Swivel Arm Tool Changer for Machine Tools
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tool changer systems for processing machines, such as crimping presses, are complex to manufacture and require significant effort to convert between different tools, with limited flexibility in tool usage and alignment, making them inefficient for alternating tool operations.
Innovation Solution
A tool changer system featuring a swivel arm-mounted tool table with two tool stations, allowing for precise positioning and independent operation of tools, including crimping tools, with features like a paper strip winder, contact coil stations, and a locking mechanism to prevent accidental contact and facilitate easy tool replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a tool changer system with multiple tool stations is used, then tool replacement capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tool changer system is segmented into a tool table with multiple independent tool stations (first tool station, second tool station), each capable of holding different tools. This segmentation allows independent tool replacement at each station without affecting the entire system, improving versatility while managing complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The tool table serves multiple functions: it can hold different types of tools (crimping tools, cutting tools) at different stations, and can be positioned at different locations (first position, second position) relative to the processing machine. This multi-functionality improves adaptability without proportionally increasing complexity
2Measurement precision
If a swivel arm mechanism is used to position the tool table, then positioning precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The swivel arm mechanism enables the tool table to move along a defined circular path between different positions. This curved motion path provides precise positioning through geometric constraints while using a relatively simple rotational mechanism rather than complex linear positioning systems
Solution Approach 2:
The tool table can dynamically switch between different positions (first position, second position) along the circular path depending on operational requirements. This dynamic repositioning capability improves positioning precision for different tool operations while using a flexible mechanical system
3Ease of manufacture
If tools are arranged in fixed positions on the tool table, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but adaptability worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The tool table is divided into multiple independent tool stations (first tool station, second tool station) where each station can hold different tools. This segmentation maintains simple manufacturing for each individual station while enabling great flexibility in tool configuration and selection across the system
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows dynamic reconfiguration of tools at different stations and dynamic repositioning of the tool table to different positions. This dynamic capability provides adaptability while each individual component remains simple to manufacture
4Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to prevent accidental contact, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is extracted as a separate, dedicated component within the tool changer system, specifically designed to prevent accidental contact with tools. This extraction improves reliability through specialized safety functionality while isolating the complexity of the locking mechanism from the main tool changer structure
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a tool changer (1, 1') for a machine tool, comprising a tool table (10) having at least two tool spaces (11, 11'), in particular for the detachable accommodation of a tool (50, 50'). The tool changer (1, 1') has a pivot arm (20) that can be fastened to the machine tool for pivoting the tool table (10).