Reconfigurable machine tools increase flexibility in mass production (Figure)
It has always been the view that batch products with long production cycles can only be processed on professional equipment to achieve the best economics. Such a device is designed for this type of workpiece to meet all requirements. However, today's product varieties change very frequently, and the characteristics of the workpieces produced are often changed. Therefore, the processing plan gradually requires flexibility of the equipment. Figure 1 In the investment analysis of machine tools, maximum flexibility and good economics have always been a pair of opposing factors. Reconfigurable manufacturing systems can resolve this contradiction, especially in high-volume, high-volume production processes Reconfigurable machine tools are getting more and more applications, which are obviously cheaper than general-purpose devices, because some modules and processing options are not required, but they are purchased and replaced when needed. . On the other hand, higher flexibility compared to special equipment or special equipment can make the overall processing of small or medium batch workpieces more economical. The machine reconfigurable solution ensures optimal machining of real-time workpieces by purchasing new modules to meet new requirements. Since the cost of unnecessary parts is not required, the price of the equipment becomes correspondingly lower. The prerequisite for a smooth reconfigurable manufacturing is to have the right interface. This interface technology allows all machining modules or shafts to be replaced. In contrast to current equipment solutions, the replacement of machining processes, from milling to grinding or the installation of additional rotating or linear axes, does not require equipment downtime for several weeks. In the ideal case, the process can be replaced by the user within one day. The machine tool manufacturer provides the corresponding technology or pre-installation and pre-commissioning of the module. For reconfigurable manufacturing, simply assemble these components onto the device accurately through the mechanical interface on the device. Interface is rigid and standardized In addition to good rigidity, the interface also needs to achieve long-term interchangeability of modules and standardization of equipment. Common bolting methods are required, but the bolts need to be tensioned after calibration. The module must be repeatedly dimensioned and adjusted by means of bolts. A so-called static interface is most suitable. The principle is similar to that of the HSK tool connector, and the user can obtain a rigid interface with a strong bite force. Tensioning can be done hydraulically or manually. If you add modules to your equipment in a narrow production space, you only need to fit the module into the 4mm centering taper of the interface. The XG series powertrain (Fig. 2) was designed for technical improvements or product changes in mass production due to cost pressures and continuous optimization of the workpiece. The new production technology is integrated into the device via the interface, whereby the device is continuously maintained at the latest state of the art. In addition, the equipment can quickly respond to the new requirements of mass production, and in the past, even a small change to the workpiece often requires a large amount of modification. Figure 2 XG series MAG powertrain is mainly used for mass production of power hinge components. Reconfigurable machine tools for this range of products Next page
Modern production requires technical solutions for equipment with better resilience. Since the increase in flexibility requires capital expenditure, it directly affects the economics of production. In the highly specialized mass production activities, the requirements for maximum flexibility and high economy are still full of contradictions and have not been truly solved. 
