Pallet Changer Layout With Reduced Rotation Radius for Machine Tools
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine tool pallet changers occupy a large area due to the radius of rotation required for pallet exchange, which limits space efficiency and rigidity in supporting the weights of pallets and workpieces.
Innovation Solution
A machine tool design with a moving member that slides below the pallet changer, utilizing a support stand that straddles the moving member to reduce the radius of rotation, and an arm driving device with a lift actuator and cylindrical cam to facilitate pallet exchange, allowing for a more compact and rigid pallet changer configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a traditional pallet changer with a large radius of rotation is used, then the pallet exchange function is achieved, but the occupied area increases
Solution Approach 1:
The moving member is positioned to slide below the pallet changer in the vertical dimension, allowing the pallet changer to rotate in a reduced horizontal radius while maintaining full pallet exchange functionality. This spatial reconfiguration resolves the contradiction by utilizing the vertical space to reduce the horizontal footprint.
2Area of stationary object
If the moving member slides below the pallet changer, then the radius of rotation is reduced, but the support structure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support stand is integrally formed with the oil pan of the pallet loading station through casting, merging two separate components into one unified structure. This reduces the number of parts, simplifies assembly, and maintains the required structural support while accommodating the reduced radius of rotation configuration.
3Strength
If the support stand straddles the moving member, then rigidity is improved to handle processing moments, but the space for moving member movement is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The moving member slides below the pallet changer in the vertical dimension, allowing the support stand to straddle the moving member's path without interfering with its horizontal movement. This dimensional separation enables the support stand to provide maximum rigidity while the moving member maintains sufficient movement space.
Data Source
AI summary
This machine tool is provided with: a bridge which is provided on a base in such a way as to straddle a moving body in a direction (X) perpendicular to a direction of movement (Z) of the moving body at a stroke end (E2) of the moving body; a pallet exchanging arm which is provided above the bridge and which engages with a pallet (P) supported on the moving body and a pallet (P) on a pallet loading station, lifts both pallets (P), and pivots about a vertical axis (Ov) to exchange the two pallets (P); and an arm drive device which is provided projecting upward on the bridge, and which moves the pallet exchanging arm along the vertical axis (Ov) and causes the pallet exchanging arm to pivot about the vertical axis (Ov).