Double-Station Gantry Machining with Automatic Workpiece Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gantry machine tools require manual removal and reloading of workpieces, which is inefficient and increases machining costs, as they lack an overturning platform and rockers with double-drive screw transmission structures.
Innovation Solution
A double-station gantry combined machining system with an overturning platform and mobile gantry machining units equipped with workpiece grabbing structures, double-drive screw transmission structures, and side rocker units, allowing for automatic overturning and continuous machining of workpieces without the need for manual handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual removal and reloading of workpieces is used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity decreases and loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the workpiece transfer function and overturning function into an integrated overturning platform that serves dual purposes. The platform both transfers workpieces between machining stations and performs the overturning operation, eliminating the need for separate transfer mechanisms and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements automatic workpiece handling where the overturning platform and grabbing structures automatically transfer and position workpieces without manual intervention. The double-drive screw transmission structures automatically adjust rockers to facilitate workpiece overturning and positioning, creating a self-service mechanism that eliminates manual labor while maintaining manageable device complexity
2Productivity
If automatic overturning platform is added, then productivity increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The overturning platform is designed as a multi-functional device that simultaneously performs workpiece transfer between stations and workpiece overturning operations. The same platform structure that moves workpieces also incorporates the overturning mechanism, allowing one component to serve multiple critical functions and thereby reducing the total number of separate components needed in the system
Solution Approach 2:
The system divides workpiece handling into distinct functional modules: grabbing structures for acquisition, the overturning platform for transfer and flipping, and positioning mechanisms for final placement. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized independently while working together as an integrated system, managing complexity through modular design
3Loss of time
If workpiece handling is automated, then loss of time is reduced, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The grabbing structures are pre-positioned and pre-configured to automatically grasp workpieces as they arrive on the overturning platform. The double-drive screw transmission structures are pre-set to automatically adjust the rockers to the correct angles for workpiece overturning and positioning, eliminating the need for manual adjustment operations and reducing overall handling time while maintaining operational simplicity through automated sequencing
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 system enhances working efficiency and reduces machining costs by enabling continuous machining and eliminating the need for manual unloading and reloading of workpieces, improving the overall integration and accuracy of the machining process.
Implementation Method 1
a hydraulic cylinder is fixed on the cross beam, a hydraulic rod of the hydraulic cylinder is connected with the bracket, the hydraulic cylinder drives the bracket to move upwards and downwards along the slide block
Implementation Method 2
the first double-drive screw transmission structure is arranged on the other side of the first cross beam, the second double-drive screw transmission structure is arranged on the other side of the second cross beam, the first double-drive screw transmission structure drives the first side rocker to move upwards and downwards, and the second double-drive screw transmission structure drives the second side rocker to move upwards and downwards
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The invention discloses a double-station gantry combined machining system allowing automatic overturning of workpieces, which comprises a first mobile gantry machining unit, a second mobile gantry machining unit, an overturning platform, a first workpiece fixing table, a second workpiece fixing table and a guide rail, wherein the overturning platform is positioned between the first gantry machining unit and the second gantry machining unit. According to the invention, the system is highly integrated, continuous machining of a gantry machine tool is completed, the working efficiency is improved, and the machining cost of the system is reduced.