Tool Changer Spindle Rotation Timing for Reduced Standby Time
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tool changing systems in machine tools face challenges in reducing standby time, especially when the spindle is moved along the axis towards the machining position, as they require the turning arm to be returned to its original position to avoid collisions, limiting the ability to initiate spindle rotation and movement simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A tool changing method and system that includes a spindle, feed drive, spindle rotation drive, tool magazine, tool change arm with gripping units, arm rotation drive, and a detector to initiate spindle rotation and movement to the machining position once the tool and gripping unit are disengaged, allowing for reduced standby time irrespective of the spindle's movement direction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the spindle head is moved to the machining position after tool change is completed, then collision avoidance between the turning arm and spindle is ensured, but standby time until the next machining increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detector detects in advance whether the turning arm and spindle head will collide during movement. Based on this preliminary detection, the controller decides whether the spindle head can move to the machining position before the turning arm returns to its original position, thereby reducing standby time while ensuring collision avoidance when necessary
2Reliability
If the turning arm is required to return to its original position before spindle movement, then collision risk is eliminated, but machining efficiency decreases due to extended standby time
Solution Approach 1:
The detector provides real-time feedback on the positions of the turning arm and spindle head. The controller uses this feedback information to dynamically adjust the timing of spindle movement, allowing the spindle to move earlier when no collision risk exists, thereby maintaining safety while improving machining efficiency
3Device complexity
If the spindle is moved along the axis towards the machining position, then the movement path is simplified, but the turning arm must be returned to original position to avoid collision with the spindle
Solution Approach 1:
The detector performs preliminary detection of the turning arm's position and the spindle's movement path. Based on this detection, the controller determines whether the simplified axial movement path can be used without collision, allowing the spindle to move earlier and reducing standby time while maintaining the simple movement path
Data Source
AI summary
A machine tool includes a rotatable spindle, a spindle drive, a tool magazine, a tool changer including a rotating shaft, a rotating shaft drive motor, an angular position detector, a tool change arm having gripping units at both ends, and a controller. After interchanging a first tool mounted on the spindle and a second tool held in a tool pot, when rotating the tool change arm to an intermediate position, rotation of the spindle is started as soon as the second tool mounted on the spindle and the gripping unit are out of contact with each other.