Pyramid Workpiece Mounting Block for Interference-Free Multi-Surface Machining

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Solution Overview

Problem

In multi-workpiece processing using five-axis numerically controlled machine tools, existing solutions face interference issues between workpieces and the main spindle, making it difficult to machine certain surfaces due to the geometry of traditional workpiece mounting systems.

Innovation Solution

A polygonal pyramid-shaped workpiece mounting block is introduced, with sides serving as workpiece mounting surfaces and a fixing section to secure it to the machine tool table, allowing workpieces to be mounted inclined to each other and providing sufficient space between them, along with a system for rotating the table to access all surfaces without interference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If a prism-shaped multi-face angle rest is used to mount multiple workpieces, then multi-workpiece processing capability is improved, but interference between the main spindle and workpieces occurs making certain surfaces inaccessible

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-workpiece processing capabilityVSAvoidinterference between main spindle and workpieces
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from mounting workpieces on a horizontal plane (2D arrangement) to mounting them on an inclined polygonal pyramid structure (3D arrangement). By tilting the workpiece mounting surfaces relative to the table surface, the invention creates vertical separation between workpieces and the main spindle path, eliminating interference while maintaining multi-workpiece capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention uses an asymmetric polygonal pyramid structure where workpieces are mounted on inclined surfaces at specific angles rather than on a symmetric horizontal plane. This asymmetric arrangement strategically positions workpieces to avoid the main spindle's movement path while maintaining accessibility to all workpiece surfaces through table rotation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

2Ease of operation

If workpieces are mounted on the same plane as the table surface, then ease of mounting is improved, but interference with the main spindle prevents machining of certain surfaces

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of mounting workpiecesVSAvoidinterference with main spindle
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The invention elevates workpiece mounting from the horizontal table plane to an inclined 3D structure. The polygonal pyramid's inclined surfaces tilt workpieces upward, creating clearance between the workpieces and the main spindle's vertical movement path, thereby eliminating interference while maintaining mounting simplicity through standardized mounting interfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Adaptability or versatility

If the table is rotated to access all workpiece surfaces, then machining accessibility is improved, but complexity of the system increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemachining accessibility to all surfacesVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The polygonal pyramid structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides inclined mounting surfaces for multiple workpieces, creates interference-free zones for main spindle movement, and enables table rotation for accessing all workpiece surfaces. This multi-functional design achieves versatility without proportionally increasing system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS8579271B2Machine tool with a workpiece mounting block
Publication Date: 2013.11.12 MAKINO MILLING MASCH CO LTD
  • US8579271B2 patent drawing
  • US8579271B2 patent drawing
  • US8579271B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A machine tool with a workpiece mounting block is provided that permit a plurality of workpieces to be mounted and machined without giving rise to interference between the workpiece or a table and a main spindle. Work mounting section (27) in a shape of square pyramid with four sides serving as workpiece mounting surfaces is fixed to table (17). Main spindle (19) with tool (23) mounted thereon can be moved relative to table (17) in three mutually orthogonal X, Y, and Z-directions, and table (17) can be moved in rotation feed in A and C-directions. Positions of rotation angle of A-axis and C-axis when the workpiece mounting surface is perpendicular to the axis of main spindle (19) are stored in advance in storage mechanisms. When workpieces (33) mounted on the workpiece mounting surfaces are to be machined, a workpiece coordinate system is set based on the stored positions of the rotation angle and NC machining is carried out.