Corner Tool Storage Layout for Accessible Machine Tools
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional machine tool storage systems for tools are difficult for operators to load and unload, and require complex movements by the operating head to access tools, limiting efficiency and accessibility.
Innovation Solution
A machine tool with a storage system featuring a housing apparatus with multiple sides and a movement mechanism allowing tools to be rotated and moved along the perimeter, enabling easy access by both operators and the operating head, with options for triangular or quadrangular shapes and motor-driven rotation or gear wheel systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If the storage system is located outside the machine tool, then the storage capacity is increased, but the accessibility for operators and operating head is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system is positioned in a corner position of the machine tool, utilizing three-dimensional space efficiently. The housing members are arranged along two adjacent sides forming a corner configuration, allowing access from multiple directions (front, side, and top) rather than requiring a single large external location. This spatial arrangement provides both adequate storage capacity and improved accessibility.
2Ease of operation
If the storage system is located inside the machine tool, then the accessibility for operators is improved, but the storage capacity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system utilizes corner space along two adjacent sides of the machine tool, effectively using vertical and horizontal dimensions simultaneously. Multiple housing members are stacked along both sides, maximizing the use of available three-dimensional space within the machine tool footprint, thereby achieving both compact integration and adequate storage capacity.
3Reliability
If the operating head must reach tools in traditional storage systems, then the tool storage is secured, but the movement complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system is divided into multiple discrete housing members positioned along two adjacent sides. Each housing member can be independently accessed by the operating head, which moves along the perimeter of the corner configuration. This segmentation allows the operating head to reach tools with simpler, more direct movements compared to reaching into a centralized or distant storage location.
4Device complexity
If traditional storage systems are used, then the structure is simple, but the loading and unloading difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The corner-positioned storage system with housing members along two adjacent sides creates a naturally accessible configuration. Operators can approach from the front to load/unload tools, while the perpendicular arrangement of housing members along both sides provides clear access paths. This geometric configuration maintains structural simplicity while dramatically improving operational ease compared to linear or centralized storage arrangements.
Data Source
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Figure 3~4
AI summary
Described is a machine tool (1, 100) for machining panels or similar pieces comprising: a working plane (3, 103) for providing a support, in use, to at least one panel or similar piece, said working plane (3, 103) extending according to a second axis (Y, Y') and a first axis (X, X') perpendicular to said second axis (Y, Y'), there being defined in said working plane (3, 103) at least one first outer edge (3a, 103a); operating means (5, 105) movable at least according to said first axis (X, X') on said working plane (3, 103) and configured for coupling in use, in a movable manner, to at least one tool for performing at least one machining on said at least one panel or similar piece; at least one apparatus for housing tools (7, 107) for housing said at least one tool, there being defined in said at least one apparatus for housing tools (7, 107) at least a first substantially straight side (7a, 107a) and at least a second substantially straight side (7b, 107b), in said at least a first side (7a, 107a) and said at least a second side (7b, 107b) there being provided a plurality of housing members (11, 111) for housing, in use, at least one tool; and movement means for moving at least one housing member (11, 111) between a first position facing said at least one first outer edge (3a, 103a) in such a way that said at least one housing member (11, 111) can be reached, in use, by an operator for loading or unloading at least one tool, and a second position facing said operating means (5, 105) for allowing said operating means (5, 105) to pick up and/or release at least one tool.