Robot Gripper Rotation for Swarf Removal in Machining
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machining systems experience increased cycle time due to the accumulation of swarf and dielectric working fluid within the working machine, which prolongs operation stoppage and cleaning times, and the use of robots to transport machined workpieces further complicates fluid and swarf removal without increasing cycle time.
Innovation Solution
A machining system that incorporates a robot with a gripping and rotating part to transport machined workpieces along a recessed wall path, where the rotating part applies centrifugal and inertial forces to remove swarf and dielectric working fluid, utilizing a recessed wall part with a mesh inner wall to separate and collect these materials, eliminating the need for additional cleaning devices and reducing cycle time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If swarf and dielectric working fluid are removed inside the working machine, then cleaning is effective, but cycle time increases due to operation stoppage and cleaning
Solution Approach 1:
The robot performs swarf and fluid removal during the transport process before the workpiece reaches the stocker, rather than waiting for the machine to stop. This preliminary action during transit eliminates idle time while maintaining cleaning effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The robot continuously transports and cleans workpieces without interrupting the machining cycle. The cleaning action is performed continuously during the transport phase, maintaining productive flow while removing contaminants
2Productivity
If a robot is used to transport machined workpieces, then labor is saved and productivity increases, but swarf and fluid removal becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The robot combines transport and cleaning functions into a single integrated operation. The same robot that transports the workpiece also performs the cleaning by rotating it, eliminating the need for separate cleaning devices and reducing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The robot serves multiple functions: transporting workpieces from the machine to the stocker, and simultaneously cleaning them by rotation. This multi-functionality reduces the number of dedicated components needed in the system
3Reliability
If workpieces are stopped in the cleaning device for cleaning, then thorough cleaning is achieved, but cycle time increases
Solution Approach 1:
Cleaning is performed during the transport phase before workpieces are placed in the stocker, rather than requiring a separate stopping phase. This preliminary cleaning action maintains quality while eliminating idle time
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning operation continues uninterrupted during the transport process. The robot maintains continuous motion and cleaning action throughout the transfer, avoiding stops while ensuring thorough contaminant removal
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
Enables efficient removal of swarf and dielectric working fluid without stopping the workpiece transfer, reducing cycle time and eliminating the need for specialized cleaning installations, thereby enhancing productivity and labor efficiency in machining systems.
Implementation Method 1
a rotating part that rotates the gripping part, the controller being configured to move the gripping part with the machined article along the transport path while rotating the gripping part in the recessed wall part by means of the rotating part
Implementation Method 2
a recessed wall part that is provided outside the working machine so as to demarcate the transport path of the article
Data Source
AI summary
A machining system includes: a working machine that machines an article while supplying a dielectric working fluid to the article; a robot that transports the machined article from the working machine; a controller that controls the robot; and a recessed wall part that is provided outside the working machine so as to demarcate the transport path of the article. The robot includes a gripping part that grips the article and a rotating part that rotates the gripping part. The controller is configured to move the gripping part with the machined article along the transport path while rotating the gripping part in the recessed wall part by means of the rotating part.