Multi-Spindle Machine Tool Spindle Positioning Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multi-spindle machine tools face precision issues due to inconsistencies in spindle positioning relative to the indexing path, leading to lower overall machining precision despite high precision at individual machining stations.
Innovation Solution
A method for adjusting the position of spindles in a multi-spindle machine tool involves indexing a reference spindle, determining its position, and using adjustment means to align other spindles to this reference, allowing for precise adjustments along orthogonal or parallel axes, enabling quick and easy re-precision without specialized tools or expertise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the barrel or carriage is manufactured with very high precision to ensure macro-precision of spindle positioning, then the positioning accuracy of spindles is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by providing adjustment means that allow spindle positioning to be corrected after the barrel is manufactured. The adjustment means include adjustable supports or positioning elements that can be modified before final operation, enabling correction of manufacturing tolerances without requiring complete remanufacturing of the barrel.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the barrel or carriage adjustable rather than fixed. The adjustment means allow the structural parameters of the indexing device to be modified, transforming a static manufacturing precision problem into a dynamic adjustment problem that can be corrected in the field.
2Manufacturing precision
If the machine tool is overhauled by the manufacturer to improve spindle positioning precision, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the loss of time and productivity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the user to perform adjustment and re-precision of spindle positioning without requiring manufacturer intervention. The adjustment means are designed to be accessible and operable by the machine operator or maintenance personnel, allowing the machine to service itself and eliminate downtime associated with manufacturer overhauls.
3Device complexity
If conventional manufacturing methods are used without adjustment means, then the device complexity is reduced, but the manufacturing precision of spindle positioning deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the indexing device into modular components with adjustable elements. Rather than requiring the entire barrel to be manufactured with ultra-high precision, the adjustment means are segmented into discrete, easily adjustable components that can be independently modified to achieve precise spindle positioning.
Data Source
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AI summary
The device i.e. barrel (1), has bearings (4) for supporting a set of spindles (2). Eccentrics (6) and cavities allow the position of the bearings to be adjusted relative to a predetermined path. The eccentrics and the cavities are operable from a front region (7) of the indexing device, where the front region is on a machining area of a machine tool. One of the eccentrics and the cavities adjust the position of one of the bearings along an axis orthogonal or parallel to the predetermined path, where the path is a circular path or a linear path. An independent claim is also included for a method for adjusting the position of one of spindles.