Machine Tool Vertical Wall Spindle Layout for Reduced Traverse Time
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine tools for machining rotationally symmetrical workpieces experience significant non-productive time due to the need to traverse long distances between workpiece spindles, which limits efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A machine tool design with at least two workpiece spindles assigned to a single tool spindle, allowing for simultaneous machining and rapid exchange of workpieces, with the tool spindle moving short distances between spindles to minimize downtime, and optional four-axis machining capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single tool spindle traverses between multiple workpiece spindles, then workpiece exchange is possible, but the traverse distance is long causing significant non-productive time
Solution Approach 1:
The machine tool is segmented into multiple independent working positions, each with its own tool spindle and workpiece spindle. This allows parallel machining operations at different positions simultaneously, eliminating the need for the tool spindle to traverse long distances between workpiece spindles, thus reducing non-productive time while maintaining high productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a linear arrangement where the tool spindle must traverse between workpiece spindles to a multi-position arrangement where multiple tool spindles are distributed across different working positions. This spatial reconfiguration allows simultaneous machining operations, converting sequential tool movement into parallel processing, thereby dramatically reducing non-productive traverse time
2Productivity
If multiple tool spindles are provided for parallel machining, then productivity increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each working position is designed with universal components that can perform multiple machining operations. The tool spindles and workpiece spindles are configured to handle various workpiece types and machining tasks, allowing the system to achieve high productivity through parallel processing while maintaining manageable complexity through standardized, multi-functional elements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes in the control system to manage the complexity of multiple tool spindles. By implementing programmable control that can automatically coordinate and switch between different working positions and tool spindles, the system achieves high productivity through parallel operations while keeping the operational complexity manageable through automated parameter management and control logic
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a machine tool (1) with at least two workpiece spindles (3, 4) arranged on a vertical wall surface (2) for receiving the workpieces (5, 5') to be machined, with at least two workpiece transport devices (6, 7) assigned to the workpiece spindles (3, 4) for automatic loading and unloading, and with at least one tool spindle (8) for receiving rotatably driven tools (9), wherein the tool spindle (8) can be moved by means of a single movement in one direction from a first working position (18), in which the workpiece (5) held by the first workpiece spindle (4) can be machined, to a second working position (19), in which the workpiece (5') held by the second workpiece spindle (3) can be machined.