Sliding Cover Structure for Machine Tool Moving Range Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine tools face difficulties in efficiently switching between different moving ranges of the moving unit, requiring complex and time-consuming operations when transitioning between states that use or do not use a guide bush, which affects operational efficiency and safety.
Innovation Solution
A machine tool design incorporating a driving apparatus with a supporting-side engaging member and a moving-side engaging member, along with a moving-side cover and a supporting-side cover, that allows for continuous coverage of the driving apparatus in one state and forms a clearance in another, utilizing a slide cover to easily switch between moving ranges by sliding out to close the clearance, thereby simplifying the switching process and protecting the driving apparatus from chips.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the second front cover is removed from the front end supporting unit and attached to the rear end supporting unit to switch between using and not using the guide bush, then the moving range of the headstock can be adjusted, but the operation becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The cover structure is designed to be dynamically adjustable between two states: covering the driving mechanism when the guide bush is used, and exposing it when the guide bush is not used. The cover moves from a fixed static position to a movable position that adapts to different operational requirements, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover is divided into a fixed cover and a movable cover that can be independently positioned. This segmentation allows the movable cover to be selectively moved to cover or expose the driving mechanism, enabling quick switching between operational states without complex disassembly and reassembly operations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the second front cover is removed and reattached to switch between guide bush usage states, then the moving range changes, but the number of operations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cover system transitions from a completely fixed structure to a dynamically adjustable structure where the movable cover can be quickly repositioned. This dynamic design reduces the time required to switch between guide bush usage states by eliminating the need for complete removal and reattachment of covers.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable cover is pre-positioned in a ready state that allows quick movement to cover or expose the driving mechanism. This preliminary positioning reduces the time required for switching operations compared to having to locate and attach a separate cover component from scratch.
3Reliability
If multiple covers are used to protect the driving mechanism in different positions, then protection is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fixed cover and movable cover are merged into a coordinated protection system where both covers work together to protect the driving mechanism. The movable cover extends the protection capability to different positions without requiring completely separate protection systems, reducing overall complexity while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable cover serves multiple functions: it protects the driving mechanism when the guide bush is not used, and can be moved out of the way when the guide bush is used. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized components, simplifying the overall structure while maintaining comprehensive protection.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a machine tool capable of facilitating switching moving ranges of the moving unit. A moving-side cover provided on the moving unit covers part of a position of the driving apparatus in the moving direction. A supporting-side cover is provided in a position on a side of the first moving range of an end of the moving-side cover on a side of the second moving range in the moving direction to continuously cover the part of the position of the driving apparatus in the moving direction in cooperation with the moving-side cover in the first use state. The supporting-side cover forms a clearance in the moving direction with respect to the moving-side cover in the second use state. A slide cover is mounted on one of supporting-side cover and the moving-side cover slidably in the moving direction to close the clearance when slidably drawn out in the moving direction.