Machine Tool Coolant Nozzle Switching With Program-Based Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coolant supply systems in machine tools waste coolant on un-machined parts, require complex user operations, and lead to excessive power consumption due to inefficient nozzle switching and discharge control.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that coordinates with machining programs to simplify user operations by automatically switching between nozzles and coolant discharge levels, using coolant specifying codes to control valve openings and pump output, and employs wide-area control valves to manage coolant distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If coolant is discharged based on the shape of a workpiece, then coolant coverage is improved, but coolant waste increases and power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coolant supply system is segmented into multiple independent nozzles, each可控 by its own valve. This allows coolant to be directed only to specific regions where machining is occurring, rather than discharging to all areas based on workpiece shape. The segmentation enables precise control of coolant flow to match the actual machining zone, reducing waste and power consumption while maintaining reliable coverage of the machining area.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts nozzle activation and coolant discharge levels based on real-time machining conditions. The control unit opens or closes individual nozzle valves and adjusts pump output according to the current machining program and workpiece geometry, ensuring coolant is supplied only when and where needed. This dynamic adaptation prevents excessive coolant discharge and reduces power consumption while maintaining effective coolant coverage.
2Extent of automation
If nozzle switching is performed using a timer independent of a machining program, then automatic nozzle switching is achieved, but user operation complexity increases and chip stagnation problems occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses feedback from the machining program itself to control nozzle switching. The control unit reads the machining program and automatically determines when to activate or deactivate nozzles based on the actual machining operations being performed, rather than using a fixed timer. This feedback mechanism ensures coolant is supplied in sync with the machining process, eliminating chip stagnation while maintaining automatic operation and simplifying user interaction.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a user has to operate an opening-closing device to switch between the nozzles, then manual control flexibility is achieved, but user operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic nozzle switching based on the machining program, eliminating the need for manual operation of opening-closing devices. The control unit automatically reads the machining program and activates or deactivates nozzles as needed, making the system self-sufficient. This automatic self-service approach maintains the adaptability and flexibility of manual control while dramatically simplifying user operation.
4Measurement precision
If the amount of discharge of coolant is controlled on an individual-tool basis, then coolant control precision is improved, but nozzle switching capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system combines individual nozzle control with a single pump, segmenting the coolant distribution while maintaining centralized pump control. Each nozzle has its own valve for precise individual control, allowing both precision coolant dosage and nozzle switching capability. This segmentation enables the system to achieve both high measurement precision in coolant control and full adaptability in nozzle switching.
Solution Approach 2:
A single pump serves multiple nozzles, making the pump universal for the entire coolant distribution system. This multi-functionality allows the system to control coolant discharge precisely for each tool while also enabling switching between different nozzles. The single pump with multiple controlled outlets achieves both precision control and switching capability simultaneously.
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
This approach reduces coolant waste, simplifies user interaction, and decreases power consumption by optimizing coolant application based on machining needs.
Implementation Method 1
a pump device (15) connected to the plurality of coolant supply conduits (13), and configured to discharge the coolant to a jetting nozzle that is among the plurality of nozzles (12)
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of electromagnetic control valves (14), each being provided at one of the plurality of coolant supply conduits (13), and each being controlled to open and close by a control signal from the numerical controller (2)
Data Source
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AI summary
A method of supplying a coolant to a machine tool includes reading, from a machining program, a coolant specifying code that specifies opening and/or closing of each valve of a plurality of valves, the each valve being provided at one of a plurality of coolant supply conduits connected to a plurality of respective nozzles mounted on a machine tool, and that specifies a degree of discharge of the coolant from a pump to each nozzle of the plurality of nozzles. The method also includes controlling the opening and/or closing of the each valve based on the coolant specifying code, and controlling the pump to discharge the coolant by the degree of discharge. The method also includes jetting the coolant through at least one jetting nozzle connected to at least one open valve, among the plurality of valves, that is open.