Machine Tool Dynamic Positioning for Simultaneous Processing and Setup
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine tools for processing metal sheets face inefficiencies during tool changes, as the setup of the tool store interrupts the processing operation and requires non-productive time, limiting the machine's availability for workpiece processing.
Innovation Solution
A machine tool system with a movement unit and tool handling device that can be controlled to move between setup, processing, and tool changing positions, allowing for simultaneous tool transfer and minimizing non-productive time by optimizing the setup position and transfer/receiving position definitions, enabling rapid and efficient tool storage and retrieval.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the transverse rail is moved into a fixed setup position for tool store setup, then the tool retention members become accessible for tool handling, but the processing operation is interrupted and tool changing at the processing station is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the previously fixed setup position dynamic by allowing the transverse rail to assume different positions (first setup position, second setup position, and processing position) during operation. The control device dynamically selects which setup position to use based on whether tool changing at the processing station is required, enabling the system to adapt between tool store setup and continuous processing modes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the tool store setup function into two separate setup positions: a first setup position for tools intended for the processing station, and a second setup position for tools intended for the tool store. This segmentation allows parallel operations where tool changing at the processing station can occur simultaneously with tool store setup, eliminating the interruption problem
2Ease of manufacture
If the transverse rail is stationary during tool store setup, then tools can be transferred between storage spaces, but non-productive time increases as setup must be completed before processing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-positioning tools in the tool store at the second setup position before they are needed at the processing station. The control device anticipates future tool changing requirements and prepares the tool store in advance during non-critical periods, so that when tools are needed, they are already ready for immediate transfer, reducing actual setup time during processing
Solution Approach 2:
The patent ensures continuity of useful action by allowing the transverse rail to remain in processing positions and continue processing operations while tool store setup occurs in the background at different setup positions. The control device coordinates these operations so that tool store configuration continues without interrupting the main processing workflow, maintaining continuous productive action
Data Source
AI summary
A machine tool for processing a workpiece comprises a processing station which has a tool receiving member in which a processing tool for processing the workpiece can be introduced and replaced, a tool store which has at least one storage space for a processing tool, a tool handling device which can be moved by a controlled drive into a tool-transfer position, a movement unit which can move the workpiece and the tool store and which can be moved by a controlled drive into any of a setup position, a processing position, and a tool changing position, a control device for the drive of the tool handling device which can define the tool-transfer position of the tool handling device, and a control device for the drive of the movement unit which can define the setup position, the processing position, and the tool changing position of the movement unit.