Robotic Milling and Deep Drilling with Automated Tool Cassettes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current milling and deep drilling machines require human intervention for tool changes, disrupting the automatic working cycle and increasing machining time, especially during transitions between milling and deep drilling modes or when swapping tools due to wear or diameter/length changes.
Innovation Solution
A milling and deep drilling machine equipped with a robotic arm capable of 3-dimensional linear movements, a base structure with sliding rails, and a technical cabinet that automates the storage and loading of milling and deep drilling tools using automatic coupling mechanisms, including a rotation locking mechanism and adjustable mechanical locking system, allowing for uninterrupted operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual tool changing is used, then the machine structure is simpler, but the machining time increases due to operator intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The machine is divided into functional modules: a robotic arm for tool handling, a technical cabinet with multiple cassettes for tool storage, and a working area. This segmentation allows automated tool changing while maintaining a manageable overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic arm automatically retrieves tools from cassettes and installs them on the tree without operator intervention. The system serves itself by automating the tool changing process, reducing machining time while the modular design keeps the overall structure manageable.
2Speed
If automated robotic arm is introduced, then tool changing speed improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic arm performs multiple functions: moving cassettes, positioning tools, and installing them on the tree. The technical cabinet serves as both storage and automated tool delivery system. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, managing complexity while achieving fast tool changing.
Solution Approach 2:
Tools are pre-positioned in cassettes within the technical cabinet before machining operations begin. The robotic arm can quickly retrieve pre-prepared tools without requiring complex real-time tool preparation mechanisms, thus increasing speed while controlling system complexity.
3Reliability
If multiple locking mechanisms are added, then tool coupling reliability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rotation locking mechanism and mechanical locking mechanism are combined in a coordinated system. The rotation locking mechanism prevents cone rotation during coupling, while the mechanical locking mechanism secures the cone support position. These mechanisms work together as an integrated system, achieving high reliability while avoiding redundant separate locking systems.
4Loss of time
If manual assembly of equipment is required, then the operation process is simpler, but the loss of time increases due to operator intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The manual mechanical assembly process is replaced with an automated robotic system. The robotic arm executes programmed movements to retrieve tools and install them on the tree, eliminating the need for operator intervention. This substitution reduces time loss while the standardized coupling mechanisms maintain ease of operation through automated processes.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present application describes a milling and deep drilling machine operated by a control unit, which commands the action of a robotic arm in a coordinated and automatic manner (1), being responsible for milling and deep drilling actions, and at least one technical tool storage cabinet. The robotic arm (1) consists of a mobile structure, comprising a base structure (1.1) along which a driving unit is moved (15), over sliding rails (1.2). The configuration of the milling mode in the machine is achieved by coupling a milling tool to the drive unit (15). For the configuration of the deep drilling mode, the base structure (1.1) of the robotic arm (1) comprises coupling means (10) that allow the assembly of a cassette (2) in which the deep hole drilling tool is installed.