Long-Tool Changer Layout for Space-Saving Automatic Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tool changers for machine tools are inefficient in handling long tools due to space constraints and require significant adjustments for tools of varying lengths, making it difficult to conserve space and maintain a clean working area.
Innovation Solution
A tool changer system comprising multiple units aligned parallel to each other, allowing tools to be held and moved longitudinally, with a clamp mechanism that can hold tools without a drive source and a mechanism to maintain constant delivery positions, enabling efficient handling of tools up to 300 mm or more, and incorporating air blow nozzles for chip removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a long tool is moved horizontally in a transverse direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the long tool, then the long tool can be received and delivered, but a large receiving space is required and it is difficult to conserve space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the tool movement direction from horizontal (transverse) to vertical (longitudinal). The tool holder moves the long tool in the longitudinal direction along the tool's axis, utilizing the vertical dimension instead of horizontal space. This dimensional change allows the tool changer to conserve receiving space while maintaining full tool delivery capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the tool holder position is adjusted for each tool length, then tools of different lengths can be handled, but the device complexity increases and automation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal tool holder design that can handle tools of various lengths without requiring position adjustments. The tool holder is designed with a standardized clamping mechanism that accommodates different tool lengths within a fixed range, making the system multi-functional and adaptable while maintaining simplicity and automation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of changing the physical position of the tool holder for different tool lengths, the system uses parameter changes in the clamping force and clamp arm positioning to adapt to various tool lengths. This allows the tool holder to remain in a fixed position while still accommodating tools of different lengths through adjustable clamping parameters.
3Productivity
If multiple tool changer units are provided parallel to each other, then tool changing efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the tool changer system into multiple independent tool changer units arranged parallel to each other. Each unit can independently hold and deliver tools, allowing simultaneous or sequential tool changing operations. This segmentation improves productivity by enabling parallel tool preparation and delivery while maintaining modular simplicity in each individual unit.
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 solution allows for efficient space utilization and automatic tool changing, maintaining a clean working area by enabling direct delivery of long tools within the machine tool's space, reducing exposure to chips, and ensuring high operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the pair of clamp arms are biased in a direction in which the pair of clamp arms are closed
Implementation Method 2
a means that blows air to the tool that has been returned to an area other than the working area
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 2A~2D
Figure 3A~3C
AI summary
A tool changer includes at least one tool changer unit, wherein the at least one tool changer unit includes: a tool holder that receives and holds a tool; a base member that supports the tool holder so that the tool holder can be slid along a longitudinal direction of the tool; and a moving mechanism that slides the tool holder relative to the base member.