Sealed Machining Cell Layout for Parallel Tool and Chip Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machining cells do not provide consistent working conditions for processing all workpieces, as they lack efficient mechanisms for tool change, chip removal, and workpiece loading/unloading that maintain a sealed environment.
Innovation Solution
A machining cell with a housing featuring three sealingly closable operating openings: a loading opening, a tool change opening in the roof, and a chip discharge opening, utilizing a workpiece table that seals the enclosure during position changes, an industrial robot for tool exchange through the roof opening, and a chip conveyor for removal during machining pauses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the enclosure is sealed to maintain consistent working conditions, then manufacturing precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple sealing mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The enclosure is divided into multiple sealed zones with separate access openings for different operations (workpiece loading, tool changing, chip removal). Each opening has its own sealing mechanism, allowing independent control of sealing for each function while maintaining overall consistent working conditions within the enclosed space.
2Productivity
If separate openings are used for workpiece loading, tool changing, and chip removal, then productivity is improved by parallel material movements, but device complexity increases due to multiple operating openings
Solution Approach 1:
Different operating openings are positioned at different locations and orientations on the enclosure (front opening for workpieces, top opening for tools, side opening for chips). This spatial distribution allows simultaneous parallel operations without interference, improving productivity while managing complexity through organized functional separation.
3Reliability
If the workpiece table seals the enclosure during position changes, then reliability is improved by maintaining sealed environment, but ease of operation decreases due to sealing constraints during movement
Solution Approach 1:
The workpiece table incorporates a flexible sealing element (such as a bellows or flexible membrane) that allows the table to move between positions while maintaining the seal. The flexible sealing mechanism expands or contracts with the table's movement, ensuring the enclosure remains sealed throughout the operation cycle.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a machining cell comprising an enclosure and a tool-carrying or tool-receiving industrial robot arranged within the enclosure, wherein the enclosure has at least three sealable operating openings. The first operating opening is a loading opening which can be closed by means of a workpiece table having at least two workpiece clamping devices. The second operating opening is a tool-changing opening arranged in the roof of the enclosure. The third operating opening is a chip discharge opening. The present invention provides a machining cell for machining all workpieces under identical working conditions.