Multi-Spindle Working Head with Intermediate Rotary Axis
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-spindle machine tools are bulky and inefficient in performing complex machining operations on workpieces, as they require significant space and stroke to accommodate multiple spindles and tools, limiting their flexibility and machining capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A multi-spindle working head design featuring a support with two spindle groups spaced by an intermediate support, allowing for a high number of spindles in a compact form, with each spindle group rotating around numerically controlled axes, enabling efficient machining of workpieces between and adjacent to the groups, and allowing an electro-spindle to move into the support space for machining adjacent areas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple spindles are arranged in a conventional configuration, then machining capabilities are increased, but the bulk and stroke of the working head increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the first rotary axis in an intermediate position between the first and second sides of the support, effectively utilizing the intermediate spatial dimension. This dimensional reconfiguration allows spindle groups to be arranged on opposite sides of the support structure, maximizing space utilization while maintaining a compact overall form factor of the working head.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure serves dual functions as both a structural carrier and a spacer element. By nesting the spacing function within the support structure itself, the patent eliminates the need for additional spacing components, thereby reducing the overall bulk while maintaining the required separation between spindle groups for effective machining operations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple spindles are arranged in a conventional configuration, then machining capabilities are increased, but the stroke of the working head increases
Solution Approach 1:
By relocating the first rotary axis to an intermediate position between the spindle groups rather than at an extreme end, the patent redistributes the spatial arrangement along the stroke direction. This dimensional repositioning allows the working head to achieve the necessary machining envelope with reduced overall stroke length, as the spindle groups are more efficiently positioned within the available travel range.
3Adaptability or versatility
If spindle groups are spaced apart to machine workpieces between them, then machining flexibility is improved, but the support structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is designed to simultaneously perform multiple functions: it carries both spindle groups, provides the necessary spacing between them for machining flexibility, and serves as the mounting structure for the first rotary axis. By consolidating these functions into a single multi-functional component, the patent achieves machining flexibility without proportionally increasing structural complexity.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The multi-spindle working head comprises: a support (5) rotating around a first numerically controlled rotary axis (C); on a first side (5Y) of the support (5), a first spindle group (7) rotating around a second numerically controlled rotary axis (B1); on a second side (5X) of the support (5), a second spindle group (14) rotating around a third numerically controlled rotary axis (B2). The first rotary axis (C) is in an intermediate position between the first side (5Y) and the second side (5X) of the support (5), and the first spindle group (7) and the second spindle group (14) are spaced from each other by means of the support (5) interposed therebetween.