Modular Machining Center Frame With Integrated Fluid Pipeline
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machining center frame structures require significant time and effort to adapt and reconfigure for changing production requirements, particularly in modifying the pipeline network for process fluids, which limits flexibility and increases costs.
Innovation Solution
A modular frame structure that integrates structural support and fluid distribution, featuring interconnected tubular cross-members and columns, allowing for seamless extension or reconfiguration of the machining center without separate fluid pipeline adjustments, as the fluid delivery system is integrated into the structural elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional separate pipeline networks are used for process fluids, then fluid distribution functionality is provided, but reconfiguration time and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the structural frame members with fluid distribution pipelines into a single integrated modular unit. The hollow cylindrical columns and cross-members serve dual purposes: providing structural support and acting as fluid conduits. This merging eliminates the need for separate pipeline networks, allowing the same structural components to be reconfigured for both structural and fluid distribution needs simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular frame members are designed to perform multiple functions: structural support, fluid distribution, and ease of reconfiguration. Each modular unit can be independently assembled and disconnected, allowing the same component to serve different functional roles depending on the machining center configuration requirements.
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional separate pipeline networks are used for process fluids, then fluid distribution functionality is provided, but assembly complexity and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the fluid distribution system directly into the structural frame members. The hollow cylindrical columns and cross-members function as both structural elements and fluid conduits, eliminating the need for separate pipeline networks and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame structure is divided into modular units that can be independently manufactured and assembled. Each modular unit contains integrated fluid distribution pathways, allowing for simplified assembly where entire modules are connected rather than individual pipeline components.
Data Source
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AI summary
A modular frame structure (10, 10', 10") for a machining center (100', 100"), which comprises at least one modular unit (111), the modular unit (11 1) comprising on its turn a first and a second individual module (1), each individual module (1) comprising: - two mutually parallel vertical columns (2), each one extending parallel to a vertical direction (Z); - a pair of first horizontal cross-members (3), each one extending parallel to a first horizontal direction (X), each horizontal cross-member (3) of the pair of first cross-members (3) being joined to both columns (2); the modular unit (111) further comprising two pairs of second horizontal cross-members (4), each horizontal cross-member (4) parallel to a second horizontal direction (Y) that is perpendicular to the first horizontal direction (X) each of the vertical columns (2) of the first individual module (1) being connected with a respective vertical column (2) of the second individual module (1) by means of at least one pair of the second horizontal cross-members (4), at least one of the second horizontal cross-members (4) including a tubular element passing through the respective columns (2) of the first and second individual module (1) extending on opposite sides of each column (2), the at least one tubular element of the second cross-member (4) comprising flanged ending portions (41) configured for hydraulically connecting in a sealed way the tubular element of the second cross-member (4) for providing a main distribution pipeline of a process fluid, the main distribution pipeline extending parallel to the second horizontal direction (Y). Other objects of the invention are a machining center (100', 100") A modular frame structure (10, 10', 10") for a machining center (100', 100"), which comprises at least one modular unit (111), the modular unit (111) comprising on its turn a first and a second individual module (1), each individual module (1) comprising: - two mutually parallel vertical columns (2), each one extending parallel to a vertical direction (Z); - a pair of first horizontal cross-members (3), each one extending parallel to a first horizontal direction (X), each horizontal cross-member (3) of the pair of first cross-members (3) being joined to both columns (2); the modular unit (111) further comprising two pairs of second horizontal cross-members (4), each horizontal cross-member (4) parallel to a second horizontal direction (Y) that is perpendicular to the first horizontal direction (X) each of the vertical columns (2) of the first individual module (1) being connected with a respective vertical column (2) of the second individual module (1) by means of at least one pair of the second horizontal cross-members (4), at least one of the second horizontal cross-members (4) including a tubular element passing through the respective columns (2) of the first and second individual module (1) extending on opposite sides of each column (2), the at least one tubular element of the second cross-member (4) comprising flanged ending portions (41) configured for hydraulically connecting in a sealed way the tubular element of the second cross-member (4) for providing a main distribution pipeline of a process fluid, the main distribution pipeline extending parallel to the second horizontal direction (Y). Other objects of the invention are a machining center (100', 100") provided with the modular frame structure and the use of the modular frame structure as a delivery pipeline for a process fluid.