Transfer-Storage Layout for Compact Automated Machining Cells
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Compact-design machine tools face challenges in automation due to limited space, requiring innovative solutions for efficient and partially automated or highly automated manufacturing processes, especially in precision machining applications like watch manufacturing, where traditional automation equipment cannot be arbitrarily miniaturized and direct operator monitoring is necessary.
Innovation Solution
A manufacturing system incorporating a handling cell with a handling unit, buffer storage, and a combined transfer and storage device that allows for lateral access and efficient workpiece and tool changes, enabling partially automated or highly automated production within limited spaces by utilizing a handling unit with a double gripper and optical monitoring, and integrating with a machining cell and setup cell to maintain precision and accessibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If compact-design machine tools are used to reduce installation space, then the working space and accessibility are reduced, but automation equipment cannot be arbitrarily miniaturized requiring larger space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from horizontal arrangement to vertical stacking of machine tools and automation equipment. Multiple compact machine tools are arranged vertically within a common housing, allowing automation equipment to access workpieces from the side while maintaining a small footprint. This dimensional change resolves the contradiction by enabling both compact installation and adequate automation equipment space through three-dimensional spatial organization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements nesting by placing automation equipment (robots, handling units) inside or integrated within the housing structure that contains the machine tools. The automation equipment is positioned to access workpieces through the working space without requiring external space, effectively nesting multiple functional systems within a compact volume.
2Area of stationary object
If compact-design machine tools are used to reduce installation space, then the working space is reduced, but direct operator monitoring is necessary
Solution Approach 1:
The patent provides operator access to the vertically arranged machine tools through side openings or front access points, allowing direct monitoring and intervention while maintaining compact dimensions. The vertical stacking configuration enables operators to access controls and monitor workpieces from the front or side without requiring large horizontal workspace.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates transparent panels or windows in the housing structure that allow operators to visually monitor the working space and automation operations without physical access. This intermediary element enables direct monitoring while maintaining the compact enclosed structure.
3Extent of automation
If traditional automation equipment is used with compact machine tools, then automation capability is reduced, but equipment size cannot be arbitrarily miniaturized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables full automation capability by arranging machine tools and automation equipment in vertical stacks, allowing standard-sized robots and handling units to operate within compact footprints. The side-access configuration permits automation equipment to maintain adequate dimensions for effective workpiece handling while achieving high automation levels through three-dimensional spatial organization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple machine tools and automation equipment into a single integrated system within a common housing. This consolidation allows standard automation equipment to serve multiple workstations simultaneously, maintaining full automation capability while reducing overall equipment volume through shared resources and coordinated operation.
4Area of stationary object
If multiple compact machine tools are arranged vertically, then space efficiency is improved, but workpiece transfer and handling complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces automated handling units with double grippers as intermediaries between vertically stacked machine tools. These handling units transfer workpieces between levels through the common housing, simplifying the transfer system compared to alternative configurations. The standardized handling interface reduces complexity by providing a uniform method for workpiece exchange between multiple machine tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous automated workpiece transfer between vertically arranged machine tools through coordinated robot movements and handling unit operations. The system maintains continuous production flow by automatically moving workpieces between machining stations without manual intervention, reducing transfer system complexity through streamlined automated sequences.
Data Source
AI summary
A combined transfer and storage device for machining comprises a storage level, a transfer device, at least one machining interface, and a feeding interface. The storage level comprises two or more storages that are spaced apart from one another in a longitudinal direction and having storage spaces for workpiece carriers, which are arranged one above the other for holding blanks or machined workpieces. The transfer device extends in the longitudinal direction. The machining interface is used for directly or mediately coupling with a machine tool. The feeding interface is accessible for a driverless transport vehicle. The transfer device accomplishes a workpiece transfer between the feeding interface, the storage level and the at least one machining interface. A manufacturing line is provided with a combined transfer and storage device and with at least one manufacturing system having at least one machine tool and a handling cell that is arranged between a machining interface of the combined transfer and storage device and the machine tool.