Development of a Tool Changer for a Reconfigurable Machine Tool

Automated tool changing of CNC machines reduces the cycle time of operations as most processes require a number of different tools to complete a task. The machine can be pre-loaded with the required tools and programmed to automatically retrieve the tools as required. CNC machines will often run unattended or work too quickly for manual intervention, so it is important that safety features and checks are built in to prevent damage. The purpose of this research project was to modify a tool changing system for a reconfigurable machine tool (RMT), which was previously developed in the Department of Mechatronics. The RMT is capable of performing milling, drilling and electric discharge machining (EDM). In this research, the automated tool changer (ATC) was developed and successfully integrated into the RMT, and interfaced with the machine controller. The redesigned ATC is able to provide fast, reliable and safe tool changing for a variety of tools.