Device and method for processing material

Abstract

The present application relates to a device comprising at least two carriers, each carrier having at least one machining tool for machining a material; at least one linear guide rail on which the at least two loaders are arranged in a linearly movable manner; and the push rod can be movably driven in two opposite directions along at least one linear guide rail. The at least two carriers each have a coupling device, by means of which each of the at least two carriers can be selectively coupled to the push rod. The device has a controller by means of which the coupling device can be controlled in such a way that the push rod moves the at least two carriers together along the at least one linear guide rail, or only one or a subset of the at least two carriers, so that the distance between the at least two carriers can be varied. The invention further relates to a method for machining, in particular cutting, strip-shaped materials by using the device. The at least two carriers are alternately moved by a first distance in a first direction and in a second direction opposite the first direction by the push rod after each machining cycle of the strip-shaped material by the machining tool.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a device and a method for processing materials, in particular to a device and a method for processing strip materials, wherein a plurality of carriers with processing tools are used, and the distances between the carriers can be different. Background Art

[0002] Various devices and methods for processing strip-shaped materials are known in the prior art, in particular methods which allow the distance between individual carriers on which processing tools are mounted to be varied.

[0003] US Patent No. 4,604,934 (PPG Industries) discloses a system for positioning a plurality of carriages, for example along a bridge across a work surface. The outermost carriages are connected to a drive device, and the other carriages can be selectively connected to adjacent carriages. Each carriage (except the outermost carriage) can be clamped on a rod. To position the carriages, they are first pushed together in a starting position and then pushed forward in a connected configuration by the drive device; finally, the rearmost carriage is successively released from the carriage column at the corresponding position and clamped to the rod. The carriages have a rectangular base.

[0004] European patent EP 0 997 444 (HEGLA) describes a method and a device for positioning a plurality of processing heads of a multi-head processing machine, which processing heads can be moved along at least two spatial axes. This enables the fully automatic positioning of the processing heads on a bridge that spans the cutting table. The processing heads are assigned to individual carrier carriages and are first arranged as closely together as possible during positioning. The processing heads are then moved by a carrier carriage that can be driven along the longitudinal axis of the bridge; after reaching the respective desired position, the corresponding processing head is fixed relative to the longitudinal axis of the bridge, released from the assembly and connected to the already positioned processing head. For this purpose, two adjacent carrier carriages are each connected by a slide rod, wherein each carrier carriage can be clamped on the slide rod by means of a clamping device. The processing heads are in the form of a carriage, on which processing tools can be mounted. Summary of the invention

[0005] It is an object of the present invention to provide a device belonging to the aforementioned technical field, which is suitable for processing materials, especially strip-shaped materials, in which the distance between carriers or processing tools arranged on the carriers can be changed.

[0006] The solution to this object is defined by the features of claim 1. According to the invention, the device comprises at least two carriers, each of which has at least one processing tool for processing a material; at least one linear guide on which at least two carriers are arranged in a linearly movable manner; and a push rod, which can be moved and driven in two opposite directions along at least one linear guide. The at least two carriers each have a coupling device, by means of which each of the at least two carriers can be selectively coupled to the push rod. The device comprises a controller, by means of which the coupling device can be controlled so that the push rod moves the at least two carriers together along the at least one linear guide, or only one or a subset of the at least two carriers, so that the distance between the at least two carriers can be changed.

[0007] Since at least two carriers can be selectively coupled to the push rod, the distance between the carriers or the processing tools mounted thereon can be easily changed. In addition, if all carriers are coupled to the push rod, the push rod can move all carriers simultaneously.

[0008] The device preferably comprises a frame on which the various components of the device are arranged or supported. The frame preferably comprises a base or feet by which the frame can be placed on the ground.

[0009] The processing tool is preferably a punching tool and / or a drawing tool. In this way, for example, a molded part can be cut from the material and then three-dimensionally formed. However, alternatively, other processing tools can also be arranged on the at least two carriers, such as a pressing tool. The processing tool can perform a plurality of processing steps during the processing of the material, such as the aforementioned sequence of processing steps of cutting and three-dimensional forming. The sequence of processing steps required for processing the material forms a processing cycle. Therefore, in the aforementioned example of producing a deep-drawn molded part, the processing steps of cutting and the subsequent three-dimensional forming together form a processing cycle.

[0010] The strip material processed by the processing tool is preferably a metal strip, a paper strip, a cardboard strip or a plastic strip. The thickness of the strip material can be different, but preferably in the range of 0.1 mm to 10 mm.

[0011] The at least two carriers are preferably made of metal or a metal alloy, in particular aluminum, steel or stainless steel. Alternatively, the at least two carriers are preferably made of plastic, in particular reinforced plastic, for example plastic reinforced with glass fibers or carbon fibers. The at least two carriers comprise at least one sliding bearing, at least one roller or the like, so that the at least two carriers are movably arranged on the at least one linear guide. Therefore, the at least one linear guide preferably comprises a sliding bearing, a guide rail or a guide groove.

[0012] The device preferably comprises more than two carriers, in particular more than five carriers, preferably 10, 11 or 12 carriers. The maximum number of carriers that the device comprises generally depends on the width of the material to be processed and the size or diameter of the processing tool, wherein the number of carriers that the device comprises may also be less than the maximum number depending on the intended processing method of the material or the method used. Furthermore, the device may comprise a plurality of linear guides that are arranged in parallel and in particular spaced apart from each other.

[0013] When the device is used as intended, at least one linear guide extends in the horizontal direction. If there are multiple linear guides, these linear guides are preferably arranged spaced apart from each other. When the device is used as intended, the linear guides are preferably spaced apart from each other in the vertical direction. The linear guides can be arranged directly above each other in the vertical direction, that is, in the same vertical plane. However, the linear guides are preferably arranged staggered in the horizontal direction, that is, when the device is used as intended, they are not in the same vertical plane, but in vertical planes that are staggered in the horizontal direction.

[0014] The device particularly preferably comprises two parallel linear guides.

[0015] The at least one linear guide preferably comprises stops at both ends, which limit the movement of the at least two carriers within a defined displacement range.

[0016] The push rod is preferably arranged parallel to at least one linear guide and is movably supported on at least one linear guide or on the frame of the device via at least one bearing, in particular a sliding bearing or a rolling bearing. The push rod is moved in two opposite directions by a drive, in particular an electric motor, an electromechanical drive, a pneumatic drive or a hydraulic drive.

[0017] The push rod preferably has a circular cross section. However, alternatively, the push rod may also have a different cross section, such as a square, rectangular, oval or polygonal cross section. The push rod is preferably made of metal or a metal alloy so as to be as rigid as possible. Alternatively, the push rod may also be made of a different material, such as a polymer, in particular a carbon fiber reinforced plastic.

[0018] The coupling device comprises a component that enables the corresponding coupling device to be selectively coupled to the push rod. The coupling is preferably carried out in a force-fit and / or form-fit manner, wherein the coupling device comprises a corresponding component for establishing a force-fit and / or form-fit connection with the push rod. However, alternatively, the coupling can also be carried out by magnetic force, for example by an electromagnet.

[0019] By coupling with the push rod, a carrier can be moved by the push rod along at least one linear guide. By selectively disengaging a carrier from the push rod, the carrier can be positioned at a specific position on the at least one linear guide without being moved by further movement of the push rod itself. For example, such a selection system can be used to change the distance between at least two carriers or, depending on the processing method of the strip material, to leave one or more carriers that are not needed, in particular fixedly, in a parking position.

[0020] The controller preferably comprises at least one microcontroller or microprocessor. Furthermore, the controller preferably comprises a non-volatile memory and input and output means, for example in the form of a touch screen. The controller is preferably connected to the coupling means of at least two carriers via at least one data connection, for example a data line connection or a wireless data connection, so that each carrier can be selectively coupled or uncoupled from the push rod via the coupling means arranged thereon via the controller.

[0021] Controller is also preferably connected with the driver and the processing tool of push rod.Like this, the motion of push rod and the function of processing tool can be controlled by controller.

[0022] In order to change the spacing between at least two carriers, the first carrier can be coupled to the push rod and at least one other carrier can be disconnected from the push rod. By moving the push rod in one of two directions by a predetermined distance, the spacing between the first carrier and its adjacent carrier can be easily and automatically changed. If the device has more than two carriers, the spacing between each carrier and the adjacent carrier can be changed in the above manner. With the change in the spacing between the at least two carriers, the spacing between the processing tools arranged on the carriers will of course also change.

[0023] For example, if the device is used to cut profiles from a strip of material, the pitch may need to be changed to allow for cutting profiles of different sizes and / or shapes. By changing the pitch, it is possible to avoid overlapping of the cut profiles on the strip or to avoid excessive waste from the remaining strip after the profiles have been cut.

[0024] By coupling all carriers to the push rod, all carriers can be moved together by the push rod. In this way, for example, the carriers can be moved periodically by a certain distance, in particular after each processing cycle. The movement preferably alternates between mutually opposite directions. Thus, for example, when cutting a circular profile, an optimal utilization of the material can be achieved when the processing tool or its carrier each moves at least half the diameter of the circular profile after each working cycle.

[0025] The coupling devices of the at least two carriers preferably each comprise a rod clamp, in particular a pneumatic, magnetic, electric or spring-loaded rod clamp, which selectively interacts with the push rod.

[0026] In this case, the carrier is coupled to the push rod by a clamping force, i.e. by frictional engagement. The rod clamp preferably has an opening through which the push rod passes, wherein at least one clamping element is arranged in the region of the opening and can be brought into an extended state, in which state it presses on the push rod so that the rod clamp and the push rod are in frictional engagement. The at least one clamping element is preferably preloaded by a spring element into a retracted state, in which state the at least one clamping element does not interact with the push rod, i.e. does not press on the push rod. The at least one clamping element is moved from the retracted state into the extended state, in particular by an actuator, preferably by a cylinder.

[0027] At least one clamping element is made of or comprises a material with a high coefficient of static friction, such as rubber, on the surface facing the push rod, in order to ensure a connection to the push rod that is as slip-proof as possible.

[0028] One end of the push rod is preferably connected via an electric or electromechanical drive to a slide which can be linearly moved in two directions along an axis parallel to the at least one linear guide.

[0029] This provides a structurally simple, reliable and mechanically load-bearing drive for the push rod. The slide moves within a defined range of motion, which is arranged in particular in a transverse direction relative to the imaginary extension of the axis of extension of at least one linear guide on the device frame, wherein the slide preferably runs on at least one guide rail or in at least one guide groove via rollers.

[0030] The drive may be arranged directly on the slide. However, the drive is preferably arranged on the frame of the device and is operably connected to the slide via a drive component, such as a chain. The drive or the slide preferably comprises a component capable of determining the position of the slide along at least one guide rail or guide groove. To this end, the drive of the slide may comprise, for example, a stepper motor or a servo motor, or the roller of the slide may comprise a rotary encoder disc, by which the rotation angle of the roller can be measured. Alternatively, there may also be a sensor, by which the position of the slide relative to the sensor can be measured, such as an ultrasonic sensor.

[0031] The second end of push rod is preferably arranged on the slide seat equally.Yet alternatively, the second end of push rod also can be guided in sliding bearing or rolling bearing.

[0032] The driver of slide is preferably connected to controller by line and controlled by controller.In addition, the sensor that is used for rotary encoder disk or other sensors that can measure slide position also preferably are connected to controller.

[0033] The slide is preferably moved by a toothed belt connected to an electric motor, in particular a servomotor, or by a linear motor. In this way, a reliable and non-slip connection can be achieved between the drive and the slide.

[0034] The toothed belt preferably passes around a deflection roller which is arranged at the same time at the end of the range of motion of the carriage, i.e. at one end of the at least one guide rail or guide groove. The fixing of the deflection roller to the frame forms a stop for the carriage. The deflection roller is preferably arranged on the frame between the range of motion of the carriage and the at least one linear guide. The deflection roller or its fixing preferably forms a stop for the at least two carriers. The electric motor is preferably arranged at the other end of the range of motion of the carriage.

[0035] The toothed belt is preferably fixedly connected to the carriage, for example by means of a screw connection or a clamping connection.

[0036] At least one locking element is preferably arranged at a defined position along the at least one linear guide, which locking element interacts with a positioning element of at least one of the two carriers in order to lock the carrier in a defined position.

[0037] In this way, at least one of the at least two carriers can be locked in a determined position in a fixed motion. At least one locking element can be fixed to at least one linear guide or to the frame of the device. The device preferably comprises a locking element for each of the at least two carriers. At least one locking element is preferably arranged in a parking position of at least one of the at least two carriers along at least one linear guide. In this way, the carrier can be locked in the parking position, for example, when the number of processing tools required for processing the material is less than the number of processing tools available.

[0038] At least one locking element and the positioning element preferably interact in a form-fitting manner. However, alternatively, the locking element and the positioning element can also interact by magnetic force, for example by an electromagnet.

[0039] The at least one locking element preferably comprises a detent pin which is movable from a retracted state to an extended state in which the detent pin engages with a detent element of the at least one carrier.

[0040] In this way, a secure, precise but structurally simple locking of the locking element to the positioning element can be achieved. The positioning element preferably comprises a cylindrical receiving portion for the positioning pin. The cylindrical receiving portion preferably comprises a conical opening so that the positioning pin can be guided into the opening when it is moved into the extended state even if the carrier or the positioning element arranged thereon is not located exactly in a determined position.

[0041] The at least one locking pin is preferably preloaded by a spring element in a retracted state and can be selectively moved into an extended state by an actuator, in particular a pneumatic actuator.

[0042] This ensures that operation of the device is not disturbed by the detent pin becoming stuck in the extended state.Correct movement of the detent pin to the retracted and / or extended state is preferably monitored by sensors.

[0043] The at least two carriers each comprise at least one slider which is movably arranged on at least one linear guide. The at least one slider preferably comprises at least one sliding bearing, at least one roller or at least one wheel running on the guide. The at least two carriers each preferably comprise the same number of sliders as the number of linear guides of the device.

[0044] The at least one sliding bearing of the at least one slide preferably slides on a sliding bearing or a surface of the at least one linear guide. In this case, the linear guide preferably comprises lateral guide elements for the at least one slide or the at least one sliding bearing. If the at least one slide comprises at least one roller or at least one wheel, the at least one slide preferably runs in at least one guide groove of the at least one linear guide or on at least one guide rail.

[0045] The at least two carriers preferably each comprise at least one processing tool for cutting and / or three-dimensionally shaping the strip-shaped material.

[0046] At least two carriers preferably comprise identical processing tools, so that in each working cycle the same working steps can be performed in parallel on the material by the processing tools arranged on the at least two carriers.

[0047] The at least two carriers preferably each comprise the following parts:

[0048] a) a first arm having a first end and a second end;

[0049] b) a first fixing area for the upper processing tool, wherein the first fixing area is arranged at a first end area of ​​the first arm; c) a second arm arranged parallel to the first arm and spaced a first distance therefrom, wherein the second arm has a third end and a fourth end;

[0050] d) a second fixing area for the lower processing tool, wherein the second fixing area is arranged at the third end area of ​​the second arm so that the upper processing tool and the lower processing tool can interact with each other to process the strip material running between the first arm and the second arm;

[0051] e) a connecting arm connecting the second end of the first arm and the fourth end of the second arm;

[0052] f) A first slide and a second slide, by means of which the carrier can be movably arranged on two linear guides, wherein the first slide is arranged on the first arm and the second slide is arranged on the second arm.

[0053] In this embodiment of at least two carriers, the device comprises two linear guides arranged parallel to each other and spaced apart by a first distance. When the device is used as intended, the first distance preferably extends in a vertical direction. In addition, in this embodiment, when the device is used as intended, the two linear guides are arranged offset from each other by a second distance in a horizontal direction.

[0054] The device preferably comprises a conveyor device in order to convey the strip material to the processing tool.

[0055] The conveying device may be configured differently depending on the type of strip material to be processed by the device. The conveying device preferably comprises at least one driven roller or drum, on which the strip material is placed. It is also possible to use a pair of rollers or drums between which the strip material passes. The device may also preferably include a conveyor belt or roller belt, on which the strip material is placed. Alternatively, the device may also include a vacuum belt, by which the strip material can be conveyed.

[0056] The device preferably comprises a suspension device, to which a roller of the strip material can be connected, from which roller the strip material is unwound and conveyed to the processing tool.

[0057] If the at least two carriers comprise the above-mentioned first arm, second arm and connecting arm, the conveying device is configured so that the strip material is conveyed to the processing tool along the extension direction of the first arm and the second arm and in the direction of the connecting arm. In this embodiment, the device preferably comprises at least one cutting element, by which the strip material can be cut to a certain length after each processing cycle or after a certain number of processing cycles, so that the strip material does not enter the connecting arm of the at least two carriers.

[0058] The conveying device is further configured to convey the strip material a certain distance after each processing cycle so that unprocessed strip material is available in a subsequent processing cycle.

[0059] If the device is used to punch round shaped parts out of a strip of material, the conveyor device moves the strip of material by at least half the diameter of the round shaped part after one processing cycle.

[0060] The invention also relates to a method for processing, in particular cutting and / or three-dimensionally shaping a strip material using the above device. After each processing cycle of the processing tool on the strip material, at least two carriers are moved alternately by a push rod in a first direction and a second direction opposite to the first direction by a first distance.

[0061] As already mentioned, a processing cycle includes all processing steps required for producing a profiled part, for example, from a strip material, that is to say, for example, the step of cutting the profiled part and a possible subsequent deep drawing step.

[0062] Preferably, after each machining cycle, all carriers of the device are moved together, for which purpose all carriers are coupled to the push rods via their respective coupling devices.

[0063] The movement after each processing cycle allows a particularly advantageous utilization of the strip material, since in each processing cycle the processing tool is shifted relative to the position it occupied in the preceding processing cycle.

[0064] Preferably, in each processing cycle, the strip of material is processed by the processing tools of all the carriers. However, alternatively, in every other processing cycle, at least one processing tool of at least one of the at least two carriers is not used to process the strip of material. In this way, when the carriers are offset by the first distance, a strip of material that is not wide enough to be processed by the processing tools of all the carriers can still be processed by the method.

[0065] Preferably, the circular profile is punched out of the strip material and at least two carriers are moved after each punching operation, wherein a first distance corresponds to at least half the diameter of the circular profile. After each processing cycle, the strip material is preferably moved by the conveying device a second distance corresponding to at least half the diameter of the circular profile.

[0066] By the alternating movement of the carriers and the movement of the strip material after each processing cycle, a particularly good utilization of the strip material can be achieved. In this way, only a small amount of redundant strip material needs to be disposed of as waste.

[0067] Preferably, before processing the strip material, the distance between at least two carriers is changed by:

[0068] a) releasing all coupling devices and moving the push rod from a basic position to an end position in a first direction;

[0069] b) coupling the push rod to a first carrier which is farthest from a stop element of at least one linear guide;

[0070] c) moving the push rod and the first carrier coupled to the push rod to a second direction until the carrier closest to the stop element hits the stop element;

[0071] d) decoupling the first carrier from the push rod;

[0072] e) moving the push rod along the second direction to a basic position;

[0073] f) coupling the first carrier to the push rod, and moving the push rod and the first carrier coupled thereto by a predetermined distance in a first direction;

[0074] g) sequentially coupling the carriers adjacent to the carrier previously driven by the push rod to the push rod, and moving the carriers along the first direction by a predetermined distance.

[0075] This makes it possible to change the spacing between the at least two carriers in a way that is as simple and precise as possible. By changing the spacing, the device can be used to process the strip material using different processing tools. For this purpose, the processing tools or components of the processing tools mounted on the at least two carriers can be replaced. For example, if a punching tool is mounted on the at least two carriers, when the punching die is replaced, the spacing between the carriers can be adjusted according to the size of the replaced punching die.

[0076] When changing the spacing between at least two carriers, preferably the spacing between all carriers is adjusted equally. However, alternatively, the spacing between each two adjacent carriers can also be adjusted differently.

[0077] Step g) is preferably performed until the adjacent carrier of the carrier closest to the stop element has been moved. This means that when changing the spacing of at least two carriers, the carrier closest to the stop element is not moved. Thus, the operation of changing the spacing can be performed faster than if all carriers were moved for this purpose.

[0078] Preferably, between steps d) and e), all carriers are locked in their position each time by engagement of the locking element with the positioning element of the carrier, wherein before the push rod is moved in step f) or step g), the positioning pin of the carrier to be moved is retracted to unlock the carrier.

[0079] This ensures that a carrier that is not intended to be moved can be held securely in its position. Thus, the accuracy when adjusting the spacing can be improved.

[0080] Further advantageous embodiments and feature combinations of the invention can be derived from the following detailed description and from the entire patent claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0081] The accompanying drawings, used to explain exemplary embodiments, show:

[0082] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a first embodiment of the device of the present invention;

[0083] Figure 2-6 Different steps of the device of the present invention when adjusting the distance between the carriers;

[0084] Figure 7 A strip material partially processed by the method of the present invention;

[0085] Figure 8 To pass with Figure 7Alternative methods to the methods shown Partially processed strip material;

[0086] Fig. 9 is a second embodiment of the device of the present invention;

[0087] Fig.10 is an embodiment of a carrier;

[0088] Fig.11 One embodiment of a positioning element interacts with a locking element.

[0089] In principle, identical parts are provided with the same reference symbols in the various figures. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0090] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a first embodiment of the device 1 according to the invention is shown. The device 1 comprises a frame 2, by means of which the device 1 can be placed on the ground and on which the components of the device 1 are arranged. The device 1 also comprises a linear guide 3, on which a plurality of carriers 4.1-4.n are movably arranged. A processing tool 5.1-5.n is fixed to each carrier 4.1-4.n. The material, in particular the strip material, can be processed by the processing tool 5.1-5.n. The device 1 also comprises a push rod 6 arranged parallel to the linear guide 3. The push rod 6 can be mounted movably in two directions and is driven to move by a drive 7. Each carrier 4.1-4.n comprises a coupling device 9.1-9.n. Each carrier 4.1-4.n can be selectively coupled to the push rod 6 by means of the coupling device 9.1-9.n. In the coupled state, the corresponding carrier 4.1-4.n is moved along the linear guide 3 by the push rod 6. The device 1 also comprises a stop element 25 which limits the movement of the carriers 4.1-4.n. Figure 1 In the embodiment, the carriers 4.1-4.n are arranged at a first distance A1 from each other.

[0091] Figure 2 The first step of the method according to the invention for changing the spacing of the carriers 4.1-4.n is shown. Figure 2 The intermediate carriers 4.1-4.n are arranged at a first spacing A1 between each other. In this step, firstly all coupling devices 9.1-9.n are released and the push rod 6 is moved along the same Figure 2 to the end position in a first direction opposite to the arrow shown in FIG.

[0092] Then, the first carrier 4.1, which is farthest from the stop element 25, is coupled to the push rod 6 via its coupling device 9.1. The drive 7 moves the push rod in a second direction opposite to the first direction, which is determined by Figure 2As indicated by the arrow in FIG. 1 , the first carrier 4.1 moves to the second carrier 4.2 adjacent thereto, and then drives it to move in the second direction. Then, the second carrier 4.2 moves to another carrier 4.3 adjacent thereto, and so on. Finally, the carrier row moves to the carrier 9.n closest to the stop element 25, and drives it to move until it moves to the stop element 25, as shown in FIG. Figure 3 shown.

[0093] The coupling device 9.1 of the first carrier 4.1 is decoupled from the push rod 3, and the push rod 3 is moved to the basic position in the second direction. Then, the first carrier 4.1 is coupled to the push rod 3 again through its coupling device 9.1, and the driver 7 moves the push rod 3 coupled to the first carrier 4.1 in the first direction by a predetermined distance A2, as shown in FIG. Figure 4 In this case, the predetermined distance A2 corresponds to the new spacing of the carriers 4.1-4.n. Then, the carrier 4.2 adjacent to the first carrier 4.1 is coupled to the push rod 6 through its coupling device 9.2, and the push rod coupled to the first carrier 4.1 and the second carrier 4.2 is moved in the first direction by the predetermined distance A2.

[0094] After the push rod moves a predetermined distance A2 along the first direction each time, the remaining carriers 4.3-4.n are coupled to the push rod in sequence through the corresponding coupling devices 9.3-9.n, and then the push rod moves a second distance A2 in sequence along the first direction. Figure 5 This sequential coupling and moving operation is repeated until all the carriers 4.1-4.n are spaced at a predetermined distance A2 from each other. However, the carrier 4.n closest to the stop element 25 does not need to be moved, such as Figure 6 By coupling all coupling devices 9.1-9.n, all carriers 4.1-4.n can then be moved simultaneously by means of the push rod 6.

[0095] Figure 7 A strip material 8 is shown which has been partially processed by the device 1 according to the invention. In this embodiment, the processing tools 5.1-5.n of the carriers 4.1-4.n are punching tools for punching out circular profiles from the strip material. The processing tools 5.1-5.n are arranged side by side in each row of circular cuts 10.1-10.2 of the strip material 8. The diameter of all circular profiles is D. During the processing of the strip material 8, all carriers 4.1-4.n are spaced the same distance from each other. After each processing cycle, all carriers 4.1-4.n are moved alternately in the first direction and in the second direction by a determined first distance which is slightly greater than half the diameter D of the circular profile. In addition, the strip material 8 is moved to the left in the illustrated direction by a second distance which is also slightly greater than half the diameter D of the circular profile.

[0096] By shifting the carriers 4.1-4.n by a first distance in the first direction and in the second direction alternately after each processing cycle while moving the strip 8, circular profiles offset from one another can be punched out in a material-saving manner from the strip 8. This shifting can be seen particularly clearly by the dashed line depicting the displacement of the center of the lowermost circular profile.

[0097] The first distance and the second distance are both greater than half of the diameter D of the circular profile to ensure that the profiles do not overlap.

[0098] Figure 8 Demonstrated through Figure 7 The alternative method of the method shown partially processes the strip material 8. In this method, at least one processing tool 5.1 of at least one of the two carriers 4.1 is not used in every other processing cycle. Therefore, in every other working cycle, one less circular profile is produced in a row 10.1. This makes it possible to process a strip material 8 that is not wide enough, and to cut the same number of circular profiles in each row 10.1-10.3 even when the carriers are offset by a first distance.

[0099] It will be understood by a person skilled in the art that the number of carriers 4.1-4.n in the disclosed method may vary depending on the width of the strip material 8 and the size of the at least one processing tool 5.1-5.n. In the method, it is also possible not to use a processing tool 5 with multiple carriers 4.1-4.n in one processing cycle. It should also be noted that, depending on the width of the strip material 8, one or more carriers 4.1-4.n may remain in a parking position and thus not be moved by the push rod 6. The disclosed method may also perform other processing steps on the strip material 8, such as three-dimensional forming or embossing.

[0100] Fig. 9 A second embodiment of the device 1 of the present invention is shown. The device 1 comprises a frame 2, by means of which the device 1 stands on the ground, and the various components of the device 1 are mounted on the frame 2. The device 1 also comprises two linear guides 3.1, 3.2 arranged parallel to each other and spaced apart by a first distance. The carriers 4.1-4.n are connected by two slides (see Fig.10) is movably arranged on two parallel linear guides 3.1, 3.2. The carriers 4.1-4.n can be moved along the linear guides 3.1, 3.2 by means of a movable push rod 6 mounted on the frame 2 of the device 1 and parallel to the linear guides 3.1, 3.2. In this case, each individual carrier 4.1-4.n can be selectively coupled to the push rod 6 by a coupling device. Therefore, by coupling with the push rod 6, a single carrier, multiple carriers or all carriers 4.1-4.n can be moved. One end of the push rod 6 is fixed to the slide 12, and the slide 12 is linearly movably arranged on the cantilever 11 of the frame 2. In this case, the slide 12 can move parallel to the linear guides 3.1, 3.2. The drive 7 is preferably configured as an electric motor, which is connected to the slide 12 by a toothed belt 13, so that the slide 12 can move back and forth by means of the drive 7. Depending on the application scenario, the device 1 may include different numbers of carriers 4.1-4.n. The device 1 is preferably used for cutting shaped parts from a strip material and / or for three-dimensionally shaping it. Accordingly, punching and / or drawing tools are mounted on the carriers 4.1-4.n.

[0101] Fig.10 An embodiment of a carrier 4 is shown. The carrier 4 comprises a first arm 14 having a first end and a second end, and a first fixing area 17 for fixing an upper processing tool is arranged in the first end region. The carrier 4 also comprises a second arm 15 having a third end and a fourth end, and a second fixing area 18 for a lower processing tool is arranged in the third end region. The second end of the first arm 14 and the fourth end of the second arm 15 are connected to each other by a connecting arm 16. The first arm 14 and the second arm 15 are arranged parallel to each other and separated by a first distance. The carrier 4 comprises a first slider 19 arranged on the first arm 14 and a second slider 20 arranged on the second arm 15. With the aid of the sliders 14 and 15, the carrier 4 is movably arranged on two parallel linear guides, for example Fig. 9 The two linear guides 3.1, 3.2 of the device 1 are shown. The processing tool 5 for cutting and / or three-dimensionally shaping the strip material is preferably mounted on two fixing areas 17, 18 of the carrier 4. The carrier 4 also includes a cable duct 21, through which lines for control signals, current, compressed air or liquids can be guided from the fixing 22 of the drag chain from above or below to the first arm 14 or the second arm 15.

[0102] Fig.11The interaction of an embodiment of a positioning element 26 with a locking element 27 is shown. The positioning element 26 is arranged on the carrier 4, while the locking element 27 is fixed to a linear guide, in the embodiment shown to a first linear guide 3.1. Alternatively, the locking element 27 can also be fixed to other components of the device 1, in particular the frame 2. The locking element 27 comprises a positioning pin 28, which can be moved from a retracted state (not shown) to the extended state shown, in particular by an actuator (not shown). In the embodiment shown, the positioning pin 28 engages in a hole 29 of the positioning element 26. The hole 29 is cylindrical and comprises a conical opening 30 so that the positioning pin 28 is automatically centered in the hole 29. The positioning pin 28 is linearly moved by an actuator 30, in particular a pneumatic actuator, and is prestressed to the extended state by a spring element (not shown) in the locking element 27.

Claims

1. A device for processing materials, in particular strip materials, comprising at least two carriers, each carrier being provided with at least one processing tool for processing the material; at least one linear guide rail, on which the at least two carriers are arranged in a linearly movable manner; and a push rod, which can be moved and driven in two opposite directions along the at least one linear guide rail, wherein: The at least two carriers each have a coupling device, by means of which each of the at least two carriers can be selectively coupled to the push rod, and is characterized in that the device is provided with a controller, by means of which the coupling device can be controlled so that the push rod drives the at least two carriers to move together along the at least one linear guide rail, or only drives one or a subset of the at least two carriers to move, thereby being able to change the distance between the at least two carriers.

2. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that The coupling device of the at least two carriers comprises a rod clamp, in particular a pneumatic, electric or magnetic rod clamp, which interacts with the push rod.

3. The device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: One end of the push rod is connected to a slide which can be linearly moved in two directions along an axis parallel to the at least one linear guide by means of a pneumatic, electric or electromechanical drive.

4. The device according to claim 3, characterized in that The slide can be moved by means of a toothed belt connected to the output of an electric motor, in particular a servomotor, or by means of a linear motor.

5. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that At least one locking element is provided at a defined position along at least one linear guide, the locking element interacting with a positioning element of one of the at least two carriers in order to lock the carrier in the defined position.

6. The device according to claim 5, characterized in that The at least one locking element includes a detent pin movable from a retracted state to an extended state in which the detent pin engages the detent element.

7. The device according to claim 6, characterized in that The at least one positioning pin is prestressed in a retracted state by means of a spring element and is selectively moved into an extended state by means of an actuator, in particular a pneumatic actuator.

8. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that The at least two carriers each include at least one slider movably disposed on the at least one linear guide rail.

9. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that The at least two carriers each comprise at least one processing tool for cutting and / or three-dimensionally shaping the strip material.

10. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that Each of the at least two carriers comprises the following components: a) a first arm having a first end and a second end; b) a first fixing region for an upper processing tool, wherein the first fixing region is arranged in a first end region of the first arm; c) a second arm disposed parallel to the first arm and spaced a first distance from the first arm, wherein the second arm has a third end and a fourth end; d) a second fixing area for a lower processing tool, wherein the second fixing area is arranged at a third end area of ​​the second arm so that the upper processing tool and the lower processing tool can cooperate with each other to process the strip material running between the first arm and the second arm; e) a connecting arm connecting the second end of the first arm and the fourth end of the second arm; f) A first slide and a second slide, by means of which the carrier is movably arranged on two linear guides, wherein the first slide is arranged on the first arm and the second slide is arranged on the second arm.

11. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that The device comprises a conveying device for conveying the strip material to the processing tool.

12. A method for processing a strip material, in particular cutting and / or three-dimensionally shaping the strip material, using the device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that: After each processing cycle performed by the processing tool on the strip material, the at least two carriers are moved alternately by the push rods in a first direction and in a second direction opposite to the first direction by a first distance.

13. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that A circular profile is punched out of the strip material and the at least two carriers are moved after each processing cycle, wherein the first distance corresponds to half the diameter of the circular profile and, after each processing cycle, the strip material is preferably moved a second distance corresponding to at least half the diameter of the circular profile.

14. The method according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that Before processing the strip material, the distance between the at least two carriers is changed by the following steps: a) releasing all coupling devices and moving the push rod from a basic position to an end position in a first direction; b) coupling the push rod to a first carrier which is farthest from a stop element of the at least one linear guide; c) moving the push rod and the first carrier coupled to the push rod in a second direction until the carrier closest to the stop element hits the stop element; d) decoupling the first carrier from the push rod; e) moving the push rod along a second direction to a basic position; f) coupling the first carrier to the push rod, and moving the push rod and the first carrier coupled thereto by a predetermined distance along a first direction; g) sequentially coupling the carriers adjacent to the carrier previously moved by the push rod to the push rod and moving them a predetermined distance in the first direction.

15. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that Step g) is performed until the carrier next to the carrier closest to the stop element is moved.

16. The method according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that Between steps d) and e), all carriers are locked in their positions each time by engagement of the locking element with the positioning element of the carrier, wherein before moving the push rod in step f) or step g), the positioning pin of the carrier to be moved is retracted to unlock the carrier.

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