Pivoting Y Slide for Horizontal Machine Tool Sag Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Horizontal machine tools experience tool sag due to gravity, affecting machining accuracy, especially with long and heavy tools, and there is a need to set predetermined tool camber for precise machining angles.
Innovation Solution
The Y slide is equipped with a movably guided running part and a pivoting part that can be actuated to compensate for tool sag and set tool camber, using a measuring device to determine the required pivoting angle and an actuating unit to adjust the position, which can include a pivot bearing or elastic components for flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a horizontal machine tool with a long and heavy machining tool is used, then the machining capability and versatility are improved, but the tool sags due to gravitation causing machining accuracy to deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The Y slide is designed with a pivoting part that can be dynamically adjusted relative to the running part. The pivoting part includes a pivot bearing allowing angular adjustment, and an actuating unit (spreading element) that can change the pivoting angle during operation. This dynamic adjustment capability enables the system to compensate for tool sag by pivoting the pivoting part at an angle that counteracts gravitational deformation, thereby maintaining machining accuracy while using long and heavy tools.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the tool length is increased to achieve predetermined tool camber for angled drilling, then the adaptability for custom-made products is improved, but the tool sag due to gravity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The pivoting part with pivot bearing allows the tool axis to be dynamically angled relative to the horizontal plane. The actuating unit can adjust the pivoting angle to achieve predetermined tool camber for angled drilling operations. This dynamic angular adjustment enables the system to set specific tool orientations while compensating for sag, maintaining both adaptability for custom products and alignment accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the angular parameter of the tool axis by pivoting the pivoting part. The pivoting angle is adjusted to achieve the desired tool camber while compensating for gravitational sag. By dynamically changing this angular parameter, the system can adapt to different machining requirements (including angled drilling) while maintaining precision through active compensation.
3Manufacturing precision
If a pivoting mechanism is added to compensate for tool sag, then the machining accuracy is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The Y slide is segmented into a running part and a pivoting part, with the pivot bearing providing the articulation point. This segmentation allows the pivoting mechanism to be integrated into the existing slide structure without requiring a complete redesign. The running part remains guided in the Y direction, while the pivoting part handles angular adjustment, dividing functions to manage complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivot bearing acts as an intermediary element between the running part and the pivoting part. It provides the necessary rotational freedom while maintaining structural connection. The actuating unit (spreading element) serves as an intermediary mechanism to apply controlled forces for pivoting adjustment. These intermediary components enable the compensation function without requiring complex integrated systems.
4Manufacturing precision
If an actuating unit with spreading element is used to pivot the pivoting part, then the tool sag compensation precision is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The spreading element actuating unit replaces complex motorized or hydraulic positioning systems with a simpler mechanical wedge-based mechanism. The spreading element, when pushed between the running part and pivoting part, generates the necessary pivoting motion through mechanical leverage. This substitution achieves precise sag compensation through direct mechanical action while reducing the complexity associated with electronic controls, sensors, and power systems.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution effectively compensates for tool sag and allows for precise tool camber adjustments, improving machining accuracy and enabling precise angled drilling, reducing the likelihood of workpieces being classified as scrap.
Implementation Method 1
the machining tool accommodated in the work spindle can sag due to gravitation
Implementation Method 2
the pivoting part is at least partially elastic or resilient and is attached or mounted directly on the running part
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~6
AI summary
In a machine tool (1) with a slide unit (5) comprising an X, Y and Z slide (2, 3, 4), the Z slide (4) of which has a horizontal work spindle (7) receiving a machining tool (6), wherein the Z slide (4) is guided on the X slide (2) in a first horizontal direction (Z), the X slide (2) on the Y slide (3) in a second horizontal direction (X) and the Y slide (3) on a stationary vertical Y guide (9) in a vertical direction (Y), the Y slide (3) comprises at least one running part (3a) which is guided movably in the Y guide (9), and at least one pivoting part (3b) which is pivotably mounted on the running part (3a) about a pivot axis (11) extending in the X direction, wherein an actuating unit (16) for pivoting the pivoting part (3b) relative to the The running part (3a) is provided to compensate for a gravity-induced tool sag or to set a predetermined tool tilt.