Twin-Spindle Machine Tool Layout for Long Workpiece Machining
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing twin-spindle machines are limited by the maximum length of workpieces that can be machined due to their design, restricting their efficiency and versatility in handling different workpieces simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
The machine tool design allows independent movement of two work spindles in the Z-axis and enables pivoting of workpiece tables relative to the X-axis, with additional spindles arranged vertically or horizontally, facilitating simultaneous machining of differently designed workpieces and enhancing accessibility through a swivel bridge and chain magazine system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If twin-spindle machines are designed with two work spindles arranged one above the other for simultaneous machining, then productivity is improved, but the maximum length of workpiece that can be machined is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional arrangement (two spindles side-by-side or one above the other) to a three-dimensional configuration by adding vertical stacking of multiple workpiece tables (first, second, third, and fourth workpiece tables arranged at different heights). This multi-level vertical arrangement allows machining of longer workpieces that extend across multiple levels, resolving the contradiction between maintaining simultaneous machining capability and increasing maximum workpiece length
Solution Approach 2:
The workpiece is divided into multiple segments that can be positioned on different workpiece tables at various heights. Each spindle machines its assigned workpiece segment independently, allowing the total workpiece length to exceed the capacity of any single spindle-workpiece table combination while maintaining simultaneous machining operations
2Device complexity
If work spindles are arranged in fixed positions for simultaneous machining, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to differently designed workpieces deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic positioning capabilities through pivotable workpiece tables that can rotate about pivot axes. The first and second workpiece tables are pivotably mounted about first and second pivot axes respectively, allowing the tables to be rotated into different positions. This dynamic adjustment enables the same spindle configuration to accommodate various workpiece designs and orientations without increasing fundamental device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The multiple workpiece tables (first, second, third, fourth) arranged at different heights and positions serve universal functions by being able to hold and position different types of workpieces. The pivotable mounting allows each table to adapt to different workpiece orientations and designs, making the fixed spindle arrangement universally applicable to diverse machining tasks
3Productivity
If multiple work spindles are added to increase productivity, then manufacturing efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple workpiece tables (first, second, third, fourth tables) and multiple work spindles (first, second, third, fourth spindles) into an integrated multi-level machining system. By merging these components into a coordinated structure where tables are vertically stacked and spindles are positioned to serve different tables, the system achieves high productivity while managing complexity through unified design and control
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a machine tool (1) comprising: a machine frame (2); at least one first work spindle (5) rotatably mounted about a first spindle axis (7); at least one second work spindle (6) rotatably mounted about a second spindle axis (8); a workpiece clamping device (18) designed to hold at least one first workpiece (32) and one second workpiece (33). The first work spindle (5) and the second work spindle (6) are arranged vertically one above the other.