Gantry Machining Center Tool Magazine Storage Expansion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vertical machining centers in gantry construction face limitations in tool storage capacity within the machine frame, requiring additional external storage setups that increase installation area and complicate tool handling, leading to disruptions and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A vertical machining center with a moveable pickup tool magazine store and a force-driven reloading system within the machine enclosure, allowing for expansion of tool storage capacity without increasing the installation area, using a motor-driven annular magazine ring and pneumatically adjustable tool gripper for efficient tool handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the tool magazine store is integrated completely into the machine frame, then the installation area is reduced, but the tool storage capacity is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the vertical dimension (Z-axis) by positioning the spare magazine below the pickup tool magazine store, effectively expanding storage capacity into the third dimension rather than expanding horizontally. This allows increased tool storage without increasing the machine's footprint area.
Solution Approach 2:
The spare magazine is nested within the machine frame structure, specifically in the free space below the pickup tool magazine store. This nested arrangement maximizes the use of available internal space within the machine frame, increasing storage capacity without external expansion.
2Quantity of substance
If additional external storage setups are used to increase tool storage capacity, then the tool storage capacity is improved, but the installation area and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the spare magazine and reloading function into a single integrated system within the machine frame. The reloading handling system combines tool transfer, magazine positioning, and storage functions in one compact unit, eliminating the need for separate external storage setups and their associated complex handling systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The reloading handling system automatically transfers tools between the pickup magazine and spare magazine without requiring external intervention or complex external handling equipment. The system serves itself by utilizing internal space and automated mechanisms already present in the machining center.
3Quantity of substance
If the tool magazine store is expanded externally, then the tool storage capacity is increased, but the machine frame dimensions and installation area must be enlarged
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of expanding the tool magazine store in the horizontal plane (X-Y dimensions), the patent expands vertically by utilizing the free space below the pickup tool magazine store in the Z-direction. This dimensional change allows increased storage capacity without increasing the machine's footprint.
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
Enables increased tool storage capacity without expanding the machine's footprint, reducing tool change times and maintaining ergonomic access, while simplifying construction and avoiding complex tool handling systems.
Implementation Method 1
a motor-driven annular magazine ring
Implementation Method 2
pneumatically adjustable tool gripper
Data Source
AI summary
A vertical machining center in gantry construction may comprise a machine frame having two side walls configured to receive a tool-carrying assembly and a workpiece-carrying assembly, a moveable pickup tool magazine store within the two side walls of the machine frame configured for a tool change by the pickup method, and a machine enclosure which completely encloses the machining center. Below the moveable pickup tool magazine store there may be a free space in which there is additionally at least one further spare magazine, equivalent in construction to the pickup tool magazine store. A force-driven reloading handling system, with which machining tools can be reloaded from the spare magazine into the pickup tool magazine store and vice versa, may be provided within the machine enclosure at an access opening of the machine frame.