Dual-Spindle Grinding Machine Movable Center Grinder
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing grinding machines with dual workpiece spindles and grinders face inefficiencies in cycle time and production rate, particularly when handling workpieces with convex and concave surfaces, as they require complex motor arrangements and limited grinder mobility.
Innovation Solution
A grinding apparatus with horizontally and vertically displaceable workpiece spindles and grinders, featuring a movable center grinder with a larger diameter wheel that allows for simultaneous machining of both sides of a workpiece, enabling independent operation of each side and high production rates through dual grinder setup with one side being loaded or unloaded during machining.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If dual-spindle grinding machine with fixed grinder arrangement is used, then workpiece machining capability is provided, but cycle time is long and production rate is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the center grinder movable both vertically and horizontally on the frame, allowing it to dynamically adjust its position to engage workpieces on either spindle. This mobility enables the center grinder to participate in machining operations flexibly, reducing idle time and improving productivity without requiring fixed grinder arrangements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuity of useful action by enabling simultaneous machining of both spindles through the movable center grinder configuration. While one spindle is being machined, the other can be loaded or unloaded, eliminating idle time and ensuring continuous productive operation throughout the cycle
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex motor arrangements with radially shiftable carriages are used, then cam grinding capability is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by separating the grinding functions into two independent systems: two outer grinders with smaller diameter wheels for convex surface machining, and one center grinder with larger diameter wheel for concave surface machining. Each grinder can be independently positioned and controlled, simplifying the overall system architecture while maintaining versatile machining capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an additional dimension of movement by allowing the center grinder to move both vertically and horizontally on the frame, whereas the outer grinders move only radially. This dimensional enhancement enables the center grinder to access workpieces on either spindle and machine both convex and concave surfaces, reducing the need for complex radial carriage mechanisms
Data Source
AI summary
A grinding apparatus has a support frame and first and second carriages horizontally displaceable on the frame. Respective first and second workpiece spindles are each capable of holding and rotating a workpiece and are vertically displaceable on the first and second carriages. Respective first and second grinders on the frame carry respective first and second grinding wheels and are oriented to engage and machine workpieces held and rotated by the workpiece spindles. One of the grinders is movable horizontal or vertically on the frame.