Dual-Tool Docking Machine for Fast Large-Part Contour Machining

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional machining devices are inefficient when processing large workpieces with fine contours, as they require powerful drives for large tools, leading to low travel speeds and long processing times due to the need for re-clamping or prolonged processing.

Innovation Solution

A device with a linear drive arrangement that allows the tool holder to be moved relative to the tool carrier, enabling the use of smaller, lighter tools for fine machining, with high-speed and acceleration capabilities, and an interface for quick tool changes between tool carrier and linear drive arrangement to accommodate both large and small tools.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If large tools with powerful drives are used for machining large workpieces, then high cutting performance is achieved, but traverse speeds of tool holders decrease due to higher mass and force absorption requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecutting performanceVSAvoidtraverse speed
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSSpeed

Solution Approach 1:

The device is segmented into two independent tool holder systems: a first tool holder for large cutting tools and a second tool holder for small precision tools. Each tool holder has its own drive arrangement optimized for its specific function, allowing independent operation without compromising the performance of either system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The device combines multiple functions in a single machining center: both rough machining of large workpieces and fine machining of detailed contours can be performed without repositioning. The control unit coordinates both tool holders to provide universal machining capabilities for diverse workpiece requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Productivity

If devices are designed for large tools with high cutting performance, then material removal capability is improved, but machining time for fine contours becomes disproportionately long

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvematerial removal rateVSAvoidmachining time for fine contours
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The device dynamically switches between two tool holder configurations based on the machining requirements. The control unit enables rapid switching between the first tool holder for rough machining and the second tool holder for fine machining, optimizing the machining process in real-time without manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The first tool holder performs rough machining operations in advance to remove bulk material, preparing the workpiece for subsequent fine machining by the second tool holder. This preliminary action reduces the overall machining time by pre-processing the workpiece to the appropriate state for detailed work.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If workpieces with diverse requirements are processed in different fixtures, then each workpiece type receives optimal machining, but time is spent reclamping workpieces

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemachining capability for different workpiece typesVSAvoidreclamping time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

A single machining center incorporates both a first tool holder for large workpieces and a second tool holder for small workpieces with fine contours. The control unit coordinates both tool holders to provide universal machining capabilities, eliminating the need for multiple specialized fixtures and reducing setup time between different workpiece types.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP3325210B1Docking machine
Publication Date: 2021.08.18 KLAUS DIETER KLEMENT VERW
  • EP3325210B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3325210B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3325210B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a device for machining processing, preferably of metal work pieces, comprising a tool (9) that rotates about a tool axis (W). In this way, with a tool of this type and the method for machining processing, the processing of large workpieces is possible in an efficient manner, despite each having at least individually and very precisely executed contours, and the device has a linear drive assembly (3) having at least one first linear drive (6), with which a tool holder (8) for rotatably holding the tool (9) is arranged on the tool carrier (1) such that it can move relative to the tool carrier (1).