Transfer-Storage Layout for Compact Automated Machining
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Solution Overview
Problem
Compact machine tools with limited workspace face challenges in automation due to space constraints, requiring innovative solutions for efficient and precise handling and transfer of workpieces and tools, while maintaining high precision and accessibility for operators.
Innovation Solution
A manufacturing system integrating a compact machine tool with a handling cell and a combined transfer and storage device, featuring a handling unit with multiple interfaces for automated workpiece and tool changes, allowing partial or fully automated production, even in small spaces, with a focus on maintaining operator access and precision.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a compact machine tool with small workspace is used, then manufacturing precision and space efficiency are improved, but automation capability deteriorates due to insufficient space for handling units and transfer systems
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into distinct functional modules: the compact machine tool (10) with workspace (144), a separate handling cell (124) with handling unit (150), and a setup cell (126) with handling manipulator (180). This segmentation allows each module to be optimized independently - the machine tool maintains compact dimensions while the handling and setup functions are provided by separate cells with sufficient space for automation equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The handling cell (124) acts as an intermediary between the compact machine tool (10) and the external transfer system. The handling unit (150) in the handling cell performs workpiece changes at the machine tool interface, while the setup cell (126) with handling manipulator (180) manages tool changes. This intermediary approach enables automation without requiring the compact machine tool itself to have large dimensions.
2Productivity
If automation technology is added to compact machine tools, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases due to integration of handling units and transfer systems
Solution Approach 1:
The automated manufacturing system is segmented into independent functional cells: machining cell (122) containing the compact machine tool (10), handling cell (124) with handling unit (150) for workpiece handling, and setup cell (126) with handling manipulator (180) for tool management. This modular segmentation allows productivity enhancement through automation while keeping each cell relatively simple and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The handling cell (124) and setup cell (126) are designed as multi-functional modules that can serve various machining operations. The handling unit (150) and handling manipulator (180) can handle different workpiece and tool types, making the automated system versatile without requiring separate dedicated equipment for each function, thereby controlling overall system complexity.
3Area of stationary object
If handling and storage functions are integrated, then space utilization is improved, but device complexity increases due to combined transfer and storage mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates handling functions (performed by handling unit (150) in handling cell (124) and handling manipulator (180) in setup cell (126))) from storage functions (external storage locations (270) with workpiece carriers (162)). This segmentation allows efficient space utilization at the compact machine tool while storage is provided externally, avoiding the complexity of integrated transfer and storage mechanisms within the compact device.
Data Source
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AI summary
A combined transfer and storage device (252) for machining comprises a storage level (260), a transfer device (300), at least one machining interface (328), and at least one loading interface (280). The storage level (260) includes two or more storage areas (270) spaced apart from one another in a longitudinal direction (264), with storage positions for workpiece carriers arranged one above the other for receiving blanks (102) or machined workpieces (100). The transfer device (300) extends in the longitudinal direction (264). The machining interface (328) serves for the direct or indirect coupling of a machine tool (10). The loading interface (280) is accessible to an automated guided vehicle (AGV). The transfer device (300) performs a workpiece transfer between the loading interface (280), the storage level (260), and the at least one machining interface (328).A machine tool (250) is equipped with a combined transfer and storage device (252) and with at least one manufacturing system (120) comprising at least one machine tool (10) and a handling cell (124) arranged between a machining interface (328) of the device (252) and the machine tool (10).