Twin-Spindle Machine Tool Spacing Correction Using X-Axis Saddles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine tools require a dedicated device to correct spindle spacing, which complicates the process and increases costs, while thermal displacements due to temperature changes affect machining accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A machine tool configuration that uses existing X-axis moving mechanisms to correct spindle spacing without a dedicated device, incorporating a control device to measure reference positions and adjust spindle spacing by moving machining units in the X-axis direction, allowing for precise alignment without additional hardware.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a dedicated spacing correction device is provided to correct spindle spacing, then machining accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by enabling the X-axis moving mechanism to perform both its original function of moving machining units during machining operations and an additional function of correcting spindle spacing. The control device coordinates the X-axis moving mechanism to adjust the position of a predetermined machining unit for spacing correction, eliminating the need for a dedicated correction device while maintaining high spindle spacing accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the spacing correction function with the existing X-axis moving mechanism. By integrating the correction operation into the existing moving mechanism's capabilities, the system combines multiple functions (machining unit positioning and spindle spacing correction) into a single device, thereby reducing overall device complexity while preserving manufacturing precision
2Manufacturing precision
If a dedicated spacing correction device is provided, then spindle spacing correction capability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control device enables the X-axis moving mechanism to serve dual purposes: performing machining unit positioning during normal operations and executing spindle spacing correction when needed. This multi-functionality eliminates the need to manufacture and install a separate dedicated correction device, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining full spindle spacing correction capability
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies self-service by using its own existing X-axis moving mechanism to perform the spacing correction function that would otherwise require external dedicated equipment. The machining units and control device work together to self-correct spacing issues without requiring additional manufactured components
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple X-axis moving mechanisms are provided for each machining unit, then spindle spacing correction flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of providing each machining unit with its own dedicated X-axis moving mechanism for correction purposes, the patent inverts the approach by having one X-axis moving mechanism serve multiple machining units. The control device selectively operates the predetermined machining unit's X-axis mechanism to correct spacing for the entire system, achieving flexibility through centralized control rather than distributed mechanisms
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration simplifies the correction of spindle spacing, enhances machining accuracy, and reduces the need for complex adjustments, providing economic and temporal advantages by utilizing existing mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
a displacement occurs in a spindle spacing (a pitch between the spindles) due to a temperature change (e.g., a temperature difference between day and night) inside a factory and heat generated by the rotation of the spindles
Data Source
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AI summary
A machine tool includes two machining units (100A, 100B), each including a first saddle (20) movable in the right-left direction, a second saddle (30) supported by the first saddle (20) and movable in the up-down direction, and a spindle device (40) supported by the second saddle (30) and movable in the front-rear direction. The machining units (100A, 100B) are arranged in the right-left direction in such a manner that spindles (41a, 41b) provided in the respective spindle devices (40a, 40b) are parallel to each other. The machine tool further includes X-axis moving mechanisms (51, 52) corresponding to the respective machining units (100A, 100B) and a control device that controls the operation of the X-axis moving mechanisms (51, 52). The control device moves the first saddle (20b) of a predetermined machining unit (100B) in the right-left direction using the X-axis moving mechanism (51) corresponding to the predetermined machining unit to correct a spindle spacing during correction of a spindle spacing.