Applications
2.2.2 ATC Chain Small conveyance: Machine tools
Application Example ATC Chain is used to organize tools in the automatic tool changer, which is a device on Computer Numeric Control (CNC) machine tools. When fewer than 30 tools are used, the tool pots are mounted on a disc. Tools are changed by controlling the disc. When more than 30 tools are used, tool pots are mounted directly on the chain. (See Figures 2.11 through 2.13.) Comparing the disc and chain set-ups, differences include the following points: (1) Using the same area, the chain type can have as much as 1.5 times as many tools as that of the disc (Figure 2.13). (2) To add tools to the disc type, you must change to a larger-diameter disc and redesign the changer. But with the chain type, you simply add chain strands. The changer location remains the same, allowing standardization. (See Figure 2.14.)
HP-Type
SK-Type
Figure 2.11 ATC Chain Can Accomodate Many Tools
Figure 2.12 ATC Chain
Chain-Type ATC
Disc-Type ATC
Figure 2.13 Chain-Type ATC Can Have 1.5 Times that of Disc-Type ATC
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