Machine Tool Handling Cell Layout for Compact Workpiece Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Compact design machine tools face challenges in automation due to minimum dimensions for transfer systems and handling units, which restrict their integration with automation technology, and there is a need for automated workpiece change in limited installation spaces while maintaining operator access.
Innovation Solution
A handling cell with a loading interface, a handling robot, a feeding interface for a feeding cart, and a provisioning unit that moves workpieces between the feeding cart and a provisioning position, allowing for automated workpiece change and efficient use of limited space, with the handling robot interacting minimally with the machine tool's workspace.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If compact design machine tools are used to reduce installation space, then the machine tool size is reduced, but automation integration is restricted due to minimum dimensions for transfer systems and handling units
Solution Approach 1:
The handling unit is integrated inside the machine tool's guarding enclosure, with the robot positioned within the workspace. The provisioning unit is nested within the handling cell structure. This nesting allows automation components to coexist within the compact machine tool footprint without requiring additional external space for transfer systems and handling units.
Solution Approach 2:
The handling robot is arranged to be horizontally movable on a vertically movable beam, utilizing three-dimensional space within the guarding enclosure. This spatial arrangement allows the handling unit to access workpieces without extending the machine tool's external dimensions, effectively using vertical and horizontal movements within the existing workspace volume.
2Extent of automation
If a robot cell is added for automated workpiece handling, then automation extent is improved, but the robot cell blocks the access opening normally provided for workers
Solution Approach 1:
The guarding enclosure serves multiple functions: it provides safety enclosure for the machining operation, houses the handling unit with robot for automated workpiece handling, and incorporates a provisioning unit for loading aids. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate robot cells that would block operator access, as all automation functions are integrated within the existing enclosure structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The provisioning unit acts as an intermediary between the external feeding cart and the internal handling robot. It receives loading aids from the feeding cart, positions them at the provisioning position, and enables the handling robot to access workpieces without requiring the robot to extend beyond the guarding enclosure, thus maintaining operator access while enabling automation.
3Productivity
If buffer storage is provided for loading and unloading stations, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional buffer storage requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The provisioning unit combines multiple functions into a single integrated structure: it serves as the loading station for receiving loading aids from the feeding cart, provides buffer storage capacity through its internal structure, and acts as the provisioning position for the handling robot. This merging eliminates the need for separate buffer storage systems, reducing device complexity while maintaining productivity benefits.
Data Source
AI summary
A handling cell for a machine tool comprises a loading interface, a handling unit with a handling robot, a feeding interface for a feeding cart, and a provisioning unit. The loading interface is arranged to be coupled to a workspace of a first machine tool. The feeding cart is used to transport workpieces that are arranged on loading aids. The provisioning unit moves loading aids between the feeding cart and a provisioning position for a transfer between the handling unit and the provisioning unit. A manufacturing system for machining comprises at least one machine tool, and a handling cell. The machine tool is configured for multi-axis machining and comprises a tool holder and a workpiece holder. The tool holder and the workpiece holder are movable relative to each other in at least three axes. The tool holder and the workpiece holder are mounted on a rear side of a workspace of the machine tool. The loading interface couples laterally to the workspace of the machine tool.