Machine Tool Magazine Transfer Device for Precision
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine tools for processing plate-like workpieces, such as metal sheets, face inefficiencies in tool management and transfer, particularly in accessing and interchanging tools between different stations, which can lead to increased operational costs and reduced positional accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A machine tool design featuring a machine frame with a remote tool magazine and a tool transfer device that allows for efficient tool transfer between a first tool magazine near the processing station and a second remote tool magazine, utilizing a tool holder that moves along the machine frame to minimize mass and power requirements, enabling high-precision tool changes with low-power drives.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a tool transfer device moves along the machine frame to transfer tools between magazines, then positional accuracy during tool transfer is improved, but the mass and power requirements of the tool transfer device increase
Solution Approach 1:
The tool transfer system is segmented into a stationary tool transfer device and a movable first tool magazine. The magazine is divided into multiple storage places that can be independently positioned, allowing the transfer device to remain fixed while achieving positional accuracy through magazine movement rather than device traversal.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from linear movement along the machine frame to a different dimensional approach where the first tool magazine can be positioned at multiple locations. The tool holder engages with storage places in different positions, achieving versatility and accuracy without requiring the transfer device to move along the entire frame length.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a remote second tool magazine is added to store additional processing tools, then adaptability and tool variety are improved, but the complexity of the tool management system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tool transfer device is designed with universal functionality to handle tools from both the first tool magazine (near the processing station) and the second tool magazine (remote). The same tool holder and transfer mechanism serve multiple purposes: transferring tools between the processing station and either magazine, enabling one device to perform multiple functions without increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool holder acts as an intermediary element that mediates between the processing station and both tool magazines. It provides a standardized interface for tool engagement and transfer, simplifying the overall system architecture by using a single intermediary component rather than separate transfer mechanisms for each magazine.
3Speed
If the first tool magazine is positioned closer to the processing station for frequent tool changes, then tool change speed is improved, but the space required within the frame compartment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The first tool magazine is designed as a dynamic component that can be positioned at different locations within the frame compartment rather than being fixed. This allows the system to optimize the distance between the magazine and processing station for speed while accommodating the magazine's movement range within the available space, rather than requiring permanent allocation of large space.
Solution Approach 2:
The first tool magazine is positioned and integrated within the existing frame compartment structure, utilizing available space efficiently. The magazine's storage places are arranged to fit within the compartment's dimensional constraints, nesting the tool storage function within the existing machine framework without requiring additional external space.
Data Source
AI summary
A machine tool for processing plate-like workpieces, in particular metal sheets, has a machine frame with a lower frame arm, an upper frame arm and a frame compartment or throat defined between the upper and lower arms. A first tool magazine, close to the station, has storage places for processing tools is arranged at least partially within the frame compartment. The processing tools, such as punch/die sets, can be interchanged at a processing station of the machine tool. By means of a tool transfer device, processing tools can be transferred between the first tool and a second tool magazine, remote from the station. The second tool magazine has a magazine platform that protrudes laterally in a horizontal direction with respect to the machine frame and is accessible from above, on which magazine platform storage places for processing tools interchangeable at the processing station are provided, and above which a tool holder of the tool transfer device is mounted on the relevant longitudinal side of the machine frame.