Twin-Milling Lathe Layout for Simultaneous Machining Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Machine tools like lathes and turn mill machines face challenges in efficiency and flexibility due to the integration of a second milling unit, which increases the machine's height and reduces accessibility, making it difficult to efficiently machine workpieces with multiple tools simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A machine tool design featuring a machine frame with upper and lower tool carrier support portions, each equipped with linearly movable tool carrier assemblies that carry milling units, allowing for simultaneous machining by both milling units on the upper and lower portions, with independent movement in multiple axes to enhance accessibility and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a second milling unit is integrated into the machine tool to enable simultaneous machining with multiple tools, then productivity is improved, but the height of the machine tool increases and accessibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a conventional single-level milling unit arrangement to a two-level configuration with upper and lower tool carrier support portions. This vertical dimensionality change allows both milling units to operate simultaneously at different heights, enabling parallel machining operations without requiring excessive horizontal space or compromising accessibility at the primary working level
2Productivity
If a second milling unit is integrated into the machine tool to enable simultaneous machining with multiple tools, then productivity is improved, but the machine frame height increases
Solution Approach 1:
The machine tool is segmented into distinct upper and lower tool carrier support portions, each capable of independently carrying and positioning a milling unit. This segmentation allows the system to achieve multi-tool simultaneous machining while distributing the vertical space requirements across two separate functional zones, thereby managing overall machine height more effectively
3Ease of operation
If tool carrier assemblies are made linearly movable in multiple axes to enhance flexibility and accessibility, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tool carrier assemblies are designed with universal multi-axis linear movement capabilities that serve multiple functions: they enable both milling units to access the machining area from different directions, allow independent positioning for various machining operations, and provide flexibility for tool changes and workpiece setup. This multi-functionality justifies the increased complexity by delivering enhanced operational versatility
Data Source
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AI summary
The present application relates to a machine tool, in particular a lathe or a turn mill machine, having at least one work spindle provided to receive a workpiece, and a first and second milling unit being configured to jointly machine the workpiece received by the at least one work spindle. Two or more or preferably each tool carrier assembly accommodated by the upper and lower tool carrier support portions and each preferably having a milling unit, is configured to independently move a tool carried thereon in one or more linear directions.