Modular Machine Base Layout for Multi-Side Machining Flexibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machining systems lack flexibility and efficiency in machining work pieces requiring multiple steps, often necessitating complex machine bases and limited flexibility, especially when different machining processes are needed.
Innovation Solution
A machine base design with aligned interfaces for work piece holder devices and machining units, allowing for modular arrangement and reconfiguration of units, including a work piece transfer unit and swiveling device, enabling simultaneous machining from multiple sides and flexible adaptation to different work pieces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a complex machine base with multiple machining entities is used to machine work pieces requiring multiple machining steps, then the machining capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The machine base is divided into multiple receiving sections, each capable of independently receiving a machining entity. This segmentation allows the system to be configured for different machining needs by selectively activating specific sections, reducing overall complexity while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
Each receiving section is designed with a standardized interface that can accommodate different types of machining entities. This universal design allows a single machine base to perform multiple machining functions through different combinations of machining entities, improving adaptability without proportionally increasing complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If machining entities are arranged laterally displaced to enable work piece transfer between them, then the flexibility to machine different work pieces is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The machine base utilizes a two-dimensional arrangement of receiving sections, allowing machining entities to be positioned in both lateral and longitudinal directions. This dimensional approach enables flexible work piece transfer paths between oppositely arranged entities while maintaining a compact and manageable structure.
3Productivity
If work piece holder devices are placed in proximity for simultaneous gripping, then the productivity is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The machine base merges multiple receiving sections into a unified structure with shared support elements and coordinated control systems. This integration allows work piece holder devices in different sections to operate simultaneously and cooperatively, improving productivity while avoiding the complexity of completely separate machining stations.
Data Source
AI summary
A machine base for use in a machining system is provided. The machine base includes at least one work piece holder device receiving section having a work piece holder device interface, which includes an aligning device adapted for receiving the work piece holder device aligned on a z-axis. The machine base further includes at least one first machining unit receiving section provided with a first machining unit interface adapted for receiving a first machining unit including a first tool holder interface, and at least one second machining unit receiving section provided with a second machining unit interface adapted for receiving a second machining unit including a second tool holder interface. The first and second machining unit interfaces are arranged on opposing first and second sides of the work piece holder device interface and are movable at least along the x-axis or y-axis, respectively.