Vertically Displaceable Spindle Loading Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing machining apparatuses require complex mechanisms and additional loading and unloading devices, leading to increased construction effort and downtime, especially in two-spindle systems where efficient workpiece processing is hindered by the need for multiple controlled axes and additional loading devices.

Innovation Solution

A machining apparatus with a vertically displaceable spindle and a horizontally movable tool holder, where a deflector is used to manage chip fall and facilitate loading and unloading by moving the workpiece vertically between transfer and machining stations, eliminating the need for additional loading and unloading devices and reducing the number of controlled axes required.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If additional loading and unloading devices are used to facilitate workpiece transfer, then the machining apparatus can handle complex machining operations, but the device complexity and construction effort increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemachining operation capabilityVSAvoidloading and unloading device complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The spindle is designed to perform multiple functions: it not only machines workpieces but also serves as the loading and unloading device by vertically displacing to pick up and deposit workpieces on the conveyor. This eliminates the need for separate loading/unloading devices while maintaining full machining capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The functions of the spindle (machining) and the loading/unloading device are merged into a single component. The spindle's vertical displacement mechanism is used for both machining operations and workpiece transfer, reducing the overall number of components and simplifying the apparatus structure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Manufacturing precision

If multiple controlled axes are used to enable efficient workpiece processing in two-spindle systems, then the machining precision and operation control improve, but the device complexity and number of controlled axes increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveworkpiece processing precisionVSAvoidnumber of controlled axes

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The spindle serves dual purposes: it performs both machining operations and workpiece transfer operations that would traditionally require separate devices. This reduces the number of controlled axes needed while maintaining precision through the same vertically-displaced spindle mechanism

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Productivity

If additional loading and unloading devices are implemented, then the workpiece transfer efficiency improves, but the construction effort and downtime increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveworkpiece transfer efficiencyVSAvoidconstruction effort

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The spindle performs its own loading and unloading functions without requiring external assistance. By using the spindle's inherent vertical displacement capability for workpiece transfer, the system eliminates the need for additional loading/unloading devices, reducing construction effort while maintaining transfer efficiency

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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 solution simplifies the structure, reduces construction effort, and minimizes downtime by allowing continuous operation of a two-spindle machine with only three controlled axes, enabling efficient loading and unloading of workpieces without additional devices, thus enhancing processing efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

maintaining the deflector in the use position and deflecting the falling chips with the deflector away from the transfer station

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectDeflection:

Data Source

PatentUS8661950B2Machining apparatus and method of loading and unloading same

Publication Date: 2014.03.04 EMAG HOLDING GMBH

AI summary

A machining apparatus has a frame defining a transfer station and a machining station thereabove, a spindle having a workpiece grab and vertically displaceable on the frame between an upper position with the grab in the machining station and a lower position with the grab in the transfer station, a tool holder horizontally displaceable on the frame toward and away from the machining station, and a workpiece conveyor extending through the transfer station. After shifting a deflector underneath the machining station into a side position out from underneath the grab, the grab is lowered to pick an at least partially unmachined workpiece in the transfer station off the conveyor and then raised with the workpiece into the machining station. The deflector is then shifted between a use position over the transfer station and under the machining station and a side position allowing the spindle to pass.