Integrated machining module for processing workpieces and a method of assembling the same

An integrated system for machining workpieces and separating the chips generated from machining the workpieces comprising;

• a housing,
• a first workstation and a second workstation interconnected by said housing along a processing path to form a machining module,
• an operational interface defined by each of said first workstation and said second workstation, and
• an interface connection disposed in said housing to interchangeably receive said operational interfaces of said first workstation and said second workstation.

An integrated system for machining workpieces having a pair of workstations interconnected along a processing path and a manipulator cooperable with the workstations providing access the workstations to process the workpieces at each of the workstations, said integrated system comprising:

• a housing having interconnected side walls exposed to an open top for engaging the workstations, said housing presenting at least one door to allow an access into said housing;
• a panel partially enclosing said open top;
• and
• a locking mechanism interconnected with said housing and said panel to slidably move said panel relative to said housing at said open top for preventing the manipulator from accessing the workstation as the workstation is accessible through said at least one door being opened.

An integrated system for machining workpieces comprising:

• a pair of workstations interconnected along a processing path;
• a manipulator cooperable with said workstations and adaptable to access said workstations;
• a housing having interconnected side walls exposed to an open top for engaging the workstations, said housing presenting at least one door to allow an access into said housing;
• a panel partially enclosing said open top;
• and
• a locking mechanism interconnected with said housing and said panel to slidably move said panel relative to said housing at said open top thereby preventing said manipulator from accessing said workstations when said door is opened.

A method of forming a machining module for manufacturing workpieces comprising;

• engaging a plurality of workstations to define a processing path to machine the workpieces,
• cooperably assembling a processing system with the plurality of workstations to form the machining module to circulate the chips from the workpieces and to remove mist generated by the plurality of workstations,
• connecting a manipulator to the machining module to move the workpieces along the processing path to process the workpieces at each of the workstations, and
• moving the machining module to a remote location.

A method of forming a machining module for manufacturing workpieces comprising;

• engaging a plurality of workstations to define a processing path to machine the workpieces,
• cooperably assembling a coolant and filtration device with the plurality of workstations to form the machining module to separate the chips generated from machining the workpieces from a coolant and to remove mist generated by the plurality of workstations,
• connecting a pressurized pump to the coolant and filtration device to circulate the coolant separated from the chips and supplying the coolant to the plurality of workstations,
• connecting a manipulator to the machining module to move the workpieces along the processing path to process the workpieces at each of the workstations, and moving the single machining module to a remote location.