Machining Chamber with Closable Access for Compact Workpiece Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machining techniques in large workshops face inefficiencies due to the need for extensive space and increased construction and safety concerns, particularly in processes where workpieces require multiple machining stations and secure access for external processing devices.
Innovation Solution
A processing device with a process chamber that has multiple closable access points, allowing for secure and efficient machining with a programmable industrial robot, where the workpiece is positioned upright for easy access and the machining device operates externally, reducing chamber volume and enhancing safety and process reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a large workshop with numerous machining tools and workstations is used, then workpiece machining can be performed, but the surrounding volume of space and construction costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the machining function into a compact process chamber that contains only the essential machining space, separating the workpiece handling area from the machining area. This segmentation allows the machining function to be performed in a minimized space rather than requiring a large workshop environment.
Solution Approach 2:
The workpiece is positioned upright within the process chamber, allowing the machining device to access the workpiece from the external machining area through the chamber wall. This nested arrangement enables the machining device to operate externally while the workpiece remains contained within the compact chamber volume.
2Ease of operation
If access points for workpiece feeding and machining are provided, then workpiece handling is enabled, but operator safety and process reliability are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The access points are equipped with closable and lockable mechanisms that can dynamically change between open and closed states. During machining operations, the access points can be closed and locked to isolate the process chamber, preventing operator access to the machining area while still allowing workpiece feeding when opened. This dynamic control reconciles the need for access with safety requirements.
3Ease of operation
If the process chamber has large volume to accommodate workpiece and machining device, then workpiece handling and machining are facilitated, but space and construction costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the functional requirements by providing separate access points for workpiece feeding and machining operations. The process chamber only needs to accommodate the workpiece in its upright position, while the machining device operates externally. This segmentation allows the chamber volume to be minimized to only what is necessary for workpiece containment, rather than requiring space for both workpiece handling and machining device accommodation within the chamber.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a machining device and a machining method for workpieces (2). The machining device (1) has a process chamber (3) for the workpiece (2) to be machined inside the process chamber (3). The process chamber (3) has a surrounding chamber wall (4) and a closable access (14, 17) for an external machining device (12) and for a workpiece feeder (13). The accesses (14, 17), arranged on different sides of the chamber, in particular opposite each other, are opened and closed alternately, whereby during the machining process the feeder-side access (17) of the process chamber (3) is closed and the access (14) pointing to the external machining device (12) is open.