System for Loading Elongated Members Such as Tubes Onto a Conveyor for Later Processing

Abstract

A system for loading elongated members, such as metal tubes and bars, onto a conveyor for later processing features an elevator, pusher arms, a support surface provided at a predetermined height, and gripper arms. The elevator acts to lift a topmost layer of the members, which are typically arranged in a stack thereon, to a predetermined height so that the pusher arms may transfer the members forming the topmost layer onto the support surface at this height. The pusher arms push these members across the support surface by engaging the member farthest from the support surface until the respective elongated member passes over a distal side of the support surface and onto the gripper arms arranged at a height of this side. The gripper arms lower that member to an unloading location below the support surface where an empty support cradle of the conveyor is arranged for receiving same.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The present invention relates to a system for loading elongated members, for example tubes or bars, onto a conveyor for later processing. The system described in detail in this application is designed particularly but not exclusively for use at an initial stage of an overall material processing system including a laser cutting machine which performs cutting operations on elongated metal members one member at a time.BACKGROUND[0002]In the example of laser cutting machines such as those manufactured by Mazak Corporation, many such cutting machines (also termed ‘cutters’) operate on the members, which are to be cut, one member at a time. The laser cutting machine is itself relatively automated; however, typically a system for feeding members to the cutter machine is substantially manual. That is, the feeding system typically involves loading by hand or by overhead crane each member into a respective movable support carried by a conveyor from which, at a loca...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes a way to make sure elongated parts are lifted up evenly and in the correct position when placed on a support surface. This makes it easier to move the parts from an elevator to the support surface.

Problems solved by technology

The laser cutting machine is itself relatively automated; however, typically a system for feeding members to the cutter machine is substantially manual.

Additionally, using the overhead crane still requires human intervention to arrange supports of the crane for holding the member around same.

Therefore, conventional manual loading presents a considerable safety risk to human operators / workers.

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