Structural Optimization of an Automatic Pallet Changer Mechanism Using the Tree-Graph Method

Abstract

In this article we present a methodology of minimizing the number of movements performed by an existent pallet changer mechanism attached to an horizontal machining centre. After analysing the existent pallet changer mechanism along with the machining centre we obtained new optimized constructive alternatives regarding the number of movements performed by the pallet changer. After applying the tree-graph method we had optimized structurally the considered pallet changer mechanism and obtained the constructive configuration which performs the least movements in order to change the pallet. The small number of movements of the resulted pallet changer mechanism helps the design engineer to choose the most simple structure which reflects positively in the production cost. The minimum movements number obtained by making use of this method will lead to a simplification of the driving, command and control system of the pallet changer mechanism.