on the skid 7. The machine tool 120A has a plurality (three) of supported portions 46. The supported portions 46 are provided on the bottom of a bed that forms the base of the machine tool 120A. The supported portions 46 are located apart from one another. The machine tool 120A is placed on the mounting portion 74 of the skid 7 via the supported portions 46.

[0092] The machine tool 120A is supported by the skid 7 at three points where the multiple supported portions 46 are located. The machine tool 120A is fixed to the skid 7 by fastening each supported portion 46 to the skid 7 using anchor bolts or the like.

[0093] The multiple supported portions 46 are arranged between the first support portion 71 and the second support portion 72 in the second direction 220 shown in Fig. 9. The multiple supported portions 46 are arranged between the first support portion 71 and the second support portion 72 and the third support portion 73 in the first direction 210 shown in Fig. 9. When viewed from above, at least a portion of each supported portion 46 overlaps the inner region of the triangle T formed by the first support portion 71, the second support portion 72, and the third support portion 73.

[0094] The skid 7 supports the weight of the machine tool 120A through the multiple supported portions 46. The bottom 111 of the container 110 (first container 110S) supports the weight of the skid 7 and the machine tool 120A through the first support portion 71, the second support portion 72, and the third support portion 73.

[0095] Figures 10 and 11 are front views showing the first side of the first container in Figure 9. Figures 10 and 11, as well as Figure 12 described later, show the opening formed by the first opening 132 when the door 134 is moved to the second state in the machine tool 120A, the operation panel 43, and the chip bucket 142.

[0096] 9 to 11 , the side portion 112 of the container 110 has a second opening 116. The second opening 116 is open at the first side portion 112a of the first container 110S. The second opening 116 is a rectangular opening in which the first direction 210 corresponds to the longitudinal direction and the up-down direction corresponds to the lateral direction.

[0097] When the first container 110S is transported with the machine tool 120A housed inside, the opening formed by the second opening 116 is closed by a removable wall member or a hinged cover. When the first container 110S is set up, the second opening 116 is opened by removing the wall member from the first side 112a or folding the hinged cover from the first side 112a toward the third side 112c and / or the fourth side 112d.

[0098] 10 , in a front view of the first side 112a of the first container 110S (when the first container 110S and the machine tool 120A are viewed in a direction perpendicular to the first side 112a), the opening formed by the first opening 132 when the door 134 is operated to the second state overlaps with the opening formed by the second opening 116. In a front view of the first side 112a of the first container 110S, the operation panel 43 and the opening formed by the second opening 116 overlap with each other. In a front view of the first side 112a of the first container 110S, the opening formed by the first opening 132 when the door 134 is operated to the second state and the operation panel 43 are included in the opening formed by the second opening 116.

[0099] 11 , in a front view of the first side portion 112 a of the first container 110S, the opening formed by the second opening 116 overlaps with the chip bucket 142. In a front view of the first side portion 112 a of the first container 110S, the chip bucket 142 is included in the opening formed by the second opening 116.

[0100] In this embodiment, the container 110 (first container 110S) has a first sliding cover 161. The first sliding cover 161 corresponds to the second cover 5 in the first embodiment. The first sliding cover 161 is slidable in a first direction 210. The first sliding cover 161 is attached to the second opening 116. The length of the first sliding cover 161 in the first direction 210 is shorter than the entire length of the opening formed by the second opening 116 in the first direction 210. The length of the first sliding cover 161 in the first direction 210 is less than half the entire length of the opening formed by the second opening 116 in the first direction 210.

[0101] The opening formed by second opening 116 is closed at the position where first slide cover 161 is disposed, and is open at a position offset from first slide cover 161. By sliding first slide cover 161 in first direction 210, the operator can arbitrarily determine the position of the opening formed by second opening 116 in first direction 210.

[0102] The first slide cover 161 is slidable between a third state (the state shown in FIG. 11 ) in which the first slide cover 161 overlaps with the opening formed by the first opening 132 and the operation panel 43 when the door 134 is moved to the second state but does not overlap with the chip bucket 142 when viewed from the front of the first side portion 112 a of the first container 110S, and a fourth state (the state shown in FIG. 10 ) in which the first slide cover 161 overlaps with the chip bucket 142 and the opening formed by the first opening 132 when the door 134 is moved to the second state but does not overlap with the operation panel 43 when viewed from the front of the first side portion 112 a of the first container 110S. As shown in FIG. 11 , when the first slide cover 161 is moved to the third state, the opening formed by the second opening 116 overlaps with the chip bucket 142 when viewed from the front of the first side portion 112 a of the first container 110S. As shown in Figure 10, when the first slide cover 161 is operated to the fourth state, in a front view of the first side 112a of the first container 110S, the opening formed by the first opening 132 when the door 134 is operated to the second state, and the opening formed by the operation panel 43 and the second opening 116 overlap.

[0103] Furthermore, when the first slide cover 161 is operated to a state where it overlaps with the space above the passage section 11 in a front view of the first side section 112a of the first container 110S (the leftmost position in Figures 10 and 11), the opening formed by the second opening 116 may overlap with the opening formed by the first opening 132 when the door 134 is operated to the second state, the operation panel 43, and the chip bucket 142.

[0104] 9, the second side portion 112b of the first container 110S, the second side portion 112b of the second container 110T, and the first side portion 112a of the third container 110U are provided with a third opening 117, a fourth opening 118, and a fifth opening 119, respectively, which have the same opening shape as the second opening 116. A second sliding cover 162, a third sliding cover 163, and a fourth sliding cover 164, which have the same shape as the first sliding cover 161, are attached to the third opening 117, the fourth opening 118, and the fifth opening 119, respectively.

[0105] To summarize the configuration of the container unit 100A in embodiment 2 of the present invention as described above, the container unit 100A in this embodiment comprises a container 110 including a bottom 111, a skid 7 supported by the bottom 111 at three points spaced apart from one another, and a machine tool 120A placed on the skid 7 and housed in the container 110.

[0106] With this configuration, even if undulations occur in the bottom 111 of the container 110, which has low rigidity, the flatness of the skid 7 can be maintained by supporting the skid 7 at three points spaced apart by the bottom 111. By placing the machine tool 120A on the skid 7, which maintains such flatness, the machine tool 120A can machine a workpiece with high precision. As a result, the machine tool 120A can be operated in a variety of locations.

[0107] The machine tool 120A also includes a cover body 133 having a first opening 132, and a door 134 attached to the first opening 132 and defining a machining region R together with the cover body 133, the door 134 being movable between a first state in which the opening formed by the first opening 132 is closed and a second state in which the opening formed by the first opening 132 is open. The container 110 (first container 110S) further includes a side portion 112 (first side portion 112a) having a second opening 116. In a front view of the side portion 112 (first side portion 112a), when the door 134 is moved to the second state, the opening formed by the first opening 132 and the opening formed by the second opening 116 overlap with each other.

[0108] With this configuration, an operator can access the processing area R from outside the container 110 (first container 110S) through the opening formed by the second opening 116 and the opening formed by the first opening 132, thereby improving workability when processing a workpiece using the machine tool 120A.

[0109] The machine tool 120A also includes a chip bucket 142 that stores chips discharged from the machining region R. The container 110 (first container 110S) further includes a side portion 112 (first side portion 112a) having a second opening 116. In a front view of the side portion 112 (first side portion 112a), the opening formed by the second opening 116 and the chip bucket 142 overlap.

[0110] With this configuration, workers can access the chip bucket 142 from outside the container 110 (first container 110S) through the second opening 116, thereby improving workability when transporting chips stored in the chip bucket 142.

[0111] The container unit 100A also includes a plurality of interconnected containers 110. At least one of the plurality of containers 110 houses a machine tool 120A.

[0112] According to this configuration, the space in which machine tool 120A is installed and / or the space required for installing machine tool 120A can be freely expanded.

[0113] Fig. 12 is a front view showing a modification of the first side portion of the first container in Fig. 10 and Fig. 11. Referring to Fig. 12, the first sliding cover 161 does not have to be attached to the second opening 116.

[0114] Fig. 13 is a top view showing a modified example of the internal structure of the container unit in Fig. 9. Referring to Fig. 13, a container unit 100B in this modified example has a machine tool 120B. Machine tool 120B differs from machine tool 120A shown in Fig. 9 in that the length of machine tool 120B in second direction 220 is shorter than the length of machine tool 120A in second direction 220.

[0115] A space 260 in which an operator can stand is formed on the bottom 111 between the machine tool 120B and the first side 112a of the first container 110S.

[0116] In this modified example, when the first slide cover 161 operates to the fourth state, in a front view of the first side 112a of the first container 110S, the opening formed by the first opening 132 when the door 134 operates to the second state, and the opening formed by the operation panel 43 and the second opening 116 may overlap.

[0117] 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 by the claims, not the above-described embodiments. Furthermore, the scope of the present invention includes modifications from the embodiments within the scope of the claims and their equivalents.

[0118] This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-153886 filed with the Japan Patent Office on September 6, 2024, Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-202794 filed with the Japan Patent Office on November 1, 2024, U.S. Patent and Trademark Office on October 21, 2024. U.S. Application No. 63 / 709,862 filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, and European Patent Application No. 25173583.3 filed with the European Patent Office on April 30, 2025, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0119] 100, container unit, 1-3 container, 11 passage section, 12 machine tool installation section, 13, 14 connection section, 15 frame member, 21 entrance / exit, 22 loading entrance, 23 tool storage section, 24 holder storage section, 31 work table, 4 machine tool, 41 machining area, 42 first cover, 43 operation panel, 44 functional section, 45 maintenance section, 46 supported section, 5 second cover, 6 third cover, 7 skid, 71 first support section, 72 second support section, 73 third support section, 74 placement section, 75 reinforcing rib, 76 mounting section, G center of gravity, S2 work space, S3 work space, R machining area, 100A, 100B container unit, 110 container, 110S first container, 110T second container, 110U third container, 111 bottom, 112 Side portion, 112a: First side portion, 112b: Second side portion, 112c: Third side portion, 112d: Fourth side portion, 115: Connecting member, 116: Second opening, 117: Third opening, 118: Fourth opening, 119: Fifth opening, 120A, 120B: Machine tool, 132: First opening, 133: Cover body, 134: Door, 141: Chip conveyor, 142: Chip bucket, 150: Storage portion, 151: Tool presetter, 152: Chip storage shelf, 153: Air conditioning unit, 161: First slide cover, 162: Second slide cover, 163: Third slide cover, 164: Fourth slide cover, 210: First direction, 220: Second direction, 260: Space.

Claims

1. A container unit comprising: a container including a bottom; a skid supported by the bottom at three points spaced apart from one another; and a machine tool placed on the skid and housed in the container.

2. The container unit described in claim 1, wherein the machine tool includes a cover body having a first opening, and a door attached to the first opening and defining a machining area together with the cover body, the door being operable between a first state in which the opening formed by the first opening is closed and a second state in which the opening formed by the first opening is open, and the container further includes a side portion having a second opening, and when the door is operated to the second state, the opening formed by the first opening and the opening formed by the second opening overlap in a front view of the side portion.

3. A container unit as described in claim 1, wherein the machine tool includes a chip bucket that stores chips discharged from the machining area, the container further includes a side portion having a second opening, and when viewed from the front of the side portion, the opening formed by the second opening and the chip bucket overlap.

4. The container unit according to claim 1, comprising a plurality of said containers connected to one another, and wherein said machine tool is housed in at least one of said plurality of said containers.

Images