Setup station and machine tool

Abstract

This setup station comprises: a support body that is positioned in a setup area where setup of a workpiece is performed, and supports the workpiece; and an auxiliary tool that assists with manual turning of the support body. The auxiliary tool is a detachable auxiliary tool that is attached to the support body when in use and is separated from the support body when not in use.

Description

Tool changing station and machine tool

[0001] The present invention relates to a tool changing station and a machine tool.

[0002] Technologies for providing a machine tool with a tool changing station where workpiece setup is performed are known.

[0003] As a related technology, Patent Document 1 discloses a pallet transfer device. FIG. 1 of Patent Document 1 shows a state in which a guard ring (25) is provided on a mounting table (4).

[0004] Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 63-105855

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a tool changing station and a machine tool capable of reducing the work load of an operator.

[0006] Embodiments of the present invention relate to the following tool changing station and machine tool.

[0007] (1) A tool changing station disposed in a tool changing area where workpiece setup is performed, comprising a support for supporting the workpiece and an auxiliary tool for assisting manual turning of the support, the auxiliary tool being a detachable auxiliary tool that is attached to the support during use and separated from the support during non-use. (2) A machine tool comprising a processing head for holding a tool, a moving device for relatively moving the processing head with respect to a workpiece, a support for supporting the workpiece disposed in a tool changing area where workpiece setup is performed, and an auxiliary tool for assisting manual turning of the support, the auxiliary tool being a detachable auxiliary tool that is attached to the support during use and separated from the support during non-use.

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a tool changing station and a machine tool capable of reducing the work load of an operator.

[0009] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the setup station in the first embodiment. Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the setup station in the first embodiment. Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the setup station in the first embodiment. Figure 4 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the setup station in the first embodiment. Figure 5 is a schematic plan view illustrating a part of the setup station. Figure 6 is a schematic plan view illustrating a part of the setup station. Figure 7 is a schematic plan view illustrating a part of the setup station. Figure 8 is a schematic side view illustrating the auxiliary device attached to the support. Figure 9 is a schematic side view illustrating the auxiliary device attached to the support. Figure 10 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the auxiliary device attached to the support. Figure 11 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the state before the auxiliary device is attached to the support. Figure 12 is a schematic perspective view illustrating an example of the auxiliary device. Figure 13 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a first modified example of the auxiliary device and mounting part. Figure 14 is a schematic plan view illustrating an example of an auxiliary tool. Figure 15 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the auxiliary tool in a second modified example attached to a support. Figure 16 is a schematic plan view illustrating the first table and the auxiliary tool attached to the first table. Figure 17 is a schematic plan view illustrating the first table and the auxiliary tool attached to the first table. Figure 18 is a schematic perspective view illustrating how the mounting portion to which the auxiliary tool is attached is arranged on the pallet. Figure 19 is a schematic side view illustrating the pallet removed from the first table. Figure 20 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the setup station in the first embodiment. Figure 21 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the setup station in the first embodiment. Figure 22 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the machine tool in the second embodiment. Figure 23 is a schematic plan view illustrating a part of the machine tool. Figure 24 is a schematic side view illustrating a part of the machine tool. Figure 25 is a schematic side view illustrating a portion of a machine tool. Figure 26 is a schematic top view illustrating a portion of a machine tool. Figure 27 is a schematic side view illustrating a portion of a machine tool.Figure 28 is a schematic plan view illustrating a part of a machine tool. Figure 29 is a schematic diagram showing how a control device can control a controlled device.

[0010] The setup station 10 and the machine tool 1 in the embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following description of the embodiment, parts and components having the same function will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions of parts and components denoted by the same reference numerals will be omitted.

[0011] (First Embodiment) The setup station 10A in the first embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 21. Figures 1 to 4 are schematic perspective views showing the setup station 10A in the first embodiment. Figures 5 to 7 are schematic plan views showing a part of the setup station 10A. Figures 8 and 9 are schematic side views showing the auxiliary device 3 attached to the support 2. Figure 10 is a schematic perspective view showing the auxiliary device 3 attached to the support 2. Figure 11 is a schematic perspective view showing the state before the auxiliary device 3 is attached to the support 2. Figure 12 is a schematic perspective view showing an example of the auxiliary device 3. Figure 13 is a schematic perspective view showing a first modified example of the auxiliary device 3 and the mounting part 20. Figure 14 is a schematic plan view showing an example of the auxiliary device 3. Figure 15 is a schematic perspective view showing the state in which the auxiliary device 3 in the second modified example is attached to the support 2. Figures 16 and 17 are schematic plan views illustrating the first table 23 and the auxiliary device 3 attached to the first table 23. In Figures 16 and 17, only the outline of the pallet PT is shown by dashed lines. Figure 18 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the arrangement of the mounting portion 20 to which the auxiliary device 3 is attached on the pallet PT. Figure 19 is a schematic side view illustrating the state in which the pallet PT has been removed from the first table 23. Figures 20 and 21 are schematic perspective views illustrating the setup station 10A in the first embodiment.

[0012] As illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, the setup station 10A comprises a support 2 and an auxiliary tool 3. Additionally, the setup station 10A may include an opening OP.

[0013] As illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, the support 2 is positioned in the setup area RG1 where the workpiece W is prepared. The support 2 supports the workpiece W.

[0014] The opening OP allows access to the setup area RG1. More specifically, the opening OP allows the operator to access the setup area RG1 from outside the setup area RG1 through the opening OP.

[0015] In the examples shown in Figures 1 and 2, the workpiece W can be brought into the setup area RG1 from outside the setup area RG1 through the opening OP.

[0016] In the examples shown in Figures 1 and 2, the opening OP is provided in the wall 18 that defines the setup area RG1.

[0017] The auxiliary device 3 assists in the manual rotation of the support 2. More specifically, the operator can rotate the support 2 around the first axis AX1 by manipulating the auxiliary device 3. In the example shown in Figure 2, the first axis AX1 is substantially parallel to the vertical.

[0018] As illustrated in Figure 2, the auxiliary device 3 is attached to the support 2 when manual rotation of the support 2 is required. As illustrated in Figures 2 and 3, after the auxiliary device 3 is attached to the support 2, the operator can use the auxiliary device 3 to rotate the support 2. More specifically, after the auxiliary device 3 is attached to the support 2, the operator can use the auxiliary device 3 to rotate the support 2 around the first axis AX1.

[0019] As illustrated in Figure 4, when manual rotation of the support 2 is not required, the auxiliary device 3 is separated from the support 2 (see dashed arrow AR1).

[0020] In the examples shown in Figures 1 to 4, the auxiliary device 3 is a detachable auxiliary device that is attached to the support 2 when in use and separated from the support 2 when not in use.

[0021] In the first embodiment, the operator can easily rotate the support body 2 that supports the workpiece W using the auxiliary tool 3. Therefore, the operator's workload is reduced compared to the case where the support body 2 is rotated without using the auxiliary tool 3. More specifically, the operator can rotate the support body 2 with a relatively small force.

[0022] In the first embodiment, the auxiliary tool 3 is separated from the support 2 when not in use. In this case, when the auxiliary tool 3 is not in use, no chips or coolant fluid adhere to it. Therefore, the effort and frequency of cleaning the auxiliary tool 3 are reduced.

[0023] (Optional Additional Configurations) Next, with reference to Figures 1 to 21, optional additional configurations that can be adopted in the setup station 10A in the first embodiment will be described.

[0024] (Auxiliary device 3) In the example shown in Figure 5, the auxiliary device 3 can be attached to the support 2 with the auxiliary device 3 crossing the opening OP.

[0025] In the example shown in Figure 5, when the auxiliary device 3 is attached to the support 2, a part 32 of the auxiliary device 3 (more specifically, the gripping portion 321 that is grasped by the operator) protrudes outward through the opening OP.

[0026] As illustrated in Figures 6 and 7, when a portion 32 of the assistive device 3 protrudes outside the opening OP, the operator can easily operate the portion 32 of the assistive device 3. For example, the operator can operate the portion 32 of the assistive device 3 at a position close to their torso, thereby effectively transmitting the operating force to the assistive device 3.

[0027] When a portion 32 of the auxiliary tool 3 protrudes outside the opening OP, the distance between the portion 32 of the auxiliary tool 3 and the pivot axis of the support 2 (in other words, the first axis AX1) increases. Therefore, the operator operating the portion 32 of the auxiliary tool 3 (more specifically, the gripping portion 321) can apply a relatively large torque to the support 2 with a relatively small force. That is, the lever principle is suitably utilized.

[0028] Furthermore, if a portion 32 of the auxiliary device 3 protrudes outside the opening OP, the hand or arm of the operator operating the auxiliary device 3 is less likely to be caught between the edge of the opening OP and the auxiliary device 3.

[0029] In the example shown in Figure 8, the auxiliary tool 3 has a mounting end 34 that is attached to the support 2 and a gripping portion 321 that is grasped by the operator.

[0030] As illustrated in Figure 8, the state in which the mounting end 34 is attached to the support 2 is defined as the mounted state. In the examples shown in Figures 8 and 9, the height position of the gripping portion 321 in the mounted state is adjustable.

[0031] As illustrated in Figure 10, the height position of the gripping portion 321 may be adjustable when the mounting end 34 is attached to the support 2. In the example shown in Figure 10, the mounting end 34 extends along the second axis AX2. In the example shown in Figure 10, the height position of the gripping portion 321 is changed by rotating the auxiliary device 3 around the second axis AX2 when the mounting end 34 is attached to the support 2 (see dashed arrow AR2). Alternatively, the height position of the gripping portion 321 may be adjustable only at the time the mounting end 34 is attached to the support 2.

[0032] If the height of the gripping part 321 is adjustable, the gripping part 321 can be positioned at a height that makes it easy for the operator to apply operating force. For example, if the operator is relatively tall, the height of the gripping part 321 can be adjusted to a relatively high position. On the other hand, if the operator is relatively short, the height of the gripping part 321 can be adjusted to a relatively low position.

[0033] As illustrated in Figure 11, the support 2 may have a hole 21h for receiving the mounting end 34. In the example shown in Figure 11, the support 2 has a circular hole 21h for receiving the mounting end 34. In the example shown in Figure 11, the mounting end 34 has a projection 34p that is received by the hole 21h of the support 2. As illustrated in Figure 12, the mounting end 34 may have a columnar projection 34p (for example, a cylindrical projection 34p) that is received by the hole 21h of the support 2.

[0034] In the example shown in Figure 11, the hole 21h of the support 2 receives the mounting end 34 (more specifically, the projection 34p) so that the mounting end 34 can rotate around the second axis AX2. In this case, the auxiliary tool 3 can be rotated around the second axis AX2 while the mounting end 34 is received in the hole 21h (see Figure 10). Alternatively, as illustrated in Figure 13, the support 2 may have a columnar projection 21p (for example, a cylindrical projection 21p), and the mounting end 34 may have a hole 34h (for example, a circular hole 34h) that receives the columnar projection 21p (for example, a cylindrical projection 21p).

[0035] In the example shown in Figure 11, the central axis of the hole 21h may be substantially parallel to the horizontal plane. In the example shown in Figure 13, the central axis of the projection 21p may be substantially parallel to the horizontal plane.

[0036] In the examples shown in Figures 10, 11, and 13, the engagement between the mounting end 34 and the support 2 is an engagement that allows rotation of the mounting end 34 around the second axis AX2. Alternatively, the engagement between the mounting end 34 and the support 2 may be an engagement that does not allow rotation of the mounting end 34 around the second axis AX2.

[0037] In the example shown in Figure 14, the auxiliary device 3 has a first portion 33 including a mounting end 34 that extends along the second axis AX2, and a second portion 31 that extends from the first portion 33 in a direction different from the direction along the second axis AX2. In the example shown in Figure 14, the second portion 31 is connected to the first portion 33 via a bent portion 35. In the example shown in Figure 14, the second portion 31 includes a gripping portion 321.

[0038] The angle α between the first part 33 and the second part 31 is, for example, greater than 90 degrees and less than 180 degrees. The angle α between the first part 33 and the second part 31 may be between 120 degrees and 150 degrees.

[0039] In the examples shown in Figures 11 and 13, the mounting end 34 can be attached to the support 2 in a single action. More specifically, the mounting end 34 can be attached to the support 2 simply by inserting a projection 34p or projection 21p provided on one of the mounting end 34 or the support 2 into a hole 21h or hole 34h provided on the other of the mounting end 34 or the support 2. When the mounting end 34 can be attached to the support 2 in a single action, the auxiliary device 3 can be quickly attached to the support 2.

[0040] The mounting end 34 and the support 2 may be connected to each other by a loose fit. More specifically, when a projection provided on one of the mounting end 34 and the support 2 is inserted into a hole provided on the other of the mounting end 34 and the support 2, a small gap may be formed between the projection and the hole. In this case, it is easy to insert the projection into the hole. In the examples shown in Figures 11 and 13, the mounting end 34 and the support 2 are connected to each other by fitting, rather than screwing. In this case, the mounting end 34 can be quickly attached to the support 2. In the examples shown in Figures 11 and 13, the mounting end 34 is directly attached to the support 2. In this case, the auxiliary device 3 can be quickly attached to the support 2 compared to the case where the mounting end 34 is attached to the support 2 via a fixing member. Note that in the embodiment, the connection between the mounting end 34 and the support 2 is not limited to a fit. Also, the attachment of the mounting end 34 to the support 2 is not limited to direct attachment.

[0041] The mounting end 34 may be removable from the support 2 in a single action. In the examples shown in Figures 11 and 13, the mounting end 34 can be removed from the support 2 simply by pulling out the protrusion 34p or protrusion 21p provided on one of the mounting end 34 or the support 2 through the hole 21h or hole 34h provided on the other of the mounting end 34 or the support 2. If the mounting end 34 can be removed from the support 2 in a single action, the auxiliary tool 3 can be quickly removed from the support 2.

[0042] In the example shown in FIG. 8, the gripping portion 321 is the free end portion 321a of the auxiliary tool 3. In the example shown in FIG. 8, when the auxiliary tool 3 is attached to the support 2, the auxiliary tool 3 is cantilevered by the support 2.

[0043] In the example shown in FIG. 8, in the state where the auxiliary tool 3 is attached to the support 2, the distance between the pivot axis of the support 2 (in other words, the first axis AX1) and the free end portion 321a is greater than the distance between the pivot axis of the support 2 (in other words, the first axis AX1) and the attachment end portion 34.

[0044] In the example shown in FIG. 5, in the state where the auxiliary tool 3 is attached to the support 2, the maximum value M1 of the distance between the pivot axis of the support 2 (in other words, the first axis AX1) and the free end portion 321a is greater than the minimum value M2 of the distance between the pivot axis of the support 2 (in other words, the first axis AX1) and the opening OP. The above-mentioned maximum value M1 may be 1.2 times or more, 1.5 times or more, or 1.8 times or more of the above-mentioned minimum value M2. Thereby, since the gripping portion 321 which is a part of the auxiliary tool 3 is always located outside the opening OP, the operator can operate the auxiliary tool 3 without putting his hand into the setup area RG1.

[0045] In the example shown in FIG. 14, the auxiliary tool 3 is a rod-shaped auxiliary tool. In the example shown in FIG. 14, the auxiliary tool 3 has a first portion 33 including the attachment end portion 34, a second portion 31 including the gripping portion 321, and a bending portion 35 connecting the first portion 33 and the second portion 31. The first portion 33 may have a linear shape or other shape. The second portion 31 may have a linear shape or other shape.

[0046] The first portion 33 of the auxiliary tool 3 may have a protruding portion 34p received in the hole portion 21h of the support 2 and a flange 34f contacting the side surface of the support 2. The flange 34f defines the insertion amount of the protruding portion 34p with respect to the hole portion 21h.

[0047] The shape of the auxiliary tool 3 is not limited to the shape shown in FIG. 14. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 15, the auxiliary tool 3 may be a linear auxiliary tool without a bending portion.

[0048] In this specification, one rotational direction around the first axis AX1 is defined as the first rotational direction R1, and the rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction R1 is defined as the second rotational direction R2.

[0049] In the example shown in FIG. 16, the attachment end portion 34 can be attached to the support 2 such that the gripping portion 321 is positioned on the first rotational direction R1 side around the first axis AX1 with respect to the bending portion 35. In this case, by operating the gripping portion 321, it is easy to rotate the support 2 in the first rotational direction R1. In the example shown in FIG. 17, the attachment end portion 34 can be attached to the support 2 such that the gripping portion 321 is positioned on the second rotational direction R2 side around the first axis AX1 with respect to the bending portion 35. In this case, by operating the gripping portion 321, it is easy to rotate the support 2 in the second rotational direction R2.

[0050] (Support 2) In the examples shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the support 2 is rotatable around the first axis AX1.

[0051] In the examples shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the support 2 includes a pallet PT to which the workpiece W is attached, and a first table 23 that supports the pallet PT. The first table 23 is rotatable around the first axis AX1. In the examples shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, each of the first table 23 and the pallet PT constitutes a part of the support 2.

[0052] In the examples shown in FIGS. 11 and 13, the auxiliary tool 3 can be attached to the first table 23 (more specifically, the side surface 230 of the first table 23). Alternatively, as illustrated in FIG. 18, the auxiliary tool 3 may be attached to the pallet PT (more specifically, the side surface Ps of the pallet PT).

[0053] In the examples shown in FIGS. 11, 13, and 18, the support 2 has an attachment portion 20 to which the auxiliary tool 3 can be attached (for example, a hole portion 21h to which the auxiliary tool 3 can be attached, or a protruding portion 21p to which the auxiliary tool 3 can be attached).

[0054] As illustrated in Figures 16 and 17, the support 2 may have a plurality of mounting portions 20, including a first mounting portion 20a to which the auxiliary device 3 can be attached and a second mounting portion 20b to which the auxiliary device 3 can be attached. In the example shown in Figure 16, the first table 23 has a plurality of mounting portions 20, including a first mounting portion 20a to which the auxiliary device 3 can be attached and a second mounting portion 20b to which the auxiliary device 3 can be attached. In the example shown in Figure 18, the pallet PT has a plurality of mounting portions 20, including a first mounting portion 20a to which the auxiliary device 3 can be attached and a second mounting portion 20b to which the auxiliary device 3 can be attached.

[0055] In the examples shown in Figures 16 and 17, the auxiliary device 3 (more specifically, the mounting end 34 of the auxiliary device 3) can be selectively attached to any of the multiple mounting parts 20. More specifically, the auxiliary device 3 can be attached to the first mounting part 20a, and the auxiliary device 3 can be attached to the second mounting part 20b.

[0056] In the example shown in Figures 1 to 4, the support 2 (more specifically, the side surface 230 of the first table 23) has a plurality of mounting parts 20, including the first mounting part 20a and the second mounting part 20b, so that the operator can perform the following steps: (1) attaching the auxiliary tool 3 to the first mounting part 20a (see Figure 2); (2) rotating the support 2 around the first axis AX1 in a first rotational direction R1 using the auxiliary tool 3 attached to the first mounting part 20a (see Figures 2 and 3); (3) removing the auxiliary tool 3 from the first mounting part 20a (see Figure 4); (4) attaching the auxiliary tool 3 to the second mounting part 20b; and (5) further rotating the support 2 around the first axis AX1 in a first rotational direction R1.

[0057] As illustrated in Figure 4, it is preferable that the operator can simultaneously view both the first mounting portion 20a and the second mounting portion 20b through the opening OP, so that the auxiliary tool 3 removed from the first mounting portion 20a can be easily attached to the second mounting portion 20b.

[0058] As illustrated in Figure 16, the line connecting the first mounting portion 20a and the first axis AX1 is defined as the first line LN1, and the line connecting the second mounting portion 20b and the first axis AX1 is defined as the second line LN2. When viewed in the direction along the first axis AX1 (more specifically, in a plan view), the angle β between the first line LN1 and the second line LN2 is, for example, 120 degrees or less, 90 degrees or less, or 72 degrees or less. When the angle β is sufficiently small, the operator can simultaneously view both the first mounting portion 20a and the second mounting portion 20b through the opening OP.

[0059] The support 2 (for example, the first table 23) may have three or more mounting portions 20 to which the auxiliary device 3 can be attached. In the example shown in Figure 16, a plurality of mounting portions 20, including a first mounting portion 20a, a second mounting portion 20b, and a third mounting portion 20c, are arranged on the side surface 230 of the first table 23.

[0060] Three or more mounting parts 20 to which the auxiliary device 3 can be attached may be arranged at equal angular intervals around the first axis AX1. For example, when N is defined as any natural number greater than or equal to 3, N mounting parts 20, including the first mounting part 20a and the second mounting part 20b, may be arranged at (360 / N) degree intervals around the first axis AX1. N is, for example, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, or 8. N may also be 9 or greater.

[0061] In the example shown in Figure 19, the pallet PT is removable from the first table 23. The pallet PT can also be attached to the first table 23.

[0062] As illustrated in Figure 16, the first table 23 may include a first gripping member 24 (for example, a first chuck 24c) for gripping a pallet PT, and a gripping member drive device 25 (for example, a hydraulic device) for driving the first gripping member 24. The gripping member drive device 25 moves the position of the gripping portion of the first gripping member 24 to a gripping position for gripping the pallet PT.

[0063] In the example shown in Figure 19, the pallet PT is removed from the first table 23 by being pulled upward. More specifically, with the grip of the pallet PT released by the first gripping member 24, the pallet PT is removed from the first table 23 by being pulled upward by the pallet moving device 80.

[0064] (Door 11) As illustrated in Figure 1, the setup station 10A may be equipped with a door 11 that can open and close the opening OP. The door 11 is repositionable between an open position Q1 (see Figure 1) and a closed position Q2 (see Figure 20). When the door 11 is in the open position Q1, the operator can access the setup area RG1 from outside the setup area RG1 through the opening OP. When the door 11 is in the open position Q1, the workpiece W may be brought into the setup area RG1 from outside the setup area RG1 through the opening OP.

[0065] In the example shown in Figure 20, when the door 11 is in the closed position Q2, the auxiliary device 3 is removed from the support 2. In this case, the distance between the side of the support 2 and the door 11 can be made relatively smaller compared to the case where the handle for rotating the support 2 is permanently fixed to the side of the support 2. Therefore, the size of the door 11 can be reduced, or the setup station 10A can be made more compact.

[0066] As illustrated in Figure 20, the setup station 10A may be equipped with a door moving device 14 for moving the door 11. The door moving device 14 moves the position of the door 11 between an open position Q1 and a closed position Q2.

[0067] (Setup Station 10A) Setup Station 10A constitutes part of the machine tool. In other words, Setup Station 10A is a setup station for a machine tool.

[0068] (Workpiece setup) The workpiece setup may include attaching the workpiece W to the support 2. More specifically, the workpiece setup may include attaching the workpiece W to a pallet PT supported on the first table 23. After the workpiece W is attached to the support 2, the workpiece setup may include using an auxiliary tool 3 to rotate the support 2 around the first axis AX1.

[0069] In this specification, a machined workpiece (more specifically, a workpiece machined by a tool T held in the machining head 71 described later) is defined as a machined workpiece Wp. Figure 21 shows an example of a machined workpiece Wp.

[0070] The workpiece setup may include removing the machined workpiece Wp from the support 2. More specifically, the workpiece setup may include removing the machined workpiece Wp from the pallet PT supported on the first table 23. The workpiece setup may also include using an auxiliary tool 3 to rotate the support 2 that supports the machined workpiece Wp around the first axis AX1. In this case, the operator can remove the machined workpiece Wp at a position close to the opening OP.

[0071] The workpiece setup may include inspecting the machined workpiece Wp supported by the support 2. For example, the workpiece setup may include inspecting the surface of the machined workpiece Wp supported by the support 2 (e.g., measuring the diameter of the holes Wa formed on the surface of the machined workpiece Wp), rotating the support 2 supporting the machined workpiece Wp around the first axis AX1 using an auxiliary tool 3, and inspecting the back surface of the machined workpiece Wp supported by the support 2 (e.g., measuring the diameter of other holes Wb formed on the back surface of the machined workpiece Wp). Since the operator can rotate the support 2 using the auxiliary tool 3, the entire machined workpiece Wp can be easily inspected.

[0072] The workpiece setup may include removing burrs from the workpiece W or processed workpiece Wp supported by the support 2. Since the operator can rotate the support 2 using the auxiliary tool 3, multiple burrs on the workpiece W or processed workpiece Wp can be efficiently removed.

[0073] (Second Embodiment) The machine tool 1 in the second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 29. Figure 22 is a schematic perspective view showing the machine tool 1 in the second embodiment. Figure 23 is a schematic plan view showing a part of the machine tool 1. Figures 24 and 25 are schematic side views showing a part of the machine tool 1. Figure 26 is a schematic plan view showing a part of the machine tool 1. Figure 27 is a schematic side view showing a part of the machine tool 1. Figure 28 is a schematic plan view showing a part of the machine tool 1. Figure 29 is a schematic diagram showing how the control device 9 can control the controlled device.

[0074] The second embodiment will primarily describe the differences from the first embodiment. On the other hand, in the second embodiment, repetitive explanations of matters already explained in the first embodiment will be omitted. Therefore, it goes without saying that even if not explicitly explained in the second embodiment, matters already explained in the first embodiment can be applied to the second embodiment. Conversely, matters explained in the second embodiment are applicable to the first embodiment.

[0075] As illustrated in Figure 22, the machine tool 1 in the second embodiment comprises a machining head 71, a moving device 72, a support 2, and an auxiliary tool 3. Additionally, the machine tool 1 may be provided with an opening OP. In the example shown in Figure 22, the machine tool 1 is a machining center (more specifically, a horizontal machining center). The machine tool 1 in the second embodiment may be a vertical machining center or a multi-tasking machine capable of performing multiple types of machining.

[0076] The machining head 71 holds the tool T.

[0077] The moving device 72 moves the machining head 71 relative to the workpiece W. The moving device 72 may also include a machining head moving device 72a that moves the machining head 71.

[0078] As illustrated in Figure 23, the support 2 is positioned in the setup area RG1 where the workpiece W is prepared. The support 2 supports the workpiece W.

[0079] The opening OP allows access to the setup area RG1.

[0080] The auxiliary device 3 assists in the manual rotation of the support 2.

[0081] The assistive device 3 is a detachable assistive device that is attached to the support 2 when in use and separated from the support 2 when not in use.

[0082] The machine tool 1 in the second embodiment provides the same effects as the setup station 10A in the first embodiment.

[0083] (Optional Additional Configurations) Next, with reference to Figures 1 to 29, optional additional configurations that can be adopted in the machine tool 1 in the second embodiment will be described.

[0084] (Setup Station 10) As illustrated in Figure 22, the machine tool 1 includes a setup station 10 where the workpiece W is set up. The setup station 10 includes a first table 23 which forms part of the support 2 and the opening OP described above. The setup station 10 may also include a door 11 that can open and close the opening OP. The setup station 10 may also include a door moving device 14 for moving the door 11.

[0085] The setup station 10 may be setup station 10A in the first embodiment, or it may be any other setup station. Since setup station 10A in the first embodiment has already been described in the first embodiment, a repetitive explanation of setup station 10A will be omitted.

[0086] (Processing Station 7) The machine tool 1 includes a processing station 7 on which the workpiece W is processed. The processing station 7 includes a processing head 71 and a moving device 72. The processing station 7 may also include a second table 73 (see Figure 27) capable of supporting the workpiece W via a pallet PT. In the example shown in Figure 23, the machine tool 1 includes a wall 18 defining the setup area RG1 and a wall 19 defining the processing area RG2.

[0087] (Auxiliary device 3) The machine tool 1 is equipped with an auxiliary device 3. The auxiliary device 3 is attachable to the support 2 (more specifically, the first table 23 or pallet PT). The auxiliary device 3 is also detachable from the support 2 (more specifically, the first table 23 or pallet PT). Since the auxiliary device 3 has already been described in the first embodiment, a repeated explanation of the auxiliary device 3 will be omitted.

[0088] (First Table 23) The support 2 includes the first table 23. As illustrated in Figure 22, the first table 23 is positioned in the setup area RG1 where the workpiece W is set up. The first table 23 supports the workpiece W via a pallet PT. The first table 23 is rotatable around the first axis AX1. Since the first table 23 has already been described in the first embodiment, a repetitive description of the first table 23 will be omitted.

[0089] (Second Table 73) The machine tool 1 may include a second table 73. As illustrated in Figure 24, the second table 73 is positioned in the machining area RG2 where the workpiece W is machined. In the example shown in Figure 24, the second table 73 supports the second workpiece W2 via a second pallet PT2. In the example shown in Figure 24, the pallet transfer device 80 is interchangeable between pallet PT and the second pallet PT2. In the example shown in Figure 24, after the second pallet PT2 is replaced with pallet PT, the second table 73 supports the workpiece W via pallet PT.

[0090] As illustrated in Figure 25, the second table 73 may include a second gripping member 74 (e.g., a second chuck 74c) for gripping the second pallet PT2 (or pallet PT), and a second gripping member drive device 75 (e.g., a hydraulic device) for driving the second gripping member 74. The second gripping member drive device 75 moves the position of the gripping portion of the second gripping member 74 to a gripping position for gripping the second pallet PT2 (or pallet PT).

[0091] In the example shown in Figure 25, the second pallet PT2 is removed from the second table 73 by being pulled upward. More specifically, with the grip of the second pallet PT2 released by the second gripping member 74, the second pallet PT2 is removed from the second table 73 by being pulled upward by the pallet moving device 80.

[0092] (Partition wall 76) As illustrated in Figure 23, the machine tool 1 may be equipped with a partition wall 76 that separates the setup area RG1 and the machining area RG2.

[0093] (Coolant liquid supply device 77) The machine tool 1 may be equipped with a coolant liquid supply device 77 that supplies coolant liquid to a tool T held in the machining head 71 or to a workpiece W placed in the machining area RG2.

[0094] (Table Rotating Device 78) As illustrated in Figure 24, the machine tool 1 may be equipped with a table rotating device 78 for rotating the second table 73. In the example shown in Figure 24, the table rotating device 78 rotates the second table 73 around a rotation axis (hereinafter referred to as "second axis AX2"). In the example shown in Figure 24, the second axis AX2, which is the rotation axis of the second table 73, is substantially parallel to the vertical direction.

[0095] (Pallet moving device 80) As illustrated in Figures 23 to 28, the machine tool 1 may be equipped with a pallet moving device 80 for moving the pallet PT between the setup area RG1 and the machining area RG2. As illustrated in Figure 24, the pallet moving device 80 may have an arm 82 that supports the pallet PT and a first drive device 83 that pivots the arm 82. In the example shown in Figure 24, the first drive device 83 pivots the arm 82 around an axis substantially parallel to the vertical direction (hereinafter referred to as the "third axis AX3"). The pallet moving device 80 may have a second drive device 84 that moves the arm 82 in a direction substantially parallel to the vertical direction. In the example shown in Figure 24, the second drive device 84 moves the arm 82 in a direction along the third axis AX3.

[0096] In the example shown in Figure 24, the second drive unit 84 moves the arm 82 and partition wall 76 in a direction along the third axis AX3. In the example shown in Figure 25, the first drive unit 83 rotates the arm 82 and partition wall 76 around the third axis AX3.

[0097] In the example shown in Figure 25, the arm 82 has a first support portion 821 that supports the pallet PT and a second support portion 823 that supports the second pallet PT2. A partition wall 76 separating the setup area RG1 and the processing area RG2 may be fixed to the arm 82. In this case, when the arm 82 rotates around the third axis AX3, the partition wall 76 rotates together with the arm 82 around the third axis AX3.

[0098] In the examples shown in Figures 24 and 25, the second drive unit 84 moves the arm 82 upward, causing the first support portion 821 of the arm 82 to lift the pallet PT from one of the first table 23 and the second table 73, and the second support portion 823 of the arm 82 to lift the second pallet PT2 from the other of the first table 23 and the second table 73.

[0099] In the example shown in Figure 26, the first drive device 83 rotates the arm 82 around the third axis AX3, causing one of the pallet PT supported by the first support part 821 and the second pallet PT2 supported by the second support part 823 to move from the setup area RG1 to the machining area RG2, and the other of the pallet PT supported by the first support part 821 and the second pallet PT2 supported by the second support part 823 to move from the machining area RG2 to the setup area RG1.

[0100] In the example shown in Figure 27, the second drive unit 84 moves the arm 82 downward so that the first support portion 821 of the arm 82 places the pallet PT on one of the first table 23 and the second table 73, and the second support portion 823 of the arm 82 places the second pallet PT2 on the other of the first table 23 and the second table 73.

[0101] In the examples shown in Figures 23 to 28, the pallet moving device 80 is a device that moves the pallet PT between the setup area RG1 and the processing area RG2 along a swivel track. Alternatively, the pallet moving device 80 may be a device that moves the pallet PT between the setup area RG1 and the processing area RG2 along a linear track.

[0102] (Control device 9) As illustrated in Figure 22, the machine tool 1 may include a control device 9. In the example shown in Figure 29, the control device 9 includes a hardware processor 90 (hereinafter simply referred to as "processor 90"), a memory 92, a communication circuit 94, and an input device 96 (for example, a touch panel display 962). The processor 90, the memory 92, the communication circuit 94, and the input device 96 are connected to each other via a bus 98. The input device 96 is not limited to a touch panel display 962. For example, the control device 9 may include an input device 96 such as a button, switch, lever, pointing device, or keyboard, and a display that displays data or other information input to the input device 96. The memory 92 stores a machining program 921 and data necessary for machining the workpiece W (for example, work data 926 including shape data and machining position data of the workpiece W). The control device 9 generates control commands (for example, the first movement command SA1, the first gripping command SA2, the second gripping command SA3, etc., described later) by executing the machining program 921 stored in the memory 92.

[0103] The control device 9 controls the moving device 72 (more specifically, the machining head moving device 72a). More specifically, the control device 9 transmits a first movement command SA1 to the moving device 72, and the moving device 72, upon receiving the first movement command SA1, moves the machining head 71 relative to the workpiece W.

[0104] The control device 9 may also control the gripping member drive device 25. More specifically, the control device 9 transmits a first gripping command SA2 to the gripping member drive device 25, and the first gripping member 24, upon receiving the first gripping command SA2, grips the pallet PT (or the second pallet PT2). The control device 9 also transmits a first release command to the gripping member drive device 25, and the first gripping member 24, upon receiving the first release command, releases its grip on the pallet PT (or the second pallet PT2).

[0105] The control device 9 may also control the second gripping member drive device 75. More specifically, the control device 9 transmits a second gripping command SA3 to the second gripping member drive device 75, and the second gripping member 74, upon receiving the second gripping command SA3, grips the second pallet PT2 (or pallet PT). The control device 9 also transmits a second release command to the second gripping member drive device 75, and the second gripping member 74, upon receiving the second release command, releases its grip on the second pallet PT2 (or pallet PT).

[0106] The control device 9 may also control the pallet moving device 80. More specifically, the control device 9 transmits a group of control commands SA4 to the pallet moving device 80, and the pallet moving device 80, upon receiving the group of control commands SA4, moves the pallet PT from one of the setup area RG1 and the processing area RG2 to the other of the setup area RG1 and the processing area RG2. The pallet moving device 80, upon receiving the group of control commands SA4, may also move one of the pallet PT and the second pallet PT2 from the setup area RG1 to the processing area RG2, and move the other of the pallet PT and the second pallet PT2 from the processing area RG2 to the setup area RG1.

[0107] The control device 9 may also control a coolant supply device 77 that supplies coolant to the workpiece W, and / or a table rotation device 78 that rotates the second table 73.

[0108] (Auxiliary tool support member 15) As illustrated in Figure 22, the machine tool 1 (more specifically, the setup station 10A) may be provided with an auxiliary tool support member 15 that supports the auxiliary tool 3 when it has been removed from the support 2 (more specifically, the mounting portion 20 of the support 2). In the example shown in Figure 22, the auxiliary tool support member 15 is located outside the setup area RG1. Therefore, chips or coolant do not adhere to the auxiliary tool 3 supported by the auxiliary tool support member 15.

[0109] If the machine tool 1 is equipped with an auxiliary tool support member 15, the auxiliary tool 3, when removed from the mounting portion 20, is less likely to be lost. The auxiliary tool support member 15 may be positioned below the lower end of the opening OP. In this case, the auxiliary tool 3 supported by the auxiliary tool support member 15 will not interfere with the operator's work. The auxiliary tool support member 15 may be positioned vertically below the opening OP.

[0110] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments or modifications described above, and it is clear that each embodiment or modification can be appropriately modified or changed within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention. Furthermore, the various technologies used in each embodiment or modification can be applied to other embodiments or other modifications, as long as no technical inconsistencies arise. In addition, any optional additional configurations in each embodiment or modification can be omitted as appropriate.

[0111] 1...Machine tool, 2...Support, 3...Auxiliary tool, 7...Processing station, 9...Control device, 10, 10A...Setup station, 11...Door, 14...Door moving device, 15...Auxiliary tool support member, 18...Wall defining the setup area, 19...Wall defining the processing area, 20...Mounting part, 20a...First mounting part, 20b...Second mounting part, 20c...Third mounting part, 21h...Hole, 21p...Protrusion, 23...First table, 24...First gripping member, 24c...First chuck, 25...Gripping member drive Device, 31...Second part of auxiliary tool, 32...Part of auxiliary tool, 33...First part of auxiliary tool, 34...Mounting end, 34f...Flange, 34h...Hole, 34p...Protruding part, 35...Bent part, 71...Processing head, 72...Moving device, 72a...Processing head moving device, 73...Second table, 74...Second gripping member, 74c...Second chuck, 75...Second gripping member driving device, 76...Partition wall, 77...Coolant liquid supply device, 78...Table rotation device, 80...Pallet moving device, 82...Ar M, 83...First drive unit, 84...Second drive unit, 90...Processor, 92...Memory, 94...Communication circuit, 96...Input device, 98...Bus, 230...Side view, 321...Gripping part, 321a...Free end, 821...First support part, 823...Second support part, 921...Machining program, 926...Work data, 962...Display with touch panel, AX1...First axis, AX2...Second axis, AX3...Third axis, LN1...First straight line, LN2...Second straight line, M1...Swivel axis and free end of support M2...Maximum distance between parts, OP...Opening, PT...Pallet, PT2...Second pallet, Ps...Side, Q1...Open position, Q2...Closed position, R1...First rotation direction, R2...Second rotation direction, RG1...Setup area, RG2...Processing area, SA1...First movement command, SA2...First gripping command, SA3...Second gripping command, SA4...Control command, T...Tool, W...Workpiece, W2...Second workpiece, Wa, Wb...Hole, Wp...Processed workpiece

Claims

1. A setup station located in a setup area where workpieces are prepared, comprising a support for the workpieces and an auxiliary device for assisting the manual rotation of the support, wherein the auxiliary device is a detachable auxiliary device that is attached to the support when in use and separated from the support when not in use.

2. The setup station according to claim 1, further comprising an opening that allows access to the setup area, wherein the auxiliary device can be attached to the support in such a state that the auxiliary device crosses the opening.

3. The setup station according to claim 1, further comprising an opening that allows access to the setup area, wherein when the auxiliary device is attached to the support, a portion of the auxiliary device protrudes outward from the opening through the opening.

4. The setup station according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the auxiliary device has a mounting end that is attached to the support and a gripping portion that is gripped by an operator.

5. The setup station according to claim 4, wherein the height position of the gripping portion in the mounted state is adjustable, when the state in which the mounting end is attached to the support is defined as the mounted state.

6. The setup station according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the mounting end can be attached to the support in a single action.

7. The setup station according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the gripping portion is the free end of the auxiliary tool.

8. The setup station according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the support has a plurality of mounting parts, including a first mounting part to which the auxiliary device can be attached and a second mounting part to which the auxiliary device can be attached, and the auxiliary device can be selectively attached to any of the plurality of mounting parts.

9. The setup station according to claim 1, further comprising an opening that allows access to the setup area, wherein the support has a plurality of mounting parts including a first mounting part to which the auxiliary device can be attached and a second mounting part to which the auxiliary device can be attached, the support is rotatable about a first axis, and both the first mounting part and the second mounting part are visible simultaneously through the opening.

10. The setup station according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the support comprises a pallet on which the workpiece is mounted and a first table supporting the pallet, and the auxiliary device is attachable to the first table.

11. A machine tool comprising: a machining head for holding a tool; a moving device for moving the machining head relative to a workpiece; a support body positioned in a setup area where the workpiece is prepared and supporting the workpiece; and an auxiliary tool for manually rotating the support body, wherein the auxiliary tool is a detachable auxiliary tool that is attached to the support body when in use and separated from the support body when not in use.

12. The machine tool according to claim 11, comprising: a first table positioned in the setup area and supporting the workpiece via a pallet; and a second table positioned in the processing area where the workpiece is processed and capable of supporting the workpiece via a pallet, wherein the support comprises the first table.

13. The machine tool according to claim 12, further comprising a pallet moving device for moving the pallet between the setup area and the processing area.

14. The machine tool according to any one of claims 11 to 13, further comprising an auxiliary support member for supporting the auxiliary tool when it has been removed from the support, wherein the auxiliary support member is located outside the setup area.

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