Machining System Modular Vertical Lathe Compact Design

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing machining system with multiple aligned modules lacks practicality and compactness, particularly in performing machining operations with vertical lathes, and there is a need for improved module configuration and tool replacement efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A machining system with a base and detachably aligned machining modules in the left-right direction, including a vertical lathe module, centering machining module, and milling machine module, allowing for sequential machining and compact design with features like eccentric spindle and beam placement, tailstock device, and telescopic shutter mechanisms for efficient coolant management and tool replacement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple machining modules are aligned in the left-right direction, then machining versatility is improved, but system width increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemachining versatilityVSAvoidsystem width
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent reconfigures the traditional left-right alignment of machining modules into a front-rear arrangement along the workpiece conveyance direction. This dimensional change allows multiple machining operations (centering, lathe, milling) to be performed sequentially along the length of the system rather than simultaneously across its width, thereby maintaining machining versatility while significantly reducing the system width.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If tool replacement is performed frequently, then machining adaptability is improved, but loss of time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemachining adaptabilityVSAvoidtool replacement time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a preliminary action mechanism where the beam is pre-positioned in a retracted state before tool replacement is needed. This allows the beam to be quickly moved into the tool replacement position without requiring complex coordination or adjustment during the actual tool change process, thereby reducing the time loss associated with frequent tool replacements while maintaining machining adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Manufacturing precision

If machining precision is improved, then manufacturing quality is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemachining precisionVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the machining system into distinct, modular machining modules (centering module, lathe module, milling module), each capable of independent operation. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized for its specific machining function with appropriate precision mechanisms, while the overall system complexity is managed through modular design. Each module can be independently adjusted and maintained, reducing the complexity burden that would arise from attempting to achieve high precision across a monolithic system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS10434616B2Machining system
Publication Date: 2019.10.08 FUJI CORP
  • US10434616B2 patent drawing
  • US10434616B2 patent drawing
  • US10434616B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided is a highly practical machining system. The machining system is configured to include a base, and multiple machining modules which are detachably disposed on the base to be aligned with one another in a left-right direction. Machining is sequentially performed by the multiple machining modules with respect to a workpiece. At least one of the multiple machining modules is a vertical lathe module. It is possible to configure a compact system in which machining can be performed by a vertical lathe.