Machine Tool Window Visibility Control for Coolant Energy Saving
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Solution Overview
Problem
In machine tool systems, the constant operation of coolant protection units to clear droplets from the window obstructs visibility and wastes energy, especially as automation reduces operator visual checks.
Innovation Solution
A machine tool with a coolant protection unit that switches operation based on detection by sensors, such as image capturing apparatuses, to only activate when an operator is present, using a visibility control unit to manage the coolant protection unit's energy state effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If the coolant protection unit operates constantly to clear droplets from the window portion, then visibility is maintained, but energy is wasted
Solution Approach 1:
The coolant protection unit dynamically adjusts its operation based on detected operator presence. The control unit activates the coolant protection unit only when an operator is detected near the machine tool, and deactivates it when no operator is present, making the system adaptive rather than static
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor provides feedback about operator presence to the control unit, which then adjusts the operation state of the coolant protection unit accordingly. This closed-loop control ensures the system responds to actual conditions rather than operating on fixed schedules
2Reliability
If the coolant protection unit is constantly operated to ensure clear visibility, then operator safety is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from constant operation to dynamic operation based on operator presence detection, maintaining safety only when operators are actually present and monitoring the machining area
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor system automatically detects operator presence and triggers the coolant protection unit without requiring manual intervention, enabling the system to self-regulate its operation based on actual safety needs
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a machine tool including: a cover that encloses a processing space in which a workpiece is processed and has a window portion for visual inspection of the processing space from outside; a machining processing unit provided in the processing space; an operation panel for inputting instructions to the machining processing unit, the operation panel being provided outside of the cover; and a cooling system for cooling the machining processing unit, wherein the cooling system includes: a coolant supply unit for supplying a coolant into the processing space; a coolant protection unit that operates to limit adhesion of the coolant to the window portion; and a control unit that switches a state of the coolant protection unit based on a result of detection performed by a sensor for detecting an operator present around the cover. With this machine tool, waste of energy can be suppressed.