Page 107 - Modular design for machine tools

Engineering Guides and Future Perspectives of Modular Design 71

easily form the basic structural configuration by using the FOF (flow of
force) (der Kraftfluß) and then adding the auxiliary modules. This can
be regarded as a valuable proposal for the methodology related to the
principle of adaptation. Importantly, the noteworthy feature is the appli-
cation of the proposed modular design across the whole European small
machine tool manufacturers. This intention is similar to that of TL as
per ISO in order to design the customized machine tool with dedicated
specifications; however, the method has been claimed to be in practical
use only within the two big European manufacturers.
To this end, it is emphasized that the four principles proposed by Doi
are even now very valuable and applicable; however, some variants are
also needed. Actually, variants by Koren, Tönshoff, and Koenigsberger
exist. For example, Koenigsberger emphasized, as already stated in
Chap. 1, the growing importance of the machine tool with modularity,
which was for cellular manufacturing, resulting in the user- oriented type,
and he detailed these principles in his research plan in 1975 [5] (see Chap. 1).
In addition, Table 2-1 suggests some leading subjects to be investi-
gated together with clarifying their relationships with the four princi-
ples of modular design.

TABLE 2-1 Some Leading R&D Subjects Regarding the Four Principles

Methodology and engineering Leading-edge research subjects
Principles tools at present and engineering problems
Reasonable separation methodology including
(Far from completion)
economic viewpoint
Separation Methodology based on frequency
distribution of work spectrum Applicability of platform concept proposed by
and/or machining space Metternich and Würsching
Reconsideration of effectiveness of modular design
of hierarchical type
(Far from completion apart from Evaluation method for preferred module
that for TL) determination
Unification
Module standardization for TL
Establishment of unification methodology available
across the whole kinds
(Nearly to established)
Simple connecting method with multiple
Connection Design guides have been nearly functionality, e.g., (1) joint with higher static
established such as “Engineering stiffness with higher damping capacity, (2) simple
Problems in Machine Tool Joints” joint compatible with complex and multidirectional
loading, and (3) jointing method with
higher stiffness and better locating accuracy
(Design guides being established)
Evaluation method for availability of modular design
Adaptation Design guides are being established Methodology for choosing preferable configuration
such as “Machine Tool from generated results including performance
Description and Its Application” simulation on drawing
Determination methodology for a group of modules