Dual Workpiece Table Machining Device for Reduced Cycle Time
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing processing devices for workpieces, such as wood or plastic, require multiple clamping operations to process both long and narrow sides, increasing cycle time and manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
A machining device with two or more displaceable tool elements guided on separate rails, allowing independent movement and collision-free operation, along with manipulation devices for efficient workpiece handling and transfer between multiple workpiece tables, enabling simultaneous processing of multiple workpieces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If two opposing workpiece tables with clamping devices are used to machine both long and narrow sides of workpieces, then complete machining of workpieces is achieved, but cycle time increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The machining device is segmented into two independent workpiece tables (first and second workpiece tables), each capable of machining workpieces independently. This segmentation allows parallel processing where one table machines while the other prepares or discharges workpieces, thereby reducing cycle time while maintaining complete machining capability for both long and narrow sides.
Solution Approach 2:
The first workpiece table is equipped with tool elements and clamping devices that can perform preliminary machining operations on workpieces before they are transferred to the second workpiece table. This preliminary action allows the second table to prepare for the next workpiece or discharge completed workpieces, overlapping operations to reduce overall cycle time.
2Productivity
If multiple tool elements are arranged on the same guide element to machine multiple workpieces simultaneously, then productivity increases, but collisions between tool elements may occur
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of arranging multiple tool elements along the same guide element in one dimension, the invention positions tool elements on separate workpiece tables that are spatially separated in another dimension (perpendicular to the guide element direction). This dimensional separation allows simultaneous machining of multiple workpieces without tool element collisions, as each tool element operates in its own spatial zone.
3Adaptability or versatility
If workpiece tables are arranged to machine both long and narrow sides with multiple clamping operations, then comprehensive workpiece processing is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each workpiece table is designed as a universal machining station equipped with both tool elements for machining and clamping devices for securing workpieces. Both the first and second workpiece tables can independently perform complete machining operations on workpieces, including both long and narrow sides. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized tables or clamping devices, thereby managing device complexity while maintaining versatility.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a machining device (1, 50, 100) for workpieces (2), in particular workpieces made from wood, plastic or the like, comprising a first workpiece table (3) that is displaceable along a longitudinal direction (7) and comprising a second workpiece table (4) that is displaceable in the longitudinal direction (7), wherein the two workpiece tables (3, 4) are arranged spaced apart perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (7), wherein each of the two workpiece tables (3, 4) comprises clamping elements (9, 10) for clamping a workpiece (2), wherein the clamping elements (9,10) are designed such that same comprise two clamping positions (11, 12, 13, 14) opposite each other with respect to the longitudinal direction (7) for clamping in a workpiece (2), so a workpiece (2) can be clamped in the two clamping positions (11, 12, 13, 14), and wherein a guide element (15) is also provided, which is arranged aligned perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (7) and is used for the displaceable guidance of a tool element (18), comprising a first tool element (18), which is displaceably arranged on the guide element (15) for machining the workpiece (2), comprising a first manipulator device (19) for gripping and positioning a workpiece (2) into at least one clamping element (9, 10) of one of the workpiece tables (3, 4) or for removing a workpiece (2) from at least one clamping element (9, 10) of one of the workpiece tables (3, 4).