Dual Tool Spindle Layout for Compact Six-Side Machining
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine tools are not rigid or compact enough for certain applications, limiting their ability to efficiently machine complex workpieces on multiple sides and requiring optimization of machining speed.
Innovation Solution
A machine tool design featuring two vertically oriented tool spindles and workpiece support devices mounted on a common machine frame, allowing for parallel movement in the horizontal direction and a compact, rigid structure with short transport paths, enabling efficient machining of workpieces on six sides and high-speed processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate machine frames are used to provide multiple working spaces, then workpiece machining versatility is improved, but machine rigidity and compactness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple working spaces and tool spindles onto a single common machine frame, merging what would traditionally be separate machine structures. This allows multiple workpieces to be machined simultaneously in different working spaces while maintaining a rigid, compact single-frame structure, thereby resolving the contradiction between versatility and rigidity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent arranges tool spindles and working spaces in a three-dimensional configuration around a central common frame, utilizing spatial distribution in multiple directions. This dimensional arrangement allows multiple machining operations to occur simultaneously in different spatial zones while maintaining structural compactness and rigidity.
2Ease of operation
If tool spindles are positioned far apart to access different working spaces, then workpiece transfer flexibility is improved, but transport path length and machining time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the machining system into multiple independent working spaces, each with its own tool spindle and workpiece support device, all positioned around a common frame. This segmentation allows parallel machining operations in separate zones while keeping transport paths short due to the compact radial arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
Working spaces are arranged in a three-dimensional configuration around the common frame, allowing workpiece transfer through vertical and horizontal movements rather than long linear transports. This spatial arrangement reduces transport path lengths while maintaining flexibility.
3Device complexity
If a single working space is used with one tool spindle, then machine structure is simple and compact, but total machining time for complex workpieces increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple tool spindles and working spaces are merged onto a single common machine frame, creating a multi-functional system that maintains relative structural simplicity while enabling parallel machining operations. This increases productivity for complex workpieces requiring multiple machining operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The common machine frame serves multiple functions by supporting several tool spindles and working spaces simultaneously. This multi-functional design allows the machine to perform multiple machining operations in parallel, reducing total machining time while avoiding the complexity of entirely separate machine systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A machine tool is provided with two vertically oriented tool spindles that are arranged to hold tools and that are movable vertically in a first direction and horizontally in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction. Furthermore, the machine tool is provided with two workpiece support devices for clamping workpieces in place. At least one of the two workpiece support devices is movable horizontally in a third direction orthogonal to the first and the second direction. The two tool spindles and the two workpiece support devices are mounted on a common machine frame with a common working space, wherein the two tool spindles are movable parallel to one another in the second direction. The two tool spindles are facing one another.