Machine Tool Support Structure for Chip Clearance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Machine tools for machining large workpieces face challenges with chip accumulation on supporting structures, which cannot be automatically removed and are limited in accommodating different workpiece configurations.
Innovation Solution
A dimensionally stable support structure with spaced longitudinal beams and a sloped substructure allows for chip collection and automatic discharge, enabling versatile workpiece handling and processing configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a flat supporting structure is used for clamping workpieces, then workpieces can be securely clamped, but chips accumulate in heaps and cannot be automatically removed
Solution Approach 1:
The supporting structure is segmented into a frame construction with longitudinal supports spaced apart, creating free spaces between them. This segmentation allows chips to fall through the gaps rather than accumulating on a continuous flat surface, while still providing stable clamping points for workpieces.
Solution Approach 2:
The supporting structure transitions from a two-dimensional flat surface to a three-dimensional frame construction with vertical and longitudinal elements. This dimensional change creates depth and volume, allowing chips to fall through the structure to a collection container below, enabling automatic chip removal.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a solid supporting structure is used, then structural stability is maintained, but versatility for different workpiece configurations is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The supporting structure is divided into separate longitudinal supports and cross supports that can be independently positioned. This segmentation allows the frame to accommodate various workpiece sizes and configurations while maintaining overall structural stability through the distributed support framework.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame construction with spaced longitudinal supports serves multiple functions: providing structural stability, enabling workpiece clamping at various positions, allowing chip passage, and supporting different workpiece carrying devices. This multi-functionality increases versatility without compromising stability.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If longitudinal supports are spaced apart to allow chip fall, then chip removal is improved, but structural rigidity may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The longitudinal supports are pre-positioned and firmly anchored to the machine bed before operation. This preliminary securing ensures that the supports maintain their positions and provide adequate rigidity, while the spaces between them enable efficient chip removal during machining operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The supporting structure uses a composite framework combining longitudinal supports, cross supports, and diagonal bracing elements. This composite construction distributes loads across multiple components, maintaining structural rigidity even with spaced-apart longitudinal supports that allow chip passage.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution effectively manages chip fall and facilitates efficient processing of large workpieces by ensuring automatic chip removal and accommodating various workpiece setups, enhancing machine tool stability and operational flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
The sloping surface of the substructure, which also extends between the cross supports, enables the chips to be discharged largely automatically by gravity.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
The invention relates to a machine tool for machining workpieces, comprising a dimensionally rigid machine base (1), a traveling stand (4) that can be moved on the machine base (1), a machining unit (9, 10) that is mounted movably on the traveling stand (4) and has at least one cutting tool and a supporting structure (12) provided on the front longitudinal side of the machine base (1) for fastening at least one workpiece. According to the invention, the supporting structure (12) has a dimensionally stable frame (11), the longitudinal member (13, 14) of which arranged at a transverse distance delimit a clear space for the chip clearance, and wherein different workpiece carriers (30, 35) can be mounted at or on the frame.