Cleaning Nozzle Control for Automatic Chip Collection in Machine Tools
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine tools require manual adjustment of a cleaning nozzle to direct coolant towards accumulated chips, which is time-consuming and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A chip processing device with a cleaning nozzle control unit that automatically adjusts the orientation of a cleaning nozzle based on machining conditions, using a machine learning device trained on machining parameters and in-machine shapes to estimate chip accumulation positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual adjustment of the cleaning nozzle is used, then the nozzle can be directed toward chip accumulation areas, but the operation becomes time-consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses sensors to automatically detect chip accumulation positions and autonomously adjusts the nozzle orientation without requiring manual operator intervention. The control unit processes sensor data and automatically positions the cleaning nozzle, enabling the system to serve itself in the chip cleaning process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment of the nozzle with an automated control system that uses sensors, processing units, and actuating mechanisms. This substitution eliminates the need for operators to manually observe and adjust the nozzle, transforming a manual mechanical operation into an automated electromechanical system.
2Productivity
If automated nozzle adjustment is implemented, then operational efficiency improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit serves multiple functions: it processes sensor data, determines chip accumulation positions, calculates optimal nozzle orientations, and controls the actuating mechanisms. By consolidating these diverse functions into a single multi-functional control unit, the system achieves automation without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a control unit as an intermediary between the sensors and the nozzle actuation mechanism. This intermediary processes information and coordinates the automated adjustment process, enabling complex automation functionality while maintaining a modular system architecture that manages complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient and automated nozzle orientation to guide cleaning fluid towards chip accumulation areas, reducing manual intervention and improving operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a cleaning nozzle for spraying a cleaning fluid onto chips scattered during machining so as to guide the chips to a chip collection portion
Data Source
Figure 1(a)~1(b)
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
Disclosed is a chip processing device for a machine tool, including a cleaning nozzle control unit 30 that controls a cleaning nozzle for spraying a cleaning fluid onto chips scattered during machining so as to guide the chips to a chip collection portion, wherein the cleaning nozzle control unit 30 includes: a position estimation unit 31 that estimates an accumulation position of generated chips by analyzing machining conditions of a workpiece; and a nozzle orientation adjustment unit 34 that adjusts an orientation of the cleaning nozzle toward the accumulation position estimated by the position estimation unit 31.