Modular Spindle Unit with Coaxial Axial Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-spindle machining heads face challenges such as high costs, limited flexibility, and reduced packing density due to complex torque transmission and axial adjustment mechanisms, which restrict their ability to perform diverse machining operations efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A modular spindle unit design where the drive motor is axially displaceable within the module housing, eliminating the need for costly torque transmission and allowing for compact, easily assembled spindle units with independent rotational control of each spindle, enabling a wide range of machining functions like horizontal drilling and milling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If axial adjustment drives are arranged offset parallel to the individual spindle units, then the spindle units can be adjusted axially, but the spindle units cannot be arranged close to the module carrier and drilling patterns with very small drilling spindle distances cannot be realized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent moves the axial adjustment mechanism from a parallel offset arrangement to a coaxial arrangement along the spindle axis. This dimensional repositioning allows the adjustment drives to be integrated within the spindle unit's central axis, eliminating the need for lateral space and enabling compact packing of spindle units on the module carrier while maintaining full axial adjustment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The axial adjustment drives are nested within the coaxial structure of the spindle units, with the adjustment mechanism integrated inside the spindle assembly rather than positioned externally. This nesting approach minimizes the overall footprint and allows spindle units to be arranged with very small center distances.
2Ease of operation
If polygonal toothing is used for torque transmission between drive motor and drive spindle, then axial adjustment can be carried out, but the diameter of the spindle unit is greatly increased and packing density is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex polygonal toothing mechanism from the torque transmission path and replaces it with a simpler direct drive or alternative transmission mechanism. This removal of the bulky polygonal gearing eliminates the need for large diameter components while preserving the axial adjustment function through a more compact design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the mechanical polygonal toothing system with an alternative mechanism such as a rack and pinion, lead screw, or direct motor coupling. This substitution eliminates the need for complex meshing gears that increase spindle diameter, achieving the same axial adjustment function with a compact structure that maintains high packing density.
3Productivity
If gear train is used to drive individual spindles, then multiple spindles can be driven by a central motor, but the individual work spindles cannot be driven individually and the gear drive causes considerable wear and tear
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the drive system by providing each spindle with its own independent drive motor rather than using a single central motor with a gear train. This segmentation enables each spindle to be controlled independently for different directions of rotation, processing capacities, and sensor integration, while eliminating the wear and tear associated with mechanical gear connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universal independent drive capability for each spindle, allowing every spindle to perform multiple functions including different rotation directions, variable speeds, and integration of various sensors. This multi-functionality is achieved through individual motor control, replacing the limited capabilities of a shared gear-driven system.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a modular spindle unit for forming a multispindle machining head (36, 47, 49) for a machine tool, wherein the spindle unit (01, 30, 54) comprises at least one drive spindle (02) to which a tool (37) or tool carrier (51, 52) can be attached, and wherein the spindle unit (01, 30, 54) comprises a module housing (08, 31) in which the drive spindle (02) is mounted such that it can rotate freely and be axially displaced. Together with further module housings (08, 31), the module housing (08, 31) can be fastened to the machining head (36, 47, 49), wherein the spindle unit (01, 30, 54) comprises at least one drive motor (03) which can be used to drive an associated drive spindle (02) in rotation, and wherein the centre axis of the drive motor (03) and the centre axis of the drive spindle (02) run coaxially and define a centre axis (07) of the unit. The spindle unit (01, 30, 54) comprises at least one axial actuating device (05) which can be used to axially drive an associated drive spindle (02) in the direction of the centre axis (07) of the unit, wherein the centre axis of at least one axial actuating device (05) and the centre axis (07) of the unit run coaxially. The drive motor (03) is mounted in the module housing (08, 31) such that it can be displaced axially, and may be axially displaced in the module housing (08, 31) by the axial actuating device (05), together with the drive spindle (02), being driven along the centre axis (07) of the unit.