Multi-Spindle Workpiece Loader Layout for Faster Chuck Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing workpiece conveyance systems in machine tools, particularly those with multiple spindles, suffer from inefficiencies due to the time-consuming switching between chucks, leading to prolonged workpiece conveyance times and reduced machining efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A workpiece conveyance system with a main loader having n + m chucks and relay loaders, controlled by a controller, allows simultaneous and efficient transfer of workpieces between multiple spindles by optimizing the movement and orientation of chucks, enabling parallel operations and reducing the need for reorientation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If switching between chucks is performed to receive and deliver workpieces between main loader and relay loader, then workpiece conveyance is achieved, but conveyance time becomes long due to switching time
Solution Approach 1:
The main loader is divided into multiple chucks (n+m chucks) that can operate independently and simultaneously. Each chuck can receive or deliver workpieces to different spindles at the same time, eliminating the need to switch between a single receiving and delivering chuck. This segmentation allows parallel operations, significantly reducing conveyance time while maintaining high productivity.
2Productivity
If one main loader serves multiple spindles sequentially, then workpiece conveyance is achieved, but conveyance time increases and machining efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
Each of the n+m main loader chucks is designed to be multi-functional, capable of both receiving unmachined workpieces from relay loaders and delivering machined workpieces to relay loaders. This universal design allows any chuck to perform either function at any time, enabling flexible parallel operations across multiple spindles simultaneously, thereby reducing conveyance time and improving machining efficiency.
3Loss of time
If multiple relay loaders are disposed corresponding to multiple spindles, then parallel workpiece handling is enabled, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple relay loaders into a single integrated relay loader structure that serves multiple spindles. Instead of having completely separate relay loaders for each spindle, the relay loader is designed with multiple stations or positions that can handle workpieces for different spindles in sequence or parallel, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining the ability to enable parallel workpiece handling and reduce conveyance time.
Data Source
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AI summary
Even when there are a plurality of workpiece holders, it is possible to improve workpiece machining efficiency by efficiently receiving and delivering a workpiece from/to each workpiece holder and shortening a time required for workpiece conveyance. A workpiece conveyance system 50 is a workpiece conveyance system that receives and delivers workpieces W to be machined to n spindles (workpiece holders) 11, 12, 21, and 22 (where n is an integer satisfying n ≥ 2) that hold and rotate the workpieces W, and includes a main loader 52 including n + m main loader chucks 56 (where m is an integer satisfying m ≥ 1) that receive and deliver workpieces from/to the n spindles 11, 12, 21, and 22 or n relay loaders 51 disposed corresponding to the n respective spindles 11, 12, 21, and 22 to receive and deliver the workpieces W from/to the main shafts 11, 12, 21, and 22.