Multi-Axis Machine Tool Layout to Reduce Column Torsion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multi-axis machine tools with two rotary feed axes and three linear feed axes suffer from deformation due to the increased weight of the moving body, leading to reduced machining accuracy due to torsional deformation of the column and cross rail.
Innovation Solution
Inclining one of the rotary feed axes to reduce the overhang of the moving body, shifting the center of gravity towards the column, thereby minimizing deformation by redistributing the weight and reducing the load on the column and saddle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two rotary feed axes and three linear feed axes are configured with significant overhang, then tool posture control capability is improved, but column and cross rail torsional deformation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by inclining one of the rotary feed axes (specifically the C-axis) at an angle of 45 degrees or more relative to the horizontal plane, rather than maintaining symmetric horizontal orientation. This asymmetric configuration reduces the overhang distance of the moving body from the column, thereby minimizing torsional deformation while preserving the multi-axis tool posture control capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the moving body including spindle head is positioned with significant overhang, then tool accessibility is improved, but deformation of machine tool structure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetry by configuring the C-axis (one of the rotary feed axes) to be inclined at 45 degrees or more relative to the horizontal plane. This asymmetric arrangement repositions the center of gravity of the moving body closer to the column, reducing overhang and thereby minimizing structural deformation while maintaining tool accessibility through the multi-axis configuration.
3Length of moving object
If center of gravity of moving body is positioned far from column, then tool reach is improved, but load on column and saddle increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by inclining the C-axis at 45 degrees or more relative to the horizontal plane, which repositions the center of gravity of the moving body closer to the column. This reduces the overhang distance and consequently decreases the gravitational load and moment on the column and saddle, while tool reach is maintained through the coordinated motion of the multi-axis system.
Data Source
AI summary
A machine tool has: a main shaft head that supports the main shaft; a main shaft head support part which supports the main shaft head such that the main shaft head can rotate around a first axis that extends perpendicular to the main shaft axis of rotation; a first rotary feed shaft device which is provided in the main shaft head support part, and rotates and feeds the main shaft head around the first axis; a saddle which supports the main shaft head support part such that the main shaft head support part can rotate around a second axis that is perpendicular to the first axis and inclined with respect to the vertical direction; and a second rotary feed shaft device which is provided in the saddle, and rotates and feeds the main shaft head support part around a second axis of rotation.