Multi-Spindle Lathe With Movable Workhead for Flexible Machining
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Solution Overview
Problem
Numerical control lathes used for producing elongated pieces, such as furniture components, have limitations in machining flexibility and the range of operations that can be performed on individual pieces.
Innovation Solution
A multi-spindle lathe design featuring multiple pairs of coaxial headstocks and tailstocks with adjustable distance, along with a movable additional workhead capable of independent numerically controlled motions, allows for more extensive machining cycles and increased flexibility in performing various machining operations on each piece.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple headstock and tailstock pairs are used for parallel processing, then productivity increases, but machining flexibility and the range of operations on individual pieces remain limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by equipping each spindle with multiple tools that can perform different machining operations (turning, grooving, threading, etc.). The control system enables a single spindle to sequentially execute various operations on the same workpiece, making each processing unit universal rather than dedicated to a single function. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining parallel processing capability while adding operational versatility through tool diversity and programmable control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics through the numerically controlled movement of spindles along the workpiece length and the ability to dynamically select and switch between different tools on each spindle. The system can adaptively assign different tools to different workpieces or operations based on programming, enabling flexible reconfiguration of machining operations without physical repositioning of workpieces between stations. This dynamic adaptability maintains high productivity while expanding machining flexibility.
2Device complexity
If a single tool is used for two contiguous pieces on one spindle, then device complexity reduces, but machining precision and adaptability for different operations decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing each spindle into multiple independent tool positions, where each tool can be independently selected and positioned. Instead of using a single tool for multiple operations, the system segments the tool function across multiple specialized tools on the same spindle. This allows precise control over each tool's position and operation parameters, maintaining or improving machining precision while keeping the spindle structure relatively simple through modular tool holding mechanisms.
3Productivity
If tools are fixed on spindles for simultaneous machining, then productivity increases, but the ability to perform different operations on individual pieces is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics through numerically controlled spindle movement along the workpiece length and dynamic tool selection from multiple tools on each spindle. The system can dynamically reposition spindles and select appropriate tools based on the specific operation required for each workpiece, enabling flexible adaptation while maintaining simultaneous processing of multiple pieces. This dynamic control resolves the contradiction by making the fixed tool positions adaptable through programmable movement and selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by enabling independent control of each spindle's position, speed, and tool selection parameters. The numerically controlled system can adjust operational parameters (position, feed rate, spindle speed) for each spindle individually while they operate simultaneously, allowing different machining operations on different workpieces at the same time. This parameter flexibility maintains productivity while expanding operation variety.
Data Source
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AI summary
The lathe comprises pairs of headstocks and tailstocks (15; 113,115; 213, 215) configured to rotate workpieces (P) around respective rotation axes (A). A first support structure (23, 25; 123, 125; 223, 225) supports a plurality of first spindles (31; 131; 231) with rotation axes parallel to each other and adapted to rotate tools (U) configured to machine pieces (P) mounted between each pair of headstocks (13; 113; 213) and tailstocks (15; 115; 215). An additional workhead (51; 151; 251) comprises at least one additional spindle (53; 153; 253), movable with respect to the pairs of turning members (13, 15; 113, 115; 213, 215) according to a plurality of numerically controlled axes independent of the first numerically controlled translation axis (X).