Tool Magazine Feeding Manipulator for In-Process Refilling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tool magazine systems require manual insertion of tools, including heavy ones, which prevents setup during production time and necessitates machine tool downtime for refilling, limiting operational efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A device with a manipulator and lifting mechanism that allows for automatic tool exchange and recognition, enabling tools to be refilled and exchanged without manual handling, allowing for operation during production.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If manual insertion of tools is used in the tool magazine, then setup can be performed, but the machine tool must be stopped and production time is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automatic tool refilling where the tool magazine feeds tools to itself through a robotic manipulator that transfers tools from the magazine to the spindle, eliminating the need for manual intervention and allowing continuous operation during production
Solution Approach 2:
Tools are pre-loaded into the tool magazine magazine in advance, organized and ready for automatic retrieval and transfer to the spindle, enabling the refilling process to occur autonomously during machine operation without interrupting production
2Ease of operation
If manual lifting of heavy tools is required, then tools can be inserted into the tool magazine, but operator safety is compromised and manual handling is necessary
Solution Approach 1:
The manual mechanical lifting and handling of heavy tools is replaced by an automated robotic manipulator system that grasps, lifts, and positions tools automatically, eliminating the need for operators to manually handle heavy equipment and improving safety
Solution Approach 2:
A robotic manipulator acts as an intermediary between the tool magazine and the spindle, performing the hazardous task of handling heavy tools and transferring them automatically, thereby protecting operators from exposure to heavy lifting risks
3Adaptability or versatility
If the tool magazine is refilled manually, then tools can be exchanged, but the machine tool cannot operate during the refilling process
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains continuous productive operation by enabling tool refilling and exchange to occur automatically during machine operation through the robotic manipulator, eliminating idle downtime and ensuring the useful action of machining continues uninterrupted
Data Source
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AI summary
Input device for a tool magazine (E) of a machine tool, in particular for a wheel magazine (E) of a machine tool, wherein the input device has a manipulator (D) for changing and inserting tools (WZ) at the tool magazine (E) and the manipulator (D) is movably arranged along a first direction of movement and has at least one tool holder; the input device characterized in that a tool supply unit (A) with at least one tool position (P) for receiving tools (WZ) is provided and the manipulator (D) for changing a tool (WZ) at the tool magazine (E) is movable along the first direction of movement, in the direction of the tool supply unit (A), to a transfer position (Ü).