Machine Tool Lateral Tool Carrier Displacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine tools face challenges with tool carrier rigidity and ergonomics, particularly when machining connecting rods, as they require access to tools at varying heights, leading to unfavourable operator positions and potential instability during machining.
Innovation Solution
A machine tool design featuring separate tool carriers that can move laterally between operative and inoperative positions, allowing easy access and replacement without entering the space between the workpiece and tool carriers, enhancing stability and ergonomics by maintaining tools at a comfortable height for operators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If tools are arranged at varying heights to perform different machining operations, then tool versatility is improved, but operator ergonomics deteriorates due to unfavourable working positions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from vertical tool arrangement to horizontal tool carrier displacement. Instead of positioning tools at different heights (vertical dimension), the invention moves tool carriers laterally between operative and inoperative positions (horizontal dimension), allowing tool versatility while maintaining ergonomic operating height.
2Ease of repair
If tool carriers are positioned to provide access for tool replacement, then ease of maintenance is improved, but machining stability deteriorates due to reduced rigidity
Solution Approach 1:
The tool carrier is designed as a dynamic component that can laterally displace between operative and inoperative positions. During machining, the tool carrier is positioned in the operative location for stability; during tool replacement, it displaces laterally to provide operator access, thus balancing machining stability with maintenance ease.
Solution Approach 2:
The machine tool system is segmented into movable tool carrier assemblies that can be independently positioned. This segmentation allows the tool carrier to be moved laterally out of the machining zone during maintenance without affecting the overall structural stability of the machine during operation.
3Quantity of substance
If multiple tools are arranged vertically to increase tool capacity, then tool quantity is improved, but device complexity increases due to extended vertical arrangement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces vertical tool stacking with horizontal tool carrier displacement. Multiple tool carriers can be positioned laterally along the machining zone, providing tool capacity without increasing vertical complexity. This dimensional shift simplifies the overall device architecture while maintaining tool variety.
Data Source
AI summary
Machine tool, comprisinga workpiece carrier assembly (11) including a workpiece carrier (12), said workpiece carrier assembly (11) being supported on a workpiece carrier support (1) for horizontal movement in a first direction in parallel with a horizontal Z axis;a first tool carrier (21), supported on a tool carrier support (2) for horizontal movement in a second direction, said first tool carrier (21) being displaceable in said second direction between an operative position in which said first tool carrier (21) is facing said workpiece carrier assembly (11), and an inoperative position in which said first tool carrier (21) is not facing the workpiece carrier assembly (11).The invention also relates to a method of machining a connecting rod using the machine tool.