High accuracy machining station for a multiple spindle rotary indexing machine tool
Number of patents in Portfolio can not be more than 2000
United States of America Patent
Stats
-
Oct 24, 1995
Grant Date -
N/A
app pub date -
Apr 15, 1994
filing date -
Apr 15, 1994
priority date (Note) -
In Force
status (Latency Note)
Importance
Abstract
The invention relates to improvements in the multiple spindle rotary indexing machine tool systems of the prior art. Traditionally, such machine tool systems include a base and an upstanding vertical column which houses a plurality of machining stations each equipped with two-axis tool slides. In addition, the base supports a rotatable worktable, which carries a number of work-holding spindles. As the worktable rotates, these spindles are indexed through successive machining stations where a variety of operations are performed. In accordance with the invention, a spindle position measurement unit is provided to dynamically measure the exact location of each spindle indexed to position at a modified machining station. A computerized numerical control system calculates spindle position errors based on the position information provided by the measurement unit and offsets tool slide position commands to compensate for those errors. As a result, the control unit compensates for both fixed and variable spindle position variations, thus improving the machining tolerances of the machine tool apparatus. In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a high accuracy finishing station is provided which includes spindle position variation measurement and compensation in combination with an independent X and Y axis tool slide positioning system. The tool slide positioning system is responsive to CNC commands for speed control and position offset due to spindle errors.
First Claim
Other Claims data not available