Multi-Spindle Tool Change Mechanism for Reduced Machining Downtime
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current machine tools require significant downtime and manual intervention for tool replacement, leading to inefficiencies and potential inaccuracies in the assembly process.
Innovation Solution
An automatic tool replacement system with a control unit that manages the movement of operative heads and supporting devices to enable quick and safe coupling and decoupling of tools from spindles using threaded connections and friction or form-coupling mechanisms, allowing for simultaneous operation on multiple tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual tool replacement is used, then operational flexibility is maintained, but downtime increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automatic tool replacement where the machine tool itself performs the tool change operations without external manual intervention. The control unit automatically coordinates the movement of the operative head and supporting device, and the spindles automatically couple with tools through rotational movement, making the system self-sufficient in tool replacement tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
Tools are pre-positioned in the supporting device magazine before the machining operation begins. The control unit预先 plans and prepares the tool change sequence, so that when a tool needs replacement, it is already in position and ready for immediate coupling with the spindle, eliminating waiting time.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual tool assembly is performed, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical assembly operations with an automated control system that precisely coordinates mechanical movements. The control unit directs the operative head and supporting device with high precision, and the spindle's rotational coupling mechanism ensures accurate tool attachment, eliminating human error while maintaining mechanical simplicity through standardized coupling interfaces.
3Productivity
If automatic tool replacement is implemented, then productivity increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The supporting device serves multiple functions: it stores multiple tools in its magazine, positions them for automatic retrieval, and facilitates tool coupling with spindles. The operative head simultaneously manages multiple spindles and coordinates their tool changes. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function, thereby limiting the increase in overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the tool storage magazine, tool positioning mechanism, and tool coupling mechanism into an integrated supporting device system. The control unit merges the coordination of multiple spindles and tool changes into a single centralized control function, reducing the number of separate control systems needed and simplifying the overall architecture despite the automated functionality.
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 solution significantly reduces downtime and ensures precise, automatic tool changes, enhancing operational efficiency and accuracy in machining processes.
Implementation Method 1
said respective first coupling means are configured to provide, in use, a removable coupling with a respective tool by a mutual rotation of said spindle and said tool
Implementation Method 2
said holding means may comprise friction means for providing, in use, a determined level of friction with said at least one tool
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a machine tool for machining workpieces, comprising: at least one operative head (1) comprising a plurality of spindles (2) rotatable about respective rotation axes which are parallel to one another and each provided with respective first coupling means (4) being configured to provide, in use, a removable coupling with a respective tool (3) for performing at least one machining operation on a workpiece; a supporting device (6, 6') where a plurality of seats (7, 8') is formed to removably house, in use, a plurality of tools (3); and a control unit for controlling the movement of said at least one operative head (1) and/or said supporting device (6, 6') in such a way that when a spindle (2) of said plurality of spindles (2) is in contact with a tool (3) of said plurality of tools (3) which is placed in a seat (7, 8') of said supporting device (6, 6'), a removable mutual coupling between said spindle (2) and said tool (3) is achieved by said respective first coupling means (4).