Moving-Column Machining Center Tool Changer Layout for Faster Tool Swaps
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Solution Overview
Problem
In moving column-type machining centers, the fixed magazine and automatic tool changer assembly on the bed lead to increased tool change time, non-machining time, and reduced productivity due to the need for the spindle to reciprocate and risk of interference and collision, especially in medium-sized or large-sized machines with a wide stroke, resulting in spatial inefficiency and higher costs.
Innovation Solution
A machine tool design where a magazine is installed on a saddle, with a tool changing unit movably installed on the saddle, and a tool changing unit transfer part that moves independently of the column, allowing the spindle to change tools without moving to the fixed magazine, reducing movement distance and interference, and utilizing a control system to manage tool changes efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the magazine and automatic tool changer are fixed to the bed, then the structure is simple and stable, but the spindle must reciprocate to change tools, increasing tool change time and non-machining time
Solution Approach 1:
The magazine is moved from a fixed position on the bed to a movable position on the saddle, allowing it to move with the spindle during machining operations. This dynamic positioning eliminates the need for spindle reciprocation to access the magazine, reducing tool change time while maintaining structural stability through the saddle's support system
Solution Approach 2:
The magazine is integrated with the saddle rather than being a separate fixed component on the bed. This merging allows the magazine to follow the saddle's movement, enabling tool changes without interrupting the machining position and reducing non-machining time
2Device complexity
If the magazine is fixed to the bed, then the structure is compact, but the spindle reciprocation increases the risk of interference and collision
Solution Approach 1:
By making the magazine movable on the saddle, the system dynamically adjusts the magazine's position to remain close to the machining area. This eliminates large spindle reciprocation movements that could cause interference or collision with workpieces, especially in machines with wide strokes
Solution Approach 2:
The saddle acts as an intermediary carrier between the fixed bed and the movable magazine. It provides a stable platform that allows the magazine to move with the machining area, reducing the risk of collision while maintaining structural support
3Productivity
If the magazine is moved to the saddle, then tool change time is reduced, but the saddle and magazine system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The magazine is designed to move with the saddle using the saddle's existing drive mechanisms and guide rails. This leverages the saddle's motion system rather than requiring entirely new mechanisms, reducing the added complexity while achieving faster tool changes
Solution Approach 2:
The saddle's motion system serves dual purposes: it positions the table for machining operations and simultaneously positions the magazine for tool changes. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate mechanisms, minimizing the increase in system complexity
4Device complexity
If the spindle reciprocates to change tools, then the fixed magazine structure is simple, but the non-machining time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magazine transitions from a fixed static structure to a dynamic structure that moves with the saddle. This allows the magazine to remain positioned near the machining area throughout the operation, eliminating the time lost during spindle reciprocation for tool changes
Solution Approach 2:
The magazine moves continuously with the saddle during machining operations, maintaining readiness for tool changes without interrupting the machining process. This continuous positioning eliminates idle reciprocation time, keeping the system in a state of useful action
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a machine tool, such as a moving column-type machining center, and a method of operating the same, which are capable of shortening tool change time, improving productivity, minimizing a collision or mechanical interference, and increasing stability and reliability in a medium-sized or large-sized machine tool having a long length in a width direction by means of a magazine installed on a saddle, a tool changing unit movably installed on the saddle, and a tool changing unit transfer part configured to move the tool changing unit independently of a column.