Nested Slide Workpiece Transfer Structure for Compact Machine Tools
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing workpiece transfer devices in machine tools are not adequately downsized, leading to space inefficiencies and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A workpiece transfer device design featuring a base unit, a housing unit, a slide unit, a slide unit-moving mechanism, a linear guide unit, and a workpiece grasp unit, where the slide unit is housed within the housing unit and can move linearly, allowing for a compact configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the slide unit is extended to accommodate the workpiece grasp unit, then the workpiece handling capability is improved, but the overall device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The workpiece grasp unit is nested within the cutout portion of the slide unit, allowing the grasp unit to be housed inside the slide unit's structure rather than extending externally. This nesting arrangement enables the slide unit to accommodate the workpiece grasp unit without increasing the overall device footprint, resolving the contradiction between workpiece handling capability and device size.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes the vertical dimension by extending the slide unit in the second direction (upward from the base unit) rather than only in the first direction (lengthwise). This dimensional change allows the workpiece grasp unit to be positioned at the end of the slide unit in a compact arrangement, improving workpiece handling while maintaining a small device footprint.
2Volume of moving object
If a compact configuration is used to downsize the device, then the device size is reduced, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into distinct functional units: base unit, housing unit, slide unit, and workpiece grasp unit. Each unit has a specific function and can be independently designed and manufactured. The cutout portion in the slide unit creates a clear separation between the slide mechanism and the grasp unit, simplifying the overall structural analysis while maintaining compactness.
Solution Approach 2:
The slide unit serves multiple functions: it provides the moving platform for the workpiece grasp unit, defines the travel path through its cutout portion, and acts as a structural connector between the base unit and the grasp unit. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components, thereby reducing structural complexity despite the compact configuration.
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
The proposed design enables a significant downsizing of workpiece transfer devices, optimizing space usage and reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining effective workpiece handling capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a slide unit-moving mechanism (8) that moves the slide unit (4) from the housed position, a linear guide unit (7) that guides the slide unit (4) in the second direction
Implementation Method 2
a linear guide unit (7) that guides the slide unit (4) in the second direction
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3(a)~3(f)
AI summary
A workpiece transfer device includes a base unit extending in a first direction, a housing unit disposed upright from the base unit in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction, a slide unit disposed at a housed position to be housed in the housing unit, a slide unit-moving mechanism configured to move the slide unit from the housed position, a linear guide unit configured to guide the slide unit in the second direction, and a workpiece grasp unit disposed on a first surface of the slide unit near an end of the slide unit remote from the base unit and configured to grasp a workpiece W. A separation distance between the base unit and an end of the workpiece grasp unit adjacent to the base unit is less than a separation distance between the base unit and the end of the slide unit remote from the base unit.