Coupled Stacking Lift for Compact Machine Tool Feeding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing stacking devices for machine tools are often cumbersome and require significant effort to implement, lacking a compact design suitable for semi-automated or automated workpiece processing, and they do not efficiently facilitate the transfer of multiple loading aids between different levels.
Innovation Solution
A compact stacking device with a base, stud frame, and vertically movable support segments and lifting consoles, coupled via a common drive, allowing for the transfer of multiple loading aids between levels with a pilgrim step characteristic, enabling efficient automated feeding of machine tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If existing stacking devices are used for automated feeding of machine tools, then workpiece handling can be automated, but the devices are cumbersome and require significant installation effort and space
Solution Approach 1:
The stacking device is divided into modular components: a base unit with vertical guides, independently controllable support segments on each side, and loading aid stacks. Each side can be configured separately with vertical guides and support segments that can be independently positioned, allowing flexible adaptation to different installation spaces while maintaining automated functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed with universal features including adjustable support segments that can accommodate different loading aid sizes, vertical guides that can be positioned at different heights, and a base that can be installed in various locations. The same basic structure serves both sides of the device, reducing overall complexity while maintaining automated feeding capability
2Quantity of substance
If multiple loading aids are stacked vertically for efficient space utilization, then storage density increases, but the mechanism for transferring them between levels becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The transfer mechanism merges the functions of multiple independent lifts into a single integrated system. The first and second support segments are coupled through the base and vertical guides, allowing coordinated movement. The coupling mechanism combines the transfer operations of multiple loading aids into a unified process, reducing the number of independent complex mechanisms needed
Solution Approach 2:
The device creates equipotential conditions by using the base as a common reference level and coordinating the vertical movement of both support segments relative to this base. The coupling mechanism ensures that transfers occur at matched heights, eliminating the need for complex intermediate adjustment mechanisms and simplifying the overall transfer process
3Ease of operation
If independent vertical movement of each side is provided for flexible operation, then operational flexibility increases, but the drive system becomes more complex and less efficient
Solution Approach 1:
The drive system is designed with dynamic characteristics, allowing it to operate in different modes: coordinated movement when both sides need to move simultaneously, and independent movement when only one side requires adjustment. The coupling mechanism can engage and disengage as needed, providing flexibility while maintaining drive efficiency through coordinated operation when possible
Data Source
AI summary
A stacking device for handling loading aids for the automated feeding of a machine tool has a base, a stud frame that is held by the base and that supports a first vertical guide and a second vertical guide, and a first side and a second side. The first side has a vertically movable support segment for receiving a conveyor that carries two or more loading aids that are arranged one above the other. The support segment is moveable along the first vertical guide. The second side has a vertically movable lifting console for receiving at least one loading aid. The lifting console is configured to receive two or more loading aids arranged one above the other. The lifting console is moveable along the second vertical guide. The support segment and the lifting console are arranged facing away from each other at the stud frame. The support segment and the lifting console are coupled to each other in a forced coupling via a common coupling member and vertically movable in opposite directions via a common vertical drive. An automation module includes a stacking device and a handling unit. A method for feeding a machine tool uses such a stacking device.