EP3105007A1

EP3105007A1 - Manufacturing system comprising a plurality of machine tools and method for operating a manufacturing system

Info

Publication number: EP3105007A1
Application number: EP15703960.3A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Hubert Bruder; Guido Jentzsch
Original assignee: MAG IAS GmbH Eislingen
Current assignee: MAG IAS GmbH Eislingen
Priority date: 2014-02-14
Filing date: 2015-02-05
Publication date: 2016-12-21
Also published as: CN105992674A; US20170043443A1; WO2015121140A1; DE102014101874A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a manufacturing system comprising a plurality of machine tools (22) for machining workpieces, said system having a plurality of operating sequence devices (20), each device having at least one machine tool (22). The operating sequence devices (20) are arranged sequentially and different machining processes for the workpieces are carried out in different operating sequence devices (20). The system also has an automated transport device (44) for transporting workpieces into and between operating sequence devices (20) and is characterised by at least one run (24; 26), in which a plurality of operating sequence devices (20) is arranged, devices (18) for the non-machining treatment of workpieces being arranged outside the at least one run (24; 26).

Description

The invention relates to a production system comprising a plurality of machine tools for machining workpieces, comprising a plurality of work sequence devices each having at least one machine tool, wherein the work sequence devices are arranged sequentially and different in different work sequence devices zer machining workpiece machining operations are performed, and an automated transport device for transporting workpieces in and between work sequence facilities.

The invention further relates to a method for operating a manufacturing system.

Manufacturing systems (manufacturing systems) are used to perform different machining operations on a workpiece. For example, cylinder heads or crankcases are produced in the context of manufacturing systems.

From DE 10 2005 034 079 AI a modular manufacturing system with agent-based procurement is known, which contains machining centers, which are organized in processing clusters. The machining centers are linked together by means of a transport device with independent handling units. The assignment of workpieces and machining sequences to individual machining centers automatically performs a control device.

From US 2011/0000082 AI a processing line module is known, which has a plurality of machines, wherein the machines have a plurality of processing functions. Furthermore, a non- processing device such as a monitoring machine provided.

From DE 2 217 206 a machine system is known in which machine tools, measuring and washing stations of a conveyor for workpiece carriers are assigned and a control computer controls the system.

From WO 2007/063374 AI a system is known, which comprises K machine lines, where K is a natural number. Each of the K machine lines comprises N machine tools for performing specific machining operations, where N is a natural number greater than or equal to two.

The invention has for its object to provide a manufacturing system of the type mentioned, which allows optimized operation.

This object is achieved in the case of the aforementioned production system

According to the invention solved in that at least one strand is provided, in which a plurality of work sequence devices is arranged, wherein means for nichtzerspanenden workpiece treatment outside of the at least one strand are arranged.

By arranging a plurality of work sequence devices in one line, the automated transport device can serve the corresponding machine tools in the at least one line. This results in an optimized use of space. Transport routes can be kept low.

Non-machining workpiece treatment devices include, for example, inspection devices such as leak testers, cleaning devices, mounting devices, and the like. The arrangement outside of a strand results in an optimized operability for machine tools of a strand and the transport paths within a strand can be kept short. The space required for the machine tools can be kept low. This in turn can be, for example, in a simple manner perform an enclosure of the machine tools in a strand, for example, in a climatic chamber or tempering. The space required for the enclosure is minimized. Furthermore, workpieces can also be easily supplied to a central facility, for example, for testing purposes or measurement purposes and the automated transport device can be used for transport.

Furthermore, a central chip disposal can be realized and it can also realize a central media supply or media removal for a strand. This results in a space-saving design of the manufacturing system.

It is particularly favorable if machine tools are arranged aligned in a line on the at least one strand. An aligned arrangement of machine tools results in optimized space utilization. The automated transport device can be formed in a simple manner and may include, for example, one or more conveyor belts for transporting workpieces within work sequence devices and between work sequence devices. It can be realized in a simple way a central chip disposal and a central media supply or media removal.

It is also advantageous if a passage is assigned to the at least one strand. This results in a simple loadability and unloadability of machine tools.

It is advantageous if a front side of a machine tool of the at least one strand assigns the passage. It can be done through the access a loading and unloading.

In particular, one or more doors of the corresponding machine tool are arranged on the front of the machine tool, wherein the Doors or doors allow access to the working space of the corresponding machine tool. As a result, access to the working spaces of the machine tools can be achieved from the passage. It is also advantageous if the automated transport device

at least partially along the front. This makes it easy to achieve loading or unloading at the front. The transport device is arranged at least in a partial area in front, in particular in front of the machine tools. These can then be loaded and unloaded from above at the front, for example via portals or portal robots.

Rear sides of the machine tools are facing away from the passage and advantageously takes place a chip disposal on the back. This results in an optimized use of space.

In particular, a central chip disposal device is provided, which runs along the rear sides at least in a partial area. This makes it possible to use a chip disposal device for a plurality of work follower devices.

It is also advantageous if the at least one strand is associated with a media guide strand, through which a plurality of machine tools in the at least one strand one or more media can be provided and / or one or more media of machine tools can be discharged. As a result, for example, the coolant supply or lubricant supply can be centralized, at least to a certain extent.

In one embodiment, the passage is formed between a first strand and a second strand. This results in an optimized use of space. Conveniently, at least a portion of the transport device, which is guided along the at least one strand, designed as a conveyor belt. As a result, workpieces can be easily transported in a large length range.

It is furthermore advantageous if at least one partial region of the transport device which effects a transport transversely to a longitudinal direction of the at least one strand is designed as a device which can be moved on a floor of the passage or as a transporting device spaced apart at a height distance from the bottom. It can thus easily bridge the passage and also keep free. A spaced at a height distance transporting device is formed for example as a high band, which elevators are assigned, or is designed as a gripper, which translates, for example, workpieces from a conveyor belt to a parallel conveyor belt. A mobile device, which is movable on the floor of the passage (shuttle), may be designed so that when not in use, the corresponding vehicle is in a parking position that does not block the passage. For example, the vehicle is designed as an electric vehicle and induction loops are left in the ground.

In one embodiment, the at least one strand is enclosed. For example, a plurality of work sequence devices can be tempered. The arrangement in a strand results in an optimized use of space, and the area that must then be housed, is minimized by the footprint requirements ago.

For example, the at least one strand is enclosed in a tempering chamber or climatic chamber.

Conveniently, a control device is provided, which controls the manufacturing system and by which the discharge of workpieces from a work sequence device by the automated Trans- Porteinrichtung to the central device and / or the introduction of workpieces from the central device is controlled in a work sequence device. As a result, an automated discharge or infiltration can be achieved.

It is favorable if a central device is provided which is connected to the automated transport device and to which workpieces of work sequence devices can be fed via the automated transport device.

Workpieces which have been processed in a work sequence device must, for example, be tested and / or measured. For example, workpieces are checked as part of a statistical process control. After inserting a new tool on a machine tool, a test or measurement of workpieces makes sense.

In the solution according to the invention, workpieces can be transported from a work sequence device to the central device and if necessary also transported back. It can thus be ejected workpieces and bring to the central facility. There can locally take place for workpieces from different work sequence facilities a review or measurement. As a result, the number of corresponding test stations and measuring stations in the production system can be kept low because, for example, not every work sequence device must have its own test station or measuring station.

Furthermore, the automated transport device can be used for transport. As a result, paths for an operator to bring a workpiece into a test station or measuring station are minimized. The automated transport device automatically provides workpieces of the central facility where the inspection or measurement can be performed. It is advantageous if workpieces can be fed from the central device via the automated transport device. For example, a workpiece may then be returned to the production process after inspection at the central facility when quality control has been successful.

In particular, workpieces can be fed via the automated transport device in the central device of each work sequence device and / or workpieces can be fed from the central device to each work sequence device. As a result, for example, the complete quality inspection process for the production system can be carried out at the central facility.

It is expedient for the central device to comprise at least one of the following: a test station, a measuring station, which in particular comprises at least one coordinate measuring machine, a workpiece setting device, a common room, a console device for a control device of the production system, a tool setting device (tool setting station). In the provision of a workpiece setting device (workpiece setting station) to which, for example, workpieces can be connected to an adapter plate, a corresponding one can be provided at a central location

Operation and infiltration done. Furthermore, if a console device is present at the central facility, optimized accessibility is enabled. A lounge for operators at the central facility optimizes the footprint for the manufacturing system. At a

Tool adjustment, an operator can set tools that are intended to be exchanged on machine tools, with appropriate equipment.

It is favorable if a cleaning device is provided, which is assigned to the central device and on which workpieces can be cleaned. For example, for a test procedure, a workpiece should be subjected to cleaning, for example by means of blown air. For the use of a coordinate measuring machine a workpiece should be washed. By the Presence of the central device, a small number of cleaning devices can be used to perform a corresponding cleaning. The transport to the cleaning device or from the cleaning device can take place via the automated transport device.

The cleaning device may be wholly or partly arranged on the central device or be arranged wholly or partially spaced from the central device.

In one exemplary embodiment, the cleaning device is associated with a plurality of work sequence devices, wherein workpieces from different work sequence devices can be fed to the cleaning device via the automated transport device, and in particular workpieces from all work sequence devices are automated

Transport device of the cleaning device fed. As a result, the number of individual components of the manufacturing system can be kept low. Conveniently, the cleaning device comprises at least one air cleaner (dry cleaner). About an air cleaner blown off a workpiece in particular by blowing air. It can then be checked, for example, for its quality. It is also advantageous if the cleaning device alternatively or additionally comprises at least one scrubber (wet cleaner). A scrubber can be used to wash a workpiece so that it can be measured, especially in a coordinate measuring machine. It is also advantageous if at least one transfer station is provided, starting from which workpieces can be fed via the automated transport device to the central device, and which is at a distance from the central device. It can be achieved by an optimized discharge or infiltration. In one exemplary embodiment, at least one transfer station is assigned a test device, by means of which workpieces can be tested and, in particular, it is possible to check whether a workpiece is to be excluded from the machining process. It can then workpieces that are damaged for example (because, for example, in them a tool part is inserted) are excluded. These do not then have to go through the stage of testing at the central facility. Such a workpiece, which was recognized as "out of order" by the inspection device, can be guided to the central facility and then removed there directly from the production process.

Conveniently, the at least one transfer point is arranged at a transition of a work sequence device to the next adjacent work sequence device. This results in an optimized discharge or infiltration.

In particular, the at least one transfer point is arranged on the automated transport device. This results in a simple transport possibility to the central facility.

It is advantageous if a work sequence device has a plurality of machine tools, a parallel machining of workpieces in the corresponding work sequence devices takes place. As a result, a high throughput of workpieces in the manufacturing system can be achieved.

The workpiece machining in the sequential work sequence devices is sequential, wherein in particular workpieces are transferred from a work sequence device into a next-nearest work sequence device.

As a result, transport times for workpieces can be kept low.

According to the invention, a method of the type mentioned is provided, in which work sequence devices sequentially on at least one Strand are arranged, and nichtzerspanende workpiece treatments are performed outside the at least one strand.

The method according to the invention can be carried out on the production system according to the invention.

The advantages of the method according to the invention were already in

Explained connection with the manufacturing system according to the invention. It is provided in particular that a transport takes place transversely to the at least one strand for nichtzerspanende workpiece treatments. As a result, the manufacturing system can be built in a space-saving manner. In one embodiment, workpieces are removed from a work sequence device and automatically transported by the automated transport device to the central device and / or from the central device workpieces are automatically transported by the automated transport device and introduced into a work sequence device. As a result, central tasks such as examination tasks or measurement tasks can be carried out at the central facility. The automated conveyor is used to bring workpieces to this central facility and workpieces can be returned from the central facility to work sequence facilities. It can then be assigned, for example, a test station or measuring station of a plurality of work sequence facilities. Transport routes for an operator are minimized.

It is advantageous if material testing and / or workpiece measurement is carried out in the central device. At this workpieces from different work sequences can be tested or measured. It is also advantageous if a cleaning of workpieces is carried out at a central cleaning device, to which the workpieces are transported by the automated transport device and in particular are transported from which workpieces to the central device. This makes it possible to carry out an optimized test or measurement at the central facility. The number of cleaning facilities can be kept low.

For example, workpieces are removed from work sequence facilities as part of a statistical process control. This results in a simple way quality controllability.

In one embodiment, a discharge of workpieces is performed when a machine tool is loaded, which is located next to a transfer point. If the loading takes place in a fixed sequence, this results in a cycle time optimization.

In one embodiment, it is provided that machine tools are variably assigned to work sequence devices. This allows different requirements and conditions during the production process to be addressed. If, for example, a work sequence device provides "too few workpieces" in the overall process, one or more machine tools can be assigned to a different work sequence device (and in particular the adjacent work sequence device) of the first-mentioned work sequence device by the variability.

For example, adjacent machine tools carry out a machining workpiece machining on a first work sequence device or a second work sequence device, wherein in particular a control device adjusts which work sequence device is assigned a corresponding machine tool. Depending on requirements in the production process, the neighboring machine tools can then differ Work sequence facilities are assigned or assigned to the same work sequence device.

For the same reason, it is favorable if next adjacent machine tools are operated variably in different work sequence devices with regard to a sequence of operations. This results in a high flexibility of the manufacturing system.

The following description of preferred embodiments is used in conjunction with the drawings for further explanation of the invention. Show it :

Figure 1 is a schematic representation of an embodiment of a manufacturing system according to the invention.

An exemplary embodiment of a production system according to the invention, which is shown in FIG. 1 and designated there by 10, is arranged, for example, in a hall 12. The production system 10 comprises a cutting device 14. The cutting device 14 in this case comprises a plurality of workpiece machines for cutting workpiece machining.

Furthermore, the production system 10 comprises a central device 16. Furthermore, the manufacturing system 10 comprises a workpiece treatment device 18 in which, in particular, a non-cutting workpiece treatment takes place.

The cutting device 14, the central device 16 and the workpiece handling device 18 are arranged in different parts of the hall 12. The manufacturing system 10 includes a plurality of work sequence devices 20. In the embodiment shown, the

Manufacturing system a first work sequence device 20 a, a second

Work sequence device 20b, a third work sequence device 20c, a fourth work sequence device 20d and a fifth work sequence device 20e.

A work sequence device 20 has in each case at least one machine tool 22 for machining workpieces. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1, each work sequence device 20 has a plurality of machine tools 22.

The machine tools 22 within a work sequence device 20 usually perform a parallel processing of workpieces, that is, a plurality of workpieces is processed on the different machine tools 22 of a work sequence device 20 in the same manner, wherein the workpiece machining, which is a machining workpiece machining, at least approximately synchronously , Different types of machine tools 22 can be used in different work sequence devices 20 or, in different work sequence devices, the corresponding machine tools 22 can be set differently (even if they are of the same design).

By the machine tools 22 in particular metal parts are machined.

The work sequence devices 20 are arranged sequentially. A particular workpiece, which has been processed on a work sequence device 20, is transferred to the next work sequence device after processing (and possibly an intermediate treatment) and further processed there. In different work sequencing facilities 20, in particular performed different machining workpieces, these workpieces with respect to the corresponding work sequence device 20 in particular build on each other, that is, a certain order must be met.

In the manufacturing system 10, work sequence devices 20 are arranged in a first strand 24 and in a second strand 26. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the first strand 24 comprises the work sequence devices 20c, 20d, 20e. The second strand 26 comprises the work sequence devices 20a and 20b.

The work sequence devices 20 and thus the machine tools 22 of the corresponding work sequence device 20 are respectively arranged in the first strand 24 and the second strand 26 in a row in a line 28 or 30 respectively. In particular, the machine tools 22 in the respective strand 24 or 26 are aligned at least approximately in alignment.

Between the first strand 24 and the second strand 26 and thus between the machine tools 22 of the first strand 24 and the second strand 26, a passage 32 is arranged. An operator can go through or pass through this passage.

The passage 32 has a bottom 34. This floor 34 is, for example, the floor of the hall 12 or a floor 34 which is arranged on the floor of the hall 12.

The machine tools 22 each have a front side 36 and a rear side 38. The front sides 36 of the machine tools 22 face the passage 32 and the back sides 38 face away from the passage 32. Accordingly, the front sides 36 of the machine tools 22 can be accessed via the passage 32. On the front sides 36 of the machine tools 22, one or more doors 40 are arranged, via which a work space 42 of the corresponding machine tool 22 is accessible. The front sides 36 of the machine tools 22 of the first strand 24 face the front sides of the machine tools 22 of the second strand 26.

The manufacturing system 10 has an automated transport device 44. The automated transport device 44 is used to transport workpieces in the manufacturing system and thereby to transport workpieces within the chipper 14, from the chipper 14 to the central device 16 and the workpiece handling device 18. The automated conveyor 44 has sections 46a, 46b. These partial regions 46a, 46b extend along the first strand 24 (partial region 46a) or the second strand 26 (partial region 46b) along the front sides 36 of the corresponding machine tools 22. The machine tools 22 can be loaded or unloaded via their front sides 36 via the partial areas 46a, 46b. For loading or unloading of the machine tools 22, for example, portals or gantry robots are provided. By this, the machine tools 22 are loaded on the respective front sides 36 from above.

The sections 46a, 46b are formed in particular by conveyor belts.

A transport direction in the subregions 46a, 46b is in particular at least approximately parallel to the lines 28, 30 (the lines 28, 30 being at least approximately parallel to one another). In particular, transport directions in the subregions 46a, 46b are parallel to one another. The automated transport device 44 also has subregions 48a, 48b, by means of which a transport transversely to the lines 28, 30 is made possible and, in particular, a connection between the first strand 24 and the second strand 26 with respect to the automated transport device 44 is made possible. Through the subregions 48a, 48b of the automated transport device 44, the passage 32 can be bridged.

In one embodiment, a partial area 48a is provided, which is arranged between the first work sequence device 20a and the second work sequence device 20b and leads into the third work sequence device 20c.

In one embodiment, a portion 48b is further provided, which leads from the central device 16 to the portion 46a. The portion 46b of the automated transport device 44 leads along the second strand 26 to the central device 16. As a result, the central device 16 to a portion of the transport device 44th

In one embodiment, the sub-areas 48a, 48b are formed so that a workpiece transport takes place at a height distance to the bottom 34 of the passage 32 in order not to hinder the patency. For example, for this purpose, a high band with a corresponding lift is provided on the subregions 46a, 46b. It is also possible, for example, for a gripper to translate workpieces from subregion 46a to subregion 46b or vice versa.

In another embodiment, a portion 48a or 48b is formed by a vehicle which travels on the floor 34.

This vehicle takes over workpieces from the partial area 46a or 46b and leads them over to the partial area 46b or 46a. The vehicle (shuttle) is operated for example via induction loops in the ground 34. It can be driven during a non-transport phase in a parking position in which the passage 32 is not locked. The workpiece handling device 18 is arranged outside of the strands 24, 26. In one embodiment, the workpiece handling device 18 includes cleaning devices 50, 52, through which workpieces can be cleaned, and mounting devices 54, 56, 58. Workpiece assemblies are performed on the mounting devices. In a mounting device (such as the mounting device 54) is a cleaning device (in this case, the cleaning device 50) upstream to clean a workpiece before a mounting operation can. A cleaning device 50 is designed in particular as an air cleaning device, in which a cleaning process is carried out by means of compressed air. The cleaning device 50 may also be designed as a scrubber or include such.

The automated transport device 44 comprises subareas 60, via which workpieces from the subregions 46a and 46b transversely to the lines 28 and 30, respectively, can be transported away to the workpiece treatment device 18 and, if appropriate, can be introduced into the first strand 24 and / or second strand 26 again are.

As mentioned above, a non-cutting workpiece treatment takes place outside the strands 24 and 26.

The manufacturing system 10 has a chip removal device 62, which is guided at least in a partial area in the strands 24, 26, in particular along the lines 28 and 30, respectively. In particular, chips are removed via the rear sides 38 of the corresponding machine tools. The chip removal device 62 is then guided at least partially spaced from the passage 32. A chip disposal device 62 can be designed such that a plurality of machine tools 22 and in particular a plurality of work sequence devices 20 connected thereto are . The chip removal device 62 can thereby be designed centrally and operate a plurality of machine tools.

It may further be provided that a media supply or disposal takes place centrally on a strand 24 or 26 or even on the strands 24 and 26. In particular, (at least) one media management thread can be provided; In Figure 1, media guide strands are indicated by the reference numerals 64a and 64b, through which a plurality of machine tools 22 and in particular a plurality of working follower devices 20 one or more media such as cooling medium and

Lubricating medium can be supplied or are deductible.

In one embodiment, the central device 16 is arranged in continuation of the second strand 26 opposite the first strand 24. Between the central device 16 and the first strand 24, the passage 32 is located.

Workpieces can be fed via the automated transport device 44 of the central device 16. Furthermore, workpieces can be fed from the central device 16 via the automated transport device 44 to the work sequence devices 20.

In one embodiment, the central device 16 has (at least) a testing station 66. An operator can check workpieces at this test station.

The test station is preceded by a cleaning device 68 in one embodiment. The cleaning device 68 is in particular an air cleaning device (dry cleaning device), on which workpieces can be cleaned by blowing air before they reach the test station 66. The cleaning device 68 is connected in particular to the automated transport device 44. Alternatively or additionally, the cleaning Direction 68 be a wet cleaning device (scrubber) or include.

The loading / unloading of the cleaning device 68 can be automatic or manual. For manual loading, a transfer station is provided, which can be approached by the transport device 44.

Via the automated transport device 44, workpieces from each work sequence device 20 can be supplied to the test station 66 in order to enable a test. This makes it possible in particular to carry out a statistical process control in order to be able to check, for example, statistically processed workpieces in the individual work sequence devices 20. The transport of the corresponding workpieces after processing on a work sequence device 20 to the central device 16 and the test station 66 via the automated transport device 44th

In particular, transfer stations 70 are provided, which are located on the automated transport device 44. Workpieces which are positioned at such transfer locations 70 are then performed via the automated transport 44 of the central facility 16.

It may be provided that a transfer station 70 is associated with a test device 72, which already at the transfer station 70th

performs certain examination procedures. For example, it is checked whether tool parts are located on the workpiece. Such a part can then be excluded from the processing chain and no longer needs to be tested ("NIO part"). The testing device 72 can be arranged on a machine tool 22; For example, it recognizes a broken tool and "notices" the workpieces being processed at the time the tool breaks. It can additionally or alternatively be provided that a measuring station 74 for workpieces is arranged on the central device. This measuring station 74 comprises, for example, (at least) a coordinate measuring machine 76. Such a measuring station 74 is preceded by a cleaning device 78, in particular in the form of a scrubber (wet cleaning device), in order to be able to carry out a measurement on cleaned workpieces. In one embodiment, the cleaning device 78 is also used for the cleaning of workpieces before coupling into the test station 66 (the cleaning device 68 can then be omitted).

The loading / unloading of the cleaning device 78 can be automatic or manual. For manual loading, a transfer station is provided, which can be approached by the transport device 44.

In one embodiment, the central device 16 has a lounge 80 for operators.

It can also be provided that a console device 82 for a control device 84 of the manufacturing system 10 is arranged on the central device 16. The control device 84 controls the operation of the production system 10 with the individual machine tools 22 and the devices and machines of the workpiece handling device 18 and the automated transport device 44. The console device 82 can be used to operate the manufacturing system 10 as a whole or in subareas or processes can be changed.

It can also be provided that a workpiece setting device (workpiece setting station) is arranged on the central device 16, on which workpieces are adjustable, such as mounting on an adapter plate. It is also possible that the central device 16 has a tool setting device (tool setting station). An operator can set there with appropriate equipment tools before they are switched to machine tools 22.

In one embodiment, the work sequence devices 20 are housed in the first strand 24 and in the second strand 26 (reference number 86 in FIG. 1). About this enclosure 86 can be a climatic chamber

or tempering chamber for the machine tools 22 for zer-cutting workpiece machining. The corresponding housing 86 has a smaller footprint than the hall 12. Basically parts of the workpiece handling device 18 must not be enclosed. The central facility 16 does not have to be enclosed. The manufacturing system 10 may include one or more workpiece buffers 88 connected to the automated conveyor 44 and located in particular in the first string 24 and / or in the second string 26. By or the buffer memory 88 workpieces can be caching, for example, to compensate for cycle times in different work sequence devices 20 can.

The manufacturing system 10 according to the invention works as follows:

Workpieces pass through the individual work sequence devices 20 and are processed there. Within a work sequence device 20 in particular a parallel workpiece machining takes place.

By means of the automated transport device 44, the workpieces are transported within the corresponding work sequence device 20 and between work sequence devices 20. A non-cutting workpiece treatment in the workpiece treatment device 18 takes place outside the work sequence devices 20 and outside the strands 24 and 26. The machined by machining workpiece workpieces are in particular metallic workpieces. For example, cylinder heads or crankcases are manufactured in the manufacturing system.

The workpieces to be tested, after having been processed in the corresponding work sequence device 20, are positioned at the respective transfer station 70. This positioning is automatic. They are then removed via the automated transport device 44 and transported to the central device 16. Before a test or a measurement, they are cleaned. This cleaning can be carried out on a cleaning device on the central device 16 or on a cleaning device of the workpiece treatment device 18.

The testing and measuring means are centrally managed at the central facility 16. All workpieces to be tested by different work sequence devices 20 are guided to the central device 16 to the corresponding test station 66 or measuring station 74. An operator who has inspection tasks or measuring tasks can then perform them completely at the central device 16. This results in a space-saving design of the manufacturing system 10, in particular with regard to the work sequence devices 20 and in particular measuring operations and

Test procedures can be carried out in a simple manner. Furthermore, test stations 66 and measuring stations 74 can be assigned to a plurality of work sequence devices 20. To a certain extent, the central device 16 is responsible for all work sequence devices 20. The automated transport device 44 which is present anyway is also used to transport workpieces to be tested or measured out of the individual work sequence devices 20 and to transport them to the central device 16. After a test procedure or Measuring process, the workpieces can be supplied via the automated transport device 44 of the next work sequence device 20 again. In the solution according to the invention at least two work sequence devices 20 are arranged in a strand (24 or 26), in which machine tools 22 different work sequence devices 20 are arranged in particular aligned in a line 28 and 30 respectively.

The components of the workpiece treatment device 18 are arranged outside of these strands 24, 26. As a result, a separation into different sections is carried out, one section containing the cutting machine tools 22 and the other section outside the strands 24, 26 workpiece handling machines with a workpiece handling, which is non-chipping.

If, for example, an enclosure of machine tools 22 is provided, then the corresponding area requirement can be minimized, since as a rule the workpiece treatment device 18 does not have to be enclosed (in a temperature chamber or climatic chamber).

Due to the strand-like arrangement of the machine tools 22, a passage 32 can be realized, which allows access to a large number of machine tools 22. In the one shown in FIG

Embodiment, the passage 32 allows access via the front side 36 to all machine tools 22 with machining tool machining of the manufacturing system 10. The passage 32, which is in particular linearly aligned, represents a sort of "aorta" of the manufacturing system 10.

Due to the strand formation of the work sequence devices 20, the machine tools 22 can be easily handled by the passage 32. load and unload. A chip disposal can be carried out via the chip removal device 62 on the rear sides 38. As a result, the passage 32 can be kept free of hurdles with corresponding good access to the working spaces 42 of the machine tools 22.

Furthermore, a media supply or removal can be realized in a simple manner.

A "passage" of workpieces, in particular for testing purposes and measurement purposes can be realized in a simple manner. The anyway present automated transport device 44 can be used to automatically (controlled by the controller 84) to provide workpieces for testing purposes or measurement purposes of the central device 16.

In particular, a discharge or passage of workpieces can be carried out with optimum cycle time. If, for example, the machine tools 22 of a work sequence device 20 are loaded in accordance with a fixed sequence, advantageously a discharge is provided when the machine tool 22 closest to the corresponding transfer station 70 is loaded.

For example, the manufacturing system is operated so that controlled (on schedule) a certain number of workpieces per work sequence device 20 are passed to the central device 16. Furthermore, will

advantageously a certain number of workpieces per spindle of the machine tools 22 discharged. For example, if a new tool is used on a machine tool 22, then a certain number of parts will be ejected after initial machining by this new tool. Damaged parts, the damage being detectable in particular by the testing device 72, are likewise conveyed to the central device 16 and discarded there. The arrangement of machine tools of different work sequence devices 20 in a strand such as the first strand 24 also results in increased variability of the manufacturing system. It is possible in principle for machine tools (in the example of FIG. 1, by way of example, a machine tool 90 of the work sequence device 20e) to be used variably in different work sequence devices (in the example shown also in the work sequence device 20d) as required. By arranging a plurality of sequencing devices 20 in a strand 24, 26, the corresponding variability is provided.

For example, the work content per work sequence device 20 is defined so that manufacturing conditions are met and the duration per work sequence device 20 an integer multiple of the

Number of spindles in the work sequence device corresponds. By temporally variable allocation, for example, of the machine tool 90 to the work sequence direction 20d or the work sequence device 20e, optimizations, for example, such as tool optimizations to increase the runtime of a tool change or to prevent the occurrence of a "bottleneck". If, for example, there is an increased demand on a work sequence device, then the machine tool 90 is used variably in this work sequence device.

It can thereby achieve an optimized use of the manufacturing system.

By buffer memory 88, an optimized total availability can be achieved. LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

manufacturing system

Hall

Zerspanungseinrichtung

Central facility

Workpiece handling device

Working follower

a First Work Sequence Device, Second Work Sequence Device, Third Work Sequence Device, Fourth Work Sequence Device, Fifth Work Sequence Device

machine tool

First strand

Second strand

line

passage

ground

front

back

door

working space

Automated transport devicea subarea

b subarea

a subarea

b subarea

cleaning device

mounter mounter

mounter

subregion

Chip Disposal Device a Media Guide Device b Media Guide Device

test station

cleaning device

Transfer station

test equipment

measuring Station

Coordinate Measuring Machine

cleaning device

sitting room

bracket means

control device

housing

buffer memory

machine tool

Claims

Patent claims

Manufacturing system with a plurality of machine tools (22) for the machining of workpieces, comprising a plurality of work sequence devices (20), each with at least one machine tool (22), the work sequence devices (20) being arranged sequentially and different machining operations in different work sequence devices (20). Workpiece processing operations are carried out, and an automated transport device (44) for transporting workpieces in and between work sequence devices (20), characterized by at least one strand (24; 26) in which a plurality of work sequence devices (20) is arranged, devices (18 ) are arranged outside the at least one strand (24; 26) for non-machining workpiece treatment.

Manufacturing system according to claim 1, characterized in that machine tools (22) are arranged aligned in a line (28; 30) on the at least one strand (24; 26).

Manufacturing system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that a passage (32) is assigned to the at least one strand (24; 26).

Manufacturing system according to claim 3, characterized in that a front side (36) of machine tools (22) of the at least one strand (24; 26) is assigned to the passage (32).

5. Manufacturing system according to claim 4, characterized in that one or more doors (40) of the corresponding machine tool (22) are arranged on the front (36) of the machine tools (22), the door (40) or doors (40) being one Allow access to a work area (42) of the corresponding machine tool (22).

6. Manufacturing system according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the transport device (44) runs at least partially along the front (36).

7. Manufacturing system according to one of claims 3 to 6, characterized

characterized in that back sides (38) of the machine tools (22) face away from the passage (32) and chips are disposed of via the back sides.

8. Manufacturing system according to claim 7, characterized by a central chip disposal device (62), which runs along the back sides (38) at least in a partial area.

9. Manufacturing system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one strand (24; 26).

Media guide line (64a; 64b) is assigned, through which one or more media can be provided to a plurality of machine tools (22) in the at least one line (24; 26) and / or one or more media can be removed from machine tools (22).

10. Manufacturing system according to one of claims 3 to 9, characterized

characterized in that the passage (32) is formed between a first strand (24) and a second strand (26).

11. Manufacturing system according to one of claims 3 to 10, characterized in that at least a portion (46a, 46b) of the transport device (44), which is guided along the at least one strand (24; 26), is designed as a conveyor belt.

12. Manufacturing system according to one of claims 3 to 11, characterized

characterized in that at least one portion (48a, 48b) of the transport device (44), which effects transport transversely to a longitudinal direction of the at least one strand (24; 26), as a mobile device on a floor (34) of the passage (32) or is designed as a transporting device spaced at a height from the floor.

13. Manufacturing system according to one of claims 3 to 12, characterized

characterized in that the at least one strand (24; 26) is housed.

14. Manufacturing system according to claim 13, characterized in that the at least one strand (24; 26) is housed in a temperature control chamber or climate chamber.

15. Manufacturing system according to one of the preceding claims,

characterized by a control device (84) which controls the manufacturing system and through which the transfer of workpieces from a work sequence device (20) through the automated transport device (44) to the central device (16) and / or the transfer of workpieces from the central device (16) can be controlled in a work sequence device (20).

16. Manufacturing system according to one of the preceding claims,

characterized by a central device (16) which is connected to the automated transport device (44) and to which workpieces from work sequence devices (20) can be fed via the automated transport device.

17. Manufacturing system according to claim 16, characterized in that workpieces can be fed from the central device (16) to work sequence devices (20) via the automated transport device (44).

18. Manufacturing system according to claim 16 or 17, characterized in that workpieces can be fed from each work sequence device (20) to the central device (16) via the automated transport device (44) and / or workpieces can be fed from the central device (16) to each work sequence device (20 ) can be supplied.

19. Manufacturing system according to one of claims 16 to 18, characterized

characterized in that the central device (16) comprises at least one of the following places: a test station (66), a measuring station (74), which in particular comprises at least one coordinate measuring machine (76), a workpiece setting device, a lounge (80), a console device ( 82) for a control device (84) of the manufacturing system, a tool setting device.

20. Manufacturing system according to one of claims 16 to 19, characterized by a cleaning device (68; 78) which is assigned to the central device (16) and on which workpieces can be cleaned.

21. Manufacturing system according to claim 20, characterized in that the cleaning device (68; 78) is arranged entirely or partially on the central device (16) or is arranged entirely or partially at a distance from the central device (16).

22. Manufacturing system according to claim 20 or 21, characterized in that the cleaning device (68; 78) is assigned to a plurality of work sequence devices (20), with workpieces from different work sequence devices (20) being transported via the automated transport device (44) to the cleaning device (68; 78) can be fed, and in particular that workpieces from all work sequence devices (28) can be fed to the cleaning device (68; 78) via the automated transport device (44).

23. Manufacturing system according to one of claims 20 to 22, characterized

characterized in that the cleaning device (68) comprises at least one air cleaner.

24. Manufacturing system according to one of claims 22 to 23, characterized

characterized in that the cleaning device (78) comprises at least one scrubber.

25. Manufacturing system according to one of claims 16 to 24, characterized by at least one transfer station (70), from which workpieces can be fed to the central device (16) via the automated transport device (44), and which is at a distance from the central device (16). is.

26. Manufacturing system according to claim 25, characterized in that the at least one transfer station (70) is assigned a testing device (72), through which workpieces can be tested and in particular it can be checked whether a workpiece is to be excluded from the machining process.

27. Manufacturing system according to claim 25 or 26, characterized in that the at least one transfer location (70) is arranged at a transition from a work sequence device (20) to the next adjacent work sequence device (20).

28. Manufacturing system according to one of claims 25 to 27, characterized

characterized in that the at least one transfer point (70) is arranged on the transport device (44).

29. Manufacturing system according to one of claims 16 to 28, characterized

characterized in that if a work sequence device (20) has a plurality of machine tools (22), workpieces are processed in parallel in the corresponding work sequence device (20).

30. Manufacturing system according to one of claims 16 to 29, characterized

characterized in that the workpiece processing in the sequential work sequence devices (20) is sequential, with workpieces in particular being transferred from one work sequence device (20) to a next adjacent work sequence device (20).

31. Method for operating a manufacturing system according to one of the preceding claims, in which work sequence devices (20) are arranged sequentially on at least one strand (24; 26), and non-machining workpiece treatments are carried out outside of the at least one strand (24; 26).

32. The method according to claim 31, characterized in that transport takes place transversely to the at least one strand (24; 26) for non-machining workpiece treatments.

33. The method according to claim 31 or 32, in which workpieces are discharged from a work sequence device (20) and are automatically transported to the central device (16) by the automated transport device (44) and / or workpieces are transported from the central device (16) through the automated transport device (44) are transported automatically and introduced into a work sequence device (20).

34. The method according to claim 33, characterized in that a material test and/or workpiece measurement is carried out at the central device (16).

35. The method according to claim 33 or 34, characterized in that cleaning of workpieces is carried out at a central cleaning device (68; 78), to which the workpieces are transported by the automated transport device (44) and in particular from which workpieces to the central Device (16) can be transported.

36. The method according to one of claims 33 to 35, characterized in that workpieces are removed from work sequence devices (20) as part of a statistical process control.

37. The method according to one of claims 33 to 36, characterized in that workpieces are removed when a machine tool (22) is loaded, which is arranged closest to a transfer point (70).

38. The method according to one of claims 31 to 37, characterized in that machine tools (22) are variably assigned to work sequence devices (20).

39. The method according to claim 38, characterized in that adjacent machine tools (22) carry out machining workpiece processing in a first work sequence device (20) or a second

Carry out the work sequence device (20), in particular a control device (84) setting which work sequence device (20) a corresponding machine tool (22) is assigned to.

Method according to claim 38 or 39, characterized in that the next adjacent machine tools (22) are operated variably with respect to a work sequence in different work sequence devices (20).