Rotating Frame Capsule Machining Apparatus Reducing Tool Travel
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multi-axis machining apparatuses are cumbersome, expensive, and inefficient due to their large size and reliance on linear motion, which limits their ability to precisely machine complex and elaborate products, leading to increased energy consumption and machining errors.
Innovation Solution
A capsule type reconfigurable multifunctional machining apparatus that utilizes a rotating frame with integrated processing modules, supported by a top and bottom frame with vibration-proof members, and a stage unit capable of X-Y or rotary motion, maximizing rotary motion to reduce tool travel range and enhance precision.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a conventional multi-axis machining apparatus uses linear motion to machine complex products, then the tool can reach various positions, but the travel range increases causing remarkable machining errors
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of moving the tool linearly to reach different positions, the invention inverts the approach by rotating the workpiece under a stationary or minimally moving tool. The rotating frame allows the workpiece to be oriented in different positions, eliminating the need for long tool travel ranges and reducing machining errors associated with extended linear motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from purely linear motion in three dimensions to incorporating rotational motion, adding a fourth dimension of movement. This rotational capability allows the workpiece to be positioned and oriented without requiring the tool to traverse long linear distances, thereby reducing machining errors.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional multi-axis machining apparatus moves the tool extensively to machine complicated products, then all surfaces can be accessed, but energy consumption increases unnecessarily
Solution Approach 1:
The invention inverts the conventional approach by keeping the tool relatively stationary and rotating the workpiece instead. This eliminates the need for energy-intensive long-distance tool movement while maintaining the ability to machine all surfaces of complicated products through workpiece rotation and repositioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating frame structure serves multiple functions: it holds the workpiece, enables rotational movement for accessing different surfaces, and can be reconfigured for different machining operations. This multi-functionality reduces the need for multiple separate tools and movements, thereby reducing overall energy consumption.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional multi-axis machining apparatus uses only linear translation motion, then the structure remains simple, but the apparatus becomes complicated and expensive when reconfigurable multifunctional machining is required
Solution Approach 1:
The rotating frame serves as a universal platform that can accommodate different processing modules (laser, milling, grinding) and perform multiple machining functions. This single multi-functional structure replaces what would otherwise require multiple separate apparatuses, reducing overall system complexity despite the added rotational capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces dynamic rotational capability to the machining apparatus, allowing it to adapt to different machining requirements through rotation rather than requiring complex reconfiguration of multiple linear axes. This dynamic element provides versatility while maintaining relative structural simplicity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional multi-axis machining apparatus is designed with large volume to accommodate tool movement, then the tool can reach all areas, but the apparatus becomes expensive and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of designing a large-volume apparatus to allow tool movement to all areas, the invention inverts the approach by keeping the apparatus compact and rotating the workpiece. This allows the tool to access all areas through workpiece rotation rather than requiring the tool to traverse large distances, significantly reducing the required apparatus volume.
Data Source
AI summary
A capsule type reconfigurable multifunctional machining apparatus is disclosed. A capsule type reconfigurable multifunctional machining apparatus includes a rotating frame in which a plurality of processing modules may be installed to face an object to be machined disposed in a capsule type body and whose machining position and pose are controlled by rotation, a top frame for rotatably supporting the rotating frame, a bottom frame that is combined with the top frame under the top frame to support the top frame and in which vibration proof members are installed in positions where the bottom frame contacts the top frame, and a stage unit fixedly inserted into the internal center of the top frame to settle the object to be machined so that the height of the settled object to be machined may be controlled and in which an X-Y stage or a rotary stage may be selectively mounted.