Machine Tool Tool Exchange Layout Using a Spindle Intermediary
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional robot-assisted tool exchange in machine tools requires a large movable range, which can lead to increased complexity and cost due to the need for enlarged robot movement areas, potentially causing interference with other machine components.
Innovation Solution
A machine tool design that allows for automatic tool exchange between a first holding device and a storage unit via a robot and an exchange mechanism, where the robot intervenes to exchange tools between the first and second holding devices without requiring an extensive robot movement range, using a controller to coordinate the exchange process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the robot movable range is enlarged to enhance layout freedom, then the degree of freedom in laying out the tool-holding device and storage is improved, but the number of issues requiring consideration increases due to interference between robot and other members
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a second holding device as an intermediary between the first holding device and the storage unit. The robot exchanges tools between the first holding device and the second holding device, while a separate exchange mechanism handles tools between the second holding device and storage. This mediator approach allows the robot to operate within a limited range without direct access to all components, resolving the contradiction between layout freedom and interference avoidance.
2Device complexity
If the robot movable range is reduced to avoid interference, then the number of interference issues is reduced, but the ability to access various holding devices and storage is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the tool exchange function into two separate systems: a robot for exchanging tools between holding devices, and a dedicated exchange mechanism for transferring tools between the second holding device and storage. This segmentation allows each component to have a specialized, limited movement range, reducing interference while maintaining full access capability through coordinated operation of both systems.
3Device complexity
If a direct exchange mechanism is used between first holding device and storage, then the exchange process is simplified, but the exchange mechanism cannot directly access the first holding device
Solution Approach 1:
The second holding device serves as a mediator that the exchange mechanism can directly access. The exchange mechanism transfers tools between storage and the second holding device, while the robot handles the transfer between the first holding device and the second holding device. This intermediary approach maintains operational simplicity for each subsystem while ensuring accessibility to all components through their respective specialized mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A machine tool includes a lower tool post for holding a cutting tool, a tool main spindle for holding a cutting tool, a storage unit capable of storing the cutting tool, an exchange mechanism for exchanging the cutting tools between the tool main spindle and the storage unit, an inside robot for exchanging the cutting tools between the lower tool post and the tool main spindle, and a controller. The controller performs control such that the cutting tools are exchanged between the lower tool post and the storage unit via the inside robot, the tool main spindle, and the exchange mechanism.