Modular Machine Tool Layout for Rail-Free On-Site Machining
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current driverless transport systems for workshops are inflexible due to their reliance on complex rail systems that cannot adapt to changes in production processes or locations, and they lack the capability for on-site machining of workpieces.
Innovation Solution
A modular machine tool system comprising freely movable and stationary structures that can be positioned and configured independently, allowing for various machining processes such as drilling, milling, and material application, without the need for a rail system, and integrating driverless transport vehicles for enhanced automation.
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 established, but the system becomes very complex in manufacture, arrangement and alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the rail system entirely from the transport setup. Instead of using rails to guide transport vehicles to machining centers, the system allows vehicles to move freely on the workshop floor and positions them directly at machining locations, eliminating the complex rail infrastructure while maintaining reliable transport functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The machining system is divided into modular, independently positionable units. Machining centers can be freely arranged and repositioned on the workshop floor without being constrained by a fixed rail network, allowing the system to be segmented into discrete, flexible components that can be manufactured and arranged separately
2Reliability
If a rail system is used for transport, then vehicle guidance is provided, but the system cannot react or adapt to changes in positions or production process at short notice
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static, fixed rail configuration to a dynamic arrangement where machining centers and transport vehicles can be freely repositioned on the workshop floor. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt quickly to changing production requirements, new product designs, or process optimizations without being constrained by predetermined rail paths
Solution Approach 2:
The machining centers are designed as universal, freely positionable units that can perform various machining operations at different locations. The transport vehicles can deliver workpieces to any machining center on the floor, creating a universal system that can handle diverse production scenarios rather than being dedicated to a single fixed configuration
3Reliability
If traditional machine tools are used, then machining operations can be performed, but the system lacks the capability for on-site machining of workpieces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends the machining capability from fixed, centralized locations to any position on the workshop floor. By making machining centers freely movable and positionable, the system adds the dimension of spatial flexibility, allowing workpieces to be machined on-site at various locations rather than being confined to dedicated, fixed machining areas
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges transport and machining functions into an integrated workflow. Transport vehicles deliver workpieces directly to machining centers positioned at or near the workpiece locations, combining material handling and machining operations in a seamless, on-site process that eliminates the need for separate, fixed machining facilities
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a machine tool (1000) for machining a workpiece (1), comprising: at least one first machine tool structure which can be moved freely on a base surface and has at least one machine tool component, and at least one second machine tool structure having at least one further machine tool component, wherein the at least one freely movable first machine tool structure, together with the at least one second machine tool structure, forms the machine tool (1000) configured for machining the workpiece (1), when the at least one freely movable first machine tool structure is positioned on the at least one second machine tool structure.