Tool post and machine tool

Abstract

This tool post comprises: a turning body (60) that has a plurality of mounting parts (61) arranged in the circumferential direction around a turning central axis (110) and each able to have a tool holder mounted thereto, is formed from a cylindrical body centered on the turning central axis (110), and can turn around the turning central axis (110); a plurality of first pipes (310) for suctioning chips, said pipes being provided to the turning body (60) and disposed with spaces therebetween in the circumferential direction around the turning central axis (110); a second pipe (320) that is provided inward relative to the turning body (60); and a connection mechanism (90) that selectively connects the second pipe (320) to any of the plurality of first pipes (310).

Description

Tool rest and machine tool

[0001] This invention relates to a tool rest and a machine tool.

[0002] For example, Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 63-169240 (Patent Document 1) discloses a turret tool rest of a NC lathe machine tool. The turret tool rest includes a pipe provided in a penetrating manner at the turning center of the turret tool rest, a suction nozzle attached to the tip of the pipe, and a vacuum device attached to the end of the pipe.

[0003] Further, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2022-149460 (Patent Document 2) discloses a workpiece processing apparatus including a workpiece processing unit that performs predetermined processing on a workpiece, a chip suction unit that collects chips generated by the processing of the workpiece by suction, and an articulated robot that moves the chip suction unit so as to follow the workpiece processing unit during workpiece processing.

[0004] Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 63-169240, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2022-149460

[0005] Depending on the type of tool, the cutting edge position, cutting edge shape of the tool, and the positional relationship between the workpiece and the cutting edge are different. Therefore, the discharge direction of chips from the workpiece and the form of chips such as chip shape and linear shape change every time the tool used for processing the workpiece is changed in a turret-type tool rest. However, in Patent Document 1 above, since a single suction nozzle is used regardless of the type of tool, there are cases where chips cannot be reliably collected.

[0006] An object of this invention is to provide a tool rest capable of reliably collecting chips in a turret-type tool rest capable of mounting a plurality of tools, and a machine tool including such a tool rest.

[0007] A tool post according to one aspect of this invention comprises a swivel body that is rotatable around a predetermined pivot axis, having a plurality of mounting parts arranged in the circumferential direction of a predetermined pivot axis, each capable of mounting a tool holder, and consisting of a cylindrical body centered on the pivot axis; a plurality of first pipes provided on the swivel body and spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the pivot axis for sucking up chips; a second pipe provided inside the swivel body; and a connection mechanism that selectively connects the second pipe to any of the plurality of first pipes.

[0008] A machine tool according to this invention is equipped with the tool post described above. A tool post according to another aspect of this invention comprises a swivel body made of a cylindrical body centered on the swivel axis, having a plurality of mounting parts arranged in the circumferential direction of the swivel axis, each capable of mounting a tool holder, and a first pipe provided on the swivel body for sucking up chips. The swivel body further has a cylindrical portion that protrudes from the plurality of mounting parts in the axial direction of the swivel axis and extends around the swivel axis. The first pipe is provided on the cylindrical portion and includes a first hole that opens on the outer surface of the cylindrical portion.

[0009] According to this invention, it is possible to provide a turret-type tool post capable of mounting multiple tools, which is capable of reliably collecting chips, and a machine tool equipped with such a tool post.

[0010] This is a perspective view showing a machine tool equipped with a tool post in Embodiment 1 of the present invention. This is a front view showing the machine tool in Figure 1. This is a side view showing the machine tool as seen in the direction indicated by arrow III in Figure 2. This is a front view showing the tool post. This is a cross-sectional view showing the tool post as seen in the direction of the arrow on line V-V in Figure 4. This is a cross-sectional view showing the tool post as seen in the direction of the arrow on line VI-VI in Figure 4. This is a cross-sectional view showing the tool post in the area enclosed by the dashed line VII in Figure 5 (when the first and second pipes are connected). This is a cross-sectional view showing the tool post in the area enclosed by the dashed line VII in Figure 5 (when the first and second pipes are not connected). This is a perspective view showing the flange in Figure 4. This is another perspective view showing the flange in Figure 4. This is a front view showing the tool post in Embodiment 2 of the present invention. This is a perspective view showing a tool holder and a holder-integrated nozzle mounted on the tool post in Figure 11. This is another perspective view showing a tool holder and a holder-integrated nozzle mounted on the tool post in Figure 11.

[0011] Embodiments of this invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings referred to below, the same or equivalent components are given the same numbers.

[0012] (Embodiment 1) Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a machine tool equipped with a tool post according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. Figure 2 is a front view showing the machine tool in Figure 1. Figure 3 is a side view showing the machine tool as seen in the direction indicated by arrow III in Figure 2. In the figures, the cover body that forms the exterior of the machine tool is transparent, revealing the internal structure of the machine tool.

[0013] Referring to Figures 1 to 3, machine tool 100 is a lathe that performs workpiece machining by bringing a tool into contact with a rotating workpiece. Machine tool 100 is an NC (Numerically Controlled) machine tool in which various operations for workpiece machining are automated by computer numerical control.

[0014] First, the structure of the machine tool 100 will be described. The machine tool 100 has a bed (not shown), a workpiece spindle 21, and a tool post 50. The bed is a base member for supporting the workpiece spindle 21 and the tool post 50, etc., and is installed on the floor of a factory or the like. The bed is made of metal such as casting. The bed is a slant bed type, and the support surface that supports the workpiece spindle 21 and the tool post 50, etc., is inclined.

[0015] The workpiece spindle 21 is capable of holding the workpiece W. For example, the workpiece W is made of resin. The workpiece W may also be made of metal.

[0016] More specifically, the workpiece spindle 21 has a plurality of chucks 22. The plurality of chucks 22 are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the rotational axis 101. Each chuck 22 is slidable in the radial direction of the rotational axis 101. The plurality of chucks 22 grip the outer circumferential surface of the workpiece W by sliding each chuck 22 radially inward from the rotational axis 101, or grip the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical workpiece W by sliding each chuck 22 radially outward from the rotational axis 101.

[0017] The workpiece spindle 21 rotates the workpiece W around a rotational axis 101 that is parallel to the horizontally extending Z-axis. The workpiece spindle 21 is fixed to the bed. The workpiece spindle 21 may be movable in the Z-axis direction by various feed mechanisms, guide mechanisms, and servo motors.

[0018] The tool post 50 is located in the machining area 160 of the machine tool 100. The machining area 160 is the space where the workpiece is machined, and is sealed by a cover (not shown) to prevent foreign matter such as chips or coolant generated during workpiece machining from leaking outside the machining area 160.

[0019] The tool post 50 is a turret-type tool post capable of mounting multiple tools. The tool post 50 positions the tool to be used for machining at a predetermined angular position (hereinafter also referred to as the "workpiece machining position") centered on the pivot axis 110 by moving multiple tools in the circumferential direction of a pivot axis 110 parallel to the Z-axis. The tool post 50 is equipped with a milling function that performs workpiece machining by bringing a rotating tool into contact with a stationary workpiece W.

[0020] The machine tool 100 further includes a saddle 31. The saddle 31 is mounted on the bed. The saddle 31 is movable in the Z-axis direction by various feed mechanisms, guide mechanisms, and servo motors.

[0021] The machine tool 100 further comprises a cross feed table 32 and a base 33. The cross feed table 32 is attached to a saddle 31. The cross feed table 32 is movable in the X-axis direction, which is perpendicular to the Z-axis and inclined with respect to the vertical and horizontal directions, by various feed mechanisms, guide mechanisms, and servo motors. The base 33 is attached to the cross feed table 32. The base 33 is movable in the Y'-axis direction, which is perpendicular to the Z-axis and inclined with respect to the X-axis, by various feed mechanisms, guide mechanisms, and servo motors. The base 33 is movable in the Y-axis direction, which is perpendicular to the X-axis and Z-axis, by the interlocking movement of the cross feed table 32 in the X-axis direction and the movement of the base 33 in the Y'-axis direction.

[0022] The tool post 50 is attached to the base 33. In this configuration, the tool post 50 is movable in the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis directions.

[0023] Next, the structure of the tool post 50 in this embodiment will be described in detail. Figure 4 is a front view showing the tool post. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view showing the tool post as seen in the direction of the arrow along the line V-V in Figure 4. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view showing the tool post as seen in the direction of the arrow along the line VI-VI in Figure 4.

[0024] Referring to Figures 1 to 6, the tool post 50 has a tool post base 76. The tool post base 76 is attached to the base 33.

[0025] The tool post 50 further includes a turret 60. The turret 60 has a cylindrical shape centered on a pivot axis 110. The turret 60 protrudes from the tool post base 76 in the axial direction of the pivot axis 110. The turret 60 is supported by the tool post base 76 via bearings (not shown). The turret 60 rotates around the pivot axis 110 by receiving rotation from a motor (not shown) mounted on the tool post base 76. The pivot axis 110 is an imaginary straight line extending from the pivot center of the turret 60. The pivot axis 110 extends parallel to the rotation axis 101 of the workpiece spindle 21.

[0026] The tool post 50 further includes a built-in motor 231. The built-in motor 231 is a milling motor for rotating the tool held by the tool holder 71 (described later), and is located inside the slewing body 60. The built-in motor 231 is capable of outputting rotation around the rotational axis 140. The rotational axis 140 is perpendicular to the slewing axis 110.

[0027] The built-in motor 231 comprises a motor housing 232 and a rotor 233. The motor housing 232 consists of a cylindrical body centered on the rotation axis 140. The motor housing 232 is attached to the tool post base 76. The motor housing 232 is a fixed component that does not rotate with the swivel body 60. The rotor 233 consists of an axial body centered on the rotation axis 140. The rotor 233 is located inside the motor housing 232. The rotor 233 is supported by the motor housing 232 so that it can rotate around the rotation axis 140.

[0028] The slewing body 60 has a plurality of mounting parts 61. For example, the slewing body 60 has 12 mounting parts 61. The plurality of mounting parts 61 are arranged in the circumferential direction of the pivot axis 110. The plurality of mounting parts 61 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the pivot axis 110. The plurality of mounting parts 61 form a ring shape with the pivot axis 110 as the center. The built-in motor 231 is located inside the plurality of mounting parts 61.

[0029] A tool holder 71 can be attached to the mounting portion 61. The tool holder 71 is capable of holding a tool. The tool holder 71 is fastened to the mounting portion 61 using bolts or the like.

[0030] In the diagram, a tool holder 71 for holding a fixed tool T is typically shown. The fixed tool T is a tool that does not rotate during workpiece machining, and is, for example, an external diameter cutting tool, an internal diameter cutting tool, or a grooving tool. The tool holder 71 is indexed to the workpiece machining position. A cover 72 is attached to the mounting section 61 where the tool holder 71 is not installed.

[0031] A tool holder for holding a rotary tool can also be attached to the mounting section 61. The rotary tool is a tool that rotates when machining a workpiece, such as a drill or reamer. In this case, the tool holder incorporates a rotation transmission mechanism for transmitting the rotation output from the built-in motor 231 to the rotary tool. When the tool holder that holds the rotary tool is indexed to the workpiece machining position, the rotor 233 of the built-in motor 231 is connected to the rotation transmission mechanism built into the tool holder.

[0032] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, each of the multiple mounting parts 61 has multiple mounting surfaces 61a. The mounting surfaces 61a consist of planes perpendicular to the radial direction of the pivot axis 110. The multiple mounting surfaces 61a correspond to the multiple sides of a regular polygonal prism (in this embodiment, a regular dodecagon) corresponding to the number of mounting parts 61. A tool holder 71 for holding a fixed tool T, a tool holder for holding a rotary tool, or a cover 72 can be attached to the mounting surfaces 61a.

[0033] Each of the mounting portions 61 further has an end face 61b. The end face 61b is a plane perpendicular to the axial direction of the pivot center axis 110. The outer edge of the end face 61b is connected to the multiple mounting surfaces 61a.

[0034] The swivel body 60 further has a cylindrical portion 66. The cylindrical portion 66 extends around the swivel central axis 110. The cylindrical portion 66 has a cylindrical shape centered on the swivel central axis 110. The cylindrical portion 66 protrudes from a plurality of mounting portions 61 in the axial direction of the swivel central axis 110. The cylindrical portion 66 is positioned on the opposite side of the tool post base 76, sandwiching the plurality of mounting portions 61 in the axial direction of the swivel central axis 110.

[0035] The cylindrical portion 66 has an outer circumferential surface 66a. The radius of the outer circumferential surface 66a, centered on the pivot axis 110, is smaller than the distance between the pivot axis 110 and the mounting surface 61a in the radial direction of the pivot axis 110. The inner circumferential edge of the end face 61b is connected to the outer circumferential surface 66a. The outer circumferential surface 66a is stepped with the mounting surface 61a in the radial direction of the pivot axis 110.

[0036] The tool post 50 further includes a cover 67. The cover 67 is detachably attached to the swivel body 60. The cover 67 is fastened to the swivel body 60 using bolts or the like. The cover 67 is attached to one end (front end) of the cylindrical portion 66 in the axial direction of the swivel center axis 110. The cover 67 has a disc shape in which the axial direction of the swivel center axis 110 corresponds to the thickness direction. The cover 67 is provided to cover an opening defined at one end (front end) of the cylindrical portion 66. The cover 67 is a movable part that rotates in conjunction with the swivel body 60.

[0037] The tool post 50 further has a flange 81. The flange 81 is located inside the swivel body 60. The flange 81 is positioned inside the cylindrical portion 66. The flange 81 is attached to the motor housing 232. The flange 81 is attached to one end (front end) of the motor housing 232 in the axial direction of the swivel center axis 110. The other end (rear end) of the motor housing 232 in the axial direction of the swivel center axis 110 is attached to the tool post base 76. The flange 81 is a fixed-side component that does not rotate with the swivel body 60. The structure of the flange 81 will be described in detail later.

[0038] Referring to Figures 4 and 5, the tool post 50 further has a plurality of first pipes 310 (310A, 310B, 310C, 310D). The plurality of first pipes 310 are pipes for sucking up chips generated during workpiece machining. The plurality of first pipes 310 form a flow path through which suction air and chips can flow. The first pipes 310A, 310B, 310C, and 310D are suitably used for sucking up chips from tools held in tool holders at mounting sections 61A, 61B, 61C, and 61D in Figure 4, respectively.

[0039] Multiple first pipes 310 are provided on the swivel body 60. Multiple first pipes 310 are arranged at intervals from each other in the circumferential direction of the swivel center axis 110. Multiple first pipes 310 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the swivel center axis 110. Multiple first pipes 310 may be arranged at unequal intervals in the circumferential direction of the swivel center axis 110. Multiple first pipes 310 are movable parts that rotate together with the swivel body 60. Multiple first pipes 310 move in the circumferential direction of the swivel center axis 110 as the swivel body 60 rotates.

[0040] At least one of the multiple first pipes 310 (first pipe 310A) includes a flexible nozzle 211. The flexible nozzle 211 has an opening 216. The opening 216 is open in the processing area 160.

[0041] The flexible nozzle 211 is deformable so that the position and orientation of the opening 216 can be changed, and it is also capable of maintaining its deformed shape.

[0042] More specifically, the flexible nozzle 211 has a pipe member 212 and a nozzle tip portion 213. The pipe member 212 is connected to the swivel body 60 (cylindrical portion 66). The pipe member 212 is connected to the outer peripheral surface 66a of the cylindrical portion 66. The pipe member 212 is composed of a plurality of cylindrical bodies connected in series, and adjacent cylindrical bodies are connected so as to be rotatable relative to each other. The nozzle tip portion 213 is provided at the tip of the flexible nozzle 211. The nozzle tip portion 213 is attached to the tip of the pipe member 212. The nozzle tip portion 213 has an opening 216. The nozzle tip portion 213 has a funnel shape in which the flow passage area increases as it approaches the opening 216.

[0043] The flexible nozzle 211 is made of metal. The flexible nozzle 211 may be made of resin.

[0044] Each of the plurality of first pipes 310 includes a plurality of first holes 241. The first holes 241 are provided in the cylindrical portion 66. The first holes 241 open to the outer peripheral surface 66a of the cylindrical portion 66. The first holes 241 penetrate the cylindrical portion 66 in the radial direction of the turning center axis 110. The plurality of first holes 241 open to the outer peripheral surface 66a of the cylindrical portion 66 at angular positions spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the turning center axis 110. The first holes 241 open to the outer peripheral surface 66a of the cylindrical portion 66 at an angular position corresponding to the boundary formed by the mounting portion 61 and the mounting portion 61 adjacent to the mounting portion 61 in the circumferential direction of the turning center axis 110.

[0045] By connecting the flexible nozzle 211 to the outer peripheral surface 66a of the cylindrical portion 66, the first hole 241 and the flexible nozzle 211 communicate with each other. As shown in FIG. 4, the flexible nozzle 211 extends radially outward from the outer peripheral surface 66a of the cylindrical portion 66 through a space facing the end face 61b in the axial direction of the turning center axis 110. The fixing tool T has a cutting edge ta that contacts the workpiece W. The opening 216 opens facing the cutting edge ta. The opening 216 is disposed below the cutting edge ta. The opening 216 opens obliquely upward. The opening 216 and the cutting edge ta are arranged along the circumferential direction of the rotation center axis 101. The opening 216 and the cutting edge ta are arranged in the rotational direction of the workpiece W around the rotation center axis 101 in the order mentioned.

[0046] In each of the first pipes 310 of the first pipe 310B, the first pipe 310C, and the first pipe 310D, a lid 221 for closing the opening of the first hole 241 is attached to the outer peripheral surface 66a of the cylindrical portion 66.

[0047] In the figure, only one tool holder 71 is shown for simplicity of illustration, but a larger number of tool holders can be further mounted on the tool rest 50. In this case, any of the first pipes 310 of the first pipe 310B, the first pipe 310C, and the first pipe 310D may also be provided with a flexible nozzle 211. Each flexible nozzle 211 has a configuration suitable for sucking chips from the target tool, and the position and orientation of the opening 216 are adjusted by deforming the pipe member 212. The length of the pipe member 212 and / or the shape of the nozzle tip portion 213 may be different among the plurality of flexible nozzles 211.

[0048] The tool rest 50 may have a plurality of first pipes 310 other than four. The number of the first pipes 310 provided on the tool rest 50 may be the same as the number of the mounting portions 61, may be less than the number of the mounting portions 61, or may be more than the number of the mounting portions 61.

[0049] The tool post 50 further includes a second pipe 320. The second pipe 320 is for collecting chips from the first pipe 310. The second pipe 320 forms a flow path through which suction air and chips can circulate.

[0050] The second pipe 320 is located inside the slewing body 60. The second pipe 320 is located inside the slewing body 60, which is a cylindrical body centered on the pivot axis 110. The second pipe 320 is a fixed component that does not rotate with the slewing body 60. The second pipe 320 does not move in the circumferential direction of the pivot axis 110 in conjunction with the rotational movement of the slewing body 60. The position of the second pipe 320 is fixed regardless of the rotational movement of the slewing body 60.

[0051] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view showing the tool post in the area enclosed by the dashed line VII in Figure 5 (when the first and second pipes are connected). Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the tool post in the area enclosed by the dashed line VII in Figure 5 (when the first and second pipes are not connected).

[0052] Referring to Figures 7 and 8, the tool post 50 further includes a connection mechanism 90. The connection mechanism 90 selectively connects the second pipe 320 to one of a plurality of first pipes 310 (310A, 310B, 310C, 310D). The connection mechanism 90 connects the second pipe 320 to a first pipe 310 adjacent to a tool holder 71 indexed to a workpiece machining position in the circumferential direction of the pivot axis 110.

[0053] The connecting mechanism 90 includes a piston 91 and a first projection 83, which will be described later. The piston 91 is located inside the rotating body 60. The piston 91 is located inside the cylindrical portion 66. The piston 91 is provided with a second hole 242.

[0054] The piston 91 consists of a cylindrical body centered on a piston central axis 150. The piston central axis 150 extends radially from the pivot central axis 110. The piston 91 is supported by a first projection 83 so as to be slidable in the axial direction of the piston central axis 150. As will be described later, the first projection 83 is part of the flange 81.

[0055] The piston 91 has a tip portion 92 and a base portion 93. The tip portion 92 and the base portion 93 are aligned in the axial direction of the piston central axis 150. The tip portion 92 and the base portion 93 are connected to each other by a connecting pin 96. The tip portion 92 faces the cylindrical portion 66 in the axial direction of the piston central axis 150. The base portion 93 is located on the opposite side of the cylindrical portion 66, with the tip portion 92 in between, in the axial direction of the piston central axis 150. The base portion 93 is supported by a first projection 83.

[0056] The second hole 242 extends linearly around the piston central axis 150. The second hole 242 extends in the axial direction of the piston central axis 150 and penetrates the piston 91 (tip portion 92 and base portion 93). The second hole 242 opens opposite the first hole 241 in the axial direction of the piston central axis 150. The second hole 242 communicates with the second pipe 320 (third hole 243, described later) inside the first projection 83.

[0057] A sealing member 97 is provided on the piston 91. A sealing groove 92h is provided on the tip portion 92. The sealing groove 92h has a groove shape in which the axial direction of the piston central axis 150 corresponds to the depth direction and opens opposite the cylindrical portion 66, and extends in an annular shape around the piston central axis 150. The second hole 242 opens to the tip portion 92 at a position surrounded by the sealing groove 92h. The sealing member 97 has a ring shape centered on the piston central axis 150. The sealing member 97 is positioned in the sealing groove 92h.

[0058] The piston 91 (base end 93) has a flange portion 91m. The flange portion 91m widens radially outward from the piston central axis 150. The piston 91 and the first projection 83 partition a first air chamber 95p and a second air chamber 95q. The first air chamber 95p and the second air chamber 95q are located before and after the flange portion 91m, respectively, in the axial direction of the piston central axis 150.

[0059] The piston 91 is slidable between a first position Pa (position of the piston 91 shown in Figure 7) in which the second pipe 320 is connected to the first pipe 310 via the second hole 242 by the piston 91 coming into contact with the slewing body 60, and a second position Pb (position of the piston 91 shown in Figure 8) in which the piston 91 is separated from the slewing body 60.

[0060] As shown in Figure 7, when air is supplied to the second air chamber 95q, the piston 91 slides radially outward from the pivot axis 110. The sealing member 97 of the piston 91 comes into contact with the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion 66, and the first hole 241 and the second hole 242 communicate with each other. The sealing member 97 seals the space between the tip portion 92 and the cylindrical portion 66 in the radial direction of the pivot axis 110. With this configuration, the first pipe 310 and the second pipe 320 are connected to each other via the second hole 242.

[0061] As shown in Figure 8, when air is supplied to the first air chamber 95p, the piston 91 slides radially inward from the pivot axis 110. As the piston 91 moves away from the cylindrical portion 66, the sealing member 97 of the piston 91 is separated from the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion 66, and the second hole 242 is positioned away from the first hole 241. With this configuration, the first pipe 310 and the second pipe 320 are not connected.

[0062] When a specific tool holder, which holds the tools used for workpiece machining, is positioned at the workpiece machining location, first, air is supplied to the first air chamber 95p to slide the piston 91 radially inward from the pivot axis 110, positioning it at the second position Pb shown in Figure 8. Next, the swivel body 60 is rotated around the pivot axis 110. In this case, since the piston 91 is separated from the cylindrical portion 66, the swivel body 60 is able to rotate. Once the specific tool holder is positioned at the workpiece machining location, air is supplied to the second air chamber 95q to slide the piston 91 radially outward from the pivot axis 110, positioning it at the first position Pa shown in Figure 7. In this case, since the first pipe 310 is connected to the second pipe 320 via the second hole 242, chips can be sucked through the first pipe 310 and the second pipe 320.

[0063] The structure of the connection mechanism in this invention is not particularly limited. For example, fluid forces other than pneumatics may be used to move the piston forward and backward relative to the rotating body, or spring forces may be used.

[0064] Figures 9 and 10 are perspective views showing the flange in Figure 4. Referring to Figures 5 to 10, the tool post 50 further has a flange 81. The flange 81 is located inside the swivel body 60. The flange 81 is made from a molded part by additive manufacturing (AM).

[0065] The flange 81 is made of metal, for example, stainless steel. As an example, the additive manufacturing process applied to the molding of the flange 81 is a powder bed method, in which metal powder is spread on a table and a laser is irradiated onto the spread powder to melt and solidify the necessary parts. The flange 81 may also be made of resin.

[0066] The flange 81 is located inside the cylindrical portion 66. The flange 81 is attached to the motor housing 232. The flange 81 is a fixed component that does not rotate with the swivel body 60.

[0067] The flange 81 has a disc portion 82. The disc portion 82 has a disc shape centered on the pivot axis 110, with the pivot axis 110 corresponding to the thickness direction. The disc portion 82 has a first surface 82a and a second surface 82b. The first surface 82a has a circular shape centered on the pivot axis 110 when viewed in the axial direction of the pivot axis 110. The second surface 82b is located on the back side of the first surface 82a. The second surface 82b has a circular shape centered on the pivot axis 110 when viewed in the axial direction of the pivot axis 110.

[0068] The disc portion 82 is fitted inside the cylindrical portion 66. The cylindrical portion 66 is supported by the disc portion 82 so that it can rotate around the pivot axis 110.

[0069] Inside the rotating body 60, a first internal space 120 and a second internal space 130 are formed. A built-in motor 231 and a second protrusion 84, which will be described later, are arranged in the first internal space 120. A first protrusion 83, which will be described later, is arranged in the second internal space 130. The first surface 82a faces the cover 67 in the axial direction of the pivot center axis 110. The first surface 82a is located in the second internal space 130. The second surface 82b faces the built-in motor 231 in the axial direction of the pivot center axis 110. The second surface 82b is located in the first internal space 120. The disk portion 82 has a wall shape that separates the first internal space 120 and the second internal space 130.

[0070] A seal groove 66h is provided in the cylindrical portion 66. The seal groove 66h has a groove shape that opens onto the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion 66, with the radial direction of the pivot axis 110 corresponding to the depth direction, and extends in an annular shape around the pivot axis 110. The tool post 50 further has a seal member 88. The seal member 88 is interposed between the cylindrical portion 66 and the disc portion 82. The seal member 88 has a ring shape centered on the pivot axis 110. The seal member 88 is positioned in the seal groove 66h. The seal member 88 has a lip portion that abuts against the outer circumferential surface of the disc portion 82. The seal member 88 seals the space between the cylindrical portion 66 and the disc portion 82 in the radial direction of the pivot axis 110.

[0071] The second pipe 320 further includes a third hole 243. The third hole 243 is provided in the flange 81.

[0072] The flange 81 further has a first projection 83 and a second projection 84. The first projection 83 protrudes from the first surface 82a. The first projection 83 extends on the first surface 82a, changing direction in a plane perpendicular to the pivot axis 110. The first projection 83 extends in a first direction from the peripheral region to the central region of the first surface 82a, and further extends in a second direction different from the first direction, from the central region to the peripheral region of the first surface 82a. The first direction is parallel to the radial direction of the pivot axis 110. The second projection 84 protrudes from the second surface 82b. The second projection 84 extends from the second surface 82b in the axial direction of the pivot axis 110.

[0073] The flange 81 is provided with a piston mounting hole 86, a third hole 243, and a pipe connection port 87. The piston mounting hole 86 is located in the first projection 83. The piston mounting hole 86 opens radially outward from the pivot axis 110. The piston mounting hole 86 opens in the second internal space 130. The piston mounting hole 86 extends radially from the pivot axis 110. A piston 91 is positioned in the piston mounting hole 86.

[0074] The pipe connection port 87 is provided on the second protrusion 84. The pipe connection port 87 opens in the axial direction of the pivot central axis 110. The pipe connection port 87 opens in the first internal space 120. The pipe connection port 87 opens at a position radially outward from the pivot central axis 110. The pipe connection port 87 extends in the axial direction of the pivot central axis 110. A pipe member 315, which will be described later, is connected to the pipe connection port 87.

[0075] The third hole 243 is provided between the first projection 83, the disc portion 82, and the second projection 84. One end of the third hole 243 is connected to the piston arrangement hole 86, and the other end of the third hole 243 is connected to the pipe connection port 87. The one end of the third hole 243 and the other end of the third hole 243 are offset from each other in the axial direction of the pivot center axis 110 and in a plane perpendicular to the pivot center axis 110.

[0076] The third hole 243 extends in three-dimensional space. More specifically, the third hole 243 extends radially inward from the piston placement hole 86 toward the pivot axis 110. The third hole 243 curves and changes its direction of extension by 90° toward the pivot axis 110 toward the radial outward. The third hole 243 curves and changes its direction of extension by another 90°, penetrating the disc portion 82. The third hole 243 extends axially toward the pivot axis 110 and reaches the pipe connection port 87.

[0077] Referring to Figure 6, the second piping 320 further includes a pipe member 315. The pipe member 315 is made of a pipe member such as a steel pipe or hose. The pipe member 315 is located in the first internal space 120. The pipe member 315 is connected to the pipe connection port 87. The pipe member 315 is in communication with the third hole 243.

[0078] The pipe member 315 is routed inside the swivel body 60 and the tool post base 76. Inside the swivel body 60 and the tool post base 76, the pipe member 315 is routed in a plane perpendicular to the rotational axis 140.

[0079] The pipe member 315 is routed inside the multiple mounting parts 61 at a position radially outward from the pivot axis 110. The pipe member 315 is routed so as not to intersect the pivot axis 110 when viewed in the axial direction of the rotation axis 140. The pipe member 315 extends from the pipe connection port 87, passing through a position radially outward from the pivot axis 110, and in the axial direction of the pivot axis 110. The pipe member 315 extends in the axial direction of the pivot axis 110 and radially inward from the pivot axis 110, following the outer shape of the motor housing 232. The pipe member 315 extends inside the tool post base 76 along the pivot axis 110.

[0080] Referring to Figures 1 and 3, the tool post 50 further includes a suction device 41. The suction device 41 is capable of sucking up chips through the first pipe 310 and the second pipe 320. The suction device 41 generates negative pressure within the device and sucks up the air in the machining area 160 through the first pipe 310 and the second pipe 320, thereby sucking up the chips generated during workpiece machining.

[0081] The suction device 41 is mounted on the tool post 50. The suction device 41 is located on the chip suction path from the second pipe 320. The suction device 41 is mounted on the tool post base 76. The suction device 41 moves in the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis directions in conjunction with the tool post 50.

[0082] To summarize the configuration of the tool post 50 in Embodiment 1 of the present invention described above, the tool post 50 in this embodiment comprises a swivel body 60 that is a cylindrical body centered on the swivel axis 110 and can rotate around the swivel axis 110, having a plurality of mounting parts 61 each capable of mounting a tool holder 71, a plurality of first pipes 310 provided on the swivel body 60 and arranged at intervals from each other in the circumferential direction of the swivel axis 110 for sucking up chips, a second pipe 320 provided inside the swivel body 60, and a connection mechanism 90 that selectively connects the second pipe 320 to one of the plurality of first pipes 310.

[0083] With this configuration, since the multiple first pipes 310 are arranged at intervals from each other in the circumferential direction of the pivot axis 110, the first pipes 310 can be configured in a form suitable for chip suction according to the type of tool to be used for chip suction. Furthermore, since the connection mechanism 90 selectively connects the second pipe 320 to one of the multiple first pipes 310, chips can be collected through the first pipes 310 and the second pipe 320 provided inside the pivot body 60. As a result, chips can be reliably collected in the turret-type tool post 50 regardless of the type of tool indexed to the workpiece machining position.

[0084] Furthermore, at least one of the multiple first pipes 310 has an opening 216 and includes a flexible nozzle 211 that is deformable so that the position and orientation of the opening 216 can be changed and that can maintain the deformed shape.

[0085] With this configuration, the position and orientation of the opening 216 can be adjusted by deforming the flexible nozzle 211.

[0086] Furthermore, the swivel body 60 has a cylindrical portion 66 that protrudes from a plurality of mounting portions 61 in the axial direction of the swivel center axis 110 and extends around the swivel center axis 110. Each of the plurality of first pipes 310 is provided in the cylindrical portion 66 and includes a plurality of first holes 241 that open into the outer circumferential surface 66a of the cylindrical portion 66.

[0087] With this configuration, by bringing the opening of the first hole 241 in the outer circumferential surface 66a of the cylindrical portion 66 closer to the tool holder mounted on the mounting portion 61, the first piping 310 that sucks up chips generated at the cutting edge of the tool can be constructed more simply.

[0088] Furthermore, the connection mechanism 90 includes a piston 91 having a second hole 242 that communicates with the second pipe 320. The piston 91 is slidable between a first position Pa in which the piston 91 contacts the slewing body 60, thereby connecting the second pipe 320 to the first pipe 310 via the second hole 242, and a second position Pb in which the piston 91 is separated from the slewing body 60.

[0089] With this configuration, sliding the piston 91 to the first position Pa enables the suction of chips through the first pipe 310 and the second pipe 320, and sliding the piston 91 to the second position Pb enables the rotational movement of the rotating body 60.

[0090] Furthermore, the tool post 50 is located inside the rotating body 60 and further includes a flange 81 which is formed by additive machining. The second pipe 320 includes a third hole 243 provided in the flange 81.

[0091] With this configuration, since the flange 81 is made of a molded body created by additive processing, the path of the second pipe 320 through the third hole 243 can be freely set.

[0092] The tool post 50 further includes a built-in motor 231 provided inside the multiple mounting portions 61. The swivel body 60 further has a cylindrical portion 66 that protrudes from the multiple mounting portions 61 in the axial direction of the swivel center axis 110 and extends around the swivel center axis 110. The flange 81 includes a disc portion 82 that fits inside the cylindrical portion 66.

[0093] With this configuration, the disc portion 82 is fitted inside the cylindrical portion 66, which more reliably prevents foreign matter such as coolant or chips from entering the space housing the built-in motor 231.

[0094] Furthermore, the tool post 50 is provided inside the plurality of mounting parts 61 and further includes a built-in motor 231 capable of outputting rotation about a rotation axis 140 that is perpendicular to the pivot axis 110. The second piping 320 includes a pipe member 315 that is routed inside the plurality of mounting parts 61 at a position away from the pivot axis 110 and radially outward from the pivot axis 110. The second piping 320 includes a pipe member 315 that is arranged inside the plurality of mounting parts 61 and extends so as not to intersect the pivot axis 110 when viewed in the axial direction of the pivot axis 110.

[0095] With this configuration, by arranging the pipe member 315 at a position radially outward from the pivot axis 110, interference between the pipe member 315 and the built-in motor 231 can be avoided.

[0096] Furthermore, the tool post 50 is equipped with a suction device 41 mounted on the tool post 50 that can suck up chips through the first pipe 310 and the second pipe 320.

[0097] With this configuration, sufficient suction force can be obtained by positioning the suction device 41 in close proximity to the first pipe 310.

[0098] Furthermore, the machine tool 100 is equipped with a tool post 50. With this configuration, the chips are reliably collected by the tool post 50, which allows the workpiece machining process in the machine tool 100 to proceed smoothly.

[0099] Furthermore, describing the configuration of the tool post 50 from another perspective, the tool post 50 comprises a swivel body 60 that is a cylindrical body centered on the swivel axis 110 and can rotate around the swivel axis 110, and a first pipe 310 provided on the swivel body 60 for sucking up chips. The swivel body 60 further has a cylindrical portion 66 that protrudes from the plurality of mounting portions 61 in the axial direction of the swivel axis 110 and extends around the swivel axis 110. The first pipe 310 is provided on the cylindrical portion 66 and includes a first hole 241 that opens on the outer circumferential surface 66a of the cylindrical portion 66. From this perspective, it is preferable that at least one first pipe 310 is provided on the swivel body 60.

[0100] With this configuration, by bringing the opening of the first hole 241 in the outer circumferential surface 66a of the cylindrical portion 66 closer to the tool holder mounted on the mounting portion 61, the first piping 310 that sucks up chips generated at the cutting edge of the tool can be constructed more simply.

[0101] (Embodiment 2) Figure 11 is a front view showing the tool post in Embodiment 2 of the present invention. Figure 11 corresponds to Figure 4 in Embodiment 1. Figure 12 is a perspective view showing the tool holder and holder-integrated nozzle mounted on the tool post in Figure 11. Figure 13 is another perspective view showing the tool holder and holder-integrated nozzle mounted on the tool post in Figure 11.

[0102] The tool post in this embodiment has basically the same configuration as the tool post 50 in Embodiment 1. The same structural elements will not be repeated in the following description.

[0103] Referring to Figures 11 to 13, in this embodiment, at least one of the multiple first pipes 310 (first pipe 310A) includes a holder-integrated nozzle 420 in place of the flexible nozzle 211 in Embodiment 1. The holder-integrated nozzle 420 has an opening 414 for sucking up chips. The opening 414 corresponds to the opening 216 in the flexible nozzle 211. The holder-integrated nozzle 420 is provided integrally with the tool holder 71.

[0104] The tool holder 71 has a holder body 431 and a tool holding portion 432. The holder body 431 and the tool holding portion 432 are integrally formed from a metal block. The holder body 431 is mounted on the mounting portion 61. The holder body 431 is placed on the mounting surface 61a. The holder body 431 is fastened to the mounting portion 61 using bolts or the like.

[0105] The tool holding portion 432 holds the fixed tool (tool) T. The tool holding portion 432 is connected to the end of the holder body portion 431 in the axial direction of the pivot axis 110. The tool holding portion 432 extends radially inward from the holder body portion 431 toward the pivot axis 110, facing the end face 61b of the mounting portion 61 in the axial direction of the pivot axis 110. The tool holding portion 432 is positioned on the outer circumference of the cylindrical portion 66. The tool holding portion 432 faces the outer circumferential surface 66a of the cylindrical portion 66 at a distance in the radial direction of the pivot axis 110. The tool holding portion 432 is provided with a tool placement portion 433. The fixed tool T can be placed in the tool placement portion 433. The tool placement portion 433 has a groove shape that extends radially toward the pivot axis 110. The tool placement portion 433 may have a hole shape that extends radially toward the pivot axis 110.

[0106] The fixed tool T has a shank 461 and a tip 462. The shank 461 is the part held by the tool holder 71. The shank 461 consists of a rod member extending in one direction. The tip 462 is the part that constitutes the cutting edge for machining the workpiece and has a cutting edge ta. The tip 462 is attached to the shank 461. The tip 462 is attached to the end of the rod-shaped shank 461 that extends in one direction.

[0107] A shank 461 is positioned in the tool placement section 433. The shank 461 is fixed to the tool holding section 432 using bolts or a holo set. With the fixed tool T held in the tool holder 71, the shank 461 extends radially in the direction of the pivot axis 110 and protrudes radially outward from the tool holder 71. The tip 462 is positioned at the protruding end of the shank 461 from the tool holder 71.

[0108] The tool holder 71 is provided with a through hole 434. The through hole 434 is provided in the tool holding portion 432. The through hole 434 forms a chip flow path. The through hole 434 extends from the radially inner side to the radially outer side of the pivot axis 110 and is a hole that penetrates the tool holder 71 (tool holding portion 432). The through hole 434 is provided at a distance from the tool placement portion 433 in the circumferential direction of the pivot axis 110. The through hole 434 opens at the radially inner end of the pivot axis 110, facing the opening surface of the first hole 241 on the outer circumferential surface 66a of the cylindrical portion 66.

[0109] The holder-integrated nozzle 420 has a tubular member 421 and a nozzle tip portion 411. The tubular member 421 is connected to the swivel body 60 and the tool holder 71. The tubular member 421 is connected to the cylindrical portion 66 (outer surface 66a) and the tool holding portion 432. The tubular member 421 extends between the first hole 241 and the through hole 434. The tubular member 421 connects the first hole 241 and the through hole 434.

[0110] The nozzle tip 411 has an opening 414. The nozzle tip 411 is connected to the tool holder 71. The nozzle tip 411 is connected to the tool holding part 432. The nozzle tip 411 extends from the through hole 434. The nozzle tip 411 extends from the through hole 434 and opens at the opening 414.

[0111] The nozzle tip 411 has one end 411p and the other end 411q. The nozzle tip 411 extends tubularly between the one end 411p and the other end 411q. The one end 411p is connected to the tool holder 71 (tool holding part 432). The opening 414 opens at the other end 411q. The nozzle tip 411 extends from the one end 411p towards the other end 411q, gradually approaching the fixed tool T. The opening 414 opens facing radially outward from the pivot axis 110. The opening 414 is positioned in the circumferential direction of the pivot axis 110, aligned with the tip 462 (cutting edge ta), and is positioned radially inward from the tip 462 (cutting edge ta) of the pivot axis 110.

[0112] The nozzle tip 411 further has a wall portion 413. The wall portion 413 has a wall shape that protrudes radially outward from the opening edge of the opening 414 at the other end 411q toward the pivot axis 110. The wall portion 413 has a first wall portion 413j and a second wall portion 413k. The first wall portion 413j faces the tip 462 across the opening 414 in the circumferential direction of the pivot axis 110. When the opening surface formed by the opening 414 is viewed from the front, the second wall portion 413k, together with the first wall portion 413j, has an L-shape. The second wall portion 413k bends from the end of the first wall portion 413j and extends toward the tip 462.

[0113] The tool post in this embodiment further comprises a tool holder 71 mounted on the mounting section 61. At least one of the plurality of first pipes 310 (first pipe 310A) has an opening 414 for sucking up chips and includes a holder-integrated nozzle 420 provided integrally with the tool holder 71.

[0114] With this configuration, the holder-integrated nozzle 420 is provided integrally with the tool holder 71 that holds the fixed tool T, so that the opening 414 for sucking up chips can be more stably positioned closer to the cutting edge ta of the fixed tool T. This makes it possible to collect chips more reliably.

[0115] Furthermore, the swivel body 60 has a cylindrical portion 66 that protrudes from a plurality of mounting portions 61 in the axial direction of the swivel center axis 110 and extends around the swivel center axis 110. The plurality of first pipes 310 are each provided in the cylindrical portion 66 and include a plurality of first holes 241 that open in the outer circumferential surface 66a of the cylindrical portion 66. The tool holder 71 is provided with a through hole 434 that opens opposite the opening surface of the first hole 241 on the outer circumferential surface 66a of the cylindrical portion 66 and extends radially from the inside to the outside in the radial direction of the swivel center axis 110. The holder-integrated nozzle 420 is connected to the cylindrical portion 66 and the tool holder 71 and has a pipe member 421 that extends between the first hole 241 and the through hole 434, and a nozzle tip portion 411 that has an opening 414, is connected to the tool holder 71 and extends from the through hole 434.

[0116] With this configuration, the chips sucked into the nozzle tip 411 through the opening 414 flow through the through hole 434 and the tubular member 421 in that order and into the first hole 241. In this case, since the through hole 434 and the tubular member 421 extend along the radial direction of the pivot axis 110, the chips from the nozzle tip 411 can be smoothly guided into the first hole 241.

[0117] Furthermore, the tool post in this embodiment has a plurality of mounting parts 61 arranged in the circumferential direction of the pivot axis 110, and comprises a pivoting body 60 that can pivot about the pivot axis 110, a tool holder 71 mounted on the mounting parts 61, a holder-integrated nozzle 420 having an opening 414 and provided integrally with the tool holder 71 for sucking up chips through the opening 414, and a discharge passage (first hole 241, second hole 242, third hole 243) provided inside the pivoting body 60 for discharging chips from the holder-integrated nozzle 420. The tool holder 71 is provided with a through hole 434. The holder-integrated nozzle 420 has an opening 414, is connected to the tool holder 71, and has a nozzle tip portion 411 extending from the through hole 434.

[0118] With this configuration, the nozzle tip 411 of the holder-integrated nozzle 420 is connected to the tool holder 71 that holds the fixed tool T, so that the opening 414 for sucking up chips can be more stably positioned closer to the cutting edge ta of the fixed tool T. This makes it possible to collect chips more reliably.

[0119] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is indicated by the claims rather than the foregoing description, and all modifications within the meaning and scope of equivalents of the claims are intended.

[0120] 21 Work spindle, 22 Chuck, 31 Saddle, 32 Cross feed table, 33 Base, 41 Suction device, 50 Tool post, 60 Swivel body, 61, 61A, 61B, 61C, 61D Mounting part, 61a Mounting surface, 61b End face, 66 Cylindrical part, 66a Outer circumference, 66h, 92h Seal groove, 67 Cover, 71 Tool holder, 72, 221 Lid, 76 Tool post base, 81 Flange, 82 Disc part, 82a First surface, 82b Second surface, 83 First projection, 84 Second projection, 86 Piston placement hole, 87 Pipe connection port, 88, 97 Seal member, 90 Connection mechanism, 91 Piston, 91m Flange, 92 Tip, 93 Base end, 95p First air chamber, 95q 2nd air chamber, 96 Connecting pin, 100 Machine tool, 101, 140 Rotational central axis, 110 Swivel central axis, 120 First internal space, 130 Second internal space, 150 Piston central axis, 160 Machining area, 211 Flexible nozzle, 212, 315 Pipe member, 213 Nozzle tip, 216 Opening, 231 Built-in motor, 232 Motor housing, 233 Rotor, 241 First hole, 242 Second hole, 243 Third hole, 310, 310B, 310C, 310D First piping, 320 Second piping, Pa First position, Pb Second position, 411 Nozzle tip, 411p One end, 411q Other end, 413 Wall, 413j First wall, 413k Second wall, 414 Opening, 420 421 Pipe member, 431 Holder body, 432 Tool holding part, 433 Tool placement part, 434 Through hole, 461 Shank, 462 Tip.

Claims

1. A tool post comprising: a swivel body made of a cylindrical body centered on the swivel axis and having a plurality of mounting parts arranged in the circumferential direction of the swivel axis, each capable of mounting a tool holder; a plurality of first pipes provided on the swivel body and spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the swivel axis for sucking up chips; a second pipe provided inside the swivel body; and a connection mechanism for selectively connecting the second pipe to any of the plurality of first pipes.

2. The tool rest according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the plurality of first pipes includes a flexible nozzle having an opening, which is deformable so that the position and orientation of the opening changes, and which is capable of maintaining the deformed shape.

3. The tool rest according to claim 1, wherein the swivel body further has cylindrical portions that protrude from a plurality of mounting portions in the axial direction of the swivel center axis and extend about the swivel center axis, and each of the plurality of first pipes is provided in the cylindrical portion and includes a plurality of first holes that open to the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion.

4. The tool rest according to claim 1, wherein the connecting mechanism includes a piston having a second hole communicating with the second pipe, and the piston is slidable between a first position in which the piston contacts the swivel body to connect the second pipe to the first pipe via the second hole, and a second position in which the piston is separated from the swivel body.

5. The tool rest according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a flange provided inside the rotating body and made of a shaped body by additive processing, wherein the second piping includes a third hole provided in the flange.

6. The tool rest according to claim 1, further comprising the tool holder mounted on the mounting portion, wherein at least one of the plurality of first pipes has an opening for sucking up chips and includes a holder-integrated nozzle provided integrally with the tool holder.

7. The swivel body further has cylindrical portions that protrude from a plurality of mounting portions in the axial direction of the swivel central axis and extend about the swivel central axis; each of the plurality of first pipes is provided in the cylindrical portion and includes a plurality of first holes opening on the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion; the tool holder is provided with a through hole that opens opposite to the opening surface of the first hole on the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion and extends from the radially inward to the radially outward direction of the swivel central axis; the holder-integrated nozzle has a pipe member connected to the cylindrical portion and the tool holder and extending between the first hole and the through hole; and a nozzle tip having the opening and connected to the tool holder and extending from the through hole, as described in claim 6.

8. A machine tool comprising the tool post according to claim 1 or 2.

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