Machine Tool Adapter Handling for Faster Workpiece Changeover
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Solution Overview
Problem
Machine tool systems face challenges in minimizing system cycle times and setup times when handling different workpieces, as existing solutions require significant changes or modifications to the workpiece holding devices.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a positioning device for workpiece blanks on adapters, an adapter-loading transport device with a gripping mechanism, and a workpiece transport device that follows a 'shake-hand' principle for efficient loading and unloading of adapters, allowing for flexible adaptation to different workpieces without extensive modifications to the machine tool system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If workpieces are held directly on the workpiece holding device, then the holding is secure and stable, but changing workpieces requires significant modification and conversion of the holding device
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the workpiece holding function into two independent parts: the universal workpiece holding device and the workpiece-specific adapter. The adapter is the segmented component that can be easily exchanged to accommodate different workpiece types, while the holding device remains unchanged and simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter serves as an intermediary component between the workpiece and the workpiece holding device. It mediates the connection, allowing the holding device to work with various workpiece types without direct modification. The adapter translates between the universal holding interface and the specific workpiece geometry.
2Loss of time
If workpieces are clamped outside the machine tool, then setup time is reduced, but transfer and handling complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges the clamping operation with the transport device by integrating the clamping mechanism into the adapter-loading transport device. This combination allows the workpiece to be clamped and transported as a single unit, reducing the number of separate operations and equipment needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The workpiece is clamped onto the adapter in advance, outside the machine tool, before the actual machining operation begins. This preliminary clamping action prepares the workpiece for efficient transfer and positioning, reducing setup time during the machining process.
3Manufacturing precision
If adapters are loaded and unloaded inside the machine tool, then positioning precision is maintained, but system cycle time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts the adapter loading and unloading operations from inside the machine tool and performs them outside. The workpiece remains clamped on the adapter during this external loading/unloading process, allowing the machine tool to focus solely on precision machining while the transport device handles adapter management.
Solution Approach 2:
The workpiece remains continuously clamped on the adapter throughout the entire process from loading to machining to unloading. This continuous clamping eliminates the need for repeated clamping and unclamping operations, maintaining precision while reducing cycle time by keeping the workpiece securely attached throughout all transitions.
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed is a machine tool system, which comprises at least one machine tool (18) for machining workpieces, having a workpiece holding device (20), wherein during machining of a workpiece one or more workpieces are held via an adapter (24) on the workpiece holding device (20), a positioning device (28) which positions workpiece blanks on adapters (24), an adapter loading transport device (62) with an adapter gripping device (66) which engages with said adapters (24), wherein the adapter loading transport device (62) brings adapters (24) provided with workpiece blanks from the positioning device (28) to the at least one machine tool (18), said adapter loading transport device loads at least one machine tool (18) and unloads adapters (24) from the at least one machine tool (18), said adapters provided with one or more machined workpieces, and a workpiece transporting device (64) with a workpiece gripping device (65), which engages with workpieces, wherein the workpiece transporting device (64) accepts and discharges machined workpieces from the adapter loading transport device (62) using the adapter loading transport device (62) after unloading on the at least one machine tool (18).