Dual-Spindle Pivot Carrier Layout for Compact Machine Tools
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine tools face long downtimes due to the need for the work spindle to be out of operation during workpiece loading and unloading, and require large spaces due to the distance needed between the pivot carrier axis and the work spindle to prevent collisions.
Innovation Solution
The machine tool design incorporates a first and second pivot carrier, each with a workpiece table, where the interference area of the workpiece tables protrudes beyond the pivoting range of the pivot carriers, allowing for a reduced distance between the pivot carrier axis and the work spindle, thereby minimizing space requirements and maintaining processing efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the distance between the pivot carrier axis and the work spindle is reduced to minimize space requirements, then the machine tool becomes more compact, but the workpiece tables may collide with the work spindle during pivoting
Solution Approach 1:
The interference area of the workpiece tables is allowed to protrude beyond the pivoting area in the transverse direction, utilizing additional spatial dimension. This enables the pivot carrier to have a smaller pivoting radius while the workpiece tables can extend further out without colliding with the work spindle, as the protrusion occurs in a direction perpendicular to the pivoting plane.
2Ease of operation
If the work spindle remains stationary during workpiece loading and unloading, then collision avoidance is simplified, but processing times increase due to downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The workpiece tables are positioned in advance on the pivot carrier in specific locations (first and second pivot positions) so that when the pivot carrier rotates to bring a table to the working area, the work spindle is already in the correct position to immediately begin processing. This preliminary positioning eliminates downtime between loading and processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivot carrier enables continuous operation by having multiple workpiece tables positioned at different angular locations. While one table is being processed by the work spindle, another table can be loaded or prepared, and the pivot carrier can rotate to bring the next table into position, ensuring the work spindle is continuously engaged in productive work without idle downtime.
Data Source
AI summary
A machine tool having a machine frame, a first work spindle, a second work spindle, a first pivot carrier which is assigned to the first work spindle and which is swivel mounted around a first pivot carrier axis, a first workpiece table and a second workpiece table, and a second pivot carrier which is assigned to the second work spindle and which is swivel mounted around a second pivot carrier axis. The machine tool also includes a first workpiece table and a second workpiece table, the first pivot carrier and the second pivot carrier can each be moved from a first pivot position into a second pivot position, and the interference area of the first workpiece table and/or the interference area of the second workpiece table on the first pivot carrier protrude(s) outwards beyond the swivel area of the first pivot carrier transversely to the first pivot carrier axis.