Double-Station Gantry Machining With Automatic Workpiece Overturning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gantry machine tools require manual removal and reloading of workpieces, which is inefficient and increases machining costs.
Innovation Solution
A double-station gantry combined machining system with mobile gantry machining units, an overturning platform, and double-drive screw transmission structures allows for automatic overturning of workpieces between machining stations, enabling continuous machining and reducing handling time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual removal and reloading of workpieces is used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity decreases and loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into two independent mobile gantry machining units (first and second) that can operate separately and simultaneously. Each unit has its own workpiece grabbing structure and processing capabilities, allowing parallel operations on different workpieces or different sides of the same workpiece, thereby improving productivity without requiring an overly complex integrated system
Solution Approach 2:
An overturning platform is introduced as an intermediary device between the two gantry machining units. This platform automatically overturns workpieces between processing stations, eliminating manual intervention while maintaining relatively simple system architecture. The overturning platform serves as a mediator that enables continuous automated processing without significantly increasing overall system complexity
2Loss of time
If manual unloading and reloading of workpieces is used, then device complexity is reduced, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The workpiece grabbing structures are designed to automatically grasp, transfer, and position workpieces without manual intervention. The first and second workpiece grabbing structures work in coordination with the overturning platform to create a self-service automated handling system that eliminates time-consuming manual operations while keeping the automation level moderate
Solution Approach 2:
The dual-station design with automatic overturning enables continuous machining operations. While one gantry unit processes a workpiece, the other unit can prepare or process another workpiece, eliminating idle time and ensuring continuous productive action without requiring complex multi-axis coordination systems
3Productivity
If single-station gantry machining is used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The machining system is segmented into two independent mobile gantry units, each capable of autonomous operation. This segmentation allows parallel processing of multiple workpieces or different features, doubling theoretical productivity while maintaining operational simplicity through modular, independent units that can be controlled separately
Solution Approach 2:
Both gantry machining units are designed to be mobile rather than fixed, allowing dynamic repositioning and flexible operation. The mobile design enables easy adjustment of working positions and facilitates simple operation while achieving higher productivity through coordinated movement and parallel processing capabilities
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system improves working efficiency and reduces machining costs by enabling continuous processing without the need for manual unloading and reloading of workpieces, enhancing the overall productivity of gantry machine tools.
Implementation Method 1
a first double-drive screw transmission structure and a first side rocker unit, and the second mobile gantry machining unit comprises a second cross beam, a second workpiece grabbing structure, a second double-drive screw transmission structure and a second side rocker; the first double-drive screw transmission structure drives the first side rocker to move upwards and downwards
Implementation Method 2
a hydraulic cylinder and a gantry machine tool; the hydraulic cylinder is fixed on the cross beam, a hydraulic rod of the hydraulic cylinder is connected with the bracket, the hydraulic cylinder drives the bracket to move upwards and downwards along the slide block
Data Source
AI summary
The invention discloses a double-station gantry combined machining system allowing automatic overturning of workpieces, which comprises a first mobile gantry machining unit, a second mobile gantry machining unit, an overturning platform, a first workpiece fixing table, a second workpiece fixing table and a guide rail, wherein the overturning platform is positioned between the first gantry machining unit and the second gantry machining unit. According to the invention, the system is highly integrated, continuous machining of a gantry machine tool is completed, the working efficiency is improved, and the machining cost of the system is reduced.