Automatic Tool Exchanger Layout for Compact Multi-Task Lathes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multi-functional processing machines face challenges in achieving space-saving designs due to the arrangement and configuration of automatic tool exchangers, which are typically mounted on the bed with other devices, necessitating a larger machine footprint.
Innovation Solution
The automatic tool exchanger is positioned at the center of the multi-functional processing machine, with a tool magazine on the machine's front surface and a shift device to move tools between the magazine and the tool main spindle, allowing for tool exchange without moving the spindle device, thus optimizing space utilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the automatic tool exchanger is mounted on the bed with other devices, then the tool exchange function is achieved, but the machine footprint increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tool magazine is repositioned from the traditional bed level to the upper portion of the machine body, utilizing vertical space instead of horizontal space. This dimensional change allows the automatic tool exchanger to maintain its functionality while reducing the machine's footprint on the bed area.
Solution Approach 2:
The automatic tool exchanger components are integrated into the existing machine body structure, with the tool magazine housed within the upper portion of the machine body. This nesting approach allows the tool exchange system to be embedded within the machine's existing volume rather than adding external projections.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the tool rest is moved to the automatic tool exchanger on the bed, then tool exchange is enabled, but the machine size increases by the same amount
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of moving the tool rest to the automatic tool exchanger, the automatic tool exchanger is brought to the tool rest position. The tool magazine and shift device are positioned at the tool rest location, eliminating the need for the tool rest to travel to a separate exchanger location on the bed.
Solution Approach 2:
The automatic tool exchanger function is extracted from the bed area and integrated directly at the tool rest position. This extraction eliminates the need for separate movement mechanisms between the bed-mounted exchanger and the tool rest, reducing overall machine size.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the tool magazine is disposed at the rear left side of the bed, then the automatic tool exchanger can handle tool exchange, but the arrangement and configuration become problematic for space-saving
Solution Approach 1:
The automatic tool exchanger components (tool magazine, shift device, and tool changer) are merged into a single integrated assembly located at the tool rest position. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate, distributed components across the bed area, simplifying the overall arrangement and configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
In order to be suitable for space-saving of a multi-functional processing machine in which a tool main spindle device is disposed at a center of an opposed biaxial lathe, there is provided an automatic tool exchanger provided in the multi-functional processing machine, the automatic tool exchanger including: a tool magazine that is disposed in a machine body front surface upper portion of the multi-functional processing machine and is configured to house multiple tools for exchange with respect to the tool main spindle device; a shift device configured to move the tool between the tool magazine and a tool exchanging position with respect to the tool main spindle device; and a tool changer configured to exchange the tool between the shift device and the tool main spindle device.