Machine Tool Swivel Table Post-Processing Integration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current post-processing methods for machine tools with double swivel tables are inefficient, leading to increased time requirements and contamination outside the machine, as they often require external equipment and result in dirt escaping during reworking of workpieces.

Innovation Solution

A post-processing method where a rotating tool, such as a brush or polishing wheel, is used within the closed assembly space of the machine tool, allowing the swivel table and workpiece to be pivoted relative to the tool's axis, with the tool moved transversely or axially to perform post-processing, and a rinsing/blowing device is used to contain dirt and debris within the assembly space.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If external robots are used for post-processing, then post-processing can be performed, but the loading process is disrupted and a large delivery area is required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepost-processing capabilityVSAvoidloading process efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the post-processing function with the existing machine tool by integrating a post-processing device directly into the assembly space. The rotating tool (brush or polishing wheel) is mounted on the assembly-side swivel table, allowing post-processing to occur within the same machine structure that performs machining operations, thereby eliminating the need for external robots and maintaining loading process continuity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Ease of manufacture

If external robots are used for post-processing, then post-processing can be performed, but dirt escapes from the loading area during post-processing

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepost-processing capabilityVSAvoiddirt escape
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the post-processing operation from the external environment and relocates it entirely within the closed assembly space of the machine tool. By positioning the rotating tool and workpiece within the enclosed assembly area, any dirt or debris generated during post-processing is contained within the machine structure and cannot escape to the external environment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Ease of manufacture

If workpieces are reworked outside of the machine, then post-processing can be performed, but time expenditure increases and soiling occurs outside the machine casing

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepost-processing capabilityVSAvoidpost-processing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the post-processing operation with the machining operation by performing both functions within the same machine tool structure. The assembly-side swivel table serves dual purposes: holding workpieces for assembly operations and supporting them for post-processing. This integration eliminates the need to transport workpieces outside the machine, thereby reducing time loss and preventing external soiling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Ease of manufacture

If the post-processing tool is positioned to access workpieces, then post-processing can be performed, but it may interfere with loading/unloading operations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepost-processing capabilityVSAvoidloading/unloading operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a dynamic positioning system for the post-processing tool. The rotating tool (brush or polishing wheel) is mounted on the assembly-side swivel table and can be positioned and repositioned as needed. During loading and unloading operations, the tool can be moved out of the way or deactivated, and during post-processing operations, it is positioned to contact the workpiece. This dynamic adjustment eliminates interference between loading/unloading and post-processing operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP3299119B1Post-processing method for the feeding side of a machine tool and corresponding machine tool
Publication Date: 2018.09.12 SCHWABISCHE WERKZEUGMASCHINEN GMBH
  • EP3299119B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3299119B1 patent drawingFigure 2~3
  • EP3299119B1 patent drawingFigure 4~5

AI summary

In a post-processing method for the loading side (6) of a machine tool (1) with a double swivel table rotatably mounted about a horizontal axis (3) and two swivel tables (4a, 4b) rotatably mounted about an axis (9) parallel to the axis (3) of the double swivel table for receiving workpieces (11), one of which swivel tables (4a) is provided on a machining side (5) within a machining area and the other swivel table (4b) on a loading side (6) within a loading area, wherein the machining-side swivel table (4a) and the loading-side swivel table (4b) are interchangeable by pivoting the double swivel table, according to the invention, after pivoting a machined workpiece (11) from the machining side (5) to the loading side (6), the workpiece (11) is loaded with at least one component arranged within the closed loading area.The workpieces (11) located on the loading-side swivel table (4b) are reworked using a rotating finishing tool (21) of the machine tool (1), in particular with at least one brush or polishing wheel. According to the invention, a finishing device (20) with at least one rotatable finishing tool (21) for reworking the workpieces (11) is arranged within the enclosed loading area of ​​the associated machine tool (1).