Multi-nozzle Machine Tool Cooling System with Synchronized Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional machine tool cooling systems often face inefficiencies due to single coolant streams being obstructed by work pieces or fixtures, requiring manual operator intervention for adjustments, and lack flexibility in nozzle placement and orientation.
Innovation Solution
A multi-nozzle cooling system with pivotally supported nozzles and a control system that allows for synchronized or independent operation, enabling simultaneous fluid delivery from multiple directions, with reversible mounting hardware and interchangeable drive elements for adaptable placement and orientation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a single coolant nozzle is used, then the system structure is simple, but the cooling coverage is insufficient and容易被工件或夹具遮挡
Solution Approach 1:
The single coolant delivery system is segmented into multiple independent nozzles, each capable of directing coolant to different areas. This segmentation increases the total cooling coverage area while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular nozzle design.
Solution Approach 2:
The cooling system transitions from a single-point delivery to multi-directional delivery by positioning nozzles at different locations and angles. This dimensional expansion allows coolant to reach previously obscured areas without proportionally increasing system complexity.
2Productivity
If manual adjustment of coolant nozzle is required, then the system structure is simple, but operator intervention is needed and efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The coolant nozzle system transitions from a static, manually-adjusted configuration to a dynamic, automatically-controlled system. Motors enable the nozzles to move and adjust their positions automatically, increasing productivity while the control system manages the added complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-adjustment of coolant delivery through automated control, eliminating the need for operator intervention. The control system monitors and adjusts nozzle positions automatically, improving productivity while containing complexity within the control architecture.
3Adaptability or versatility
If nozzles are fixed in position, then the mounting structure is simple, but the system lacks flexibility for different machining operations
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system transitions from fixed, rigid positioning to dynamic, adjustable positioning. Motors enable nozzles to be repositioned according to different machining requirements, providing versatility while the modular mounting structure manages the added complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The nozzle system is designed with universal mounting capabilities that allow the same nozzle assembly to be positioned in multiple locations and orientations. This multi-functionality provides adaptability for different machining operations without requiring completely different mounting mechanisms for each application.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This system ensures efficient and safe cooling by automating fluid delivery to the cutting tool, reducing the need for manual adjustments and accommodating varying machining operations without operator intervention, while allowing for flexible nozzle placement and orientation.
Implementation Method 1
direct simultaneous flows of cooling fluid from the nozzles to the target position or positions
Implementation Method 2
The fluid typically cools and lubricates the 'cut' which can be considered as the interface of the cutter and work piece
Implementation Method 3
In some cases only compressed air is used, which has minimal cooling properties and no lubrication properties, but only serves to blow the chips out of the way
Data Source
AI summary
Multiple fluid nozzles are mounted in a machine tool such that the cutting tool in the spindle is targeted with liquid or gas cutting fluid from multiple directions, providing better coverage and thereby more effectiveness. This provides more efficient and safer use of a machine tool by automating the aiming of fluids at a desired location. Multiple nozzles at respective multiple physical locations are preferably controlled by a single control unit, so they can be synchronized to maintain a common target point on a cutting tool, even if the nozzles are located asymmetrically or non-uniformly with respect to the spindle axis or target point. Preferably, modular nozzle assemblies can be configured for flexibility in mounting on the machine tool.