Modular Machine Tool Assembly Without Rail-Guided AGVs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated guided vehicles (AGVs) for manufacturing are inflexible due to reliance on complex rail systems and lack the ability to process workpieces directly, limiting adaptability to production changes and process synchronization.
Innovation Solution
A modular machine tool system comprising a driverless transport vehicle and an industrial robot, allowing for flexible positioning and integration of machine tool assemblies without rail systems, enabling direct workpiece processing and adaptation to manufacturing requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a rail system is used to guide transport vehicles to stations, then the transport system can be implemented, but the system becomes very complex in terms of manufacturing, assembly, and alignment, and cannot be quickly adapted to changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the rail system entirely from the transport vehicle guidance, allowing AGVs to navigate freely using their own navigation systems. This extracts the complex rail infrastructure and replaces it with autonomous vehicle navigation, significantly reducing system complexity while maintaining reliable transport functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical rail system is replaced with electronic/navigation-based guidance. The AGVs use onboard navigation technology to determine their positions and move to designated stations without physical rails, substituting a mechanical constraint system with an electronic control system that offers greater flexibility and adaptability
2Reliability
If a rail system is used for AGV guidance, then transport functionality is achieved, but the system cannot be quickly adapted to changes in station positions or production processes
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static rail configuration to a dynamic, reconfigurable layout. AGVs can freely navigate to stations that can be repositioned or added without modifying fixed infrastructure, enabling the production system to adapt quickly to changing requirements while maintaining reliable transport through autonomous navigation
Solution Approach 2:
The AGVs are designed as multi-functional units that can service multiple different stations and perform various tasks. Without being constrained to fixed rails, these vehicles can adapt their routes and destinations based on production needs, providing universal transport capability across different station configurations
3Extent of automation
If AGVs are used for transport, then driverless transport is achieved, but the ability to directly process workpieces on the AGV is not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the transport function with the processing function by equipping AGVs with robotic arms and tool magazines. The AGV becomes a mobile workstation that can both transport itself autonomously and perform machining operations, combining previously separate functions into a single integrated unit
Solution Approach 2:
The AGV is transformed into a multi-functional platform that performs both autonomous transport and workpiece processing. By integrating robotic manipulation capabilities and tool storage, the vehicle can adapt to different processing tasks while maintaining its driverless transport function, significantly increasing system versatility
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a machine tool 1000 for machining a workpiece 1, comprising: at least one first machine tool assembly freely movable on a base surface with at least one machine tool component, and at least one second machine tool assembly with at least one further machine tool component, wherein the at least one freely movable first machine tool assembly together with the at least one second machine tool assembly forms the machine tool 1000 set up for machining the workpiece 1 when the at least one freely movable first machine tool assembly is positioned on the at least one second machine tool assembly.