Composite Lathe Tool Magazine Front Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing composite working lathes face challenges in improving tool workability and maintenance performance due to suboptimal tool magazine unit arrangements, which hinder efficient tool supply and maintenance processes.
Innovation Solution
The tool magazine unit is repositioned in front of the spindle, with a cover and door system that includes transparent windows for visual inspection and easy access, accompanied by a stanchion and magazine rack for improved operator visibility and tool management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If the tool magazine is arranged on the rear side or upper portion of the spindle stock, then the machine structure is compact, but the operator cannot directly monitor the tool magazine and tool supply process
Solution Approach 1:
The tool magazine unit is repositioned from the traditional rear or upper location to the front side of the spindle stock, changing the spatial dimension of tool magazine placement. This dimensional change enables direct visual monitoring by the operator while maintaining machine compactness through optimized front-side integration
2Ease of repair
If the tool magazine unit is positioned away from the operator, then the machining area is spacious, but the operator cannot easily access and maintain the tool magazine
Solution Approach 1:
The machine structure is segmented into distinct functional zones: the front side houses the tool magazine unit with independent cover and door access, while the rear and upper portions maintain spacious machining area. This segmentation allows operator access to the tool magazine without compromising the machining space
3Ease of operation
If the tool magazine is covered for protection, then the tools are protected from contamination, but the operator cannot visually inspect the tools without opening the cover
Solution Approach 1:
Transparent windows are integrated into the cover and door of the tool magazine unit, allowing optical transmission. This enables the operator to visually inspect tools through the transparent material without opening the cover, maintaining both tool protection and inspection capability
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention aims at improving the efficiency of tool management by improving the arrangement of a tool magazine in a composite working lathe. The composite working lathe 1 includes a spindle stock and a tool spindle disposed on a bed 20, and a cover 2 covering the surrounding area thereof. A door 4 allowing access to a machining portion is provided on a front side F of the machine, and the machining portion can be visually observed through a window 5. A tool magazine unit 100 is disposed in front of the spindle stock of the machine. A door 120 and a window 130 are provided on the cover of the tool magazine unit 100, allowing operators to observe the tool stored in the magazine through windows 122 and 130. The present composite working lathe enables to improve the efficiency of tool management, such as the confirmation of the tool used in the subsequent step or the removal of chips on the used tool.