Multi-Spindle Turret With Independent Spindle Control for Faster Tool Changes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-spindle turrets for numerically controlled machine tools require significant downtime for tool changes, as they necessitate braking and accelerating tools between machining operations, which is inefficient and complex, especially when handling micromechanical workpieces.
Innovation Solution
A numerically controlled machine tool with a multi-spindle turret that allows independent control of each spindle for concurrent tool acceleration, deceleration, and replacement during machining operations, utilizing a tool gripping device that interacts with spindles in standby positions to minimize non-productive time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If tools are rotated simultaneously in a multi-spindle turret, then tool change time is reduced, but energy consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the tool rotation system into independent segments, where each tool-holding spindle can rotate independently rather than all tools rotating simultaneously. This segmentation allows only the active tool to rotate while others remain stationary, reducing energy consumption while maintaining fast tool change capability through the independent rotation of each spindle segment
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements dynamic control where each spindle's rotation is activated only when needed for tool changing or machining operations. The spindles can be independently accelerated and decelerated based on operational requirements, avoiding the continuous energy consumption of rotating all tools simultaneously while maintaining the ability to perform concurrent tool changes
2Ease of operation
If a coupling system is used to engage the active spindle with the drive mechanism, then tool changing is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the complex coupling system from the design by implementing direct drive mechanisms for each spindle. Each spindle is independently driven without requiring engagement/disengagement couplings, simplifying the overall device structure while maintaining full tool changing capability through independent spindle control
Solution Approach 2:
Each spindle is designed with universal functionality to perform both machining operations and tool changing independently. The spindles can be directly engaged with the drive mechanism without complex coupling systems, as each spindle is self-sufficient for both cutting and tool replacement operations
3Ease of operation
If all tools are driven rotatably and synchronously, then tool change is simplified, but maximum rotary speed is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the rotational drive system so that each spindle can rotate at independent speeds rather than being constrained by synchronous rotation. This allows the active spindle to achieve maximum rotary speed for high-speed machining while other spindles remain stationary or rotate at lower speeds, eliminating the speed limitation imposed by synchronous operation
4Quantity of substance
If the turret is made bulky to accommodate multiple spindles, then tool holding capacity increases, but moments of inertia increase and collision risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent redistributes tool-holding spindles across multiple dimensions and levels rather than concentrating them in a single bulky turret structure. The spindles are arranged in a compact configuration that minimizes the moment of inertia and collision risk while maintaining the ability to hold and access multiple tools through spatial distribution in different dimensions
Data Source
AI summary
A numerically controlled machine tool including a multi-spindle turret provided with a body extending along an axis A-A between a first end by which it is fastened to a frame of the machine tool and a second end at which it comprises a rotatable head, the head comprising at least two toolholding spindles, each intended to engagingly receive a cutting tool, the spindles occupying, depending on the angular position of the head, a working position in which they are intended to carry out a machining operation on a workpiece held in position in a fixture, or a standby position in which they are withdrawn from said workpiece, each of said spindles being configured to be controlled independently of the other in order to immobilise or rotatably drive the tool that it carries, regardless of the position occupied thereby.