Integrated Bending and Machining Tooling Without Workpiece Relocation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current machine tools are inefficient for performing both machining and bending operations on workpieces, requiring multiple iterations and relocation between machines, which increases manufacturing time and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A machine tool with a numerically controlled turning or milling capability, incorporating a linear movable tool carrier slide with a rotatable and linearly movable working unit equipped with integrated bending tools, allowing for simultaneous and efficient bending and machining operations without unclamping the workpiece.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate machine tools are used for machining and bending operations, then each machine can be optimized for its specific function, but production time increases and manufacturing complexity increases due to relocation between machines
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines machining and bending operations into a single machine tool by integrating a working unit with both machining tools and bending tools. This merging eliminates the need to relocate workpieces between separate machines, thereby maintaining functional versatility while significantly improving production efficiency through continuous processing
Solution Approach 2:
The working unit is designed with multi-functionality, capable of performing both machining operations (using machining tools) and bending operations (using bending tools) on the same workpiece. This universal design allows a single machine to replace multiple specialized machines, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and productivity
2Reliability
If workpiece relocation between machines is required for machining and bending operations, then specialized machines can be used for each operation, but manufacturing complexity and production time increase
Solution Approach 1:
By merging machining and bending operations into a single integrated machine tool, the patent eliminates the complex process of relocating workpieces between multiple machines. The working unit can switch between machining tools and bending tools without requiring workpiece removal, thereby maintaining operation specialization while simplifying the overall production process
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple iterations of machining and bending operations are required, then complex product requirements can be met, but production time and manufacturing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated machine tool enables continuous processing through multiple iterations of machining and bending operations without interrupting the workpiece in intermediate steps. The working unit can sequentially execute different operations (machining, bending, and re-machining) in a continuous workflow, maintaining manufacturing precision while significantly reducing total production time compared to separate machines
Data Source
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AI summary
Suggested is a machine tool and method for optimizing the performance of when manufacturing a workpiece requiring machining and bending operations. The machine tool comprises a machine frame with at least one linear movable tool carrier slide configured to carry a working unit, at least one work spindle provided to receive a workpiece and a working unit mounted onto the tool carrier slide. The working unit is configured to be rotated around a B-axis and the working unit is moved linearly in a plane perpendicular to the B-axis and wherein the working unit is configured to bend the workpiece received by the work spindle.