Machine Tool Coupler for Rapid Ejecting Apparatus Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine tools lack an efficient method for switching between different product ejecting apparatuses, such as air cylinder and pipe ejecting systems, which limits flexibility and operational efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A machine tool design incorporating a spindle, an actuator that reciprocates a rod parallel to the spindle axis, and a coupler that can switch between a coupling and standby position, allowing the product ejecting shaft to be easily connected or disconnected from the rod, facilitating the transition between different ejecting apparatuses without the need for removal or reinstallation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If different product ejecting apparatuses (air cylinder, pipe, linear motion actuator) are used in machine tools, then the versatility and adaptability of the machine tool is improved, but the complexity of switching between these apparatuses increases and operational efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler is designed as a universal connecting mechanism that can interface with multiple types of product ejecting apparatuses (air cylinder, pipe, linear motion actuator). The coupler includes a coupling portion that can be connected to different actuator types and an ejecting shaft portion that interfaces with the spindle, creating a multi-functional switching mechanism that maintains versatility while standardizing the connection interface
Solution Approach 2:
The product ejecting apparatus is segmented into separate functional components: the actuator (air cylinder, pipe, or linear motion actuator), the coupler (with coupling portion and ejecting shaft portion), and the spindle. This segmentation allows individual components to be independently selected and replaced, facilitating easy switching between different ejecting apparatus types without replacing the entire system
2Adaptability or versatility
If product ejecting apparatuses are frequently switched, then the adaptability to different production requirements is improved, but the loss of time during switching operations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler is pre-configured with standardized coupling interfaces and can be pre-positioned in ready-to-connect states. The coupling portion and ejecting shaft portion are designed to engage quickly without requiring complex alignment or multiple adjustment steps, reducing the time required for switching operations while maintaining adaptability
3Reliability
If manual intervention is required for switching ejecting apparatuses, then the precision of connection is improved, but the productivity and operational efficiency decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler incorporates self-aligning features and self-locking mechanisms that automatically ensure precise connection when the coupling portion engages with the ejecting shaft portion. The standardized interfaces guide the components into proper alignment, and the coupling structure inherently maintains connection precision without requiring manual adjustment or intervention, thereby improving both reliability and productivity
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention provides a machine tool capable of facilitating a process of switching product ejecting apparatuses. The machine tool comprises a spindle which rotates a workpiece around an axis of the spindle, an actuator which reciprocates a rod arranged parallel to the axis of the spindle, and a coupler switched between a coupling position and a standby position. The coupler connects the rod and an ejecting shaft inserted in the spindle when held in the coupling position. The coupler is not connected to at least the ejecting shaft when held in the standby position. The ejecting shaft along with the coupler is moved in the direction of the axis of the spindle according to reciprocation of the rod when the coupler is held in the coupling position.