Dual Spindle Machine Tool Workpiece Transfer Accuracy
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine tools lack the capability for accurate 6-side machining of complex workpieces due to limitations in machining flexibility and accuracy, particularly during the transfer of partly machined workpieces between workpiece carriers.
Innovation Solution
A machine tool configuration with two tool spindles and two workpiece carriers, allowing for simultaneous 5-axis machining of two different workpieces, with the second workpiece carrier capable of cooperating with both tool spindles for precise transfer and machining, enhancing flexibility and accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a workpiece is transferred between two workpiece carriers for 6-side machining, then machining flexibility is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to position errors during transfer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the transfer function and machining function into a single integrated system. The second workpiece carrier not only holds workpieces but also actively participates in the transfer process by moving to pick up partly machined workpieces from the first carrier, ensuring continuous positioning accuracy throughout the transfer operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The second workpiece carrier acts as an intermediary that maintains positioning accuracy during transfer. By having the second carrier move to the first carrier's location and directly take over the workpiece in its chucked position, the system eliminates intermediate handling steps that would compromise precision.
2Productivity
If two tool spindles and two workpiece carriers are used for simultaneous machining, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The second workpiece carrier is designed with multi-functionality: it serves as both a workholding device for the second tool spindle and as an active transfer mechanism for workpieces between carriers. This universal design allows simultaneous machining of two workpieces while maintaining a relatively compact system configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic coordination between the two workpiece carriers, where the second carrier can move independently to perform transfer operations while the first carrier remains stationary during machining. This dynamic approach enables continuous productivity improvement without requiring all components to be complex and mobile simultaneously.
3Device complexity
If the second workpiece carrier is fixed, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability deteriorates as it cannot cooperate with both tool spindles
Solution Approach 1:
The second workpiece carrier is designed with selective mobility: it can move when needed to transfer workpieces from the first carrier, and remain stationary when serving as a workholding position for the second tool spindle. This dynamic capability provides adaptability without requiring continuous complex motion systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable second workpiece carrier provides universal functionality by being able to serve in multiple roles: as an active transfer agent, as a stationary workholding position, and as a cooperative element for either tool spindle. This multi-functionality achieves high adaptability without proportionally increasing system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A machine tool for the cutting machining of workpieces, in particular of metallic workpieces, has a first and a second tool spindle for receiving a first and a second machining tool, and it has a first and a second workpiece carrier for receiving a first workpiece and a second workpiece. The first tool spindle is movable relative to the first and to the second workpiece carrier in order to selectively machine the first or the second workpiece. Moreover, the first workpiece are movable relative to one another in order to transfer a workpiece from one workpiece carrier to the other workpiece carrier. The second tool spindle is movable relative to the second workpiece carrier in order to machine the second workpiece.