WO2019097000A1 - Machine tool, production cell, and method for operating a production cell - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a machine tool (10, 210) for machining workpieces, comprising geometrically specific cutter, in particular a vertical lathe, comprising a machine frame (12; 212), comprising at least one workpiece spindle (30, 32) with a workpiece holder (34, 36) drivable in rotation about a spindle axis, and comprising a tool carrier (40; 240, 340) for receiving at least one machining tool (46). The workpiece spindle (30, 32) is movable vertically relative to the machine frame (12; 212), and the workpiece spindle (30, 32) is pivotable about a pivot axis (52) parallel to the spindle axis, between a machining position and a transfer position. A rotatable support column (50, 250) is arranged on the machine frame (12) and carries the at least one workpiece spindle (30, 32), the support column (20, 250) being mounted both at its lower end and at its upper end on the machine frame (12; 212). The invention also relates to a production cell (100) provided with a machine tool (10, 210) of this kind, and to a method for operating a production cell (100) with minimised downtime.

Description

 Machine tool, manufacturing cell and method for operating a production cell

The present disclosure relates to a machine tool for cutting workpiece machining with a geometrically determined cutting edge, in particular a vertical lathe, comprising a machine frame, with at least one workpiece spindle with a rotationally driven about a spindle axis workpiece holder, and with a tool carrier for receiving at least one Machining tool. [0002] In particular, the present disclosure relates to so-called vertical turning machines or vertical machining machines, which are designed for machining workpieces. The machining may include a turning, a milling, and or a drilling. For the purposes of the present disclosure, a machining operation includes machining with a tool having a geometrically determined cutting edge.

In vertical turning or vertical processing machines, which are also designed for turning, the workpiece axis is usually oriented vertically. Particularly in the case of smaller and medium workpiece sizes, in this case the (main) spindle is orientated vertically in a hanging manner. In other words, the workpiece to be machined hangs on the spindle. This has the advantage that chips can largely be discharged independently.

Also conceivable are designs of vertical turning machines or vertical machining machines which, in addition to a main spindle arranged in a vertically suspended manner, comprise a counter spindle which is arranged standing under the main spindle.

[0005] The present disclosure relates in particular to a machine tool for machining flange-like or wave-shaped components of compact dimensions. In particular, it is the mass production or mass production of components, comprising a turning or a corresponding combined machining (turning, milling, and / or drilling).

[0006] DE 10 2009 013 067 A1 discloses a machine tool for the multi-station machining of workpieces, comprising a base frame, a spindle carrier which has a pivot axis extending in a vertical Z direction and the base frame about the pivot axis is arranged pivotably, and with at least one work spindle for receiving workpieces to be machined, which is rotatable about a spindle axis extending in the Z direction, moves linearly in the Z direction. bar and hanging on the spindle carrier is arranged, and together with the spindle carrier is pivotable about the pivot axis.

[0007] DE 198 41 449 A1 discloses a machine tool comprising a machine frame with a subframe and a machine stand seated on it and having a support ring, a support mounted rotatably about a vertical axis on the support ring, a plurality of supports arranged on the support Workpiece picking devices for workpieces to be machined, a working space running around the vertical axis, in which the workpiece receiving devices are movable about the vertical axis by rotating the carrier, and a plurality of stations arranged on the machine frame in the region of the working space, in which the Workpiece receiving devices can be positioned during a processing cycle.

[0008] DE 199 20 323 A1 discloses a machine tool for fine machining of tooth flanks, comprising a machine bed, a cross slide which is arranged on the machine bed and which carries a tool head with a tool spindle, a turntable accommodated on the machine bed which carries two workpiece spindles, whereby the two workpiece spindles can be rotated by the turntable through 180 °, and with a gripper system with two workpiece grippers, wherein the gripper system can be rotated by 180 ° in order to exchange workpieces with a workpiece magazine via the two workpiece grippers. The workpiece spindles can not grasp the workpieces automatically, so that in addition two workpiece grippers are required.

[0009] DE 10 2015 001 036 A1 discloses a grinding machine for grinding pre-toothed or pre-profiled workpieces which has at least one tool spindle on which at least one grinding tool can be received, and wherein the machine has two pivotable workpiece spindles are arranged displaceably on a support member and at least temporarily to the interaction of the workpiece with the grinding tool to the tool spindle by means of at least one drive can be moved up. The workpiece spindles are pivotable about a vertical axis for loading or unloading of workpieces. DE 10 2015 001 036 A1 does not relate to lathes or similar machine tools. Machines for machining with a geometrically determined cutting edge. Furthermore, DE 10 2015 001 036 A1 shows a construction of a grinding machine in which the workpiece spindles and the tool spindle are not arranged so as to be vertically movable on one and the same frame component.

From DE 10 2010 051 866 A1 discloses a machine tool is known, with a machine frame, with two workpiece spindles and a tool holder with tools, with a transport device for workpieces, with a working position in which the workpieces are processed and with a loading position in which the workpiece spindle deposits finished workpieces on the transport device and picks up unprocessed parts, wherein the workpiece spindles can be moved by the sole method in the vertical direction from the working position into the loading position. This design requires a great deal of effort and complexity in the transport device for the workpieces.

The designs described above allow automatic workpiece change. However, it has been shown that the effort to integrate the workpiece handling is still very high. Overall, this leads to a complex design of the machine tools. This requires a lot of effort and a beträchtli chen space.

Against this background, the disclosure is based on the object of specifying a machine tool for the machining of workpieces, in which non-productive times can be further reduced. In particular, the so-called chip-to-chip time should be reduced. Preferably, the possibility is created to tension or release workpieces during the main time, that is, during a machining operation. In other words, a design is to be specified in which a workpiece is machined, wherein at the same time another workpiece is picked up or delivered by a workpiece holder or workpiece carrier.

Furthermore, a production cell, in particular a center of rotation, is to be specified, which is provided with such a machine tool, wherein furthermore a conveying device is provided for feeding and discharging workpieces. In addition, a method for minimized operation of a production cell is to be specified.

[0014] This object is achieved according to the invention by a machine tool for machining workpieces with a geometrically defined cutting edge, in particular a vertical lathe, with a machine frame, with at least one workpiece spindle with a workpiece holder which can be driven rotationally about a spindle axis, and with a tool carrier for receiving at least one machining tool, wherein the workpiece spindle is vertically movable relative to the machine frame, wherein the workpiece spindle is pivotable about a pivot axis parallel to the spindle axis between a machining position and a transfer position, wherein on the machine frame, a rotatable support column is arranged, which at least carries a workpiece spindle, and wherein the support column is mounted both at its lower end and at its upper end on the machine frame.

The object of the invention is completely solved in this way.

[0016] According to the invention, the pivotability of the workpiece spindle in a simple manner allows a loading or unloading of the workpiece holder in a simple manner. In other words, the at least one workpiece spindle can be configured approximately as a so-called pick-up spindle. In this way it is possible to dispense with separate grippers and similar handling devices. Preferably, the machine tool is designed in such a way that the at least one workpiece spindle can take over the workpieces directly from a conveyor device or deliver them to them. In other words, it is not necessary to provide additional means which transfer the workpieces between the workpiece spindle and the conveyor.

In this way, for example, chip-to-chip times can be significantly reduced. In particular, when two or more workpiece spindles are provided, one workpiece can be clamped or released while another workpiece is being machined. This is also referred to as a time-parallel workpiece change. [0018] According to an exemplary embodiment, the machining position and the transfer position are offset from one another by about 180 ° (degrees). This is particularly advantageous when exactly two workpiece spindles are used, which are pivotable together.

The at least one workpiece spindle is received, for example, on a rotary table which is designed to pivot the workpiece spindle. The pivoting (rotation) of the workpiece spindle can basically comprise a fixed direction of rotation. In other words, according to this embodiment, the workpiece spindle is pivoted either clockwise or counterclockwise, with complete revolutions. However, it is also conceivable to pivot the workpiece spindle intermittently. Accordingly, the movement from the processing position to the transfer position would comprise a first direction of rotation. On the other hand, the movement from the transfer position to the processing position would comprise a second, opposite direction of rotation.

Secondary times can be further reduced. Overall, thus the cycle times can be further reduced. The throughput increases. The machine tool can be designed very compact.

The machine tool is designed in particular as a vertical turning machine. This does not exclude that such a vertical machining machine is additionally capable of milling and / or drilling. However, in exemplary embodiments, the main machining is a turning operation. During machining, the workpiece is oriented such that a longitudinal axis (axis of rotation) of the workpiece is oriented vertically. In particular, the longitudinal axis of the workpiece is aligned parallel to the pivot axis of the workpiece spindle.

The pivot axis of the workpiece spindle can also be referred to as W axis. The machine frame can also be referred to as a machine bed, frame, base body and / or machine stand. In an exemplary embodiment, the machine tool is designed in such a way that the at least one workpiece spindle interacts with a conveying device in the transfer position in order to exchange workpieces directly between the workpiece spindle, in particular a workpiece holder (workpiece carrier) of the workpiece spindle, and the conveying device.

On the machine frame of the machine tool, a rotatable support column is arranged which carries the at least one workpiece spindle. For example, the rotatable support column is accommodated on a turntable coupled to the machine frame. The support column is rotatable to allow the pivotal movement of the at least one workpiece spindle.

Furthermore, the support column can accommodate, for example, two opposing workpiece spindles, wherein a pivot axis of the support column and the spindle axes of the two workpiece spindles are parallel to each other and spaced from each other. The pivot axis of the support column and the spindle axis of the two workpiece spindles are preferably in one plane. The pivot axis is arranged between the spindle axes, preferably exactly centered between the two spindle axes.

According to a further embodiment of the machine tool, at least one vertical guide is formed on the rotatable support column, on which at least one workpiece spindle slide is received vertically movable. Preferably, the support column on two vertical guides, which are offset from each other at the periphery of the support column. Preferably, the two vertical guides with respect to the pivot axis of the support column are arranged opposite to each other.

[0027] According to another exemplary embodiment of the machine tool, the machine frame is designed as a frame, wherein the machine frame has a base and an upper side. According to a further exemplary embodiment of the machine tool, the support column is arranged between a lower bearing block of the machine frame and an abutment which is connected to the upper side of the machine frame Machine frame is connected. By way of example, the base and the top face each other and are vertically offset from each other.

In another exemplary embodiment, at least one further column extends between the base and the upper side. The at least one further column can also be referred to as a support column. According to an exemplary embodiment, two support columns are provided, so that a total of three columns are provided with the support column, which are arranged between the base and the top. This increases the rigidity of the machine frame and in particular of the pivotable support column.

The columns (support columns) of the machine frame are fixed to the frame and rigidly arranged. Overall, the machine frame thus resembles a C-frame or yoke, wherein the free area between two legs (base and top) of the frame is bridged by the support column.

[0030] According to another exemplary embodiment of the machine tool, the machine frame has two support columns, preferably exactly two support columns, which are spaced from the support column. Preferably, the two form

Support columns and the support column, in plan view, a triangle or a 3-point structure. One of the three columns, namely the support column, is pivotable.

[0031] The design of the machine frame as a frame allows various access possibilities for the machine tool. This can be used on the one hand for workpiece transfer. Furthermore, there are access options such as maintenance, installation work, operations, and the like. So it is conceivable that the workpiece spindle is accessible in its transfer position for an operator / fitter. Work on the workpiece spindle in the transfer position is not disturbed by the tool carrier, which is arranged in the area in which the machining position of the workpiece spindle is located.

[0032] According to another exemplary embodiment of the machine tool, the bearing block on which the support column is received also carries the tool holder. carrier. The bearing block can also be referred to as a support bracket and / or bearing stub. The bearing block can also be referred to as a pedestal or platform. The bearing block is supported on the bottom side, ie at the base of the machine frame. According to an exemplary embodiment, the bearing block forms an integral part of the machine frame. The bearing block carries the support column, which is accommodated via a pivot bearing and / or a turntable on the bearing block. The bearing block also carries the tool carrier. It is understood that the tool carrier can be received directly or indirectly on the bearing block. It is conceivable that the tool carrier is slidably received relative to the bearing block on this. This can include at least one guide arrangement for defining at least one movement axis for the relative movement of the tool carrier relative to the bearing block.

[0033] According to another exemplary embodiment of the machine tool, the tool carrier can be moved in at least one axis, preferably in at least two axes, relative to the bearing block. This can include at least the feed movement of the tool during a turning operation. In addition, movement axes for the tool carrier on the bearing block allow the positioning of drilling tools, milling tools and the like. This can, for example, entail a greater degree of freedom of design or a greater range of functions in front side machining.

The support column is mounted on the machine frame both at its lower end and at its upper end. This increases the rigidity and the positioning accuracy. The upper end and the lower end of the support column are facing away from each other and vertically offset from each other. According to a further exemplary embodiment of the machine tool, the support column is arranged between the bearing block and an abutment which is connected to an upper side of the machine frame.

[0035] According to another exemplary embodiment of the machine tool, a first workpiece spindle and a second workpiece spindle are provided, wherein the first workpiece spindle and the second workpiece spindle are arranged on the rotatable support column. According to another exemplary embodiment of Machine tool is the first workpiece spindle in the machining position when the second workpiece spindle is in the transfer position. For example, the machining position and the transfer position of the workpiece spindles are offset by 180 ° (degrees) from each other. If, therefore, the second workpiece spindle is in the machining position, the first workpiece spindle is in the transfer position. A single movement of the support column is sufficient to shift both workpiece spindles alternately between the machining position and the transfer position.

According to another exemplary embodiment of the machine tool, the first workpiece spindle is designed as a pick-up workpiece spindle, wherein the second workpiece spindle is designed as a pick-up workpiece spindle. Pick-up spindles have the advantage that it is at least largely possible to dispense with additional handling devices (robots, grippers, etc.), since the spindles themselves can grasp and release the workpieces. In other words, such a pick-up spindle can take over the workpieces automatically from a conveying device or deliver them to the conveying device. It is understood that for this purpose, the workpiece spindle must be designed to be movable or pivoted accordingly.

[0037] According to a development of this embodiment, a workpiece change is made possible in the workpiece spindle arranged in the transfer position, while a machining of the workpiece takes place in the case of the workpiece spindle arranged in the machining position. Thus, a first workpiece can be processed, and the processing time (main time) can be used to transfer another workpiece.

The workpiece change may include loading and / or unloading the workpiece. The workpiece change may further include gripping the workpiece and conversely, releasing the workpiece.

According to a further embodiment of the machine tool, the first workpiece spindle and the second workpiece spindle are independently movable vertically. According to this proviso, the workpiece spindles are in particular as a pick-up Designed workpiece spindles. According to this embodiment, corresponding vertical guides are respectively received or formed on the bearing block for the workpiece spindles. The vertical movability allows, on the one hand, in the machining position of the workpiece spindle, an advancing movement between the workpiece and the machining tool. In the transfer position workpieces can be removed using the vertical mobility of the conveyor or delivered to this.

[0040] According to another exemplary embodiment of the machine tool, the tool carrier is designed as a tool turret for receiving a plurality of machining tools. For example, the tool carrier is pivotable about an axis which is oriented perpendicular to the spindle axis of the at least one workpiece spindle. However, it is also conceivable to arrange the tool carrier such that the pivot axis of the tool carrier is oriented parallel to the spindle axis of the at least one workpiece spindle.

In this way, an automatic tool change is possible. This allows different operations in one setting. In addition, another tool can be brought into engagement automatically in case of wear, for example.

The tool carrier can in principle be designed to accommodate spanning tools. This may include, for example, turning tools, milling tools, drilling tools and the like. The tool carrier can also accommodate measuring tools. In general, the tool carrier can accommodate drivable tools (drilling tools and / or milling tools) as well as tools that are not actively driven.

According to another exemplary embodiment of the machine tool, two tool carriers are provided, in particular two tool revolvers, wherein the clamped workpiece is arranged in the machining position of the at least one workpiece spindle between the first tool carrier and the second tool carrier. This further increases the functionality and flexibility of the machine tool. Preferably, the two tool carriers are spaced apart from one another and can be moved independently of one another. [0044] According to another exemplary embodiment of the machine tool, a counterspindle is also provided, which is received on the bearing block. In the machining position of the at least one workpiece spindle, the counter spindle and the workpiece spindle are arranged opposite one another and aligned with each other. Usually, the counterspindle is arranged below the workpiece spindle. Accordingly, the workpiece spindle may also be referred to as the upper spindle. Usually, the workpiece hangs on the workpiece spindle. Accordingly, the workpiece spindle is regularly configured to access the workpiece at its "upper" end.

By contrast, the counterspindle can grasp and hold the workpiece at its end facing away from the workpiece spindle. This simplifies the machining of long or overlong workpieces. In addition, the machining of the workpiece at its end facing the workpiece spindle is made possible. For this purpose, the counter spindle can grip the workpiece and the workpiece spindle can release the workpiece.

[0046] According to another example embodiment of the machine tool, the transfer position of the at least one workpiece spindle is arranged in a transfer area of the machine tool, which, with respect to the pivot axis, faces away from the tool carrier. In other words, the transfer area is separated from a process room or processing room where the processing takes place. This allows a good separation or isolation between the transfer area and the process space. Furthermore, the transfer area is accessible in this way for an operator / fitter, with a sufficient distance from the tool carrier is given.

[0047] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the object of the invention is achieved by a production cell, in particular a rotary cell, which has a machine tool according to at least one of the embodiments described herein, as well as a conveying device, the at least machined workpieces prepares or machined workpieces dissipates, wherein the at least one workpiece spindle in the transfer position takes over workpieces from the conveyor and / or delivers to the conveyor. Preferably, one and the same conveyor Direction trained to provide both machined workpieces as well as remove processed workpieces. The direct transfer between the conveying device and the workpiece spindle preferably comprises a vertical movement of the workpiece spindle.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the manufacturing cell, the conveying device is designed as a horizontal conveyor device, which conveys workpieces in a horizontal plane through the manufacturing cell. Preferably, the conveying device has a single conveying means, which accomplishes both the supply and the discharge of the workpieces.

It goes without saying that the use of a plurality of delivery means is also conceivable as an alternative. For example, a first conveying means serves the supply of workpieces to be machined. Accordingly, a second conveyor serves as an example for the removal of machined workpieces.

The conveying device may have conveying technology, such as continuous conveyors, unsteady conveyors and mixed forms, such as continuous conveyors equipped with individual workpieces, which are operated discontinuously. In particular, the conveying device may comprise a belt conveyor. Preferably, the conveyor has no separate gripping means, handling means and the like. Instead, the transfer between the tool spindle and the conveyor should be as direct as possible.

According to a further exemplary embodiment of the production cell, the machining position of the at least one workpiece spindle is in a process space (process area), wherein the transfer position of the workpiece spindle is in a transfer area, wherein the process space and the transfer area are arranged on sides of the pivot axis facing away from one another , In this way, the workpiece spindle can be moved back and forth about the pivot axis between the transfer area and the process space by pivoting about 180 °. In the sense of the present disclosure, a manufacturing cell comprises both a machine tool and a conveyor for workpieces. The transfer of the workpieces between the conveyor and the machine tool is preferably carried out automatically. Accordingly, a workpiece change can be done automatically. Furthermore, the machine tool is preferably designed to change tools as needed automatically. This allows complete machining without manual intervention. Non-productive times can be minimized. The production cell can also be described as a rotary cell in general, at least insofar as the essential processing steps include a turning of the workpieces.

The at least one pivotable workpiece spindle, which can be displaced between the machining position and the transfer position, permits a relatively safe access to the workpiece spindle in the transfer position. At least in the transfer position of the workpiece spindle from the tool carrier as well as optionally recorded on the tool carrier tools pose no significant risk.

In this context, it is advantageous if the machine frame is designed as a frame or column frame, wherein in particular a good accessibility of the transfer area is provided. This is also advantageous if a manual assembly of the workpiece spindle is desired. This can namely be done in the transfer area, with a sufficient distance from the process space is given. This can also help to prevent unwanted media transfer between the process space and the transfer area.

Preferably, a control device is provided which drives the pivoting drive of the at least one workpiece spindle, a travel drive of the at least one workpiece spindle, and a drive of the conveying device, so that the

Pivoting movement, the vertical movement and the feed of the conveying device are matched to one another in such a way that the workpieces or places provided for processing are ready for processing in the transfer position of the workpiece spindle. According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the object of the invention is achieved by a method for operating a manufacturing cell, which is minimized in a minimized manner, and which is designed in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein, the method comprising the following steps:

Machining a first workpiece received on a first workpiece spindle that is in a machining position while machining the first workpiece, transferring a second workpiece between a conveyor and a second workpiece spindle that is in a transfer position, and

Pivoting the first workpiece spindle and the second workpiece spindle to move the first workpiece spindle to the transfer position and the second workpiece spindle to the machining position.

In this way, the object of the invention is completely solved.

The processing of the first workpiece and the transfer of the second workpiece takes place at least partially parallel to time.

The transfer of the second workpiece may comprise various sub-steps, which in principle follow each other in time. For example, the transfer of the second workpiece in a first sub-step includes a delivery of a (previously) machined workpiece to the conveyor, wherein in a second sub-step, the conveyor is clocked, that is moved by a defined step, so received in a third sub-step, an unprocessed blank which represents the second workpiece.

It is understood that the features of the invention to be explained below and those to be explained below can be used not only in the particular combination indicated, but also in other combinations or in isolation, without departing from the scope of the present invention. Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description of several preferred embodiments with reference to the drawings. Show it:

1 is a perspective simplified view of a manufacturing cell according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

Fig. 2 is a frontal view of the arrangement of FIG. 1;

Fig. 3 is a side view of the arrangement of FIG. 2;

FIGS. 4, 5 and 6 show simplified plan views of a machine tool and a conveying device associated therewith (in each case in a partial view), for illustrating a workpiece transfer between the machine tool and the conveying device;

7 is a perspective simplified view of another embodiment of a manufacturing cell according to the present disclosure; and

8 is a simplified block diagram illustrating one embodiment of a method for minimizing the time to run a manufacturing cell.

With reference to FIG. 1, FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, an exemplary embodiment illustrates various aspects and designs of a manufacturing cell, designated overall by 100. The production cell 100 comprises a machine tool 10, which is coupled to a conveying device (reference numeral 80). The machine tool 10 and the conveyor 80 form parts of the production cell 100. The production cell 100 can also be referred to as a rotary cell, at least according to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-3. In particular, the machine tool 10 is designed as a lathe, in particular as a so-called vertical lathe. Accordingly, the machine tool 10 may also be referred to as a vertical machine tool. The term lathe closes nevertheless not sufficient that with the machine tool 10 and milling operations, drilling operations or the like can be performed.

In at least some of the figures shown, a coordinate system designated X-Y-Z illustrates major axes or principal directions of the machine tool 10. An axis designated Z denotes a vertical direction. An axis designated X indicates a feed direction. An axis labeled Y indicates a direction / axis that is perpendicular to both the X and Z axes. The vertical axis of a machine tool 10 in a machine tool 10 is regularly parallel to a longitudinal axis of the workpieces to be machined, when they are clamped in a machining position.

The machine tool 10 is provided for the machining of workpieces. In any case, this includes machining with a geometrically determined cutting edge during turning, milling and drilling.

The machine tool 10 comprises a frame 12. The frame 12 may also be generally referred to as a machine bed or stand. The frame 12 comprises or forms a frame 14. The frame 14 may also be referred to as a frame or pillar frame. The frame 12 includes, for example, a first pillar 16 and a second pillar 18 extending between a base 22 and an upper surface 20. The top 20 may also be referred to or embodied as a "roof" or upper cross member.

Together, the base 22, the top 20 and the two pillars 16 and 18 form a frame design that is not dissimilar to a C-frame. However, the frame 12 also includes elements of a stand construction.

At the base 22 of the frame 12, a bearing block 24 is received.

The bearing block 24 is integrated into the frame 12 or firmly connected to the frame 12. The bearing block 24 may also be referred to as a pedestal. The bearing block 24 is associated with a 26 designated abutment. The counter-bearing 26 is at the top 20 the frame 12 received or formed. The bearing block 24 and the abutment 26 face each other.

The machine tool 10 is designed for machining of corrugated or flange-shaped workpieces 28. For this purpose, in the embodiment illustrated with reference to FIGS. 1-3, a first workpiece spindle 30 and a second workpiece spindle 32 are provided. The workpiece spindle 30 is provided with a workpiece holder 34. The workpiece spindle 32 is provided with a workpiece holder 36. The workpiece holders 34, 36 have corresponding clamping devices for workpieces 28. At one end of the bearing block 24, which faces the anvil 26, a lower bearing 38 is formed.

The machine tool 10 further comprises a tool carrier 40, which may also be referred to as a tool holder. The tool carrier 40 is designed as a revolver. The tool carrier 40 has a plurality of tool holders 44. In the tool holder 44 tools 46 may be included. The tools 46 may be brought into engagement with the workpiece 28 to machine it.

In Fig. 1, a phantom line labeled 48 illustrates a pivot axis of the tool carrier 40. The tool carrier 40 may be pivoted about the pivot axis 48 to engage or disengage various tools 46 as needed. The tools 46 may be turning tools, milling tools and / or drilling tools. In particular, milling tools and drilling tools can be coupled with their own drives.

The machine tool 10 further comprises a support column labeled 50. The support column 50 is rotatable about a pivot axis designated 52. The support column 50 extends between the bearing block 24 and the upper side 20 of the frame 12. For example, the support column 50 is received on the lower bearing 38 as well as on the counter bearing 26. Since in this way the support column 50 is pivotally supported on both sides, results in a total of high positioning accuracy and rigidity. Conversely, the support column 50 gives the frame 12 an increased rigidity overall, since the frame 12 without the support column 50 would form an "open" C-frame.

Upon rotation of the support column 50 about the pivot axis 52, the workpiece spindles 30, 32 are also pivoted about the pivot axis 52. For movement of the support column 50, a pivot drive designated 60 is provided, which is designed approximately as a rotary table or turntable.

The workpiece spindles 30, 32 can each be moved vertically relative to the support column 50, compare the double arrows 54, 56 in FIG. 1 and FIG. 3. The workpiece spindle 30 can be moved by means of a vertical guide 62 and a vertical slide 64 Support column added, wherein a designated 66 traversing drive is provided. The workpiece spindle 32 is movably received on the support column via a vertical guide 68 and a vertical slide 70, wherein a travel drive designated 72 is provided. The workpiece spindles 30, 32 are independently movable vertically.

Preferably, the workpiece spindles 30, 32 are designed as so-called pick-up spindles. Accordingly, the workpiece spindles 30, 32 are adapted to automatically grip and tension workpieces 28. Likewise, the workpiece spindles 30, 32 are designed to independently release or deliver workpieces 28. This can allow a direct workpiece transfer or simplify an automatic workpiece change.

The workpiece spindles 30, 32 are further provided with suitable spindle drives for rotationally driving clamped / clamped workpieces 28 about the respective longitudinal axis 130, 132 (cf. FIG. 3), for example for turning operations or for the purpose of positioning.

In the illustrated with reference to FIGS. 1-3 embodiment of the machine tool 10, both the support column 50 with the workpiece spindles 30, 32 and the tool carrier 40 are received on the bearing block 24. Thus, the storage Bock 24 as a central element for supporting movable components of the machine tool 10th

By way of example, a recess or recess 74 is provided on the bearing block 24. In the recess 74, a guide 76 is arranged or formed. On the guide 76, a carriage 78 is accommodated, which carries the tool carrier 40. The tool carrier 40 can be moved via the carriage 78 along the guide 76 in the X direction (feed direction). In this way, about a recorded on the tool carrier 40 tool 46 can be radially delivered to the workpiece 28. It is understood that a suitable drive is provided to the carriage 78 in a desired manner on the guide 76th

In addition to the machine tool 10, the production cell 100 also has a delivery device 80 for the automatic supply and removal of workpieces 28. In FIGS. 1-3, the conveying device 80 is shown only schematically in a greatly simplified form. The conveyor device 80 comprises a conveyor system, such as a conveyor in the form of a conveyor belt 82. In particular, in Fig. 2, further deflections 84, 86 are shown for the conveyor belt 82. It is understood that the conveyor device 80 may also comprise differently shaped conveying means. It is essential that the workpiece spindles 30, 32 are designed such that a direct transfer of the workpieces between the conveyor 80 and the workpiece spindles 30, 32 is made possible. In this way, an automatic workpiece change for the machine tool 10 is accomplished.

In this context, reference is made to Fig. 3 and in addition to Fig. 4, Fig. 5 and Fig. 6, which illustrate a workpiece changing operation. FIG. 3 clearly shows that the workpiece spindles 30, 32 can be arranged alternately in a machining position and a transfer position.

In Fig. 3 (see also the perspective view in FIG.

1), the workpiece spindle 30 is in the machining position. The workpiece spindle 32 is in the transfer position. In the transfer position, the workpiece spindle is del 32 arranged in a transfer window or transfer area. In particular, the workpiece spindle 32 is disposed above the conveyor 80 and aligned in the X direction with respect to workpieces 28 and locations for workpieces 28 in the conveyor 80, respectively.

In the machining position (workpiece spindle 30 in FIGS. 1 and 3), on the other hand, the workpiece spindle 30 is spaced from the conveying device 80 and arranged adjacent to the tool carrier 40 or the tool 46 currently evaluated for processing. For example, in a turning operation, the vertical movability (in the Z direction, compare the double arrow 54) allows a feed movement between the workpiece 28 and the tool 46th

In other words, the feed movement during the lathe machining is not effected by an active movement of the tool 46 in the Z direction along the workpiece 28, but conversely by an active movement of the workpiece 28 in the Z direction relative to the tool 46 Feed movement takes place by movement of the tool carrier 40 with the tool 46 received thereon in the X direction. The vertical movability of the workpiece spindle 30 can also be used for milling operations, drilling operations and similar machining operations.

The transfer device 80 extends through a transfer window or a transfer region 90. The transfer region 90 is designed such that the delivery device 80 can protrude laterally through the machine tool 10.

In the transfer position of the workpiece spindle 32, the vertical movability (see the double arrow 56) enables lifting or depositing of workpieces 28. In other words, the workpiece spindles 30, 32 are preferably designed as so-called pick-up spindles. This regularly includes a drive for the workpiece holders 34, 36 in order to be able to grasp (release) or release workpieces 28.

Workpieces 28, which are received and clamped on the respective workpiece holder 34, 36, can be moved in the Z direction by the vertical movement of the workpiece spindles 30, 32. Accordingly, the workpiece spindle 32 directly workpieces 28 with replace the conveyor 80. There are no additional grippers, robots and other handling units for the workpiece change between conveyor 80 and machine tool 10 is required.

In other words, the vertical drive of each workpiece spindle 30, 32 can be used both as a feed drive and for raising or lowering the workpieces 28 in the course of workpiece transfer.

Furthermore, FIG. 3 clearly shows that the overall result is a closed guide profile due to the support column 50, which is arranged between the bearing block 24 and the abutment 26. This allows a high rigidity and positioning accuracy for the support column 50 and finally for the workpiece spindles 30, 32 received thereon. In this way, for example, relatively long workpieces 28 with a large length-diameter ratio can be machined, without any lateral deflection The support column 50 would adversely affect the achievable accuracy.

In FIGS. 1, 2 and 3, 92 also indicates an access opening which is located between the two columns 16, 18. Assuming that the region of the machine tool 10 in which the processing takes place, that is, where the processing space / process space is defined, is formed on a front side of the machine tool (see reference numeral 88 in Fig. 3), the access opening 92 allows one Access to the transfer area 90 from a rear side of the machine tool 10. An operator / fitter has access to the transfer area 90 without the tool carrier 40 interfering with the tools 46 received thereon in the activities to be performed.

FIGS. 4, 5 and 6 show a simplified sequence which illustrates a workpiece change between the transfer area and the processing area. 4, 5 and 6 each show a plan view of the production cell 100, wherein, for reasons of clarity, for example, illustration of the frame 12 has been dispensed with. The support column 50 is associated with a pivot drive 60, for example, a rotary table on which the support column 50 is arranged. A pivoting movement of the support column 50 is indicated in FIGS. 4, 5 and 6 by a curved arrow 94. Furthermore, an arrow designated by 96 in FIGS. 4, 5 and 6 shows a feed direction of the conveying device 80.

FIG. 4 illustrates a state corresponding to the state of the manufacturing cell 10 in FIGS. 1, 2 and 3. The workpiece spindle 30 is in the machining position. The workpiece spindle 32 is in the transfer position. The workpiece spindle 32 and the conveyor belt 82 of the conveyor device 80 are positioned such that the workpiece spindle 32 can receive or deliver a workpiece 28. This requires regular vertical movement of the workpiece spindle 32 (see the double arrow 56 in FIG. 3) and actuation of the workpiece holder 36. While the workpiece spindle 32 is in the transfer position, machining may be performed on the workpiece spindle 30 which is in the machining position of the workpiece 28, which is received on the workpiece holder 34 of the workpiece spindle 30, see also FIG. 3.

In any case, when the workpiece spindle 32 has grasped and lifted a workpiece to be machined, the pivoting drive 60 can rotate the support column 50 about its pivot axis 52 and thus pivot the workpiece spindles 30, 32. However, this is only possible if the machining of the workpiece 28 of the workpiece spindle 30 is completed in the processing room. However, the duration of the processing in the processing space 88 can be used to deliver a machined workpiece 28 in the transfer area 90 and / or to receive a workpiece 28 to be processed.

Starting from the initial position shown in FIG. 4, FIG. 5 shows a state in which the support column 50 has been pivoted about 60 ° (degrees) relative to the starting position. Fig. 6 shows a state in which the support column 50 has been pivoted in total by about 120 ° (degrees) relative to the initial position shown in FIG. If the total pivoting movement is 180 ° (degrees), the workpiece spindle 30 and the workpiece spindle 32 will to some extent exchange their places. It is understood that vertical movements of the workpiece spindles 30,

32 are conceivable during the pivoting movement, about to avoid collisions. Then, the workpiece spindle 32 is disposed in the machining position and the workpiece spindle 30 in the transfer position. Accordingly, the workpiece 28 received on the workpiece spindle 32 can be processed. The workpiece 28 received on the workpiece spindle 30 can be transferred to the conveying device 80 and replaced by a new workpiece 28 to be machined.

It is understood that an exchange of workpieces 28 in the transfer position also includes a corresponding advancing movement of the conveying device 80, compare the arrow 96. In other words, the machined workpiece 28 must be delivered to a free space of the conveying device 80. Then, the conveyor 80 can advance, whereby a new workpiece to be machined 28 is moved to a position in which the workpiece spindle 30 can accommodate this by a combined te vertical movement and gripping movement.

The pivotal movement 94 may be rectified (either clockwise or counterclockwise) or alternatively reciprocated. In other words, the support column 50 can also be alternately swiveled clockwise or counterclockwise between the machining position and the transfer position (approximately plus / minus 180 °).

To control and monitor the various movements which are carried out during the workpiece change, a control device 98 is provided, which is only schematically indicated in FIG. 3 by way of example. It is understood that the control device 98 can also be designed to control the actual processing of the workpiece 28.

Referring now to Figure 7, an alternate embodiment of a machine tool, generally designated 210, is illustrated. Similar to the machine tool 10, the machine tool 210 may also be in a production cell 100 be integrated, the machine tool 210 may be designed as a lathe and the production cell 100 as a center of rotation.

For the general structural design of the machine tool 210, reference is made to the previously explained FIGS. 1-6. Particular emphasis will be given below to distinguishing features and modifications. The machine tool 210 comprises a frame 212 which is designed, for example, as a frame or stand. The frame 212 carries a bearing block 224 on which in principle already described above, a pivotable T ragsäule 250 is arranged for receiving two workpiece spindles.

Furthermore, the bearing block 224 carries a first tool carrier 240 and a second tool carrier 340. The tool carriers 240, 340 are arranged such that a workpiece spindle which is arranged in the processing position (compare the workpiece spindle 30 in FIG. 1) , is arranged between the two tool carriers 240, 340.

The tool carrier 240 includes a turret 242 which can receive a plurality of tools. The tool carrier 340 includes a turret 342 which can receive a plurality of tools. The tool carrier 240 can be rotated about a pivot axis 248. The tool carrier 340 is rotatable about a pivot axis 348. In this way, different tools can be brought into engagement with a workpiece to be machined or disengaged. The pivot axes 248, 348 in the embodiment of FIG. 7 are each oriented parallel to the Z-axis (vertical direction).

With respect to a workpiece to be machined, the tool carriers 240, 340 are arranged opposite each other. Infeed movements of the tool carriers 240, 340 are oriented parallel to the X-axis (infeed axis). Accordingly, in any case, the coordinate system XYZ of the design in FIG. 7 is oriented somewhat differently with respect to the machine frame 212 than the coordinate system XYZ of the design in FIGS. 1-3 with respect to the machine frame 12 located there. This illustrates that FIG the coordinate systems XY-Z are provided primarily for illustrative purposes. It is understood that other assignments and other coordinate systems for describing designs and modifications of the machine tools 10, 210 are conceivable. The person skilled in the art can make appropriate assignments and transformations without further ado and transfer them to correspondingly modified embodiments without further ado.

Each of the tool carriers 240, 340 is movable in three linear axes relative to the bearing block 224 and thus relative to the workpiece spindle. For the tool carrier 240, a guide 276 (Y guide) is arranged or formed on the bearing block 224, on which a carriage 278 is accommodated. On the carriage 278, a guide 280 (vertical guide or Z-guide) is arranged or formed, on which a carriage 282 is received. On the carriage 282, a guide 284 (infeed guide or X-guide) is arranged or formed, on which a carriage 286 is accommodated. The carriage 286 carries the tool carrier 240, which is rotatable about the axis 248.

For the tool carrier 340, a guide 376 (Y-guide) is arranged or formed on the bearing block 324, on which a carriage 378 is received. On the carriage 378, a guide 380 (vertical guide or Z-guide) is arranged or formed, on which a carriage 382 is received. On the carriage 382, a guide 384 (infeed guide or X-guide) is arranged or formed, on which a carriage 386 is accommodated. The carriage 386 carries the tool carrier 340, which is rotatable about the axis 348.

Overall, therefore, the bearing block 224 carries, in addition to the two workpiece spindles, also the two tool carriers 240, 340, which are accommodated on the bearing block 224 in a displaceable manner via various guides. Overall, this results in an extremely compact design, although a variety of machining operations with various tools is possible.

In particular, in the design according to FIG. 7, it is conceivable, in addition to the workpiece spindles, which to a certain extent be mounted "suspended" on the machine frame 212. are taken to provide a counter spindle, which in turn are also supported by the respective bearing block 224. In the embodiment according to FIGS. 1-3, this would also be conceivable if the tool carrier 40 were not arranged below but laterally offset from the machining position of the tool spindle 30, 32.

With reference to FIG. 8, an embodiment of a method for operating a production cell at a minimum is illustrated by way of a schematically greatly simplified block diagram. Preferably, the method is used in a manufacturing cell which is designed according to at least one of the embodiments described herein.

[00107] The method comprises a step S10 relating to the provision of a manufacturing cell having a machine tool and a conveyor. The machine tool has workpiece spindles, which are received on a support column and pivotable about a pivot axis. In this way, the workpiece spindles can be moved alternately between a transfer position and a processing position.

The provisioning step S10 is followed by a processing step S12 and a transfer step S14. The steps S12, S14 run at least temporarily parallel to time. The step S12 relates to a machining, in particular a machining, of a workpiece, which is received on the workpiece spindle, which is in the processing position during the step S12.

Step S14 relates at least to the delivery of a machined workpiece or to the picking up of a workpiece to be machined in the case of the workpiece spindle which is in the transfer position during step S14. If an automated workpiece change has commenced in a corresponding manner, step S14 comprises first the delivery of the processed workpiece and then (still in the same step S14) the picking up of a new workpiece to be machined. The step S14 may accordingly comprise various sub-steps, which in principle follow one another in time, if necessary with temporal overlap. For example, the transfer of the second workpiece in a first sub-step includes a delivery of a (previously) machined workpiece to the conveyor, wherein in a second sub-step, the conveyor is clocked, that is moved by a defined step, so that in a third sub-step unprocessed Blank is taken, which represents the workpiece to be machined. The transfer of the workpieces between the conveyor and the workpiece spindle requires no additional grippers, actuators, and the like, when the workpiece spindle (s) is / are designed as a so-called pick-up spindle (s).

The steps S12 and S14 is followed by a step S16, which includes a pivoting of the two workpiece spindles about a vertically oriented pivot axis. In other words, the workpiece spindle which has been previously in the machining position changes to the transfer position. The workpiece spindle, which was previously in the transfer position, changes to the machining position. The pivoting comprises entrainment of the respectively recorded workpieces. Thus, after step S16, a new workpiece to be machined is available in the machining position. By contrast, the workpiece processed in the meantime (in step S12) is ready for transfer in the transfer position.

Step S16 is followed by steps S18 and S20. The step S18 is a processing step corresponding to the step S12. The step S20 is a transfer step corresponding to the step S14. The steps S18, S20 are followed by a renewed pivoting step S22. The Verschwenkschritte S16, S22 can basically include the same direction or in opposite directions oriented pivoting movements.

[00113] The method can be continued accordingly to process further workpieces.

Claims

claims 1. Machine tool for cutting workpiece machining with a geometrically determined cutting edge, in particular a vertical lathe, with a machine frame (12, 212), with at least one workpiece spindle (30, 32) with a workpiece holder (34, 36) rotatably drivable about a spindle axis, and with a tool carrier (40; 240, 340) for receiving at least one processing tool (46), wherein the workpiece spindle (30, 32) is movable vertically relative to the machine frame (12; 212), wherein the workpiece spindle (30, 32) is pivotable about a pivot axis (52) parallel to the spindle axis between a processing position and a transfer position, and wherein a rotatable support column (50, 250) is arranged on the machine frame (12) carrying the at least one workpiece spindle (30, 32), characterized in that the support column (50, 250) is mounted both at its lower end and at its upper end on the machine frame (12; 212). 2. Machine tool according to claim 1, characterized in that at the  rotatable support column (50, 250) at least one vertical guide (62, 68) is arranged on which at least one workpiece spindle slide (64, 70) is received vertically movable. 3. Machine tool according to claim 2, characterized in that the machine frame (12) is designed as a frame (14) and a base (22) and an upper side (20). 4. Machine tool according to claim 3, characterized in that the Tragagsu- le (50, 250) between a lower bearing block (24, 224) of the machine frame (12; 212) and an abutment (26) is arranged with the top ( 20) of the machine frame (12) is connected. 5. Machine tool according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that extending between the base (22) and the upper side (20) at least one further column (16, 18). 6. Machine tool according to one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that the machine frame (12) has two support columns (16, 18) which are spaced from the support column (50, 250). 7. Machine tool according to one of the claims 1 to 6, characterized marked, that the bearing block (24, 224) on which the support column (50, 250) is received, also carries the tool carrier (40; 240, 340). 8. Machine tool according to claim 7, characterized in that the tool carrier (40; 240, 340) in at least one axis (X), preferably in at least two axes, relative to the bearing block (24, 224) is movable. 9. Machine tool according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that a first workpiece spindle (30) and a second workpiece spindle (32) is provided, and that the first workpiece spindle (30) and the second workpiece spindle (32) on the rotatable support column (50, 250) are arranged. 10. Machine tool according to claim 9, characterized in that the first workpiece spindle (30) is designed as a pick-up workpiece spindle, and that the second workpiece spindle (32) is designed as a pick-up workpiece spindle. 1 1. A machine tool according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that the first workpiece spindle (30) is in the machining position when the second workpiece spindle (32) is in the transfer position. 12. Machine tool according to claim 1 1, characterized in that the processing position and the transfer position of the workpiece spindles (30, 32) are offset by approximately 180 ° about the pivot axis (52) to each other. 13. Machine tool according to claim 1 1 or 12, characterized in that at the arranged in the transfer position workpiece spindle (30, 32) a workpiece change is made possible, while at the arranged in the machining position workpiece spindle (30, 32) a processing of the workpiece (28) takes place. 14. Machine tool according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the tool carrier (40; 240, 340) as a tool turret (42; 242, 342) for receiving a plurality of processing tools (46) is formed. 15. Machine tool according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the tool carrier (40; 240, 340) is pivotable about an axis which is oriented perpendicular or parallel to the spindle axis of the at least one workpiece spindle (30, 32). 16. Machine tool according to one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the transfer position of the at least one workpiece spindle (30, 32) in a transfer region (90) of the machine tool (10, 210) is arranged, with respect to the pivot axis (52), facing away from the tool carrier (40; 240, 340). 17 manufacturing cell, in particular rotary cell, with a machine tool (10, 210) according to one of claims 1 to 16, and with a conveying device (80) at least to be machined workpieces (28) provides or processed workpieces (28) dissipates, wherein the at least one workpiece spindle (30, 32) in the transfer position takes over workpieces (28) from the conveying device (80) or delivers them to the conveying device (80). 18. Production cell according to claim 17, characterized in that the machining position of the at least one workpiece spindle (30, 32) is in a process area, and in that the transfer position of the workpiece spindle is in a transfer area. rich (90), wherein the process area and the transfer area (90) on mutually facing sides of the pivot axis (52) are arranged. 19. A method for minimizing the time of operation of a manufacturing cell (100) according to any one of claims 17 or 18, comprising the steps of: Machining a first workpiece (28) received on a first workpiece spindle (30) that is in a machining position during machining of the first workpiece (28), transferring a second workpiece (28) between a conveyor (80) and a second workpiece spindle (32), which is in a transfer position, and Pivoting the first workpiece spindle (30) and the second workpiece spindle (32) to move the first workpiece spindle (30) to the transfer position and the second workpiece spindle (32) to the machining position.