Fixed-Gantry Machine Tool Layout for Parallel Machining Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine tools face challenges in achieving high efficiency and productivity while maintaining machining accuracy and process reliability, especially when dealing with large components and varied machining tasks.
Innovation Solution
A machine tool design featuring a fixed gantry with two tool spindles for parallel machining, a workpiece table movable in three directions, and tool magazines accessible through magazine openings in the gantry, allowing for fully automated tool and workpiece changes and efficient use of working space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the work space is increased for machining larger components, then the versatility and adaptability of the machine tool is improved, but the rigidity deteriorates and machining accuracy decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The machine tool is divided into two independent machining centers, each with its own tool spindle and control system. This segmentation allows each center to maintain high rigidity and precision for its designated work space, while the combined system provides versatility for machining larger components by coordinating both centers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single machining center operating in one dimensional space to a dual machining center system that effectively creates a expanded three-dimensional work space. This dimensional expansion allows machining of larger components while each individual center maintains its precision through independent rigid structures.
2Extent of automation
If automated tool change and workpiece change systems are added to increase productivity, then the extent of automation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated change systems are segmented and integrated into each machining center independently. Each center has its own tool magazine and workpiece handling capabilities, which reduces the overall system complexity compared to a centralized automated system while maintaining high automation levels at each station.
Solution Approach 2:
Each machining center is equipped with self-service capabilities including integrated tool magazines that automatically supply tools to the spindles and workpiece handling systems that can load and unload workpieces without external intervention. This self-service approach reduces the need for complex external automation systems.
3Productivity
If two tool spindles are used for parallel machining to increase productivity, then the productivity is improved, but the device complexity and coordination requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The dual spindle system is segmented into two independent machining centers, each with its own control system, tool magazine, and workpiece handling. This segmentation simplifies the coordination complexity by allowing each center to operate independently or be coordinated through high-level programming, rather than requiring complex real-time synchronization of a single integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
Two independent machining centers are merged into a single integrated system that shares common support structures, control architecture, and workspace. This merging provides the productivity benefits of parallel machining while utilizing the simplicity of independent center operation, combining the advantages of both approaches.
Data Source
AI summary
A machine tool comprises a frame, which carries a fixed gantry for supporting at least one tool spindle. The gantry comprises a gantry recess, through which a working space is accessible. The one or more tool spindles on the gantry can each be moved vertically in a first direction and in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction. The machine tool further comprises a workpiece table with at least one location for supporting workpieces. The workpiece table is movable in translation in a third direction Y orthogonal to the first direction and the second direction. At least one tool magazine is associated with the at least one tool spindle tool spindle. Tools for tool changing can be fed through at least one magazine opening in the gantry. Tool changing between the one or more tool spindles and the at least one tool magazine takes place in a pick-up process.