Pivoting Loader Rail Layout for Shorter Machine Tool Transfer Cycles
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Machine tools with existing loading devices face challenges of increased size and long workpiece delivery cycles due to the need for reversing and transferring workpieces between loading and unloading hands, leading to inefficient processing and larger machine tool structures.
Innovation Solution
A compact loading device with a pivoting loader and extendable arm portion that delivers workpieces directly to desired positions, eliminating the need for reversing and allowing simultaneous handling of unprocessed and processed workpieces, thereby reducing the delivery cycle time and enhancing throughput.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a loading device uses a hand unit with loading hand and unloading hand that approach and separate to reverse and deliver workpieces, then the workpiece can be delivered between different NC lathes, but the loading device structure is increased in size and the delivery cycle time is prolonged
Solution Approach 1:
The loading device is segmented into a traveling portion that moves along the rail and a hand portion that performs gripping and releasing operations. This segmentation allows the hand portion to remain compact while the traveling portion handles the complex motion of approaching and retracting, thereby reducing overall structural complexity while maintaining workpiece delivery capability between different NC lathes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a vertical dimension by positioning the rail above the workpiece transfer path. The hand unit travels vertically along the rail and can extend downward to grip workpieces, then retract upward to clear the transfer path. This dimensional change eliminates the need for horizontal approach and separation motions, compacting the device structure while maintaining full delivery functionality
2Adaptability or versatility
If a loading device uses a hand unit with loading hand and unloading hand that approach and separate to reverse and deliver workpieces, then the workpiece can be delivered between different NC lathes, but the delivery cycle time is prolonged
Solution Approach 1:
The hand unit performs preliminary positioning and gripping actions while traveling along the rail before the actual workpiece transfer is needed. The hand can grip the workpiece in advance during its travel, then simply release it at the destination without requiring additional approach time, thereby shortening the overall delivery cycle while maintaining versatile delivery capability
Solution Approach 2:
The hand unit maintains continuous useful action by gripping the workpiece during its travel along the rail rather than requiring separate approach and transfer phases. The hand departs from the initial position, grips the workpiece en route, and releases it at the destination in a continuous motion, eliminating idle time and shortening the delivery cycle while preserving full delivery functionality
3Adaptability or versatility
If a loading device is configured with a rail extending across upper portions of two NC lathes with a hand unit that travels along it, then workpiece delivery between lathes is enabled, but the machine tool structure is increased in size
Solution Approach 1:
The rail is positioned in the vertical dimension above the workpiece transfer path instead of extending horizontally across the machine tool. The hand unit travels vertically along this compact rail and extends downward to access workpieces, enabling delivery between lathes while occupying minimal horizontal space and reducing the overall machine tool footprint
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~3B
Figure 4~5
AI summary
A loading device adapted to be provided in a machine tool includes a rail portion and a loader configured to travel along the rail portion, wherein the loader includes a pivoting portion and an arm portion extending and contracting with respect to the pivoting portion, and the arm portion includes a hand portion that holds a workpiece.