Manufacturing system architecture for tools
US7322083B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 30, 2005 |
| Grant date | Jan 29, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 9, 2026 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/5196
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The specification and drawings present a new method and a system for organizing and structuring a tool room manufacturing facility for reducing lead time of manufacturing component tooling. Machine tools are grouped into work cells (also called machining lines) specific to a machining process. Each work cell can comprise: a) a number (typically more than two) of machine tools required for a specific machining operation; b) a line storage system for storing pre-fixtured and palletized work pieces; and c) a track mounted robot able to transfer the pre-fixtured and palletized work pieces between the line storage system and the machine tools. The system also comprises a centralized storage system for storing pre-manufactured standard components (work pieces), custom fixtures and pre-manufactured work pallets.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.