Multi-Spindle Milling Machine Independent Axis Tool Change
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Solution Overview
Problem
Machine tools with tool-carrying work spindles face challenges in achieving high precision, reliability, and minimizing downtime while being cost-effective and compact, especially during tool changes.
Innovation Solution
A machine tool design featuring two controllable linear axes for each tool-carrying work spindle, allowing simultaneous or independent processing of a workpiece, with tool changing positions aligned obliquely or perpendicularly, enabling efficient tool changes without additional manipulators and reducing downtime.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single tool-carrying work spindle is used, then the machine tool structure is simple, but tool changes cause downtime and reduce productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The machine tool is segmented into multiple independent work spindles (first work spindle and second work spindle), each capable of independent operation. This allows one spindle to perform tool changes while another continues machining, eliminating downtime and improving productivity without requiring complete system redesign
Solution Approach 2:
Tools are pre-positioned in a tool magazine, and the first work spindle can move to the tool magazine to perform tool changes in advance. Meanwhile, the second work spindle continues processing the workpiece, ensuring that tool changes are performed preliminarily without interrupting the main machining operation
2Productivity
If additional tool changing manipulators are added, then tool changes can be performed efficiently, but the machine tool occupies more space and becomes less compact
Solution Approach 1:
The first work spindle is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a machining spindle and as a tool changing manipulator. The first work spindle can move along the third linear axis to access the tool magazine and perform tool changes, eliminating the need for separate dedicated tool changing manipulators and reducing the machine's overall footprint
Solution Approach 2:
The tool changing function is merged with the first work spindle's capabilities. The first work spindle integrates both machining and tool changing operations, while the second work spindle handles continuous machining. This merging of functions reduces the number of separate components needed and creates a more compact machine design
Data Source
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Figure 2B
AI summary
The present invention relates to embodiments of a machine tool, in particular a multi-spindle or twin-spindle milling machine, comprising a machine frame 1, a workpiece clamping device 2 for clamping a workpiece WS, an axis slide assembly 300 arranged on the machine frame 1, which is configured to move the workpiece WS clamped on the workpiece clamping device 2 linearly in a Y and a Z direction by means of two controllable linear axes, and a spindle carrier assembly 4 arranged on the machine frame 11 with at least two tool-carrying work spindles 41, 42, which can each be moved independently of one another in S1 and S2 directions which are inclined to the Y and Z directions and to each other.