Integrated Peripheral Subsystem for Multi-Spindle Lathe
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multi-spindle lathes face challenges in integrating and controlling peripherals from different suppliers, leading to interoperability issues, high installation and transportation costs, and space inefficiency due to the need for individual connection and testing of various peripherals.
Innovation Solution
A 'clean and rational all-in-one' subsystem integrates multiple peripherals into a single entity, including a decentralized electrical box for centralized control, allowing for pre-integration testing and reducing space requirements, with the option to offer this as a standard part at a lower cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If peripherals are purchased and connected individually from different suppliers, then each peripheral can be optimized for its specific function, but the interoperability between devices becomes difficult to verify and the integration complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple peripherals from different suppliers into a single integrated subsystem. This subsystem includes a control unit that coordinates all peripheral devices, ensuring they work together harmoniously. The control unit receives signals from the machine control and distributes appropriate commands to each peripheral, verifying interoperability while maintaining individual functional optimization.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit acts as an intermediary between the machine control and the various peripherals. It translates high-level commands into specific peripheral operations and coordinates their interactions, resolving conflicts and ensuring proper sequencing of operations across different device types.
2Adaptability or versatility
If peripherals are individually connected to the multi-spindle lathe, then each device can be independently specified, but centralized control of these peripherals becomes difficult to implement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines all peripheral control functions into a single control unit within the subsystem. This control unit maintains the ability to independently specify each peripheral while providing unified centralized control through its interface with the machine control, eliminating the need for separate control mechanisms for each device.
3Adaptability or versatility
If large peripheral devices are distributed throughout the machine, then each can be positioned for optimal function, but they take up a lot of floor space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple dispersed peripheral devices into a single compact subsystem located at the rear of the multi-spindle lathe. This consolidation maintains optimal functional positioning for each peripheral while dramatically reducing the total floor space required, as all devices share a common housing and support structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The subsystem employs a nested arrangement where smaller peripheral components are housed within or alongside larger ones. For example, control electronics are integrated into the structural housing, and fluid lines are routed through existing channels, maximizing space utilization and minimizing the subsystem's overall footprint.
4Adaptability or versatility
If peripherals are transported and installed separately, then each can be delivered at optimal timing, but the transport, installation, alignment, connection and commissioning are costly and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-assembling and pre-testing all peripheral devices within the integrated subsystem at the manufacturer's facility before delivery. The subsystem arrives as a complete, tested unit ready for installation, eliminating the need for on-site assembly, alignment, and commissioning of individual peripherals, thereby dramatically reducing installation time and costs.
5Area of stationary object
If peripherals are grouped together in a subsystem, then space is saved and control is simplified, but the initial integration and testing of multiple different peripherals becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit is pre-programmed with the specific configurations and operational parameters of each integrated peripheral during manufacturing. This preliminary configuration and testing phase resolves integration complexities before delivery, allowing the subsystem to be installed as a turnkey solution with minimal on-site programming or adjustment required.
Data Source
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AI summary
The method involves obtaining peripherals of a multiple-spindle lathe, and mounting the peripherals in an integrated sub-system (101). The sub-system is integrated into the multiple-spindle lathe, where the sub-system includes electrical components required to operate the peripherals apart from the main control. Operation of the peripherals is individually verified before integration of the sub-system in the multiple-spindle lathe. A control unit i.e. decentralized electrical control box (113), is installed in the sub-system to control the operation of certain peripherals. An independent claim is also included for a sub-system for a multiple-spindle lathe.