EP3523088A1

EP3523088A1 - Machine tool having a changeover device and a communication device

Info

Publication number: EP3523088A1
Application number: EP17800789.4A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Hinrich Stave; Rainer Lutz; Markus Göggerle
Original assignee: Alfing Kessler Sondermaschinen GmbH
Current assignee: Alfing Kessler Sondermaschinen GmbH
Priority date: 2016-11-10
Filing date: 2017-11-08
Publication date: 2019-08-14
Also published as: DE102016121599A1; WO2018087163A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a machine tool (10; 210) for machining at least one workpiece (W), having a workpiece carrier (60) for carrying workpieces, and having a spindle arrangement (48; 248), which comprises at least one tool spindle (242) and is intended for machining at least one workpiece arranged on the workpiece carrier, wherein the workpiece carrier (60) and/or the spindle arrangement (48; 248) are/is configured in the form of a changeover device which has at least two interchangeable-element mounts (18, 19) for accommodating different interchangeable elements (15, 17), wherein the interchangeable elements (15, 17), in the case of the workpiece carrier, are different workpiece holders for retaining different types of workpiece or for retaining identical workpieces in different machining positions and, in the case of the spindle arrangement, are different machining tools (44) for workpiece-machining purposes, and wherein the interchangeable elements (15, 17) are provided for changeover by an operator. Provision is made for each interchangeable element (15, 17) to have an identification unit (50), which is configured for wireless communication and has an item of identification information (53, 54) which clearly characterizes the interchangeable element (15, 17), and the machine tool (10; 210) has a communication device (90, 190) for wireless communication with the respective identification units (50) and also has a control device (80) for controlling the machine tool on the basis of the items of identification information (53, 54) from the identification units and/or for transmitting the items of identification information from the identification units.

Description

Machine tool with changing device and communication device

The invention relates to a machine tool for machining at least one workpiece with a workpiece carrier for carrying workpieces and a spindle assembly comprising at least one tool spindle for machining at least one arranged on the workpiece carrier workpiece using at least one machining tool, wherein the workpiece carrier and / or the spindle assembly as a changing device in the case of the workpiece carrier, mutually different workpiece holders for holding different types of workpieces or for holding identical workpieces in different processing positions and in the case of the spindle assembly from each other different machining tools for workpiece machining and / or are mutually different spindle components, and wherein the change elements are provided for replacement by an operator.

For example, one and the same workpiece may be present in different processing positions for processing. For this purpose, the operator exchanges the workpiece holders on the workpiece carrier so that the workpieces held on the workpiece holders stand in the respectively suitable processing position relative to the processing tool or to the processing tools.

Even tools are often replaced manually, for example, during wear or when upgrading the machine for another machining step or other workpieces. There are machines, for example described in DE 10 2015 1 13 417, in which both the machining tools and the workpiece holders are manually and individually interchangeable by an operator. However, operator errors may occur, ie unsuitable workpiece holders or unsuitable machining tools are mounted on the machine tool by the operator. This can lead to spoiled workpieces, but also in extreme cases to damage the machine, the machining tools, the workpiece holder or hazards to the operator.

Based on this, it is the object of the present invention to provide an improved machine tool.

To solve the problem is provided in a machine tool of the type mentioned that each change element has a designed for wireless communication identification unit with the removable element clearly characterizing identification information and the machine tool a communication device for wireless communication with the respective identification units and a control device for controlling the Having machine tool based on the identification information of the identification units and / or for outputting the identification information of the identification units.

It is a basic idea that the identification units report their respective identification information to the communication device, or the communication device queries this identification information at the identification units, so that the control device determines in this way which change element is located on or in the respective interchangeable element holder. Thus, this information can be used by the communication device, for example, to output the identification information, for example on a monitor or other output device of the control device. The spindle components may be, for example, a spindle angle. But it is also possible that a spindle component is a holder or a tool carrier for at least one predetermined machining tool. For example, in the case of a tool turret, a holder or rotatable tool carrier can be provided, on which two or more processing tools can be arranged. Such a holder or tool carrier is preferably interchangeable and should be understood as a spindle component. A spindle component may be, for example, a spindle bearing. It is also possible that, for example, an angle head or multiple head is provided as the spindle component to which a machining tool or a plurality of machining tools is or can be arranged. The multi-head can hold at least two processing tools simultaneously.

It is possible, for example, for the spindle component to have a receiving space or sufficient space for arranging the identification unit, while the machining tool held by the spindle component is too small for this purpose. Thus, at least by the spindle component identification of the switching element and indirectly of the machining tool is possible.

The identification information may, but need not, be an identifier that uniquely identifies the locking element. Thus, for example, it may be sufficient for the control device to be able to determine on the basis of the identification information whether an exchange element of a predetermined type, for example a machining tool or workpiece holder of a specific type, is arranged on the exchangeable element receptacle.

The identification information may include one or more of the following information:

- An identifier that clearly identifies the interchangeable element

a type information characterizing the type of interchangeable element, in particular tool type information or workpiece holder information

- A change element type information that indicates the nature of the switching element, such as drills, cutters or the like - Geometry data, in particular diameter, outer circumference or the like

- Cutting data, in particular speed, maximum or average feed rate or the like

- Wear data of the change element, in particular service life information

- Type of workpieces to be machined with the aid of the change element.

For example, the identifier may be a one-to-one number.

The tool type information is, for example, the material of the change element, for example a specific steel in a machining tool.

The tool type, for example, denotes a drill, milling cutter, a turning tool or the like.

Furthermore, geometry data, for example diameters or the like, can also be components of the identification information. Thus, for example, depending on the geometry data, the control device can identify the respective change element as an interference contour, so that the change element does not collide with an obstacle during an adjustment within the working range of the machine tool.

The cutting data include, for example, information about maximum or average rotational speed with which the machining tool can be operated, feed information about a maximum or average feed or the like.

The wear data include, for example, operating times, a counter or the like. Wear can occur not only in machining tools, but also in spindle components, such as bearings, carriers or the like. Furthermore, wear can also occur in workpiece holders, which must comply with a predetermined level. At this point it should be noted that it is advantageous if a rewritable memory is present on board an identification unit, which memory can be written by the communication device. For example, the controller may store operating times of the switching element in this memory of the identification unit.

It is also advantageous if the control device has a memory for wear information. The memory in the memory can be assigned to the change elements based on their identification information.

Furthermore, it can also be provided, for example, that the type of the workpieces to be processed with the aid of the change element is stored as identification information. When workpiece holder, it is advantageous, for example, if this has information, which workpieces can be held by him. When machining tool, it is advantageous if the type of workpieces to be processed is stored in the identification units. The spindle component can also have such information on board, so that, for example, it can be seen from which machining tools can be arranged on the spindle component.

At this point is generally explained that an interchangeable element recording, for example, a plug-in receptacle for inserting a change element and / or screw means for screwing a change element and / or clamping means for jamming a change element may have.

The machine tool is expediently a so-called multi-spindle machine. It is preferably provided that the machine tool is designed and provided for the simultaneous machining of a plurality of workpieces.

However, a comfortable control concept or operating concept in which the control device for controlling the machine tool is designed on the basis of the identification information of the identification units is preferred. A preferred concept provides, for example, that the control device for positioning the changing device and / or the Wechselelementaufnah- men of the changing device to the other element, ie the workpiece carrier or the spindle assembly, depending on a determined based on the identification information assignment of the change elements configured to the Wechselelementaufnahmen is.

If, for example, a processing tool of a first type is arranged on a first interchangeable element holder and a processing tool of another, second type is located on a second interchangeable element holder, which the control device can determine based on the identification information, it can, for example, include a tool carrier on which the interchangeable element holders are arranged Position dependency on this identification information, for example, in the workpiece machining pivot and / or linear adjustment. Thus, for example, a rotational position of a tool turret, which is explained in more detail below, depending on the arranged on the individual change element recordings editing tools by the control device in dependence on the identification information for workpiece machining be adjustable. The control device thus preferably adapts automatically to the respectively mounted machining tool or changes the movement sequences of the machine tool. The control device thus ensures that the respectively suitable machining tool is positioned relative to the workpiece for its machining, for which purpose the control device evaluates the identification information.

Such a configuration is also possible with the workpiece carrier, ie that, for example, a workpiece holder of a first type is arranged on a first processing side of the workpiece carrier and a workpiece holder of a second type on a second processing side, on which workpieces in different positions or different workpieces are arranged or can be arranged. Thus, depending on the respective workpiece holder, the control device can position the workpiece carrier, for example displaced towards and away from the spindle arrangement, so that, for example, in the case of workpieces. A bore is performed on the first workpiece holder, a milling can take place on workpieces on the second workpiece holder. Again, the control device, so to speak, automatically adjusts to the situation or the configuration of the workpiece carrier with corresponding workpiece holders.

At this point it should be noted that in a machine tool according to the invention only the workpiece carrier can be configured as a change device or only the spindle arrangement as a change device, but also both change devices can be. In this case, it is advantageous if, in each case, a communication device or at least a part for individual communication with the replaceable element receptacles on the workpiece carrier and the spindle arrangement is provided for each changing device, that is to say for the workpiece carrier and the spindle arrangement. It is also conceivable that the communication device and the workpiece carrier and the communication device and the spindle assembly are adjustable relative to each other, so that a single communication device, such as a single antenna array sufficient to both with the change elements of the workpiece carrier (the workpiece holder) and the change elements of Spindle arrangement (the editing tools) to communicate and identify their identification information.

A concept of the invention may provide that the control device is designed to determine whether only alternating elements of a predetermined type and / or changing elements are arranged in a predetermined number on the changing device or a region of the changing device.

For example, the control device can determine whether only workpiece holders of a predetermined type and / or a sufficient number of workpiece holders are arranged on a workpiece holding region of the workpiece carrier. The control device can also determine, for example, that no workpiece holders or workpiece holders of different types are arranged on this workpiece holding region, which ultimately leads to erroneous operation of the Could lead machine tool. The controller preferably blocks the operation in this case.

Another scenario may provide that the control device checks, for example, whether only machining tools of the same type are arranged on a spindle arrangement, for example only certain drilling tools or milling tools with a predetermined geometry. Furthermore, the control device can check whether sufficient equipping with interchangeable elements is present, for example, a sufficient number of processing tools are arranged on the spindle arrangement. Only if, for example, a spindle row is completely equipped with interchangeable elements, in particular spindle components and / or machining tools, is an operation of the machine tool possible in this case and is released accordingly by the control device.

An advantageous concept provides that the control device is configured to block an operation of the machine tool if, at least one change element receptacle, a change element that is recognized as being unsuitable for operation of the machine tool on the basis of the identification information is arranged. If, for example, an unsuitable machining tool is arranged on an exchangeable element receptacle or tool receptacle of the spindle arrangement, the control device blocks its operation. If an unsuitable workpiece holder is arranged on the workpiece carrier so that a workpiece could only be processed in an inappropriate position or if the workpiece holder is provided for workpieces for which the processing tools are not suitable in the current configuration of the machine tool, the control device blocks the operation of the machine tool. It is advantageous if the control device is designed to output a warning or warning information in such a blockage.

Appropriately, it is provided that the communication device of the machine tool has a detection area directed in each case to a change element and / or for determining a distance to a respective one Identification unit for determining a spatial arrangement of the respective change element is configured. For example, the communication device has an RFID reader having a narrow detection cone. Only the identification unit that is in the detection cone of the reader is addressed by this. In general terms, in this case, only the identification information of the identification unit located in the detection area is read out by the communication device or can be read out by the communication device. But it is also possible that, for example, a signal strength of the identification units is used by the communication device to determine a respective distance of the identification unit to the communication device. Thus, for example, the identification unit closest to the communication device can be determined.

Advantageously, it is provided that the identification units of the interchangeable elements RFID units (RFID = radio-frequency identification) or NFC units (NFC = Near Field Communication) and the communication device of the machine tool have an RFID reading device and / or an NFC reading device. Such RFID units are resilient and need no electrical power supply on board.

The electrical energy required for reading the identification unit is advantageously provided by the communication device of the machine tool.

The communication device of the machine tool can be arranged stationary. In particular, in this case, it is advantageous if the machine tool has an adjusting device, in particular having a sliding bearing and / or pivot bearing, for adjusting the communication device to and from the changing device and / or the switching elements. The communication device can therefore be moved away from the respective changing device, for example the spindle arrangement or the workpiece carrier, for example pivoted, displaced linearly or both. It is also possible, in particular in combination with the preceding measure, that the changing device as a whole and / or the exchangeable element receptacles of the exchanging device is or are arranged adjustable relative to the communication device. For example, the workpiece carrier can be linearly adjustable and / or pivotable between a test position for communication of the communication device with the identification devices and a processing position provided for workpiece machining by the at least one machining tool. But it is also possible that the spindle assembly is adjustable as a whole between such a test position and machining position. For example, the spindle arrangement or the workpiece carrier can be arranged on a carriage mounted linearly relative to a machine base. It is also possible that, for example, a base body of the workpiece carrier or the spindle assembly is stationary relative to a machine bed or a machine base, however, the interchangeable element recordings are adjustable in a respective test position, for example, pivotable. This is readily possible, in particular with a tool turret.

To complete it should be mentioned that it is advantageously provided that the communication device and / or the changing device can be driven or driven away by a drive in the respective test position and from this again.

Advantageously, it is provided that the changing device is adjustable between a change position in which the changing elements are exchangeable on the changing device, and a working position provided for machining workpieces arranged on the workpiece carrier.

One concept provides, for example, that the spindle arrangement is adjustable between a working position adjusted to the workpiece carrier and intended for processing workpieces arranged on the workpiece carrier, and a tool changing position provided away from the workpiece carrier and intended for a tool change. It is also with the workpiece carrier advantageous if it is adjustable in a change position for exchanging the workpiece holder.

In the change position, for example, a tool change position, for example, a space in front of or next to the spindle assembly or the workpiece carrier freely accessible to the operator so that he can easily replace the change elements, namely the processing tools or the workpiece holder.

It is preferably provided that the communication device is arranged at the change position, in particular the tool change position or workpiece holder change position. Thus, at the same time a review of the changing elements, namely the machining tools or the workpiece holder, take place accompanying the change of elements.

It is further advantageous if the communication device polls the identification information at the identification units of the switching elements after a respective change of switching elements and / or transmits data or identification information for storage to the identification units.

The data or identification information to be stored is, for example, usage times or the like which the respective change element has experienced.

It is also possible that the communication device polls the identification information cyclically and / or sends data or identification information for storage to the identification units.

Appropriately, it is provided that in connection with an actuation of a protective device for protecting a work area of the machine tool interrogates the identification information at the identification units of the switching elements and / or sends data or identification information for storage to the identification units. The protective device includes, for example, one or more doors that provide access to the working area of the Machine tool opens. During workpiece machining, the support device is closed. For example, it is possible that in connection with the opening of the protection device, the communication device sends data or identification information to the identification units. Thus, for example, an operating time at the respective change element or its identification unit is already stored when opening the protective device. When closing the protective device, it is advantageous if in this case the identification units are queried. The closing of the protective device is evaluated by the control device, for example, as an indication that at least one change element has been at least potentially replaced by an operator.

It is possible that the protective device can be actuated or released, for example, by means of an electrical switch. The signal of the switch is evaluated by the controller.

It is further advantageous that the changing device, in particular arranged on at least one Wechselelementaufnahme a sensor for determining a change of removable element and that the communication device determines the identification information of the changing elements of the changing device in response to a change element index indicating sensor signal of this sensor. By way of example, the sensor can be an optical sensor which can detect the change of one or more changeover elements. The control device or the communication device itself are active on such a change of switching element and determine the identification information.

It is advantageously provided that the changing device has or is formed by a tool turret, wherein the tool turret has at least two exchangeable element holders for machining tools designed as exchangeable elements for machining the at least one workpiece and a tool carrier rotatable about a turret axis for positioning a respective machining tool into a machining position and a Tool drive for rotational driving of the machining tool located in the machining position. The tool turret is, for example, rotatable relative to the communication device, so that the change elements arranged on the tool turret can be scanned in the form of the processing tools by the communication device so to speak.

Preferably, it is provided that the spindle arrangement is arranged on a tool slide, which is mounted on the basis of a linear guide in a particular horizontal machining axis to the workpiece carrier and away from it.

An embodiment of the invention may provide that the tool carriage is mounted movably relative to the workpiece carrier exclusively along a single processing axis, which may also be referred to as a Z-axis.

However, a preferred embodiment provides a further degree of freedom of movement of the tool slide, namely that the tool slide is mounted on a second linear guide transversely, in particular at right angles to the machining axis along a tool adjusting axis movable. Thus, the tool turret and ultimately the machining tool can be moved along two mutually angled axes relative to the at least one workpiece to be machined.

The tool carriage is designed for example as a so-called cross slide.

Advantageously, it is provided that the workpiece carrier is mounted on a workpiece carrier linear guide along a particular vertical adjustment axis and / or transversely to the or a machining axis of the spindle assembly for positioning the at least one workpiece to be machined relative to a machining tool located in a machining position of the spindle assembly linearly , It is preferably provided that the workpiece carrier represents a degree of freedom of movement, along which the workpieces are adjustable relative to the respective machining tool in the processing position. As a result, the tool carriage can be constructed relatively simply, ie, for example, be linearly adjustable only along the machining axis. Furthermore, such a tool carriage can provide a high rigidity, thus enabling precise workpiece machining. The tool slide is low and is not far from the machine bed or machine base. Thus, a change of the machining tools on the tool turrets or the otherwise configured spindles of the spindle assembly is particularly simple.

The machining axis and the tool adjusting axis are preferably horizontal axes. The adjusting axis of the workpiece carrier linear guide is expediently a vertical axis. The adjusting axis of the workpiece carrier linear guide, the machining axis and the tool adjusting axis are preferably mutually perpendicular or orthogonal.

Thus, it is therefore an advantageous embodiment of the invention, when the axes of movement of the tool carriage for positioning of each standing in the machining position machining tool are horizontal axes. In relation to a positioning or adjustment of the workpieces in the vertical direction or height direction, so to speak, the workpiece carrier is active and allows the corresponding adjustability of the workpieces relative to the respective active processing tool. Thus, part of the positioning work is done by the tool carriage, the other part of the workpiece carrier.

Each movement degree of freedom of the tool carriage is expediently assigned a carriage drive, for example a spindle drive, a linear direct drive or the like.

Several tool turrets can be provided on the tool carriage. For example, two tool turrets or even more tool turrets may be provided on the tool carriage. At least one second tool turret with at least two machining tools is advantageously arranged on the tool carriage so that at least two machining tools can be adjusted into a machining position provided for machining the at least one workpiece using the tool turret. Thus, for example, a multi-spindle machining or machining of several workpieces is possible at the same time. The machining tools of the at least two tool turrets that are in the machining position are expediently arranged next to one another in a row direction. The row direction advantageously runs along a horizontal axis.

On the workpiece carrier associated with the machining tools workpiece holder or at least one machining tool associated workpiece holder is provided. For example, at least two workpiece holders arranged side by side in a row direction or interchangeable element holders suitable for the workpiece holders for holding workpieces are provided on the workpiece carrier.

The workpiece carrier has expediently a bar-like shape. For example, the workpiece carrier comprises a workpiece bar whose longitudinal axis extends transversely to the machining axis of the tool carriage. For example, the longitudinal axis runs transversely, in particular at right angles, to the explained Z-axis. It is preferably provided that the longitudinal axis of the workpiece beam extends in the X direction or parallel to the X axis.

An expedient and particularly stable arrangement provides that the workpiece carrier is supported on several areas.

For example, it is advantageous if the workpiece carrier is held at its respective longitudinal end regions in each case on a carriage of the workpiece carrier linear guide. For example, the workpiece carrier is held between guide towers or guide stands, on each of which a guide arrangement of the workpiece carrier linear guide is arranged. At the leadership orders each carriage are movably mounted, for example by means of sliding elements, rollers or the like.

The machine tool may have a workpiece changing device.

The workpiece carrier expediently has at least two separate workpiece holding regions, on each of which at least one workpiece holder for holding a workpiece is arranged. The workpiece carrier is expediently movable in such a way, for example linearly or rotatably movable, that in each case a workpiece holding region of the respective active processing tool is movable, while another workpiece holding region is arranged in a workpiece change region where a workpiece change can take place by, for example, a handling robot or other workpiece changing device.

It is e.g. it is possible for the workpiece holding regions to be arranged one above the other with respect to the adjusting axis of the workpiece carrier linear guide, so that a workpiece holding region is movable alternately into the processing region by a movement of the workpiece carrier, while the other workpiece holding region is ready for a workpiece change, and vice versa. In the workpiece change region for the workpiece change, the communication device can be arranged to check the changing elements representing workpiece holder and / or the identification units of the workpiece holder.

Advantageously, the workpiece holding regions are arranged at mutually angled or opposite regions of the workpiece carrier, wherein the workpiece holding regions are movable toward the processing region and the workpiece change region by a rotation of the workpiece carrier.

It is understood that a plurality of workpiece holding regions can be provided on an outer circumference of the workpiece carrier, which are angular to each other. For example, the workpiece carrier in cross-section triangular or be rectangular, so that angular workpiece holding areas are possible.

Expediently, it is provided that the workpiece carrier, advantageously on the workpiece carrier linear guide, is pivotably mounted on the basis of a rotary bearing arrangement about a positioning pivot axis.

For example, the rotary bearing arrangement is provided on one or more slides, which are adjustable on the workpiece carrier linear guide along the particular vertical adjusting axis.

However, it is also conceivable that the rotary bearing arrangement is provided between, for example, a stand and the workpiece carrier linear guide. The workpiece carrier can be non-rotatable on slides, which are mounted displaceably on the workpiece carrier linear guide, while the linear guide is rotatable relative to the stator or any other with respect to the machine base of the machine tool stationary component based on the rotary bearing arrangement.

The rotatability about the positioning pivot axis makes it possible for at least two mutually different workpiece holding regions of the workpiece carrier to be alternately pivoted in a processing region, for example in front of the at least one processing tool or in front of the tool carriage. Thus, for example, a workpiece holding area is moved into the processing area, while another workpiece holding area thereof is moved away into a workpiece change area, so that a workpiece change is possible there. For example, a handling robot or another workpiece changing device is provided in the workpiece change region.

In principle, it is conceivable that the positioning pivot axis runs vertically, for example. However, an arrangement is preferred such that the positioning pivot axis extends transversely, for example at right angles, to the machining axis or Z-axis of the tool carriage. The positioning pivot axis is advantageously parallel to the X-axis. The position ier-pivot axis corresponds for example to the longitudinal axis of the workpiece bar.

An expedient embodiment of the invention provides that the rotary bearing arrangement rotatably supports the workpiece carrier at its respective longitudinal end regions, each with a rotary bearing. Thus, the workpiece carrier is supported on opposite end portions and rotatably supported. The pivot bearings are provided for example on the already mentioned carriage of the workpiece carrier linear guide. Alternatively, it is possible that the workpiece carrier protrudes, for example in the manner of an arm in front of a single pivot bearing.

The turret axis of the at least one tool revolver expediently extends at an angle to the machining axis or Z-axis of the tool carriage. Preferred is a configuration with an angle of about 45 ° of the turret axis to the machining axis.

The turret axis expediently runs horizontally. But it is also possible that the turret axis is vertical. Furthermore, it is possible that the turret axis extends in an angular range between a vertical axis and a horizontal axis.

A tool drive a tool revolver can be provided for rotational driving only one in each processing position machining tool.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the invention will be explained with reference to the drawing. Show it:

1 shows a perspective oblique view from above of a machine tool,

Figure 2 is a front view and

FIG. 3 shows a side view of the machine tool according to FIG. 1, FIG. 4 shows a side view of a machine tool with a spindle arrangement whose spindles are arranged in rows for Mac,

FIG. 5 shows a side view of the machine tool according to FIG. 4

6 shows a workpiece carrier of the machine tools according to figures 1-5

7 is a schematic representation of a changing device in the form of a workpiece carrier,

Figure 8 is a schematic representation of a changing device in the form of a spindle assembly, and

9 shows a schematic representation of an identification unit of a

Change element.

In the following, machine tools 10, 210 are presented, which have partially identical or similar components. For these, the same reference numerals or reference numerals differing by 200 are used.

The machine tool 10, 210 has a machine base 11. The machine base 1 1 comprises a tool section 12 and a workpiece section 13 which are arranged, for example, at an angle to one another. In plan view, the machine base 1 1, which could also be referred to as a machine bed, for example T-shaped, but this should not be understood as limiting. The tool portion 12 and the workpiece portion 13 may be integral or fixedly connected to each other.

A tool carriage 20, 220 is mounted linearly on the tool section 12 at least along a machining axis Z, which is also referred to below as the Z axis. For this purpose, a linear guide 21 is provided, which is provided for example on an upper side of the tool section 12. The linear guide 21, which could also be referred to as a Z guide, comprises, for example, example guide rails 22, where the tool carriage 20 is movably mounted.

For example, a carriage carrier 26, which carries a carriage base 27, 227 of the tool carriage 20, 220, movably mounted on the guide rails 22, for example with rollers, sliders or the like.

A carriage drive 23 serves to drive the tool carriage 20 along the Z-axis. The carriage drive 23 comprises, for example, a drive motor 24 and a spindle drive 25, which is coupled to the tool carriage 20, for example the carriage carrier 26.

An embodiment of the invention may provide that the tool carriage 20 is movably mounted only along the Z-axis. In this case, for example, the carriage base 27 would be integral with the carriage carrier 26 or firmly connected to the carriage carrier 26.

In the present case, however, a further degree of freedom of movement is present, namely in an axis Z which is angled, for example perpendicular, to the machining axis Z. An additional linear guide 28 with, for example, rails 29 is provided on the carriage carrier 26, on which the carriage base 27 extends along the tool carrier. Axis X is movably mounted. For example, sliding surfaces, rollers or the like other guide elements 30 to the

Rails 29 movably mounted. A carriage drive 30, which is shown only schematically, drives the carriage base 27 relative to the slide carrier 26 along the tool adjustment axis X. The tool carriage 20 is for example a so-called cross slide.

On a front side 31 of the tool carriage 20 tool turrets 40 and 140 are arranged. The tool turrets 40, 140 each form at least one tool spindle and in each case comprise a tool carrier 41 which is mounted so as to be rotatable relative to the tool carriage 20 about a turret axis 42, 142. The tool carriers 41 could now be arranged directly on the carriage base 27. In the present case, however, Revolverträger 46 are provided at the Carriage base 27 are attached. On the carriage base 27, for example on or in the turret carrier 46, tool drives 43 are provided, which for

Rotary driving each of a machining tool 44 are configured.

Arranged on the tool carriers 41 in a ring shape are a plurality of processing tools 44, which can be configured differently, for example as processing tools 44A, 44B, 44C, 44D. The processing tools 44 are held, for example, on tool holders 47. The tool holders 47 project, for example, in the form of a cone radially outward of the tool carriers 41.

In the drawing, an alternative is shown, namely that on a tool carrier 41, for example via a transfer case each two tool holders are simultaneously driven by the tool drive 43 when they are in the processing position O. One could also call this configuration, for example, as a double spindle turret. For example, each of the tool carriers 41 has two, so to speak, simple tool receivers 47 and two transfer cases each for simultaneously driving two tool holders 147A and 147B. These numbers are to be understood as exemplary only, that is, it could, for example, a tool revolver be provided with exclusively so to speak singular tool holders 47, of which only one can be in the processing position O. Furthermore, only one "double spindle turret" or more than two "double spindle turrets" may be provided.

Based on positioning drives 45 (shown schematically), the tool carriers 41 can be pivoted about the turret axes 42, 142, so that a respective desired machining tool 44 is adjusted to a processing position O for machining workpieces W, which will become clear hereinafter. The tool drives 43 are coupled to the active in the processing position O processing tools 44, for which a coupling is provided in a conventional manner. Frontally in front of the tool carriage 20, a workpiece carrier 60 is arranged. The workpiece carrier 60 comprises, for example, a workpiece bar 61 which extends transversely in front of the tool carriage 20. On the workpiece carrier 60, a plurality of workpiece holders 62 for holding workpieces W, for example connecting rods, are arranged side by side in a row direction 63. The row direction 63 runs parallel to a longitudinal axis 64 of the workpiece carrier 60.

The workpiece carrier 60 is pivotally mounted about a positioning pivot axis A, in the present case its longitudinal axis 64, so that at different workpiece holding areas 65, e.g. Workpiece holding portions 65A and 65B, held workpieces W are each frontally in front of the tool slide 20, 220 and thus before the machining tools 44 in a machining area 66 for machining swiveled or away from the machining tools 44, for example, provided in a provided for a workpiece change workpiece change area 68. The workpiece change area 68 and the processing area 66 are provided, for example, on opposite sides of the workpiece carrier 60.

The workpiece holding regions 65 are provided on outer peripheral sides, in particular on the outer circumferential sides of the workpiece carrier 60 that are opposite and / or mutually angled.

It is understood that multiple workpiece holding areas are an option, i. that only a single workpiece holding area can be provided on a workpiece carrier.

A positioning of the workpieces W arranged on the workpiece carrier 60 relative to the processing tools 44 is performed at least partially by the workpiece carrier 60. The workpiece carrier 60 is linearly adjustable on a workpiece carrier linear guide 70 along a vertical adjusting axis Y. On the workpiece carrier 60 arranged workpieces W can therefore be adjusted relative to the adjusting tools 44 with respect to the adjusting axis Y. The tool carriage 20 thus positions the machining tools 44 along the horizontal axes, the machining axis Z and the tool adjusting axis X, while the third linear degree of freedom of movement is provided by the workpiece carrier 60 and the workpiece carrier linear guide 70.

The workpiece carrier linear guide 70 comprises guide rails 73 provided on uprights 71, on which slides 72 are movably mounted, for example on the basis of rollers, sliding pieces or the like. Stand 71, which could also be referred to as towers, project, for example, upwards in front of the workpiece section 13 and are fastened thereto.

The carriages 72, which are movably mounted, for example, on a respective pair of guide rails 73, can be driven by a carriage drive 74. The carriage drives 74 each include, for example, a drive motor 75.

A respective drive motor 75 drives a respective carriage 72 via, for example, a spindle drive or the like (which is not shown in the drawing). For example, the drive motors 75 are arranged on top of the uprights 71, which is advantageous for cooling purposes and assembly purposes.

For pivotal mounting about the positioning pivot axis A of the workpiece carrier 60 is pivotally mounted at its longitudinal end by means of pivot bearings 77. The rotary bearings 77 form components of a rotary bearing arrangement 76. For example, one of the rotary bearings 77 is provided on each of the slides 72. By the pivot bearing at its longitudinal end of the workpiece carrier 60, so for example, the workpiece bar 61, optimally supported, but still for the positioning or positioning of the workpieces W for processing by the machining tools 44 or a workpiece change movable.

For example, the positioning pivot axis A is parallel to the tool adjustment axis X.

In each case one of the processing tools 44 of the tool turrets 40, 140 assumes the processing position O (shown in FIG. 4). The processing Positions O are arranged in a row direction R side by side. The row direction R is horizontal and parallel to the tool positioning axis X.

Of course, it would be conceivable that the row direction R is at an angle to the tool adjusting axis X or not horizontally.

Because a plurality of, in the present case two, machining tools 44 are each in the machining positions O, a plurality of workpieces W, which are arranged on the workpiece carrier 60, can be machined at the same time.

The row direction R corresponds to the row direction 63 of the workpiece holder 62 on the workpiece carrier 60.

By adjusting the tool carriage 20 along the tool adjustment axis X, the machining tools 44 can be moved relative to the workpiece holders 62. For example, four workpiece holders 62 are provided, while only two processing tools 44 can each perform a workpiece machining. By an adjustment of the tool carriage along the tool adjusting axis X, the machining tools 44 can alternately be positioned opposite a first pair of workpiece holders 62 and a second pair of workpiece holders 62, and thus opposite the respective workpieces W arranged there.

A spindle arrangement 248 of the machine tool 210 is provided on the tool carriage 220. In principle, the tool carriage 220 can also be movably mounted along the X-axis like the tool carriage 20, but this is not the case here. The tool carriage 220 comprises a carriage base 227, for example a spindle block or the like, on which spindle rows 240, 241 are provided. Spindle rows 240, 241 include tool spindles 242 arranged side by side in row directions. The spindle rows 240, 241 are arranged one above the other. In each of the tool spindles 242, a tool drive 243 and a tool holder 247 are provided, on which a machining tool 244 is releasably fastened. Thus, the machining tools 244 are similar to the machining tools 44 by an operator replaceable. The spindle rows 240, 241 can be moved back and forth along the machining axis Z on the basis of the tool slide 220, ie in the direction of the workpieces W or of the workpiece carrier 60.

Since the machining tools 44, 244 of a spindle assembly 48 provided by the tool revolvers 40, 140 and the spindle assembly 248 forming spindle rows 240, 241 are interchangeable or exchangeable, they form a changing device 14. The processing tools 44, 244 accordingly form changing elements 15th

A further changing device 16 is provided by the workpiece carrier 60, on which the workpiece holders 62 are exchangeable or replaceable by an operator. Thus, the workpiece holders 62 also form interchangeable elements 17. For example, workpiece holders 62A or 62B (shown in FIG. 4) can be fastened to the workpiece holding regions 65A, 65B. For this purpose, interchangeable element holders 19 are provided, so that workpiece holders 62A, for example for connecting rods, as well as workpiece holders 62B, for example for other, in particular metallic, workpieces, on the workpiece beam 61 and the workpiece carrier 60 are releasably fastened. The tool holders 47, 247 form interchangeable element holders 18 for the interchangeable elements 15, namely the processing tools 44, 244.

The tool slide 20, 220 can be moved from a working position B to a change position C, namely, for example, along the machining axis Z by driving on the carriage drive 23. In the working position B, the carriage 20, 220 is adjusted for machining the workpieces W to the workpiece carrier 60 , positioned in the change position W at a distance therefrom, so that the front side 31 of the carriage 20, 220 is easily accessible to an operator. Thus, it can conveniently exchange the change elements 15 or machining tools 44, 244 in order to prepare the machine tool 10, 210, for example, for machining other workpieces. Furthermore, an operator can exchange workpiece holders 62 arranged on the workpiece carrier 60, for example, when the workpiece carrier 60 or the respective workpiece holding region 65A, 65B is moved to or into the workpiece changing region 68. Here it is safe for the operator to replace the workpiece holder 62.

Depending on an assembly of the changing device 14, 16 with change elements 15, 17 of different types, for example, different workpiece holders or different processing tools, the machine tool 10, 210 is suitable to work different workpieces W, such as connecting rods, small metal parts or the like, or different Machining steps on the same workpieces W make. It is thus possible, for example, to position the workpieces W in different positions on the workpiece carrier 60 using the workpiece holders 62A, 62B in order to carry out different processing steps.

Depending on the respective assembly situation of the machine tool 10, 210, a control device 80 controls the machine tool 10, 210. For example, the control device 80 comprises a processor 81 and a memory 82. The processor 81 can execute control programs 83, 84, for example for machining workpieces of a first type and workpieces of a second type. The control device 80 furthermore has, for example, input means 85, in particular a keyboard, mouse or the like, as well as output means 86, for example a screen. For example, the control device 80 controls in a conventional manner the drive motor 24, the positioning drive 45, the tool drives 43, 243 and the carriage drives 74 for processing the workpieces W in a preprogrammed form. The control is connected via lines not shown in the drawing and / or wireless connections to said drives. In addition, feedback lines or feedback connections or monitoring connections between the drives and the control device 80 are expediently provided. Thus, in this way, the securing device 80, the respective rotational positions or other positions of the Tool turret 40, 140, the tool carriage 20, 220 or the like other on the machine tool 10, 210 existing operating conditions and position information determine.

By manually changing the change elements 15, 17, however, in practice errors may occur because the operator, for example, the machining tools 44A-44D not in the appropriate order on the tool turrets 40, 140 mounted because unsuitable or not suitable for workpiece machining workpiece holder 62A or 62B are arranged on the workpiece carrier 60 or the like. In contrast, the following measures remedy:

The workpiece carrier 60 may include, for example, the workpiece holding portions 65A and 65B or, as shown in FIG. 7, further workpiece holding portions 65C and 65D. At each holding region 65A-65D, a plurality of interchangeable element receptacles 19, that is to say workpiece holder receptacles, are arranged for the workpiece holders 62. The workpiece holder receptacles or exchangeable element receptacles 19 are all designed identically, so that workpiece holders 62A, 62B, 62C and 62D can be arranged as desired on the exchangeable element receptacles 19. It is also possible that the operator, for example, only one each Wechselelementaufnahme 19 or at least not all removable element receptacles 19 equipped so that individual remain free and there is no workpiece holder 62 is arranged. This is schematically indicated by workpiece holders 62A-62D shown in dashed lines. By identification units 50, which are on board the change elements 17, thus the workpiece holder 62A-62D, it is possible to identify the change elements 19.

The control device 80 communicates with a communication device 90 which has communication units 91, 92 which communicate with the identification units 50 in order to read out their information and preferably also store information there, which the control device 80 specifies or for local storage in the identification units 50 Change elements 19 and the workpiece holder 62 pretends. The communication device 90 comprises communication units 91, 92 arranged on a holder 93, which are shown schematically in FIG. The communication units 91, 92 have antennas with detection areas 94, for example, which are directed to the identification units 50. The holder 93 and thus the communication units 91, 92 are adjustable by means of a schematically shown adjusting device 95, for example comprising at least one guide rail or the like other linear guide between a test position as shown in the drawing and a rest position remote from the identification units 50.

Without further ado, the communication device 90 could also be arranged stationary. As an example, a communication device 90B is shown, which has not shown in the drawing communication units in the manner of the communication units 91, 92 and, for example, below or according to Figure 4 above the workpiece carrier 60 is arranged. Thus, when the workpiece carrier is opposed to, for example, the workpiece holding portion 65B (as shown in Fig. 7) of the communication device 90B, it can read out the identification units 50 of the workpiece holders 62B. This can be done both at standstill of the workpiece carrier so also in passing, so to speak. during a movement of the workpiece carrier 60 past the communication device 90B. Thus, the communication device 90B detects, so to speak en passant, the identification information of the identification units 50.

In all the above scenarios, the control device 80 can determine which workpiece holders 82, here the workpiece holders 62B, are arranged on the workpiece holding region 65B. In this way, the control device 80 can also readily determine the interchangeable elements 17 or types of workpiece holders 62 arranged there in relation to the further workpiece holding regions 65A, 65C-65D.

Then, the control device 90 may, for example, depending on the arranged on the workpiece holding portion 65A-65D workpiece holders 62A-62D Control program 83 or the control program 84 retrieve or execute.

One of the identification units 50 is shown by way of example in FIG. It has, for example, a memory 51 in which at least one identification information 53 is stored. By means of a wireless operating, e.g. By radio transmitting / receiving unit 52, the identification units 50 can communicate with the communication device 90, at least unidirectionally, such that it can send the identification information 53 to the combination device 90. For example, the combination device 90 supplies the identification units 50 with a query of the identification information 53 in the manner of the RFI D method with energy, so that the transmitting / receiving unit 52 can send the identification information 53 without a power supply or other power supply on board the identification unit 50 would be necessary. For example, the identification unit 50 is a

RFID chip.

To identify the changing elements 15, that is, the processing tools 44, 244, a communication device 190 is provided. The communication device 190 has, for example, communication units 191, 192 which can communicate wirelessly with identification units 50 at the change elements 15 in order to query their identification information 53 and, if necessary, also intervene. The communication device 191 is expediently arranged in the region of the change position W of the tool carriage 20, 220, for example above the machine bed or the machine base 11. The communication device 190 may not be arranged, for example, on a portal or the like. But it is also possible that it is a with the tool carriage 20, 21 moving or with moving communication device.

The tool carrier 41 of the tool revolver 40 or 140, for example, about the turret axis 42, 142 rotatable. Thus, the tool carrier 41 can each be rotatable in a reading position opposite the communication device 190 be. In the rotational position of the tool carrier 41 shown in FIG. 8, the communication units 191, 192 can interrogate, for example, the identification units 50 of the machining tools 44A, that is to say the changeover elements 15, so as to ascertain the identification information 53 of the machining tools 44A. By way of example, the identification information 53 stored in the machining tools 44A is their tool type and / or their cutting data and / or their geometry data, in particular interference contour, or the like. In the same way, the processing tools 44B, 44C and 44D can be queried.

It can be seen in FIG. 8 that not all tool holders 47 or interchangeable element holders 18 are equipped with machining tools. For example, machining tools 49A, 49B, 49D, 49E are disposed only on the machining sides, while no machining tools 44 are disposed on the machining sides 49C and 49F.

The control device 80 can determine this and the respective placement of the other tool holders 47 of the machining sides 49A, 49B, 49D, 49E on the basis of the communication device 190, for example, the sequence of movements, in particular positioning, of the tool carrier 41 in each suitable for workpiece machining of the workpieces W To control machining position O.

One concept may provide that the control device 80 only in this way queries whether machining tools 44 are disposed on a respective machining side 49A-49F and accordingly provide the machining side for workpiece machining. It is also possible that the control device 80 only determines that similar processing tools 44 are arranged on a respective processing side 49A-49F, for example only drills of a certain type, only milling tools of a certain other type or the like. Another embodiment is also indicated in FIG. So not only a machining tool can represent a switching element, but also a spindle component. It is thus possible, for example, that a processing tool 44 can not be arranged directly on an interchangeable element holder 18, but rather a spindle component 144, on which in turn a processing tool 44 can be mounted. The spindle components 144 also have identification units 50, whose identification information 53 can be queried by the communication device 190. Thus, for example, the spindle component 144 may include a spindle bearing on which in turn a machining tool is releasably mountable. It is also possible that, for example, the tool holder or turret attachment having the tool holders 147A and 147B is configured as a spindle component 144 or forms one.

For example, the communication device 190 may poll the identification information 53 of the identification units 50 of the change elements 15 arranged on the changer 14 cyclically.

A preferred concept, however, provides that this takes place in connection with a change of change element. Thus, for example, a sensor 35 may be provided which identifies a change of exchange element. This is indicated in FIG. 8 in one of the interchangeable element receptacles 18. Thus, when the operator interchanges the change element 15, in particular the machining tool 44C in the exemplary embodiment, and inserts another machining tool, the sensor 35 reports this. For example, the sensor 35 comprises an optical sensor, a light barrier, a contact sensor, an electrical contact or the like which can be actuated by a change element 14 located in the interchangeable element receptacles 18 or the like.

It is furthermore advantageous if the communication device 190 cooperates with a protective device 100 for protecting a working area, for example a region above the machine base 11, of the machine tool 10, 210. The protective device 100 includes, for example, a fixed de wall 101 and a movable wall or door 102. An opening of the door 102 is made possible for example by a sensor or switch 103. The sensor or switch 103 is operated by an operator to open or unlock the guard 100 or release it. But it is also possible that the sensor or switch 103 senses an opening of the door 102 and reports to the control device 80.

The control device 80 can then, for example, after opening the door 102, first write identification information 54 into the memory 51, for example a respective service life of a processing tool 44. For this purpose, the control device 80 sends the corresponding information e.g. via the communication device 190 to the respective identification unit 50.

However, the control device 80 can also trigger a query of the identification units 50 after a respective actuation of the switch 103. Namely, when the switch 103 signals a closing of the door 102, that is a closing of the protective device 100, a closing of the protective device 100 possibly preceded tool change is completed. The control device 80 then determines on the basis of the communication device 190, in which populated state the spindle arrangements 48, 248 are, ie. H. which change elements 15 are arranged there.

When the controller 80 detects an error situation, i. H. For example, that inappropriate change elements 15 and / or 17 are arranged on the changing devices 14, 16, they can block the operation of the machine tool 10, 210, for example.

It is also possible for it to output an error message, in particular at the output means 86, for example a warning message 87.

It is preferred if the identification information 53 and / or 54 can be output, for example, based on the output means 86 of the control device 80. For example, an operator can connect to a monitor on the control panel. Direction 80 determine whether and which change elements 15, 17 to the changing device 14, which are arranged 16.

Claims

claims

1 . Machine tool for machining at least one workpiece (W) with a workpiece carrier (60) for carrying workpieces and a spindle arrangement (48; 248) comprising at least one tool spindle (242) for machining at least one workpiece (W) arranged on the workpiece carrier (60). by means of at least one machining tool (44), wherein the workpiece carrier (60) and / or the spindle arrangement (48; 248) are designed as a changing device (14, 15), the at least two removable element receptacles (18, 19) for receiving mutually different change elements (15, 17), wherein the change elements (15, 17) in the case of the workpiece carrier (60) from each other workpiece holder (62) for holding different types of workpieces or for holding identical workpieces (W) in different processing positions and in the case of the spindle assembly (48 248) different machining tools (44) for workpiece machining ng and / or mutually different spindle components, and wherein the change elements (15, 17) are provided for replacement by an operator, characterized in that each change element (15, 17) designed for wireless communication identification unit (50) having a Interchangeable element (15, 17) uniquely characterizing identification information (53, 54) and the machine tool (10; 210) a communication device (90, 190) for wireless communication with the respective identification units (50) and a control device (80) for controlling the machine tool (10, 210) on the basis of the identification information (53, 54) of the identification units (50) and / or for outputting the identification information (53, 54) of the identification units (50).

2. Machine tool (10; 210) according to claim 1, characterized in that the control device (80) for positioning the changing device (14, 15) and / or the Wechselelementaufnahmen (18, 19) of the changing device (14, 15) relative to each another element, the workpiece carrier (60) or the spindle arrangement (48; 248), in dependence on an identification of the identification information (53, 54) determined assignment of the change elements (15, 17) to the Wechselelementaufnahmen (18, 19) is configured.

3. Machine tool according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the control device (80) is configured to block operation of the machine tool, if at at least one change element receptacle (18, 19) to an operation of the machine tool based on the identification information (53, 54) is arranged as an unsuitable recognized change element (15, 17).

4. Machine tool according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control device (80) is designed to determine whether at the changing device (14, 15) or a portion of the changing device (14, 15) only change elements (15, 17) of a predetermined type and / or changing elements (15, 17) are arranged in a predetermined number, in particular a complete number.

5. Machine tool according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the communication device (90, 190) of the machine tool has a respectively on a change element (15, 17) directed detection area (94) and / or for determining a distance to a respective identification unit ( 50) for determining a spatial arrangement of the respective change element (15, 17) is configured.

6. Machine tool according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the identification units (50) of the change elements (15, 17) RFID units (RFID = radio-frequency identification) or NFC units (NFC = Near Field Communication) and the communication device (90, 190) the machine tool comprises an RFID reading device and / or an NFC reading device.

7. Machine tool according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that for reading the identification units (50) required electrical energy by the communication device (90, 190) of the machine tool is provided.

8. Machine tool according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a sliding bearing and / or pivot bearing having adjusting device for adjusting the communication device (90, 190) to the changing device (14, 15) and / or to the change elements (15, 17) and away from it.

9. Machine tool according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the changing device (14, 15) as a whole and / or the Wechselelementaufnahmen (18, 19) of the changing device (14, 15) relative to the communication device (90, 190) arranged adjustable is or are.

10. Machine tool according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the changing means (14, 15) between a change position (C) in which the change elements (15, 17) on the changing means (14, 15) are interchangeable, and one for Machining provided on the workpiece carrier (60) workpieces (W) provided working position (B) is adjustable.

1 1. Machine tool according to claim 10, characterized in that the communication device (90, 190) is arranged at the change position (C).

12. Machine tool according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the communication device (90, 190) cyclically and / or after a respective exchange element change and / or in connection with or in response to an operation, in particular an opening and / or closing , a protective device (100) for protecting a working area of the Machine tool, the identification information (53, 54) in the identification units (50) of the switching elements (15, 17) queries and / or data or identification information (53, 54) for storage to the identification units (50) sends.

13. Machine tool according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the changing device (14, 15), in particular at least one Wechselelementaufnahme (18, 19) has a sensor (35) arranged to determine a change of removable element and that the communication means (90 190) determines the identification information (53, 54) of the changing elements (15, 17) of the changing device (14, 15) as a function of a sensor signal of this sensor (35) indicating an exchange element change.

14. Machine tool according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the identification information (53, 54) comprises one or more of the following information:

- One the change element (15, 17) uniquely identifying identifier

- A type of the change element (15, 17) characterizing type information, in particular a tool type information or workpiece holder

-lnformation (62)

- A change element type information, which indicates the nature of the change element (15, 17), such as drills, cutters or the like

- Geometry data, in particular diameter, outer circumference or the like

- Cutting data, in particular speed, maximum or average feed rate or the like

- Wear data of the change element (15, 17), in particular service life information

- Type of with the aid of the change element (15, 17) to be machined workpieces (W).

15. Machine tool according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one of the identification units (50) one by the machine tool, in particular the communication device (90, 190), writable and / or readable memory (51), in particular for storing usage information.

16. Machine tool according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the changing device (14, 15) has a tool turret (40; 140) or is formed thereby, wherein the tool turret (40;

140) has at least two replaceable element holders (18, 19) for processing tools (44) configured as exchangeable elements (15, 17) for processing the at least one workpiece (W) and a tool carrier rotatable about a turret axis (42 142) for positioning a respective processing tool ( 44) to a machining position and a tool drive for rotationally driving the machining tool (44) located in the machining position.

17. Machine tool according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the spindle arrangement (48; 248) is arranged on a tool slide, which by means of a linear guide in a particular horizontal machining axis (Z) to the workpiece carrier (60) and movable away therefrom is stored.

18. Machine tool according to claim 17, characterized in that the spindle arrangement (48, 248), in particular the tool carriage is mounted on a second linear guide transversely, in particular at right angles to the machining axis along a particular horizontal tool adjusting axis.

19. Machine tool according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the workpiece carrier (60) on a workpiece carrier linear guide along a particular vertical adjusting axis (Y) and / or transversely to the or a machining axis of the spindle assembly (48; 248) for positioning the at least one workpiece (W) to be machined is mounted to be linearly movable relative to a machining tool (44) of the spindle arrangement (48; 248) located in a machining position.

20. Machine tool according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that on the workpiece carrier (60) at least two in a row direction juxtaposed exchange element receptacles (19) for workpiece holder (62) for holding workpieces (W) are present.

21. Machine tool according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the workpiece carrier (60) comprises a workpiece beam and / or that a longitudinal axis of the workpiece carrier (60) transversely to the spindle assembly (48; 248) and / or transverse to a machining axis of the spindle assembly (48 248) runs and / or that the workpiece carrier (60) at its

Longitudinal end is held in each case on a carriage of the workpiece carrier linear guide and / or that the workpiece carrier (60) by means of a rotary bearing arrangement about a positioning pivot axis, in particular on the workpiece carrier linear guide, is pivotally mounted.

22. Machine tool according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the workpiece carrier (60) has at least two mutually separate workpiece holding areas (62A, 62B), alternately in a for processing by at least one machining tool (44) provided for processing area (66) and a for a workpiece change provided workpiece change area (68) are movable.