6-Axis Machining Station Layout for Deep Drilling Without Tool Limits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current machining stations with a vertical structural arrangement lack an axis dedicated to deep drilling, limiting the size and depth of drill tools that can be used, restricting the machining capabilities, especially when the drilling axis is limited to a specific range.
Innovation Solution
A 6-axis machining station with a dedicated axis W parallel to axis Z, allowing for a compact and versatile design with a rotating operating table, linear movements, and a drill arm with a slanted base and drain outlets to prevent fluid buildup, enabling the use of drill tools without size restrictions and facilitating both milling and deep drilling operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a vertical structural arrangement with 5 axes is used, then the machining station can perform standard milling operations, but the drilling depth is limited by the structural restriction of axis Z
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the machining station into functionally independent modules: a milling unit with standard 5-axis capability and a deep drilling unit with a dedicated vertical drilling axis (axis W). This segmentation allows each module to be optimized for its specific function without compromising the other, resolving the contradiction between standard milling capability and enhanced drilling depth.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a sixth axis (axis W) that is parallel to the existing axis Z, creating a new dimensional space for drilling operations. This additional dimension allows the drilling tool to extend beyond the limitations of the original 5-axis structure, enabling deeper drilling while maintaining the original milling capabilities.
2Length of moving object
If the drilling axis is limited to a specific range, then the structural arrangement remains compact, but the size and depth of drill tools are restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a multi-functional machining station where axis W serves dual purposes: it enables deep drilling operations with extended tool lengths while also maintaining compatibility with standard milling operations. The independent positioning of axis W allows the system to adapt to both deep hole drilling and conventional milling tasks, enhancing versatility without restricting tool size.
3Productivity
If a dedicated axis for deep drilling is added, then drill tool size restrictions are removed, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The machining station is segmented into independent functional units: the original 5-axis milling system and a separate deep drilling system with axis W. This modular segmentation allows the deep drilling capability to be added without fundamentally redesigning the entire system, thereby limiting the increase in overall complexity while achieving enhanced productivity for drilling operations.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present application describes a machining station (1) especially arranged to carry out deep drill and milling operations. The machining station (1) now proposed presents a specific structural arrangement, enables the incorporation, contrary to already existing stations, of an axis dedicated to deep drilling, favoring the use of deep drill tools under ideal conditions, without size restriction. Accordingly, the station (1) is comprised of an operating base (2), on which there lays an operating module (3) and an arrangement module (10). This new arrangement for the machining station (1) is therefore more versatile and adaptable to the specificities programmed for each part to be machined.