System and method for providing tools on a machine tool and machine tool having a tool change system

A machine tool for processing a workpiece, including a spindle and a system for providing tools to the spindle, the system comprising:

• a first tool magazine accommodating a first group of tools;
• at least one second tool magazine accommodating a second group of tools;
• a feeding device adapted to remove a given tool of the second group of tools from the at least one second tool magazine, the removed tool of the second group of tools being provided at a predetermined transfer position at the at least one second tool magazine;
• and
• a transfer apparatus including a gripper configured to grip the removed tool of the second group of tools, the removed tool of the second group of tools being removed from the at least one second tool magazine by the feeding device and being provided at the predetermined transfer position, the transfer apparatus being adapted to feed the removed tool of the second group of tools, while the removed tool of the second group of tools is being held by the gripper, along a linear travel axis from the predetermined transfer position to the first tool magazine, with the result that the at least one second tool magazine serves as a supply magazine for the first tool magazine, the transfer apparatus also being adapted to feed the removed tool of the second group of tools, while the removed tool of the second group of tools is being held by the gripper, along the linear travel axis from the predetermined transfer position to a position along the linear travel axis at which the transfer apparatus inserts the removed tool of the second group of tools, by the gripper, directly into the spindle of the machine tool, the linear travel axis extending:
• (i) from the first tool magazine to the spindle of the machine tool, and (ii) from the first tool magazine to the at least one second tool magazine.