Robotized Machine for Annular Edge Machining
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multifunction robotized machines for machining annular edges require manual alignment and movement, leading to inefficiencies, safety hazards, and limitations in performing complex machining operations, especially with large workpieces and inclined holes, due to restrictive tool support and slow processing times.
Innovation Solution
A multifunction robotized machine with independently movable bases and vertical towers, equipped with tool-holding arms having dual polar axes for flexible tool positioning and operation on inclined planes, allowing simultaneous use of multiple tools and improved safety through automated workpiece handling and suction systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual alignment and movement operations are used for workpiece positioning, then the machine structure can be simpler, but the processing time increases significantly and safety hazards occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic workpiece support system where the support means can move along a third translation axis orthogonally to the fourth axis, enabling automated positioning and alignment of large workpieces without manual intervention. This dynamic capability allows the machine to adapt to different workpiece sizes and positions, reducing processing time while maintaining operational safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary automated positioning system between the workpiece and the machining tools. This intermediary system includes movable support means that can automatically align and position workpieces, eliminating the need for manual alignment operations and reducing safety hazards associated with operator exposure to moving parts.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single work unit is used for machining operations, then the device complexity is reduced, but the versatility to perform multiple machining operations simultaneously is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal work unit design where a single work unit can perform multiple machining operations including drilling, countersinking, and spot facing simultaneously. The work unit is equipped with multiple tools that can be selectively positioned and activated, enabling one work unit to replace multiple specialized work units while increasing operational versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a third translation axis dimension to the work unit configuration, allowing tools to be positioned not only in the primary machining plane but also along the orthogonal third axis. This dimensional expansion enables simultaneous access to multiple workpiece surfaces and features, increasing machining versatility without proportionally increasing device complexity.
3Productivity
If the work unit and support means are fixed relative to each other, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to perform complex machining on large workpieces is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic relative motion between the work unit and support means along a third translation axis. This dynamic capability allows the work unit to approach and retract from large workpieces efficiently, and to position tools at optimal angles for complex machining operations, significantly improving processing efficiency for large-scale workpieces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables preliminary positioning and alignment of the work unit relative to the workpiece before actual machining begins. The movable support means can pre-position the workpiece and the work unit can pre-align tools, ensuring optimal machining conditions are established before cutting operations start, thereby improving overall processing efficiency.
Data Source
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AI summary
Multifunction robotized machine for the machining on annular edges including a basement and two bases moving in a first direction, each of said bases including on the upper part second guiding means able to guide the movement of a vertical tower, each vertical tower including, vertical guiding means able to guide the movement of at least one arm-holding plate, each arm-holding plate bearing a tool-holding arm including a forearm integral with said arm-holding plate and a head supported by said forearm (8), the assembly of said forearm (8), of said head (9) and of said toolholder (7) constituting a tool-holder arm with 2 polar axes, said machine including driving means of said machine (1) between different workstations, said toolholder (7) including a suction chamber (26), said suction chamber lying on the surface of the workpiece (10) before a tool (24) starts to perform a corresponding machining on said workpiece (10), the toolholder (7) being movable on guides (25) with respect to said suction chamber (26), the contact between said suction chamber (26) and said surface of the workpiece (10) being kept for the whole duration of said machining.