Modular Machine Base Layout for Multi-Side Machining Flexibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Machining systems face limitations in flexibility and efficiency when handling work pieces that require multiple machining steps, as they often necessitate complex machine bases and limited configurations, making them unsuitable for producing work pieces with varying machining needs or those requiring less than three machining steps.
Innovation Solution
A machine base with a modular design that includes x, y, z-coordinate system interfaces for work piece holder devices, machining units, and transfer units, allowing for flexible configuration and alignment of machining units to accommodate different work pieces, enabling simultaneous machining from multiple sides and supporting up to four machining units on a single base.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a complex machine base with multiple machining entities is used to handle work pieces requiring multiple machining steps, then the machining capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The machine base is divided into modular receiving sections, each dedicated to a specific function (work piece holder device, machining units, transfer unit). This segmentation allows each section to be independently configured and optimized, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining versatile machining capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The machine base is designed with universal interfaces and receiving sections that can accommodate different types of machining entities and work piece holder devices. This multi-functionality enables a single machine base to handle various work pieces requiring different numbers and types of machining steps, improving adaptability without proportionally increasing complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If machining entities are arranged laterally displaced to enable work piece transfer between more than two machining entities, then the versatility for handling different work pieces is improved, but the device complexity and drive units become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
A transfer unit receiving section is introduced as an intermediary component between machining entities. This transfer unit facilitates work piece transfer between laterally displaced machining entities, enabling versatile work piece handling while simplifying the overall system architecture compared to direct complex interconnections between all machining entities.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a machine base is designed to accommodate three machining entities for complex work piece machining, then the machining versatility is improved, but the ease of operation and economic efficiency deteriorate for work pieces requiring fewer machining steps
Solution Approach 1:
The machine base is designed with dynamic configurability, allowing the number and arrangement of machining entities to be adjusted based on the specific work piece requirements. This dynamic adaptation enables efficient operation for both simple and complex machining tasks, improving ease of operation while maintaining versatility.
Data Source
Figure 1A~2B
Figure 3~4
Figure 5A~5B
AI summary
The present invention relates to a machine base (10) for use in a machining system (68), the machine system (68) comprising at least one work piece holder device receiving section (14) provided with a work piece holder device interface (16) comprising aligning means (42) adapted for receiving a work piece holder device (18) aligned along a z-axis of the coordinate system (12), at least one first machining unit receiving section (20) provided with a first machining unit interface (22) adapted for receiving a first machining unit (24) comprising a first tool holder interface (77), at least one second machining unit receiving section (26) provided with a second machining unit interface (28) adapted for receiving a second machining unit (30) comprising a second tool holder interface (79), the first machining unit interface (22) being arranged at a first side of and at a distance from the work piece holder device interface (16) and such that the first tool holder interface (77) is movable at least along the x- or y-axis, the second machining unit interface (28) being arranged at a second side of and at a distance from the work piece holder device interface (16) and such that the second tool holder interface (79) is movable at least along the x- or y-axis, the first side opposing the second side, and at least one work piece transfer unit receiving section (46) provided with a transfer unit interface (48) adapted for receiving a work piece trans-fer unit (50).