Multi-spindle Machine Tool with Dual-sided Gripper Worktable
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Solution Overview
Problem
Classic multi-spindle lathes face challenges in complete machining of items due to inaccessible rear sides of spindles and increased complexity and dimensions with dual spindle carrier drums, leading to precision issues and difficulty in mounting robust tools for heavy operations.
Innovation Solution
A multi-spindle machine tool with a single turning worktable equipped with rotating gripper devices on both sides, allowing complete machining of items on two opposite fronts using manipulators to transfer and reposition parts, and rigidly fixed operating units for improved accessibility and precision.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If dual spindle carrier drums are used to machine both sides of items, then complete machining capability is improved, but machine complexity and dimensions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The machine is divided into two independent single-spindle lathes sharing a common base, each capable of complete machining independently. This segmentation allows each spindle to be simpler while the system as a whole achieves complete machining capability through coordinated operation of both spindles on opposite sides of the workpiece.
Solution Approach 2:
Two single-spindle lathes are merged into one machine structure with a common base and control system. The spindles are positioned on opposite sides of the workpiece, allowing simultaneous or sequential machining operations on both sides without requiring complex dual-drum mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If dual spindle carrier drums are used to machine both sides of items, then complete machining capability is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to oscillations and deviations
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the machining functions into two independent spindles rather than one complex dual-drum system, each spindle maintains better structural stability and precision. The segmentation allows each spindle-carriage-tool assembly to be optimized for precision while achieving complete workpiece coverage through coordinated operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If dual spindle carrier drums are used, then complete machining capability is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates due to increased dimensions and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The machine is segmented into two standard single-spindle lathe units that can be manufactured using conventional processes and then integrated on a common base. This approach leverages existing manufacturing capabilities and standards, making the machine easier to build compared to a custom dual-drum system.
4Reliability
If items are gripped in spindles for machining, then machining stability is improved, but accessibility to rear sides deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of attempting to access the rear side of a workpiece gripped in one spindle, the solution inverts the approach by using two spindles positioned on opposite sides. Each spindle grips the workpiece from its respective side, allowing both front and rear sides to be machined with equal stability and accessibility.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2~3
AI summary
The invention concerns a machine tool for multiple machining in several work stations, in which the worktable has a first face (15) and a second face (15') at right angles to the rotation axis and facing in opposite directions and where the first face is equipped with a first line of item gripper rotating devices (16) facing towards the first operating units (13), horizontal or vertical, at right angles or parallel, for the first machining operations to be carried out on each item and the second face is equipped with a second line of gripper item rotating devices (16') facing towards some second operating units (13') for second operations to be carried out on each item. In one of the work stations at least one manipulator is envisaged to pick up and transfer each item from at least one rotating device on the first face to at least one rotating device on the second face of the worktable.