Hybrid Workpiece Processing With Parallel Cooling and Machining
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Solution Overview
Problem
The combination of additive and subtractive manufacturing processes in a single machining area leads to increased processing time due to the need for cooling and hardening of materials after additive manufacturing, which hinders immediate switching to subtractive manufacturing, thereby reducing productivity.
Innovation Solution
A method where additive manufacturing is performed on one workpiece while keeping another workpiece on standby, allowing for parallel cooling and subsequent subtractive manufacturing on the first workpiece, thereby optimizing the workflow and reducing overall processing time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If additive manufacturing is performed on a workpiece, then the workpiece is created or added material, but the material must be cooled and hardened before next operation which increases processing time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by preparing the second workpiece for additive manufacturing while the first workpiece is undergoing subtractive manufacturing. This overlapping preparation and processing eliminates idle time between operations, as the system anticipates the next workpiece needs before the current workpiece is fully processed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves continuity of useful action by maintaining an uninterrupted workflow where additive manufacturing on the second workpiece begins while subtractive manufacturing on the first workpiece is still in progress. This parallel processing ensures that the manufacturing system is continuously productive without idle cooling or setup time.
2Manufacturing precision
If additive manufacturing and subtractive manufacturing are performed sequentially on the same workpiece, then the workpiece is fully processed, but the cooling time between processes reduces productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the manufacturing workflow into separate workpiece streams. The first workpiece undergoes subtractive manufacturing while the second workpiece undergoes additive manufacturing simultaneously. This segmentation allows independent processing of different workpieces through different manufacturing processes without sequential dependency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-dimension sequential process to a multi-dimensional parallel process by introducing multiple workpieces at different stages of manufacturing. This dimensional change in the process flow allows simultaneous execution of additive and subtractive manufacturing operations that would otherwise be sequential.
3Ease of operation
If the machining area is used for one process at a time, then the equipment is simple to operate, but the processing time increases due to switching between processes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the machining area and robotic system to handle multiple workpieces at different manufacturing stages simultaneously. The single machining area serves multiple functions: additive manufacturing, subtractive manufacturing, and workpiece holding/standby, eliminating the need for separate dedicated areas for each process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses preliminary action by having the second workpiece ready and positioned in the machining area before the first workpiece completes its subtractive manufacturing. This advance preparation eliminates process switching time, as the system is already configured for the next operation when the current one finishes.
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
This approach enhances productivity by allowing simultaneous cooling of the workpiece post-additive manufacturing and performing subtractive manufacturing on another workpiece, thus streamlining the processing time and improving efficiency in a hybrid manufacturing environment.
Implementation Method 1
a laser apparatus emitting a laser spot beam
Implementation Method 2
using a gas mixture of argon and nitrogen as a shield gas
Implementation Method 3
a powder feeder feeding a metal material (powder) by means of argon gas as a carrier gas
Data Source
AI summary
A workpiece processing method is a method for successively processing a plurality of workpieces including a first workpiece and a second workpiece in a single machining area. The workpiece processing method includes: performing additive manufacturing on the second workpiece in the machining area; and performing subtractive manufacturing on the first workpiece in the machining area while keeping on standby the second workpiece on which additive manufacturing is performed. In this way, the workpiece processing method with improved productivity is provided.