Swivel-Bridge Machine Tool for Faster Pallet Exchange
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine tools face limitations in processing speed and quality due to their structural constraints, which hinder efficient workpiece processing and pallet exchange.
Innovation Solution
The machine tool design includes a spindle holder with a rotatable tool spindle movable along two perpendicular axes, a swivel bridge that can be swiveled and displaced vertically, and a pallet storage system with horizontal extension systems for easy pallet exchange, allowing for increased processing speed and precision while minimizing non-productive time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the machine tool uses a traditional structure with limited axis movement, then the structural complexity is reduced, but the processing speed and quality are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The swivel bridge is designed to be displaceable along the vertical Y-axis, transforming a traditionally static component into a dynamic one. This enables the bridge to move vertically to access different pallet receiving compartments, significantly increasing processing speed and flexibility without requiring complete structural redesign of the entire machine tool
Solution Approach 2:
The machine tool structure is segmented into independently controllable components: the swivel bridge that moves vertically, the rotary table that rotates, and the spindle holder that moves along X and Z axes. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, improving overall processing speed while maintaining manageable structural complexity
2Loss of time
If the pallet receiving compartments are fixed in position, then the device complexity is reduced, but the pallet exchange time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The swivel bridge is designed to be displaceable along the vertical Y-axis relative to the fixed pallet receiving compartments. This dynamic movement allows the bridge to quickly access any compartment level, dramatically reducing pallet exchange time without requiring the entire pallet storage system to be movable
Solution Approach 2:
The swivel bridge acts as an intermediary between the fixed pallet storage and the processing area. By moving the bridge vertically instead of moving the pallets themselves, the system achieves fast pallet exchange while keeping the storage structure simple and stationary
3Adaptability or versatility
If the swivel bridge is displaceable along the Y-axis, then the processing flexibility is improved, but the ease of operation becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The swivel bridge is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as a support structure for the rotary table, provides vertical access to different pallet compartments, and enables positioning for various machining operations. This multi-functionality increases processing flexibility while the automated control systems keep operation complexity manageable
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a machine tool (1) for machining workpieces (2), comprising: a spindle receiver (3) having at least one rotationally driveable tool spindle (4); a machine bed (10) having a swivel bridge (11) which is mounted such that in can be swivellably driven about an A-axis (12) parallel to the X-axis (5), wherein at least one rotary table (17) is arranged on the swivel bridge (11), which is mounted such that it can be rotationally driven about a B-axis (19) perpendicular to the A-axis (12), wherein the rotary table (17) is designed for receiving a pallet (20) for at least one of the workpieces (2) to be machined; and a machining space (21) which is formed in the region of the swivel bridge (11) and which is accessible via a machining tool (7) accommodated in the spindle receiver (3). The swivel bridge (11) and/or pallet-receiving shelves (25) can be shifted along a vertical Y-axis (9) running perpendicular to the X-axis (5) and the Z-axis (6).