Machine Tool Spindle Alignment Using Synchronous Vibration Sensing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing machine tools face challenges in easily aligning the shafts of main and tailstock spindles, which can lead to misalignment and affect machining precision.

Innovation Solution

A machine tool system that includes a first spindle, a second spindle, a sensor to detect vibration during synchronous rotation, and a controller to perform shaft alignment based on the detected vibration, facilitating easy alignment of the spindles.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional measurement methods (outer diameter gauge) are used to correct axial misalignment between main spindle and tailstock spindle, then measurement precision can be achieved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to complex measurement procedures

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveshaft alignment precisionVSAvoidalignment operation ease

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical measurement methods (outer diameter gauge) with vibration-based detection. A vibration detector measures vibration signals during synchronous rotation of both spindles, and a controller calculates shaft center positions and misalignment amounts based on these signals, eliminating the need for complex mechanical measurement procedures

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses the spindles themselves to generate vibration signals during synchronous rotation for self-diagnosis. The vibration detector and controller work together to automatically detect misalignment and guide correction, making the alignment process self-contained and easier to operate

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Measurement precision

If manual measurement and correction methods are used for shaft alignment, then measurement precision can be maintained, but productivity deteriorates due to time-consuming alignment procedures

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveshaft alignment precisionVSAvoidalignment efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The vibration detector continuously monitors vibration signals during synchronous rotation of the spindles, enabling continuous detection and calculation of shaft center positions. This continuous measurement approach allows for faster alignment compared to discrete manual measurement methods

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Solution Approach 2:

By replacing manual mechanical measurement with automated vibration-based detection and calculation, the system significantly reduces alignment time while maintaining precision, thereby improving productivity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 system enables precise and efficient shaft alignment of machine tool spindles, improving machining precision and reducing misalignment issues over time or under varying operating conditions.

Implementation Method 1

a sensor detecting a physical quantity related to a vibration during synchronous rotation of the first spindle and the second spindle

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectVibration: Vibration

Data Source

PatentUS20250360588A1Machine tool, and machine tool alignment method

Publication Date: 2025.11.27 CITIZEN WATCH CO LTD

AI summary

Shaft alignment in machine tools is facilitated. The machine tool includes: a first spindle holding one end of a workpiece; a second spindle holding another end of the workpiece; a sensor detecting a physical quantity related to a vibration during synchronous rotation of the first spindle and the second spindle with the workpiece being held by the first spindle and the second spindle; and a controller performing shaft alignment between the first spindle and the second spindle based on the physical quantity.