Multi-station Machining Device for Parallel Workpiece Processing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing machinery for machining multiple workpieces is inefficient for both small-batch and large-batch production due to long cycle times and complex installations, as processes are typically performed sequentially rather than in parallel.

Innovation Solution

A device with a bottom and top part that can move relative to each other, featuring a tool support with adjustable tool receptacles and a drive unit for axial tools, allowing for simultaneous or sequential processing of multiple workpieces across multiple stations without the need for complex tool exchanges.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If separate final processing machines and connected presses are used for mass-produced parts, then manufacturing precision is maintained, but device complexity increases and installation space expands

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemachining precisionVSAvoidinstallation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple separate final processing machines and connected presses into a single integrated device. The device features a common base structure with multiple processing stations arranged along it, allowing several machining operations to be performed simultaneously on multiple workpieces. This merging eliminates the need for separate machines while maintaining manufacturing precision through standardized processing stations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The device is designed as a universal processing system that can perform multiple different machining operations (bending, punching, threading, etc.) at various stations. The processing stations are configured to handle different workpiece types and operations, making the single device replace multiple specialized machines while maintaining the required precision for each specific operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Device complexity

If final processing stations with axial revolver are used for small-batch production, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity decreases due to long cycle times

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice simplicityVSAvoidproduction rate
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The device segments the processing system into multiple independent processing stations arranged along a common base. Each station can perform its operation independently and simultaneously with other stations, eliminating the sequential bottleneck of traditional axial revolver systems. This segmentation allows parallel processing of multiple workpieces, dramatically increasing productivity while keeping each individual station relatively simple.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The device enables continuous processing by having multiple workpieces processed simultaneously at different stations. While one workpiece is being processed at station 1, another is at station 2, and so on, creating a continuous flow of productive action. This eliminates the idle cycle times inherent in sequential processing systems where the machine must complete one full cycle before starting the next.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

3Device complexity

If sequential processing is used in traditional presses, then device complexity is minimized, but loss of time increases due to one-after-another processes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocess simplicityVSAvoidcycle time
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from one-dimensional sequential processing (one station after another in time) to two-dimensional parallel processing (multiple stations operating simultaneously in space). The processing stations are arranged linearly along the base, allowing multiple operations to occur at the same time across different spatial locations, thereby eliminating cycle time delays while maintaining process simplicity through standardized station design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS7856700B2Device for repeatedly machining adjacent workpieces
Publication Date: 2010.12.28 BURGER MANUEL
  • US7856700B2 patent drawing
  • US7856700B2 patent drawing
  • US7856700B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention relates to a device for repeatedly machining workpieces (1), especially bar-shaped or tubular workpieces, which are located next to each other. Said device comprises a bottom part (2) for supporting the workpieces (1), a top part (3) that can be drivingly moved relative to the bottom part (2) in order to mount the workpiece on the bottom part (2), and a tool support (24) for receiving several tools. In order to be able to universally use the device, the tool support (24) is equipped with a support plate (29) which can be drivingly displaced relative to the bottom part (2) and encompasses several tool receptacles (30) for axial tools (25), said tool receptacles (30) being arranged next to and underneath each other. A drive unit (26) is allocated to the tool support (24) in order to actuate the axial tools (25).