Increasing reconfigurability by adaptive module for a lathe

To achieve a higher reconfigurability of machine tools, the Institute for Machine Tools at the University of Stuttgart developed a new spindle module in cooperation with the company INDEX-Werke GmbH & Co. KG (Esslingen, Germany) within the framework of a transfer project (TFB59), supported by the DFG. This spindle module enables the operator to exchange the spindle in clearly less time and hence represents an important device for the reconfigurability of machine tools. This paper describes important steps in the development and design of the new machine module.