Machine Tool Workpiece Transfer with Posture-Adjusting Arm
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine tools face challenges in efficiently conveying workpieces between setting means and main shafts while maintaining consistent posture and preventing contamination from machining areas.
Innovation Solution
A machine tool configuration with a main shaft, chuck, set means, and conveyance means where the chuck and workpiece central axes are aligned, incorporating a slide body, turning arm, and shutter to facilitate posture adjustment and separation of machining and transfer areas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the conveyance means transfers workpiece between set means and main shaft with fixed posture, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The arm (49) is designed to be movable between a lying-on-side posture and an upright posture, allowing the conveyance device to adapt its configuration dynamically. This dynamic capability enables the device to maintain workpiece transfer precision while reducing complexity by using a single arm that can assume different positions rather than requiring multiple fixed-position components
2Adaptability or versatility
If the conveyance device includes turning supporting means and movable arm, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The arm (49) supported by turning supporting means (47) serves multiple functions: it can hold the workpiece, transfer it between different positions, and adjust its posture between lying-on-side and upright configurations. This multi-functionality provides high adaptability while avoiding the need for separate dedicated components for each function, thereby controlling device complexity
3Reliability
If machining area is separated from transfer area with shutter, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The machine tool space is segmented into a machining area and a transfer area by the shutter (17). This segmentation isolates the transfer area from machining operations, preventing contamination and improving reliability. The shutter acts as a simple yet effective separator that provides reliable workpiece transfer without requiring complex interlocking mechanisms or integrated control systems
4Manufacturing precision
If the holding means maintains same posture for both transfer operations, then manufacturing precision is improved, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The holding means (53) is integrated with the movable arm (49) that can switch between lying-on-side and upright postures. This dynamic design allows the holding means to automatically maintain consistent posture during workpiece transfer operations while the arm's movement is controlled by the turning supporting means (47), simplifying the operation compared to manual adjustment mechanisms
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3
AI summary
A set means for setting a workpiece (11) is provided behind a main shaft (4), the front end of which is provided with a chuck (8) that opens and closes freely, and is disposed so as to support the workpiece (11) with the chuck central axis line (C1) of the chuck (8) and the workpiece central axis line (C2) of the workpiece (11) positioned on a single line. The orientation of a workpiece (11)-holding means (53) of a conveyance means (56) for conveying the workpiece (11) between the set means (41) and the main shaft (4) is configured to be maintained when transferring the workpiece (11) between the holding means and the set means (41) and when transferring between the holding means and the chuck (8).