Machine Tool Coupling System for Hybrid Spindle Exchange
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine tools face challenges in efficiently switching between machining and material application processes due to incompatible energy supply devices, which hinder the exchange of machining heads and restrict hybrid machining capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A versatile coupling system for machine tools that includes a contactless energy transmission unit with transmitter and receiver coils, allowing for the use of different tool interfaces on a single spindle device, along with a releasable coupling mechanism and locking system for efficient tool changing and precise alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a machining head for machining is replaced by a machining head for cladding welding, then the device for energy supply needed for the machining head stands in the way and prevents exchange, but a versatile tool interface system enables efficient and unrestricted exchange of different machining heads
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling interface unit is designed with a universal structure that can accommodate different tool interface units for various machining processes (material-removing, material-applying, ultrasonic machining). The standardized coupling interface allows any tool interface unit to be exchanged without requiring different energy supply devices, enabling one energy supply device to serve multiple functions and tool types.
Solution Approach 2:
The system separates the energy supply device from the tool interface units. The coupling interface unit remains stationary and connected to the energy supply, while tool interface units are detachable modules that can be exchanged independently. This segmentation allows the energy supply device to remain constant while only the tool modules are changed, simplifying the overall system configuration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If different tool interfaces are used on a single spindle device, then versatile machining options are enabled, but incompatible energy supply devices hinder efficient switching between processes
Solution Approach 1:
Tool interface units are pre-configured with their specific energy receiver coils and coupling elements before being mounted on the spindle. The coupling interface unit is prepared in advance with the standardized coupling mechanism. This preliminary preparation allows tools to be quickly exchanged and connected without requiring on-site configuration or adaptation of energy supply devices, reducing tool changing time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses contactless energy transmission with adjustable transmission parameters. The energy supply device can modify its output parameters to match different tool interface units' requirements, enabling a single energy supply device to support multiple machining processes by changing energy transmission parameters rather than requiring separate devices for each tool type.
3Productivity
If a coupling system with releasable connection is used, then efficient tool changing is achieved, but precise alignment during coupling is required
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system replaces manual alignment and mechanical fastening operations with an automated coupling mechanism. The coupling elements guide the tool interface unit into precise alignment automatically during the coupling process, eliminating the need for manual precision alignment while maintaining high coupling precision. This mechanical guidance system ensures accurate positioning without requiring operator skill or time.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling elements are designed to automatically self-align and self-position during the coupling process. The standardized geometry of the coupling elements ensures that when brought together, they naturally align in the correct orientation and position, enabling quick connection without requiring external alignment tools or procedures, thus maintaining both speed and precision.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables cost- and space-efficient operation with enhanced energy and signal transmission, facilitating versatile tool changing and precise alignment, particularly on hybrid machines, allowing for seamless integration of machining and material application processes.
Implementation Method 1
an energy transmission unit (320) with a transmitter coil unit (323) for contactless transmission of electrical energy to a receiver coil unit (312) of a tool interface unit (310)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2E
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The present invention relates to a coupling system 300 for use on a spindle device 170 of a machine tool 100, comprising an energy transmission unit 320 with a transmitting coil unit 323 for contactless transmission of electrical energy to a receiver coil unit 312 of a tool interface unit 310 with an electrical consumer and a tool interface section 311 for receiving in a tool holder 173 of a work spindle 172 of the spindle device 170, and a coupling interface unit 330 with an interface body element 332 attachable to the spindle device 170 and a second coupling element 331, which is configured to be coupled to a first coupling element 321 of the energy transmission unit 320 by means of a detachable connection.