Tool Magazine Speed Adjustment for Machine Tools
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users of machine tools cannot adjust the operation speed of the tool magazine, leading to inflexible tool changing processes that may result in either excessive motor load or prolonged machining times.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an operation speed adjusting unit and actuator control system that allows users to set and adjust the operation speed of the tool magazine, with recommended speed settings based on tool weight and load, enabling flexible speed adjustments through a user-friendly interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the tool magazine operates at a fixed initial speed, then the control system is simple, but the user cannot adjust the speed to match different tool weights or machining requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic speed adjustment by allowing the operation speed of the tool magazine to be changed during operation based on tool weight and machining requirements. The control unit dynamically modifies the motor speed commands rather than using a fixed speed setting, enabling the system to adapt to varying conditions while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters (speed) of the tool magazine based on tool weight measurements and user preferences. The control unit receives weight information from the measurement unit and adjusts the speed parameter accordingly, allowing the same hardware to operate at different speeds for different tools without requiring physical modifications.
2Productivity
If the tool magazine operates at high speed, then productivity is improved, but motor load increases excessively when handling heavy tools
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a feedback mechanism where the measurement unit continuously monitors the weight of tools in the magazine, and this information is fed back to the control unit. The control unit then adjusts the motor speed commands in real-time based on the measured weights, ensuring that the motor operates within safe load limits while maintaining optimal productivity for each specific tool.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the operation speed based on the actual tool weight rather than using a fixed high speed. When heavy tools are detected, the speed is automatically reduced to prevent excessive motor load, while lighter tools allow for higher speeds to maintain productivity. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction between speed and power consumption.
3Power
If the tool magazine operates at low speed, then motor load is reduced, but machining time is prolonged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the speed parameter dynamically based on tool weight measurements. Instead of operating at a consistently low speed to protect the motor, the system adjusts the speed parameter upward for lighter tools and downward for heavier tools. This parameter change approach ensures that the motor load remains within safe limits while minimizing the loss of machining time through optimized speed selection for each tool.
4Ease of operation
If the operation speed is fixed, then the control system is simple, but the user cannot optimize speed for different machining scenarios
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service approach where the measurement unit automatically provides weight information to the control unit, which then automatically adjusts the speed parameters. The user interface requires minimal input from the operator, as the system serves itself by using the measured weight data to make speed adjustments. This maintains ease of operation while enabling optimization for different machining scenarios without requiring complex user configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
A machine tool having a tool magazine for changing a tool attached to a spindle is equipped with an initial operation speed setting unit configured to set the operation speed of the tool magazine to an initial operation speed, an operation speed adjusting unit configured to be operated by the user to thereby adjust the operation speed of the tool magazine relative to the initial operation speed, an actuator configured to actuate the tool magazine, an operation speed acquisition unit configured to acquire the operation speed of the tool magazine after adjustment of the operation speed made by the operation speed adjusting unit, and an actuator control unit configured to control the actuator to actuate the tool magazine at the operation speed acquired by the operation speed acquisition unit.