Multitasking Workpiece Machining with Synchronized Support Devices
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Machining large and heavy elongated workpieces like rollers for printing machines is inefficient due to time-consuming setup and increased load in each process step, particularly when positioning the workpiece between the spindle and tailstock using cranes for turning, milling, and boring processes.
Innovation Solution
A multitasking workpiece machining apparatus with synchronized workpiece support devices that move between the spindle and tailstock, utilizing servomotors, ball screws, and steady rest devices with self-centering mechanisms for automated workpiece handling and movement, enabling simultaneous support and transfer of the workpiece between machining stations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a crane is used to position the workpiece between the spindle and tailstock, then the workpiece can be loaded and unloaded, but the positioning process becomes troublesome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces workpiece support devices as intermediary mechanisms between the crane and the workpiece. These devices include support portions that contact and hold the workpiece, enabling automated transfer without direct crane positioning. The support devices act as mediators that receive the workpiece from the crane and precisely position it at the machining location.
Solution Approach 2:
The workpiece support devices are equipped with self-centering mechanisms that automatically adjust and center the workpiece without external intervention. The support devices can autonomously position the workpiece between the spindle and tailstock, eliminating the need for manual crane positioning operations.
2Productivity
If the workpiece is manually transported between machining machines, then flexibility is maintained, but productivity decreases due to repeated loading and unloading
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple workpiece support devices into a single integrated system that can simultaneously support and transfer the workpiece between different machining operations. The support devices are merged with the machining center structure, creating a unified system that eliminates the need for separate manual transport operations between machines.
Solution Approach 2:
The workpiece support devices are designed with multi-functionality, serving as both loading mechanisms and positioning devices. The same support structures that hold the workpiece during machining also facilitate its transfer and positioning, reducing the number of separate operations required.
3Extent of automation
If the workpiece is supported by multiple workpiece support devices, then automated movement is enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the workpiece support function into multiple independent support devices, each with a specific support portion. This segmentation allows each device to be relatively simple in structure while the collective system achieves automated movement capability. Each support device can be independently controlled and positioned.
Solution Approach 2:
The workpiece support devices incorporate movable and adjustable components that allow dynamic adaptation to different workpiece positions and orientations. The support devices can move along guides or rails and adjust their positions dynamically during the machining process, enabling automation without requiring overly complex fixed structures.
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
Facilitates automated workpiece movement and machining, reducing setup time and load, allowing for efficient processing of elongated workpieces across multiple operations within a single apparatus, improving productivity and alignment precision.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing servomotors, ball screws
Implementation Method 2
utilizing servomotors, ball screws
Implementation Method 3
steady rest devices with self-centering mechanisms
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2(A)~2(D)
Figure 3(A)~3(C)
AI summary
A multitasking workpiece machining apparatus 20 includes a pair of workpiece support devices 40 and 42 supporting an elongated workpiece, first and second headstocks 24 and 30 at positions outside of the workpiece support devices 40 and 42. The second headstock 30 is capable of moving closer to and apart from the first headstock 24. Each workpiece support device 40, 42 respectively includes a travel drive device 50, 60 traveling between the first and second headstocks 24 and 30. A numerical control unit 100 controls travel of each workpiece support device 40, 42 by synchronously controlling each travel drive device 50, 60.