AGV Tool Changer for Precise Automatic Tool Magazine Exchange
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tool changing processes in machining centers are manual, inefficient, and hinder the advancement towards automated and intelligent factory environments due to the lack of an effective automatic tool exchange system.
Innovation Solution
An automatic tool changer utilizing an Automatic Guided Vehicle (AGV) as a carrier, equipped with a positioning module, tool changing module, navigation module, and control module, enabling precise three-dimensional positioning and angle regulation of tools within the tool magazine, and facilitating automated tool exchange through translational and rotational degrees of freedom.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual tool changing is performed in the machining center, then operators can flexibly handle tool replacement, but automation level decreases and production efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automatic tool changing where the machining center itself performs the tool replacement operation through its built-in tool magazine and spindle mechanism, eliminating the need for external manual intervention while maintaining high-speed operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical tool handling with an automated NC-controlled system that uses the machining center's existing mechanical components (spindle, tool magazine, positioning mechanisms) to perform tool changing automatically according to program instructions
2Loss of time
If manual tool changing is performed, then tool replacement can be done with simple equipment, but operation complexity increases and time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The machining center's existing components serve multiple functions: the spindle performs both cutting operations and tool holding, the tool magazine serves as both storage and active tool selection mechanism, and the positioning system handles both workpiece positioning and tool change positioning, eliminating the need for separate dedicated tool changing equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The automatic tool changing system operates continuously during the machining process, with tools being exchanged in seamless sequence according to the NC program without interrupting the overall production flow, thereby minimizing tool changing time loss
3Ease of operation
If batch tool exchange is performed manually, then all tools can be replaced at once, but control of tool magazine movement becomes difficult and operation space is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The NC system provides automated control and feedback for tool magazine positioning and tool selection, eliminating the need for manual coordination of magazine movement while enabling efficient batch tool exchange through program-driven sequential operation
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
AI summary
An automatic tool changer using an AGV as a carrier, which is capable of removing, installing or replacing a tool (5), includes an AGV (1), a positioning module and a tool changing module. The positioning module and the tool changing module are both arranged on the AGV (1). The automatic tool changer realizes full automatic exchange of all tools in a tool magazine by utilizing a spindle automatic tool changing mechanism, performs accurate positioning by adopting cooperation of navigation positioning, zero-point system positioning and pin-hole positioning, and has high positioning accuracy and high degree of automation, which can improve efficiency and save manpower and material resources. Moreover, the AGV can move in a workshop, which can be called when needed and can be transferred away when not needed, thereby realizing maximum utilization of the apparatus.