Shielded Tool Storage Rack for Machine Tool Contamination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional machine tools with complex tool carrier and transport systems are prone to contamination and damage from dirt and cut chips, leading to increased manufacturing costs and reduced durability.
Innovation Solution
A compact and shielded tool support device featuring a tool spindle assembly, a housing with a rotatable tool storage rack, and a rotating device comprising a motor, pinion, gear, and helical groove mechanism that protects the components from contamination by housing them within a casing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a complicated sprocket-and-chain system is used to rotate the tool storage rack, then the tool support device can be driven, but the manufacturing cost increases and the system is exposed to contamination and damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a housing structure that encloses the drive mechanism components, creating a protective barrier against contamination. This housing acts as a shell that shields the internal mechanical elements from dirt and cut chips while maintaining structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The drive mechanism is divided into modular components including the motor unit, transmission elements, and housing sections. This segmentation allows for simplified manufacturing of individual parts and easier assembly, reducing overall manufacturing complexity and cost
2Ease of manufacture
If complicated guide rails are used to support multi-spindle heads, then the tool support device can function, but the manufacturing cost increases and the guide rails are exposed to contamination and damage
Solution Approach 1:
The guide rails are enclosed within a protective housing structure that shields them from contamination by dirt and cut chips. This housing creates a controlled environment that protects the precision guide rails while maintaining their functional capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent integrates the guide rail system with the housing structure, combining support and protection functions into a unified design. This merging eliminates the need for separate protective elements and simplifies manufacturing
3Ease of operation
If the tool storage rack and drive mechanism are exposed, then access is easier, but they are easily contaminated and damaged by dirt and cut chips
Solution Approach 1:
A housing structure encloses the tool storage rack and drive mechanism, creating a protective barrier that prevents contamination from dirt and cut chips while maintaining operational accessibility through designed openings or access points
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a cost-effective and durable tool support system that prevents contamination and damage from dirt and cut chips, maintaining the integrity and functionality of the machine tool components.
Implementation Method 1
the rotary member including a helical groove formed therein for engaging with the rollers and for rotating the plate and the shaft and the tool storage rack relative to the tool spindle assembly
Implementation Method 2
a gear attached to the axle and engaged with the pinion for allowing the axle to be rotated by the motor with the pinion and the gear
Data Source
AI summary
A tool support device for a machine tool includes a housing disposed beside a tool spindle, a tool storage rack having a shaft rotatably attached to the housing, a plate secured to the shaft and rotatably received in the housing, a number of rollers disposed on the plate, an axle rotatably disposed in the housing and having a rotary member which includes a helical groove for engaging with the rollers and for rotating the plate and the shaft and the tool storage rack relative to the tool spindle, the tool support device includes a compact structure for suitably shielding and protecting the tool support device and for preventing the tool support device from being contaminated and damaged by dirt and cut chips.