Rotating Tool Changer for Multi-Side Workpiece Machining
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current CNC machine tools require time-consuming processes for machining multiple sides of workpieces, as each side needs to be machined separately, and programming for custom-sized doors is labor-intensive, limiting efficiency in producing decorative items and doors with varying sizes and patterns.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that automate the processing of workpieces on multiple sides using a user interface, optical/magnetic/RFID reading systems, automated handling and trimming stations, and multiple gantries with rotating tool changers, allowing for dynamic machining of different sizes and patterns without repositioning, and simplifying operator procedures through parametric CNC programming.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional CNC machines machine one side of workpieces separately, then machining precision is maintained, but processing time increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple machining operations (routing, engraving, drilling) and multiple workpiece sides into a single integrated machining head that can process both faces of the workpiece simultaneously or sequentially without removing it from the table, thereby reducing total processing time while maintaining precision through coordinated multi-axis movement
Solution Approach 2:
The machining head is designed with dynamic positioning capabilities, allowing it to adjust its position and orientation relative to the workpiece during operation. The system can dynamically switch between machining different sides of the workpiece and adjust tool positions based on real-time workpiece location, enabling flexible multi-side processing without time-consuming manual interventions
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual repositioning is used for machining different sides, then machining flexibility is maintained, but handling time increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-positioning and self-repositioning operations automatically. The machining head can independently adjust its position to access different sides of the workpiece without requiring manual intervention to remove or reposition the workpiece itself, thereby eliminating handling time while maintaining the ability to machine various configurations
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-positions the machining head and tools before each machining operation based on stored workpiece location data and programmed paths. This preliminary positioning eliminates the need for manual repositioning during operation, as the system has already prepared the correct tool and position in advance, reducing handling time while maintaining flexibility for different workpiece configurations
3Device complexity
If parametric computer code is programmed offline, then programming complexity is reduced, but adaptability to dynamic size changes is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses dynamic parametric programming that allows real-time adjustment of workpiece dimensions, tool paths, and machining parameters based on actual workpiece size detected during operation. The programming language supports dynamic variables that can be modified during runtime, enabling the same program to adapt to different workpiece sizes without requiring offline reprogramming, thus maintaining simplicity while achieving dynamic adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms that detect actual workpiece dimensions and positions during machining and automatically adjust the parametric program accordingly. Sensors provide real-time information about workpiece location and size, and the control system uses this feedback to dynamically modify tool paths and machining parameters, allowing the pre-programmed code to adapt to size changes without manual reprogramming while maintaining programming simplicity
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple tools are manually changed, then machining versatility is maintained, but operation time increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple tools are pre-loaded into the machining head in advance, with each tool positioned and ready for its designated operation. The system maintains a pre-organized tool library where routing bits, engraving tools, and drilling bits are prepared beforehand and automatically selected based on the programmed sequence, eliminating the need for manual tool changes during operation and reducing total operation time while maintaining versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The machining system is designed to perform tool changes and tool selections automatically and continuously without interrupting the overall machining process. Tools are swapped or repositioned during minimal pauses in the machining cycle, and the system continuously maintains readiness for the next operation, ensuring that the useful machining action continues with minimal interruption and reducing the impact of tool changes on total productivity
Data Source
AI summary
A method and an apparatus with rotating tool changer for automatically machining multiple sides of a workpiece which is trimmed and machined according to tags placed on the workpiece or preprogrammed sequence. A method that automatically selects and adjusts parametric computer machining code to machine various workpieces sizes. An apparatus comprising a handling and trimming station of parts to be machined, multiple optical, magnetic or radio-frequency identification (RFID) reading systems for processing labels or tags information for sequential workpieces machining steps, a multiple gantries computer numerical control (CNC) station for machining workpieces on various sides, multiple rotating tool changers for selecting tools used to machine workpieces, and a storage station that receives workpieces in sequential order when they have been processed. The moving gantries of the CNC station simultaneous machine multiple sides of the workpiece which in the preferred embodiment is composed of panel for making decorative items and engraved doors.