Rotary Machine Tool Axes for Compact Automated Machining
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine tools for computer-controlled machining require large areas of movement and are costly due to the use of cross tables or robot arms, which compromise working speeds and rigidity, and are expensive to protect against contamination and ensure work safety.
Innovation Solution
A machine tool design featuring at least two rotary axes connected in series, with slewing gears and a linear guide that allows for compact operation and high working speeds, enabling precise positioning and alignment of workpieces and tools within a small space, and allowing for efficient tool and workpiece changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If cross tables or robot arms are used for moving workpiece holders or tool holders, then the machine tool can perform automated machining operations, but the working area becomes large and requires complex and costly enclosure for protection against contamination or to ensure workplace safety
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from linear movement along Cartesian axes to rotational movement around a common axis. Multiple workpiece holders and tool holders are arranged radially around a central rotation axis, enabling automated machining within a compact circular footprint rather than requiring large linear travel space. This dimensional reconfiguration allows automated operations in a confined radial space.
Solution Approach 2:
The central rotation axis serves multiple functions simultaneously: it supports both workpiece holders and tool holders, provides the rotational movement for both types of holders, and enables the linear guide to adjust distances between multiple clamping devices. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate mechanisms for each holder type.
2Extent of automation
If cross tables or robot arms are used for moving workpiece holders or tool holders, then the machine tool can perform automated machining operations, but the enclosure becomes complex and costly for protection against contamination or to ensure workplace safety
Solution Approach 1:
By arranging all holders radially around a central axis and confining movement to this vertical axis and radial positions, the patent creates a compact enclosed space that is simpler to protect than large linear travel areas. The enclosure only needs to contain the vertical column and radial arrangement, reducing complexity compared to enclosing large cross-table or robot arm movement areas.
3Ease of operation
If cross tables or robot arms with large travel distances are used, then the machine tool can accommodate workpiece and tool positioning, but the working speeds are negatively impacted and component stiffness is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces long linear travel distances with short radial positioning around a central axis. All workpiece holders and tool holders rotate around the same vertical axis, minimizing the travel distance required for positioning. The linear guide provides precise distance adjustment between holders, enabling accurate positioning with minimal movement distance, thereby maintaining high working speeds and component stiffness.
4Manufacturing precision
If sufficiently stiff cross tables or robot arms are designed to maintain component stiffness, then the machine tool can maintain positioning accuracy, but the manufacturing costs become prohibitively high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves positioning accuracy through a compact radial arrangement around a central vertical axis, eliminating the need for large, stiff cross tables or robot arms. The linear guide provides precise distance adjustment between holders, and the rotational mechanism enables accurate angular positioning. This design maintains manufacturing precision while using simpler, more cost-effective components with shorter travel distances.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a machine tool for the computer-controlled machining of workpieces, comprising a machine stand (1) and at least two clamping devices (2, 3) which are maintained next to each other in an adjusting and mobile manner, at least one tool receiving element being formed with one of the clamping devices (2, 3) and at least one tool receiving element being formed with the other clamping device (2 or 3). Said clamping devices (2, 3) are maintained in an adjusting and mobile manner in the machine stand (1) by means of a rotating mechanism (4, 5) comprising at least two rotational axes (6 - 9) which are connected in series and which intersect each other. At least one linear guide (10) is embodied between at least one of the clamping devices (2, 3) and the machine stand (1).