Machine Tool Segmentation for Modular Unit Exchange

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing machine tools, such as machining centers and vertical type machine tools, are not designed to facilitate the separation of the machining unit from the base frame, making it difficult to change machine types without replacing the entire machine.

Innovation Solution

A machine tool design that includes a detachable machining unit and base frame, allowing for easy exchange of either the machining unit or the base frame with different specifications, featuring a connection portion that enables the machining unit to be mounted and unmounted from the base frame.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If the base frame and machining unit are formed in an inseparable manner, then the structural stability and rigidity are improved, but the adaptability and ease of exchanging components deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidadaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The machine tool is divided into separable components: a base frame and a machining unit that can be independently exchanged. The connection portion enables detachable connection between these components, allowing the machining unit to be replaced without replacing the entire machine tool, thus improving adaptability while maintaining structural integrity during operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of manufacture

If the base frame and machining unit are formed in an inseparable manner, then the manufacturing simplicity is improved, but the ease of operation for changing machine types deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing simplicityVSAvoidease of changing machine types
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The machine tool is segmented into a base frame and a machining unit that can be independently manufactured and then assembled through the connection portion. This segmentation allows for simpler manufacturing of individual components while enabling easy exchange of the machining unit to change machine types, resolving the contradiction between manufacturing simplicity and operational flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The base frame is designed with a universal connection portion that can accommodate different machining units. This universal interface allows the same base frame to support multiple types of machining units, simplifying manufacturing while enabling easy reconfiguration for different machine types through unit exchange.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Manufacturing precision

If the entire machine tool must be changed to change machine types, then the manufacturing precision for individual components is improved, but the loss of time and productivity deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing precisionVSAvoidproductivity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the machine tool into a reusable base frame and exchangeable machining units, the invention allows high-precision manufacturing of individual units without requiring replacement of the entire machine. This segmentation enables quick exchange of machining units to change machine types, significantly reducing the time loss and maintaining high productivity compared to replacing entire machines.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS8562497B2Machine tool
Publication Date: 2013.10.22 KOMATSU NTC LTD
  • US8562497B2 patent drawing
  • US8562497B2 patent drawing
  • US8562497B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A machine tool including a base frame, a workpiece table, a machining unit, and a connection portion is disclosed. The base frame has a machining area. The base frame includes two left and right side frames and a connection frame connecting the two side frames. The workpiece table is arranged on the base frame in the machining area. The machining unit is arranged on an upper portion of the base frame and includes a spindle device. A connection portion connects the machining unit and the base frame in a detachable manner.