Automatic Tool Changer

 Automatic Tool Changer



An automatic tool changer often referred to as an ATC, is used to improve both the production and the tool carrying capacity of a computerised numerical control or CNC machine tool. It does this by allowing the machine to work with various different tools. As such it is part of the process to achieve full automation.

General Description















A simple CNC machine will be made to work with a single tool. More complex machines are capable of working with larger numbers of tools. However, for a machine to use more tools an ATC must be provided. The array of tools are stored within a magazine which allows the machine to access a wider variety of them without the need for an operator.

An automatic tool changer is generally comprised of a base, arms with a gripper, a tool holder and a support arm as well as the tool magazines. An ATC is capable of increasing the speed and accuracy as well as the reliability of a CNC machine but it does have certain requirements. Some of these include the need for the tools to be easy to centre as well as simple for the grabber arm to hold as well as easy to automatically disengage. To provide this, tools used in an ATC are usually held by specially designed tool holders.

Different Types of Automatic Tool Changers

ATCs come in two variants depending on the magazine’s shape. Some are on rotary holders on a turntable type setup with claws holding each tool in its own location. Some are straight static racks of tools that are mechanically much simple. High-end milling machines can then have chain-type tool holding stations when the tool count goes up into the ’20s and ’30s.

Automatic Tool Changer Mechanism

First, the automatic tool changing command is given. The tool that is going to be changed moves into the tool change position. The ATC arm then moves into the position so it can pick up the tool. One gripper arm moves the new tool to the turret while a second removes the old tool.

Functionality

The ATC works to significantly increase productivity by reducing the time the CNC machine spends idle. It allows for a large number of tools to be stored locally to the machine each of which is returned automatically when its task is complete. This also makes it much simpler to change large or heavy tools that would be otherwise difficult to handle.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Laser Cutting Machine

Laser cutting     is a fabrication process which employs a focused, high-powered   laser beam   to cut material into custom shapes and designs. This process is suitable for a wide range of materials, including metal, plastic, wood, gemstone, glass, and paper, and can produce precise, intricate, and complex parts without the need for custom-designed tooling. There are several different types of laser cutting available, including fusion cutting, oxidation cutting, and scribing. Each laser cutting process can produce parts with precision, accuracy, and high-quality edge finishes, and with generally less material contamination, physical damage, and waste than with other conventional cutting processes, such as mechanical cutting and waterjet cutting. However, while laser cutting demonstrates certain advantages over more conventional cutting processes, some manufacturing applications can be problematic, such as cutting reflective material or material requiring secondary ma...
Read more

Biomechanical engineering

Image
 Biomechanical engineering is a field that integrates principles of mechanical engineering with biological systems, particularly focusing on the interaction between mechanical factors and living organisms. Here are some key aspects and applications of biomechanical engineering: Biomechanics : This involves the study of the mechanical aspects of biological systems, such as how forces affect cells, tissues, and organs. Biomechanical engineers apply principles from mechanics (statics, dynamics, fluid mechanics, etc.) to understand and analyze biological structures and functions. Medical Devices : Biomechanical engineers design and develop medical devices such as prosthetics, implants, orthotics, and assistive devices. These devices aim to improve mobility, enhance bodily functions, or replace damaged biological structures. Tissue Engineering : This field combines engineering principles with biology to create biological substitutes that restore, maintain, or improve tissue function. Bi...
Read more

Coordinate Measuring Machine Probes

Image
  A  Coordinate Measuring Machine  is defined by the ability of its probe. As with CMMs, there are several types of probes available. There is the contact probe, which measures the workpieces by making contact with them. The non-contact probe that employs lasers or machine vision probes which scan with optical sensors. Contact probes are a more accurate way of measuring. However, the laser or machine vision probes are far quicker to use, while still holding a high degree of accuracy. There are also multi-sensor probes which combine both touch and optical scanning, giving the benefit of both types in one probe. Coordinate Measuring Machines: Contact Probes The two most common contact probes are Touch Trigger Probes and Analog Scanning Probes. Touch Trigger Probes: A touch trigger probe has a stylus that is attached to a bearing plate. This is then connected to pressure sensors inside the housing of the probe. Each time the probe makes contact with the workpiece, it generat...
Read more