Facing Dual-Spindle Machine Tool for Rigid Six-Side Machining
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
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 optimizing 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 parallel movement in a 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 a machine tool uses separate machine frames for each working space, then it provides flexibility for machining operations, but it becomes less rigid and more space-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate machine frames into a single common machine frame that supports both tool spindles and workpiece support devices. This merging maintains the flexibility needed for different machining operations while significantly improving the overall rigidity and compactness of the machine structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The common machine frame serves multiple functions: it supports both tool spindles, holds workpiece support devices, and provides a rigid foundation for all machining operations. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate frames while maintaining operational versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a machine tool has separate working spaces for different machining operations, then it can process workpieces in stages, but it increases the overall size and reduces compactness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple working spaces into a single common working space where both tool spindles and workpiece support devices operate. This allows staged processing of workpieces while maintaining a compact overall machine size.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent arranges tool spindles and workpiece support devices in a three-dimensional configuration within the common working space, utilizing vertical and horizontal dimensions efficiently. This dimensional arrangement enables multiple machining operations in a compact footprint.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a machine tool has long transport paths for workpiece transfer, then it can accommodate larger workpieces, but it increases total machining time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the workpiece support into multiple devices positioned at different locations within the common working space. This segmentation allows workpieces to be transferred between support devices rather than traveling long distances, reducing transfer time while maintaining the ability to accommodate various workpiece sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate workpiece support devices that serve as transfer points between different machining stations. These intermediary supports enable efficient workpiece transfer without requiring long transport paths, thereby reducing total machining time.
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.