Guide-Rail Tool Storage for Safe Machine Tool Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine tool storage systems often lead to disorganization and safety hazards due to frequently used tools being stored inadvisedly on bending aids or support arms, restricting their use and causing operational inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A modular tool storage device with a displaceable tool storage unit mounted on a guide rail, featuring a movable carriage and module carrier with adjustable pockets and attachments, allowing flexible storage and handling of tools without restricting machine operation, and enabling easy exchange between machines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If tools are stored on bending aids or support arms to keep them within reach, then operator convenience is improved, but safety is worsened and operational flexibility is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The tool storage system is segmented into multiple storage units that can be independently positioned on the guide rail, allowing tools to be stored in dedicated compartments rather than on bending aids, thus maintaining safety while providing organized access
Solution Approach 2:
A guide rail system serves as an intermediary structure between the machine tool and tool storage, enabling tools to be stored in a safe, organized manner while remaining easily accessible through the movable storage units
2Ease of operation
If tools are stored on bending aids or support arms for easy access, then operator convenience is improved, but operational flexibility is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The tool storage units are designed to be movable along the guide rail, allowing dynamic repositioning based on operational needs, thus maintaining operational flexibility while providing convenient tool access
Solution Approach 2:
The guide rail system serves multiple functions including tool storage, tool transport, and positioning, replacing the need to use bending aids or support arms for tool storage and maintaining operational versatility
3Stability of the object's composition
If tools are stored in tool cabinets away from the machine, then organization is improved, but operator efficiency is worsened due to additional trips
Solution Approach 1:
The tool storage system utilizes the vertical and lateral space around the machine tool through the guide rail arrangement, placing tools in an optimized spatial dimension that is both organized and immediately accessible, eliminating the need for trips to distant tool cabinets
4Ease of operation
If tools are pushed aside within the tool clamp for access, then immediate access is improved, but organization is worsened creating disorder and safety hazards
Solution Approach 1:
Tools are segmented into individual storage units on the guide rail system, each unit providing dedicated space for specific tools, thus maintaining organization while enabling easy access without pushing tools aside
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a tool storage device for a machine tool having a tool storage unit which can be mounted and displaced on a guide rail of the machine tool and is further designed to receive non-mounted tools for the machine tool.