Machine Tool Simplification, Especially as Applied to Horizontal Boring Machines

Abstract

The author believes that simplification, while it must not be regarded as the panacea for all the ills of our industry, can if correctly applied be of immense benefit and that, though much has been said and written on the subject, few practical examples of its application in design and manufacture have been made available. The early history of machine tools is reviewed in this paper, and as the horizontal boring machine incorporates the general features of most machine tools it is used as a typical example. Some suggestions are made on the subject of simplification from the aspect of design, and practical examples are given of its application to patterns, castings, machining, lubrication, controls, measuring systems, and electrical equipment. Single-purpose machines, tool equipment, and accessories are also examined. It is proposed that the maximum advantage cannot be gained from a process of simplification unless a high degree of standardization is accepted, and therefore in reviewing the design of a complete range of horizontal boring machines a new principle of unit construction is explored in theory and practice. Examples are given of the application of this unit system to all sizes of horizontal boring machines, including the universal type. The paper concludes with a description of a new slideway grinding machine generally constructed from standard units.