Dual Workpiece Conveyance Layout for Parallel Machine Tool Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing workpiece conveyance devices in machine tools are limited to conveying one workpiece at a time, hindering the ability to machine multiple workpieces in parallel and thus reducing production efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A machining system with two separate workpiece conveyance mechanisms: a first mechanism outside the machining chamber for external conveyance and a second mechanism within the chamber for internal conveyance, allowing simultaneous loading and unloading of workpieces, and optimizing their pathways to avoid interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single workpiece conveyance mechanism is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the productivity decreases because only one workpiece can be conveyed at a time
Solution Approach 1:
The workpiece conveyance system is divided into two independent mechanisms: a first workpiece conveyance mechanism for conveying workpieces into the machining chamber, and a second workpiece conveyance mechanism for conveying machined workpieces out of the chamber. This segmentation allows simultaneous loading and unloading operations, doubling the throughput capability while keeping each individual mechanism relatively simple.
2Productivity
If two workpiece conveyance mechanisms are provided, then the productivity increases through parallel conveyance, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The first and second workpiece conveyance mechanisms are merged into a single integrated workpiece conveyance device. The control unit coordinates both mechanisms as a unified system, allowing them to operate simultaneously while sharing common control infrastructure, thereby reducing overall system complexity despite the dual-mechanism architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The workpiece conveyance device is designed with universal functionality to perform multiple tasks: the first mechanism handles workpiece input, the second mechanism handles workpiece output, and both can be controlled by a single control unit. This multi-functionality allows the system to adapt to different machining scenarios while maintaining a cohesive structural design.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the conveyance pathways are not optimized, then the device complexity is reduced, but the harmful factors increase due to potential interference between mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The first and second workpiece conveyance mechanisms are arranged in parallel pathways within the machining chamber. By utilizing the spatial dimension and creating separate parallel routes for workpiece input and output, the system eliminates potential interference between mechanisms while maintaining a relatively simple overall configuration.
Data Source
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AI summary
[Problem] To improve production efficiency in a machine tool that automatically loads and unloads workpieces. [Solution] A machining system 100 includes: a machine tool 1 that includes a machining chamber R for machining a workpiece; a first workpiece conveyance mechanism 3 that conveys a workpiece between the outside of the machine tool 1 and the machining chamber R; and a second workpiece conveyance mechanism 5 that is at least partially provided within the machining chamber R and configured to convey a workpiece horizontally within the machining chamber R.