Detachable Workpiece Support for Faster Swiss-Type Tool Setup
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional Swiss-type machine tools require significant setup time due to manual measurement and positioning of multiple tools, which affects manufacturing efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A machine tool with a removable guide bushing and automated setup process using probes to determine tool positions, facilitated by a controller that learns and adjusts tool holder array positions based on contact with a probe, reducing manual intervention and enhancing setup speed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual measurement and positioning of multiple tools is used during setup, then measurement precision can be achieved, but setup time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical measurement system with an automated optical measurement system. A probe with a spherical tip automatically measures tool positions by detecting tool surfaces, eliminating the need for manual measurement with keyboards and calipers. The controller automatically processes measurement data to determine tool holder array positions, significantly reducing setup time while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement system performs self-service by automatically positioning the probe, measuring tool surfaces, and calculating tool holder positions without operator intervention. The probe rotates with the workpiece and automatically contacts each tool surface, and the controller autonomously processes all measurement data to establish tool positions, freeing the operator from repetitive manual tasks.
2Productivity
If a probe is connected to the head to automate tool position detection, then setup speed improves, but the guide bushing must be removed adding complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the guide bushing from the head during the setup process to allow probe connection. The guide bushing is temporarily removed so the probe can be connected to the head's drive mechanism. After automated measurement is complete, the guide bushing is reinstalled for normal machining operations. This temporary extraction enables automation while maintaining system integrity for production.
Solution Approach 2:
The setup procedure dynamically changes the head configuration by removing the guide bushing only when needed for probe connection. During normal machining, the guide bushing remains installed. The system transitions between two states: a measurement state with the probe connected and guide bushing removed, and a machining state with the guide bushing installed and probe disconnected.
3Productivity
If automated probe measurement is used to determine tool positions, then manufacturing efficiency improves, but measurement precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a spherical tip on the probe as an intermediary measurement element. The spherical geometry provides a well-defined contact point with tool surfaces, facilitating precise automated measurement. The sphere's known radius and geometry allow the controller to accurately calculate tool positions based on contact point coordinates, enhancing measurement precision while enabling automated operation.
Data Source
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AI summary
A machine tool includes a head having an opening extending in an axial direction along an axis of rotation, a tubular shaft shiftable in the axial direction through the opening, and a workpiece support attachable and detachable to and from one end of the opening and configured to support a workpiece shiftably in the axial direction. The tubular shaft has a first end pointed at the one end of the opening and a second end opposite in the axial direction to the first end. A probe is attachable to the first end with the workpiece support removed from the one end.