Multiple Instrument Carrier with Concurrent Tool Change Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current machine tools and automated systems require non-productive time and energy consumption due to the interruption of machining processes for tool or instrument changes, which can be inefficient and costly.
Innovation Solution
A method and machine design that allows simultaneous or partially concurrent positioning and instrument changing movements, utilizing a multiple instrument carrier with adjustable axes to transition instruments between active and passive poses without requiring additional machine axes for tool changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If traditional sequential tool change methods are used (moving tool to change position, then replacing tool), then tool replacement can be completed, but non-productive time and energy consumption increase due to process interruption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by moving the multiple instrument carrier to the desired working position before the instrument change is completed. The carrier is repositioned in advance while the instrument transition is still in progress, so that when the new instrument becomes active, the carrier is already in the correct position for continued machining, eliminating idle time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves continuity of useful action by overlapping the instrument change process with positioning movements. The machine axis continues to move the carrier to the target position during the instrument transition, ensuring that the machining process remains continuous without interruption for tool changes.
2Loss of energy
If traditional sequential tool change methods are used, then tool replacement can be completed, but energy consumption increases due to separate positioning and changing movements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the positioning movement and instrument change movement into a single coordinated operation. The machine axis performs both functions simultaneously by moving the multiple instrument carrier to the target position while the instruments are being exchanged, combining what were previously separate movements into one efficient operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by implementing time-varying coordination between the machine axis movement and instrument change. The control system dynamically adjusts the timing and speed of both operations to ensure they complete simultaneously, optimizing the use of energy and machine resources throughout the process.
Data Source
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AI summary
In a machine (2) or a method for operating a machine (2) with at least one adjustable machine axis (X, Y, Z, B, C) and with a multiple instrument carrier (R) carrying at least a first (T1) and a second instrument (T2), a first process relating to an object (16) is to be carried out successively by means of the first instrument (T1), and a second process relating to the object (16) is to be carried out by means of the second instrument (T2). Between the two processes, at least in one time range, a position of the multiple instrument carrier (R) relative to the object (16) is changed by means of the adjustable machine axis (X, Y, Z, B, C), and simultaneously the first instrument (T1) is moved from an active to a passive pose and the second instrument (T2) is moved from a passive to an active pose. This shortens the time required for the processes and saves energy.