Machine Tool Workpiece Changer with Merged Drive and Pivoting Arm
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tool changers for machine tools have complex structures and limited range of movement, making them costly and inefficient for transferring workpieces or tools between machine tools.
Innovation Solution
A device with a first and second carriage arrangement that allows for relative movement and pivoting of a swivel arm, enabling a larger range of movement without additional drives, by using the same drive mechanism for both carriages to control the pivoting movement, and incorporating a control cam system for precise angular positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If a complex structure with multiple drives is used to increase the range of movement, then the range of movement is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple drive functions into a single drive mechanism. The first and second carriage arrangements are both actuated by the same drive, which moves the swivel arm along its path. This merging of drive functions reduces the number of separate drives needed while maintaining the required range of movement and positioning capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The single drive mechanism serves multiple functions: it actuates both the first carriage arrangement for linear movement and the second carriage arrangement for pivoting movement. This multi-functionality allows the device to achieve complex motion patterns with a simpler, more compact drive system.
2Length of moving object
If additional drive mechanisms are added to increase range of movement, then the range of movement is improved, but the installation space increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the drive functions for both carriage arrangements into a single drive mechanism, the patent significantly reduces the space required for drive components. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate motors, control systems, and mounting structures that would be required if additional drives were used.
Solution Approach 2:
The second carriage arrangement is disposed on the first carriage arrangement, creating a nested configuration. This nesting allows the pivoting movement to occur within the space already occupied by the linear movement mechanism, effectively utilizing available space and reducing the overall installation footprint.
3Ease of manufacture
If a simple structure is used to reduce cost, then the manufacturing cost is improved, but the range of movement is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The single drive mechanism is designed to perform multiple functions, actuating both carriage arrangements through a unified control system. This multi-functionality is achieved through a cost-effective design that uses a single motor and control unit rather than multiple independent systems, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining extended range of movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves extended range of movement by transitioning from simple linear movement to a two-dimensional motion path combining linear and pivoting movements. The swivel arm's movement along a curved path defined by the linkage between the two carriage arrangements enables coverage of a larger workspace without requiring proportionally more complex or expensive mechanisms.
4Measurement precision
If multiple independent drives are used for precise positioning, then the positioning precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the positioning control of both carriage arrangements into a single control system. The microprocessor-controlled drive coordinates the linear movement of the first carriage and the pivoting movement of the second carriage through integrated control algorithms, achieving precise positioning without the complexity of multiple independent control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system incorporates feedback mechanisms to monitor and adjust the positions of both carriage arrangements. This feedback enables the single drive to achieve precise positioning by continuously measuring actual positions and making real-time adjustments, compensating for any deviations without requiring multiple independent drives.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a device (10) for changing workpieces (20) or tools in a machine tool, comprising: - at least one first slide arrangement (12) which is assigned to at least one first direction of movement (X), - at least one second slide arrangement (14) which is assigned to at least one second direction of movement (Y), - at least one gripping device (18) for gripping the workpieces or the tools, and - at least one pivoting arm (16) connected to the at least one gripping device (18), wherein the first direction of movement (X) is transverse to the second direction of movement (Y).According to the invention, it is provided that at least the first slide arrangement (12) comprises at least one first and at least one second slide (22, 24), wherein the first slide (22) and the second slide (24) are movable relative to each other and serve to displace the at least one pivot arm (16), and wherein at least one of the first or second slide (22, 24) controls a pivoting movement of the at least one pivot arm (16).