Tool exchange system and sheet processing machine having the same

Abstract

The invention relates to a tool exchange system (54) for a sheet processing machine (10), comprising at least one transport carrier (56) capable of storing and carrying a plurality of tools (34) for the sheet processing machine (10). The system (54) further comprises a lifting device (58) attachable to the transport carrier (56) and adapted to move the transport carrier (56) on the platform (38) to at least one exchange position (46) in which tools can be exchanged between the transport carrier (56) and the sheet processing machine (10). Further, the system (54) includes at least one alignment mechanism (60) configured to lock the transport carrier (56) at the at least one exchange position (46).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a tool exchange system for a sheet material processing machine and a processing machine having the tool exchange system.

[0002] Sheet processing machines are known in the art and are used to automatically cut packaging material such as paper, carton or corrugated board into blanks which are then folded into outer packaging. Subtypes of sheet processing machines are die cutters or platen presses.

[0003] To efficiently process sheet materials, sheet processing machines include a conveyor track divided into different workstations. Each workstation is equipped with a different tool adapted to perform a specific task during the sheet processing process. In principle, the tools used are configured to cut the sheet, remove the cutout portion of the sheet, and collect the final cut sheet.

[0004] Since not every tool is suitable for every cutting job, it is necessary for the operator to exchange certain tools between the two different cutting jobs.

[0005] Methods for exchanging tools and devices for carrying out these methods are available. EP 0683004 A1 discloses a typical device for handling and positioning tools in a cutting and pressing machine. Another device for exchanging cutting tools is known from US Pat. No. 5,573,488 A.

[0006] Until now, devices for exchanging tools in sheet material processing machines have suffered from several disadvantages.

[0007] The most significant disadvantage is that the devices used to exchange tools are often bulky and contain complex equipment that often requires more than one operator to operate properly.

[0008] Furthermore, known methods for performing the exchange operation are generally time-consuming, as they involve lengthy procedures comprising several steps for exchanging the tools.A one-step method for exchanging tools is also unknown.

[0009] In addition, the use of devices for exchanging tools is sometimes accompanied by auxiliary systems that are expensive to install and permanent. In other cases, the tool is carried by the operator, and therefore, when the tool is heavy, two operators are required to load the tool into the machine.

[0010] Another disadvantage is that the known devices only allow one tool to be changed at a time. Exchanging multiple tools using a single device is not yet known.

[0011] To date, these issues have not been resolved.

[0012] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a tool changing system for a sheet material processing machine that overcomes one or more of the above-mentioned drawbacks of the prior art.

[0013] This object is achieved by a tool exchange system for a sheet material processing machine. The tool exchange system comprises at least one transport carrier capable of storing and carrying a plurality of tools for the sheet material processing machine. Preferably, the tools are mounted on wheels so that the tools can be transported on the workshop floor. The tool exchange system also comprises a lifting device, which can be attached or permanently attached to the transport carrier and is suitable for lifting the transport carrier from the ground adjacent to the platform and moving the transport carrier on the platform to at least one exchange position in which tools can be exchanged between the transport carrier and the sheet material processing machine. In addition, the tool exchange system comprises at least one alignment mechanism configured to lock the transport carrier at at least one exchange position.

[0014] The main idea of ​​the present invention is to provide a tool changing system that is easy to use and can be operated by a single operator. This is achieved through the interaction of three key components, namely the transport carrier, the lifting device and the alignment mechanism.

[0015] The transport carrier transports and stores multiple tools for exchange operations. This allows the carrier to be loaded into the machine in a single step, as there is no need to reload the carrier during tool exchange. This significantly reduces downtime of the sheet metal processing machine.

[0016] The carrier is moved and lifted by a lifting device, which allows a single operator to perform the exchange. Since the weight of the carrier is handled by the lifting device, there is no need for an operator to manually lift the carrier.

[0017] To precisely align the transport carrier at the exchange position, the present invention foresees at least one alignment mechanism. This at least one alignment mechanism has a dual function. On the one hand, it ensures that the carrier is always in the correct position for the exchange tool; on the other hand, it locks the carrier in the exchange position to prevent displacement. This minimizes the time required to exchange tools.

[0018] Fixed and permanent measures such as rail systems for moving the carrier are outside the scope of the present invention.

[0019] "Multiple tools" means that the transport carrier comprises a device for carrying and storing at least two or more tools, preferably three or more tools, more preferably four or more tools.

[0020] An exchange location is a position in front of a sheet material processing machine where a single operator can exchange tools between a carrier and the machine. Preferably, the exchange location is located on a platform adjacent to the machine. In particular, the exchange location is assigned to a workstation of the sheet material processing machine. Depending on the type of sheet material processing machine, there may be more than one exchange location.

[0021] According to an embodiment, at least one transport carrier is a rack having at least one storage unit comprising a pair of horizontally arranged crossbars extending parallel to each other and defining a receptacle therebetween in which tools for the sheet material processing machine are slidably stored.

[0022] According to another embodiment, at least one transport carrier is a bracket having at least one storage unit, which includes a platform and defines a container between them, for slidably storing tools of the sheet processing machine on the container, and the tools can be slid into and out of the sheet processing machine.

[0023] The benefit of the container is that tools can be safely stored in the rack during transport. Since the tools are slidably stored in or on the container, they can also be slidably removed from or inserted into the storage unit, allowing for easy exchange. Consequently, no additional equipment is required to transfer tools from the rack to the machine, and vice versa.

[0024] According to another aspect, the support further comprises an upper frame and a lower frame, wherein the frames are stacked one on top of the other. Each frame includes at least one storage unit. The storage unit of the upper frame and the storage unit of the lower frame are adapted to mate with respective tool holding units of the sheet material processing machine, such that when the transport carrier is locked in the first or second exchange position, respectively, the tool can be slidably exchanged between the storage unit and the respective tool holding unit. In at least one of the exchange positions, the transport carrier is held at a distance above the bottom of the platform by a lifting device.

[0025] The basic concept here is to divide the rack into two distinct sections (frames), each capable of carrying and storing tools of different sizes assigned to different workstations of the sheet material processing machine. Thus, a single rack can supply tools to different workstations (i.e., different loading units). Tool storage space is further reduced because the tools can be stored parallel, one above the other, in the upper and lower frames. Thus, the rack can carry all the tools relevant to a specific processing task.

[0026] In particular, the upper and lower frames can be adapted to the size and dimensions of the tools to support them therein. For example, the upper frame can be configured to store and carry a blanking tool, while the lower frame can be configured to store and carry a waste removal tool. The arrangement of the tools can also be reversed. In the described scenario, the lower frame can be larger (i.e., wider and longer) than the upper frame.

[0027] A "tool holding unit" is understood to mean a location or receptacle in a sheet material processing machine in which the corresponding tool for the current processing task is located. Each workstation of a sheet material processing machine may have at least one tool holding unit. Tool holding units may also be located at different locations in the sheet material processing machine.

[0028] Furthermore, tools of different sizes can be transported by a single transport carrier.

[0029] According to a further embodiment of the invention, the support comprises a plurality of storage units which are arranged in the support at a vertical distance which is equal to the loading distance of the tools in the sheet material processing machine.

[0030] A rack with a vertical distance between storage units that is the same as the loading distance in the sheet material processing machine allows for quick tool exchange or removal without repositioning the rack. In addition, multiple tools can be exchanged or removed simultaneously.

[0031] According to another aspect of the present invention, the support further includes a plurality of locking handles for locking the tool to the storage unit. Each locking handle is switchable to a release position or a secure position. In the release position, the tool can be removed from the support and placed in the sheet material processing machine; in the secure position, the tool is rigidly coupled to the support.

[0032] The locking handle provides an easy-to-use and cost-effective locking system that does not require advanced tool equipment. In addition, providing the locking handle allows a single operator to lock or unlock the tool from the stand.

[0033] In another aspect of the present invention, the lifting device is a crane mounted on the floor of the sheet material processing machine or on the ground next to the floor. Thus, a fixed crane is particularly suitable for heavy lifting operations compared to a mobile crane.

[0034] The lifting device may be equipped with a controller and an input interface connected to each other, wherein the input interface is configured to receive input information, and the controller may perform the movement of the crane based on the input information.

[0035] A single operator can easily control the lifting device with the above system. In fact, the crane acts as a mechanical support for the operator.

[0036] In principle, the input interface can be a control panel, on which an operator can enter commands for controlling the crane.

[0037] According to another embodiment, the input interface and the controller are connected remotely. In this way, the operator can control the crane without being on the platform. For example, the crane can be controlled from a separate monitoring station via a Bluetooth or W-LAN connection.

[0038] According to a preferred alternative, the lifting device does not comprise any electronic controller.The crane can be driven by compressed air and the lifting or locking of the transport carrier position can be controlled by a pneumatic valve operable by an operator on a control panel.

[0039] The lifting device may be adapted to lift and move a transport carrier having a length of at least 2 m and a weight of at least 100 kg.A crane configured to lift a transport carrier having the above specifications is particularly suitable for a tool exchange system.

[0040] According to another preferred embodiment, the lifting device is a crane or a bridge crane comprising two arms, which is connected to the transport carrier and is configured to lift or lower the transport carrier in the vertical direction and to displace the transport carrier with three additional degrees of freedom, two of which are displacements parallel to the platform and one of which is a rotation about a vertical axis.

[0041] The advantage offered by using a bridge crane is that it has a lower height compared to other types of cranes, making the bridge crane compatible with installation sites with low ceilings.

[0042] According to a further preferred embodiment, the crane comprises a first crane arm which is L-shaped and pivotably mounted on the crane body, the first crane arm having a free end situated opposite the crane body and on which a second crane arm is pivotally mounted, the second crane arm having a free end situated opposite the first crane arm and on which a coupling element is pivotally mounted, the coupling element being configured to be attached to the transport carrier.

[0043] The above-described crane is particularly suitable for lifting and loading the transport carrier from the ground adjacent to the platform onto the platform and towards the sheet material processing machine.

[0044] It is further preferred that the first crane arm is pivotable through 360° about a longitudinal channel arranged perpendicularly to a plane parallel to the platform, the second crane arm is pivotable through at least 300° about the longitudinal channel in a direction opposite to the crane body, and the coupling element is pivotable through 360° about the longitudinal channel.

[0045] A crane or a bridge crane with two arms may be suitable for locking the transport carrier in the vertical direction while keeping the three additional degrees of freedom unlocked.

[0046] According to another embodiment, a bridge crane comprises a pair of beams extending parallel to one another, each beam including longitudinal rails extending along the respective beam. The beams are connected by a traveling bridge adapted to move along the rails and parallel to the platform. With this bridge crane arrangement, a transport carrier can be moved on the platform in a stable manner.

[0047] According to another embodiment, the traveling bridge is permanently attached to the transport carrier by means of rigid lifting arms.The use of rigid lifting arms improves the stability of the bridge crane during movement of the transport carrier.

[0048] According to another embodiment, each beam is mounted on at least two supporting elements, in particular columns, walls, or scaffolding. The use of columns as supporting elements is particularly preferred because they take up less space than other options. However, the use of scaffolding and walls increases the rigidity and stability of the overhead crane.

[0049] According to another embodiment, the bridge crane is rigidly mounted on the ground and / or on a platform. This allows for flexible installation and is not restricted to a specific location. For example, the bridge crane can be partially mounted on the ground and partially on a platform. However, the bridge crane can also be mounted only on the ground or only on the platform. It is particularly preferred that the bridge crane be mounted on the ground using columns surrounding the platform.

[0050] According to a preferred aspect of the present invention, a double-jib crane or bridge crane includes an arrangement module having a command panel configured to automatically and / or manually control the movement of the crane. The control panel can be arranged at a fixed radial distance from a gripping unit and rigidly connected to the gripping unit, wherein the gripping unit is configured to grasp and hold a transport carrier.

[0051] The operator can use the arrangement module to move the transport carrier to the exchange position. Since the operator controls the crane's movements (i.e., the carrier's movements) from near the carrier, the combination of the gripping unit and the command panel within a single module allows for precise positioning of the transport carrier at the exchange position. In particular, since the control panel and gripping unit are rigidly coupled to each other, the fixed radial distance between the control panel and gripping unit ensures that the gripping unit always follows the movement of the control panel.

[0052] In this context, manually means that the operator can move the command panel around the gripping unit using only physical strength, without being actively supported by the force of a crane.

[0053] Automatically means that the crane uses its own power (such as hydraulic or pneumatic pressure) to perform the movement.

[0054] According to another embodiment, the command panel may be configured to control vertical movement of the transport carrier.

[0055] According to another embodiment, the control panel includes an operating element configured as an emergency brake switch, so that when the switch is activated, the movement of the crane is unlocked, allowing the transport carrier to be manually moved according to three additional degrees of freedom. In other words, once the height of the transport carrier has been correctly adjusted, the transport carrier can be manually moved horizontally and pivoted about its vertical axis, allowing the operator to manually position and orient the transport carrier toward the processing station of the sheet material processing machine.

[0056] In another aspect of the invention, the command panel is provided with at least one operating element, wherein when activated, the operating element is capable of effecting the movement of the crane. In other words, the movement of the crane can be controlled by activating the control element.

[0057] According to another aspect of the present invention, the operating element has at least the following functions:

[0058] -Move the crane vertically in up and down directions;

[0059] - opening and closing a gripping unit, which can be attached to a transport carrier, for example;

[0060] - Rotate the command panel 360° around the clamping unit;

[0061] - rotating the first crane arm and the second crane arm about their respective rotation axes;

[0062] - vertical movement of the command panel in up and down directions independently of the crane; and

[0063] - Locking and / or unlocking the crane's movement.

[0064] In particular, the ability to rotate the command panel 360° around the transport carrier allows the operator to reposition him or herself around the carrier simply by moving the handheld command panel.

[0065] The ability to move the command panel in up and down directions and vertically independently of the crane allows the operator to grab the command panel while standing on the platform.

[0066] Rotating the command panel around the gripping unit by 360° and rotating the first crane arm and the second crane arm around their respective rotation axes allows the crane to move the attached carrier with maximum operational freedom in all spatial directions.

[0067] The locking and unlocking movement is a safety feature that allows the operator to easily stop the movement of the crane when necessary.

[0068] According to another preferred embodiment, the alignment mechanism comprises two interlocking elements that engage with each other. One of the two interlocking elements is fixedly mounted on the sheet material processing machine, preferably on its housing. The other of the two interlocking elements is fixedly mounted on the transport carrier, preferably on the front side of the transport carrier.

[0069] This provides the advantage that the exchange position is predetermined by an interlocking position provided at the sheet material processing machine. If necessary, the exchange position can be changed by simply attaching an interlocking element to a different position of the machine.

[0070] The two interlocking elements constitute a pair of interlocking elements. In principle, there can be more than one pair of interlocking elements, in particular more than two pairs of interlocking elements. Preferably, for each exchange position of the sheet material processing machine, two pairs of interlocking elements are foreseen.

[0071] According to another preferred embodiment, one of the two interlocking elements is a recessed unit, preferably comprising a tapered recessed portion, and the other of the two interlocking elements is a corresponding unit, preferably a tapered protrusion, configured to engage with the recessed unit.

[0072] Therefore, the recess and the corresponding unit can be manufactured in a cost-effective manner. In addition, sheet material processing machines can easily be retrofitted with these elements. Since the surfaces required for the above elements to which they need to be attached are extremely small, they are also space-saving.

[0073] In particular, the recessed unit is assigned to the sheet processing machine and the corresponding unit is assigned to the carrier. Such an arrangement of the locking elements allows the transport carrier to be easily pushed against the sheet processing machine so that the two locking elements engage with each other, thereby locking the carrier in the exchange position.

[0074] Both the recessed unit and the corresponding unit can be made of a magnetic material, and one of them can include at least one magnet. The at least one magnet is configured to pull the corresponding unit of the transport carrier into the recessed unit of the sheet material processing machine, such that the corresponding unit snaps into the recessed unit when the corresponding unit is adjacent to the recess. The provision of the magnet also prevents displacement of the transport carrier when the transport carrier is locked in the exchange position. In particular, unintended carrier movement during the exchange procedure can be avoided.

[0075] Typically, the magnets provide a strong physical interlock between the recessed unit and the corresponding unit. Furthermore, the magnets act as a simple and cost-effective measure to prevent movement of the carrier when the carrier is locked in the exchange position.

[0076] It is also preferred that the magnets have sufficient magnetic force to prevent vibration of the lifting device if the carrier is locked in the exchange position.

[0077] If the carrier is fully loaded with tools, the crane and lifting device may vibrate by several centimeters. However, this vibration can hinder accurate tool exchange at the exchange point. To prevent this vibration, magnets with sufficient magnetic force are preferably used to securely attach the carrier to the machine.

[0078] In another aspect of the invention, the transport carrier has at least one recessed unit and at least one balancing unit, wherein the balancing unit has a dummy element formed as a rest portion having a cylindrical shape, wherein both units are preferably arranged on the front side of the support.

[0079] The present invention also relates to a sheet material processing machine for processing paper or cardboard, comprising: a conveyor track for cutting sheets using different tools, a platform adjacent to the conveyor track, and a floor adjacent to the platform for storing transport carriers. The conveyor track comprises a housing containing, in this order: an intake station for supplying sheets, a platen station for cutting the sheets, a waste discharge station for removing cut sheets, and a blanking station for collecting the finally cut sheets. The platform provides at least one exchange position for exchanging tools, and the sheet material processing machine further comprises a tool exchange system according to the above description.

[0080] The sheet material processing machine according to the invention improves the productivity of such a machine by reducing downtimes during tool exchange.Regarding the advantages of the tool exchange system, reference is made to the description above.

[0081] The present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which

[0082] - Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a sheet material processing machine known in the prior art;

[0083] - Figure 2 is an isometric view of a sheet material processing machine having a tool changing system according to the invention;

[0084] - Figure 3 for Figure 2 Isometric view of the transport carrier of the tool exchange system in;

[0085] - Figure 4 for Figure 3 An isometric view of a storage unit for a transport carrier;

[0086] - Figure 5 for Figure 4 Detail view of the storage unit locking handle;

[0087] - Figure 6 for Figure 4 A close-up view of another locking handle of the storage unit;

[0088] - Figure 7 for Figure 2 A side view of a lifting device of a tool changing system;

[0089] - Figure 8 for Figure 7 Top view of the mounting plate of the lifting device;

[0090] - Figure 9 For equipment equipped with layout unit Figure 7 A side view of a lifting device;

[0091] - Figure 10 for Figure 9 A perspective view of the arrangement unit;

[0092] - Figure 11 for Figure 2 Cross-sectional and isometric views of the alignment mechanism of the tool changing system;

[0093] - Figure 12 for Figure 2 Isometric and sectional views of a balancing unit of a transport carrier of a tool exchange system;

[0094] - Figure 13 for Figure 2 Top view of a sheet processing machine with a tool exchange system;

[0095] - Figure 14 for Figure 2 A side view of a sheet processing machine and a tool changing system;

[0096] - Figure 15 for Figure 13 An isometric view of a transport carrier locked in a first exchange position of a tool exchange system;

[0097] - Figure 16 for Figure 13 An isometric view of the transport carrier locked in the second exchange position of the tool exchange system; and

[0098] - Figure 17 An isometric view of a lifting device using a bridge crane as an example.

[0099] Figure 1 The basic components of a sheet material processing machine 10 known from the prior art are shown. The sheet material processing machine 10 comprises a number of processing stations 11 arranged along a conveyor path 12. The processing stations 11 and the conveyor path 12 are both enclosed in a housing 14 of the sheet material processing machine 10.

[0100] The conveyor path 12 includes parts in the following order: an introduction station 16 for supplying sheets, a platen station 18 for cutting sheets, a waste discharge station 20 for removing cut sheets, a drop station 22 for collecting the final cut sheets, and a picking station 24 for removing the collected sheets from the machine 10.

[0101] In principle, a sheet 26 is introduced as raw material by the introduction station 16 and then further processed by the press station 18, which cuts the sheet 26 into the desired shape. The scrap discharge station 20 finally removes the cut sheet from the final cut sheet. Subsequently, the blanking station 22 collects the final sheet 26 into a pile, which can be removed from the sheet processing machine 10 by the pick-up station 24 adjacent to the blanking station 22.

[0102] For clarity, Figure 1 Only some, but not all, of the middle sheets 26 are marked with reference numerals. The sheets 26 may also be cardboard or paper.

[0103] In order to transport the sheets 26 between the processing stations 11, the conveyor path 12 is equipped with a conveyor belt 28 and several gripper bars 30 attached to the conveyor belt 28. The conveyor belt 28 is arranged in a loop, which allows the gripper bars 30 to follow a trajectory that successively passes through the inlet station 16, the platen station 18, the waste discharge station 20, the drop station 22, and the pick-up station 24, and then returns to the inlet station 16. The conveyor belt 28 is driven by a chain drive 32, which allows the sheets 26 attached to the gripper bars 30 to move along the conveyor path 12.

[0104] Furthermore, at least one tool 34 is foreseen in each processing station 18 , 20 , 22 , which can be exchanged according to the respective cutting operation.

[0105] exist Figure 2 In the Figure 1 Sheet processing machine 10.

[0106] Adjacent to the sheet processing machine 10 is a work area 36 that allows an operator to interact with the sheet processing machine 10. Additionally, the work area 36 provides a space in which an exchange of the cutting tool 34 from the sheet processing machine 10 is performed.

[0107] The work area 36 includes a platform 38 in the form of a podium located adjacent to the sheet material processing machine 10. A safety railing 40 surrounds the platform 38 in a circumferential direction to prevent equipment or personnel from falling from the platform 38.

[0108] The operator's entrance is provided in the form of a staircase 42 located on one side of the work area 36. The staircase 42 connects the platform 38 to a floor 44, which forms a lower level adjacent to the platform 38. Both the floor 44 and the platform 38 are provided as flat and uniform surfaces. Neither the floor 44 nor the platform 38 is modified with functional systems such as railings or grooves.

[0109] For clarity, the bottom of platform 38 is depicted as transparent.

[0110] At least one exchange location 46 is provided on the platform 38, which will be described in more detail later.

[0111] As previously mentioned, the sheet material processing machine 10 is adjacent to and extends parallel to the platform 38. The side panels 47 of the housing 14 of the sheet material processing machine 10 spatially separate the conveyor path 12 (particularly the workstations 11) from the platform 38.

[0112] To allow the exchange of tools 34, an operator can enter each workstation 11 from the platform 38 through the maintenance port 48. Figure 2 As shown, the maintenance port 48 may be a rectangular opening that can be opened or closed by a sliding window 50 .

[0113] The conveyor 12 may also be accessed through one of the primary doors 52 adjacent the floor 44. The stacked sheets 26 may be removed from the picking station 24 through the primary door 52.

[0114] The sheet material processing machine 10 is also equipped with a tool exchange system 54 . The tool exchange system 54 comprises a transport carrier 56 , a lifting device 58 and an alignment mechanism 60 .

[0115] The transport carrier 56, the lifting device 58, and the alignment mechanism 60 will be described in greater detail below.

[0116] First, the transport carrier 56 will be described in detail.

[0117] In principle, the transport carrier 56 is movable on the platform 38 of the sheet material processing machine 10 and is capable of storing and carrying a plurality of tools 34 for the sheet material processing machine 10 .

[0118] Figure 3 The principle arrangement of a transport carrier 56 is shown.

[0119] The transport carrier 56 includes a support 62 , which may also be denoted as a frame.

[0120] In the embodiment shown, the support 62 includes four bottom bars 64 arranged perpendicular to one another, each bottom bar 64 extending substantially horizontally. The bottom bars 64 together form a rectangular bottom area 66 of the support 62, to which rollers 68 are assigned for moving the support 62 on the platform 38 or the ground 44.

[0121] However, the rollers 68 can also be omitted. In this case, the support 62 can be moved only by the lifting device 58.

[0122] A side bar 70 extends substantially vertically upward from each corner of the rectangular bottom region 66 .

[0123] The four side bars 70 in the embodiment shown are each divided into an upper part 71 and a lower part 72. In principle, the lower part 72 is displaced laterally offset relative to the upper part 71.

[0124] Each lower portion 72 extends from a corner of the rectangular base area 66 into a horizontal support plate 73 connected thereto.

[0125] The upper portion 71 extends vertically from the support plate 73. The upper and lower portions 71, 72 of the side bar 70 may be welded to the support plate 73.

[0126] Also in the region of the support plate 73, S-shaped connecting members 74 are further attached to the upper and lower parts 71, 72 of the side bars 70. In effect, the connecting members 74 bridge over the support plate 73. The connecting members 74 are attached to each of the upper and lower side bars 71, 72 by means of two bolts.

[0127] The two side bars 70 are each coupled in pairs at the end of their upper portion 71 opposite the base region 66 via a cross bar 76 .

[0128] Furthermore, the two crossbars 76 are each connected by two hard parts 77 coupling the two crossbars 76 together so as to form an upper end 78 of the bracket 62. Each hard part 77 extends vertically between the crossbars 76.

[0129] Additionally, two side bars 70 are each coupled to a side 80 of the bracket 62 .

[0130] The bracket 62 has a front side 82 and a back side 84 opposite the front side 82. Accordingly, the front side 82 and the back side 84 are not connected by the side bars 70. In other words, each side 80 of the bracket 62 has a side bar 70 coupled to the front side 82 and a side bar 70 coupled to the back side 84.

[0131] The front side 82 and the back side 84 are freely accessible to allow the tool 34 to be inserted or removed from the bracket 62 .

[0132] Accordingly, the stand 62 encloses a storage space 85 defined by the bottom region 66 , the sides 80 , the front side 82 , the back side 84 , and the upper end 78 .

[0133] A plurality of storage units 86 are disposed in the storage space 85 .

[0134] A storage unit 86 includes a pair of opposed, horizontally disposed crossbars 88 extending parallel to one another and defining a receptacle 90 therebetween in which the tools 34 for the sheet material processing machine 10 are slidably stored.

[0135] Each crossbar 88 of the pair of crossbars 88 has two connection points, with each connection point being connected to one of the sidebars 70 .

[0136] In the embodiment shown, there are a total of five equally spaced and stacked storage units 86. Specifically, the storage units 86 are arranged in the rack 62 at a vertical distance equal to the loading distance of the tools 34 in the sheet material processing machine 10.

[0137] At least one crossbar 88 of the pair of crossbars 88 has an L-shaped profile with a horizontally oriented support rail 91, from which the wall extends vertically upwards. The support rail 91 provides a uniform and flat surface on which the tool 34 can be slidably supported. The free end of the support rail 91 points towards the storage space 85.

[0138] In addition, both crossbars 88 of the pair of crossbars 88 may have the above-described shapes.

[0139] However, it is preferred that only one crossbar 88 of the crossbar 88 pair has the above-described shape features, while the other crossbar 88 is customized to carry and store a specific tool 34. For example, depending on the corresponding tool 34, the other crossbar 88 may include a hook, a retainer, a groove or a support.

[0140] However, the shape of each crossbar 88 may vary depending on the tools 34 that should be stored in the storage unit.

[0141] In addition, the storage unit 86 is provided in the rack 62 at a vertical distance equal to the loading distance of the tools 34 in the sheet material processing machine 10 .

[0142] In the illustrated embodiment, the rack 62 is comprised of an upper frame 92 and a lower frame 94. The two frames are stacked one on top of the other, and each frame 92, 94 includes at least one storage unit 86. In practice, the upper frame 92 includes three storage units 86, while the lower frame 94 includes two storage units 86.

[0143] The upper frame 92 is defined by the upper portions of the side bars 70, and the lower frame 94 is defined by the lower portions of the side bars 70. Because the lower portion 72 of each side bar 70 is laterally offset relative to the upper portion 71 of the side bar 70, the lower frame 94 has a larger horizontal cross-section than the upper frame 92. Accordingly, the storage units 86 disposed in the lower frame 94 are larger (i.e., wider and longer) than the storage units 86 disposed in the upper frame 92.

[0144] This measure allows larger tools 34 to be accommodated in the lower frame 94 , while smaller tools 34 can be accommodated in the storage units 86 in the upper frame 92 .

[0145] Thus, tools 34 of different sizes may be carried and stored within a single rack 62 .

[0146] Figure 4 A single storage unit 86 is depicted. The storage unit 86 may include two additional rigid members 95 extending horizontally between the pair of crossbars 88. In this embodiment, the crossbars 88 are interconnected by two rigid members 95 extending vertically between the crossbars 88.

[0147] The rigid elements 95 and the crossbar 88 define a rectangular receptacle 90 in which the tool 34 can be slidably stored. One of the rigid elements 95 assigned to the back side 84 of the support 62 forms a hinge 96 so that the tool 34 can only be removed from the front side 82 of the support 62.

[0148] In principle, the storage unit 86 is designed to be universal and can be adapted to a variety of tools 34 .

[0149] In order to securely lock the tool 34 in the storage unit 86 during transport of the rack 62 , several locking elements 97 , 98 are foreseen.

[0150] like Figure 4 As shown in the embodiment of FIG, at least one crossbar 88 is equipped with a locking hook 97 that can be snapped into an eyelet installed on one side of the tool 34, thereby firmly attaching the tool 34 to the storage unit 86.

[0151] Another locking feature is a number of locking handles 98 , each assigned to one of the four corners of the storage unit 86 .

[0152] In practice, the locking handles 98 are mounted on both crossbars 88 .

[0153] exist Figure 5 and Figure 6 Detail of the locking handle 98 is shown in FIG. In these figures, each locking handle 98 is actually a clamping lever 100.

[0154] Each locking handle 98 includes at least one locking block 102 configured to limit movement of the tool 34 within the storage unit 86. Figure 5 As shown in the embodiment of FIG, the locking block 102 may be formed as a hook-shaped element that engages with the upper side of the pin 103 of the tool 34.

[0155] The locking block 102 is fixedly mounted at a sliding element 104 that is slidably attached to the crossbar 88. The locking block 102 and the sliding element 104 may also be configured as Figure 6 The embodiments shown are of a single element.

[0156] A locking bolt 106 extends substantially through the sliding element 104 and one end of the locking bolt 106 engages a channel 108 of the crossbar 88. The channel 108 extends substantially along the crossbar 88 and acts as a track along which the sliding element 104 can move.

[0157] The other side of the locking bolt 106 is attached to a handle 110. Movement of the handle 110 results in subsequent movement of the locking bolt 106, causing the locking bolt 106 to be inserted into or removed from the channel 108.

[0158] In other words, the locking handle 98 can be switched to a release position or a securing position. If the locking handle 98 is switched to the release position, it can be moved away from the tool 34, in particular, away from the pin 103 of the tool 34. As a result, the tool 34 is released and can be removed from the holder 62. If the locking handle 98 is switched to the securing position, the movement of the locking handle 98 is blocked. As a result, the tool 34 is locked in the storage unit 86.

[0159] exist Figure 6 In the illustrated alternative embodiment, the pin 103 of the tool 34 is clamped between two locking blocks 102. In this configuration, at least one locking block 102 is also configured as a sliding element 104, so that the sliding element 104 and the locking block 102 are constructed as a single component.

[0160] from Figure 6 It can be seen that the locking handle 98 is provided on a non-L-shaped crossbar 88, but instead, the crossbar 88 is provided with a groove 111 extending substantially horizontally from the front side 82 to the back side 84 of the bracket. In effect, the groove 111 acts as a track along which the sliding element 104 can move.

[0161] In particular, the groove 111 is directed toward the opposite crossbar 88 .

[0162] At least one of the locking blocks 102 , 104 is equipped with a locking bolt 106 and a handle 110 attached to the locking bolt 106 , wherein the locking bolt 106 interacts with a groove 111 .

[0163] The lifting device 58 will be described in detail below.

[0164] The lifting device 58 can be attached to the transport carrier 56 and is further adapted to lift the transport carrier 56 from the ground 44 adjacent to the platform 38 onto the platform 38 and move the transport carrier 56 on the platform 38 to an exchange position in which the tool 34 can be exchanged between the transport carrier 56 and the sheet processing machine 10.

[0165] Figure 7 Such a lifting device 58 is depicted. According to the present embodiment, the lifting device 58 is configured as a crane 112.

[0166] The crane 112 is mounted on the platform 38 via a mounting plate 116 .

[0167] Figure 8 The mounting plate 116 is shown in more detail. In principle, the mounting plate 116 is a flat and uniform metal plate having four openings 118 for attaching the metal plate to the platform 38, for example by using bolts or screws.

[0168] The crane 112 includes a crane body 120 attached to a mounting plate 116. For example, the crane body 120 and the mounting plate 116 may be welded together or constructed as a single piece.

[0169] The crane body 120 extends substantially vertically upward from the mounting plate 116. At an end of the crane body 120 opposite to the mounting plate 116, a first crane arm 122 is mounted.

[0170] The first crane arm 122 is L-shaped and is pivotally mounted on the crane body 120. Pivotable means that the first crane arm 122 can be pivoted 360° about a longitudinal axis arranged perpendicularly relative to a plane parallel to the platform 38.

[0171] Preferably, the first crane arm 122 is telescopically extendable along the longitudinal axis.

[0172] The first crane arm 122 has a free end located opposite to the crane body 120 , and the second crane arm 124 is pivotally mounted at the free end.

[0173] Compared to the first boom 122, the second boom 124 can pivot 300° about the longitudinal channel in a direction opposite to the crane body 120. In other words, both the first boom 122 and the second boom 124 can pivot about the longitudinal channel, thereby achieving a degree of freedom that facilitates the operation of moving the transport carrier 56 on the platform 38.

[0174] The second lifting arm 124 has a free end located opposite to the first lifting arm 122, and a coupling element 126 is pivotally mounted at the free end. Preferably, the coupling element 126 can be pivoted 360° around the longitudinal channel.

[0175] To lift the transport carrier 56 , the coupling element 126 may be attached to the transport carrier 56 , preferably to the upper end 78 of the bracket 62 .

[0176] Preferably, the crane 112 comprises a hydraulic system enabling the crane 112 to lift heavy loads. In particular, the crane 112 is adapted to lift and move the weight of a transport carrier having a length of at least 2 m and a weight of at least 100 kg.

[0177] If Figures 3 to 6 The cradle 62 is shown fully loaded with tools 34, each weighing at least 100 kg, and the crane 112 can lift a weight of at least 500 kg (excluding the weight of the cradle 62 itself).

[0178] The crane 112 is also equipped with an arrangement module 200 configured to arrange the bracket 62 of the transport carrier 56 at the exchange position. To achieve this purpose, the arrangement module 200 has a clamping unit 202 coupling the crane 112 to the carrier 56 and a command panel 204 controlling the movement of the crane 112 and the clamping unit 202.

[0179] The gripping unit 202 is coupled to the free end of the second crane jib 124. This free end is formed by a flange 206 that connects the second crane jib 124 to a vertically arranged rod 208, which extends essentially parallel to the axis of rotation of the second crane jib 124. In fact, the aforementioned coupling element 126 of the second crane 124 and the vertically arranged rod 208 have a common axis of rotation that is oriented perpendicular to a plane parallel to the platform 38.

[0180] The free end of the vertically arranged rod 208, which is situated opposite the flange 206, is coupled in a non-rotational manner to the clamping unit 202. Thus, the clamping unit 202 follows the rotational movement of the vertically arranged rod 208 about its axis of rotation.

[0181] Between the flange 206 and the gripping unit 202, a hinge 210 is mounted in the central portion of the vertically arranged rod 208. The hinge 210 is freely rotatable about a common rotation axis of the vertically arranged rod 208 and the second crane arm 124.

[0182] Extending from the hinge 210 is an additional crossbar 212 oriented substantially perpendicular to the vertically arranged rod 208 .

[0183] The further crossbar 212 has a free end arranged opposite the hinge 210, which is fixedly mounted at one arm of the L-shaped element 214. The instruction panel 204 is mounted at the other arm of the L-shaped element 214 so that the front side of the instruction panel 204 faces away from the vertically arranged rod 208.

[0184] In other words, the command panel 204 can freely rotate within a fixed radial distance around the vertically arranged rod 208 via the hinge 210 .

[0185] Figure 10 Detail of the instruction panel 204 is shown. The instruction panel 204 includes a rectangular handle bar 216. In particular, the handle bar 216 is configured so that an operator can manually grasp the instruction panel 204.

[0186] Specifically, the rectangular handle bar 216 includes two substantially vertical clamping bars 218 extending parallel to each other, and two substantially horizontal clamping bars 220 extending parallel to each other. The vertically arranged clamping bars 218 and the horizontally arranged clamping bars 220 are connected to each other at their ends so that they together form the rectangular handle bar 216, wherein the vertically arranged clamping bars 218 form the longitudinal sides of the rectangular handle bar 216.

[0187] Furthermore, the rectangular handlebar 216 includes two control modules 222 that provide electrical support for controlling the crane 112. The two control modules 222 have at least one operating element 224 assigned to the front side of the handlebar 216, wherein the operating element 224 enables movement of the crane 112 when activated.

[0188] from Figure 10 As can be seen in FIG, the operating element 224 can be a joystick or a bottom.

[0189] In particular, the joystick is configured as an emergency brake switch, so that when the switch is activated, the movement of the crane 112 is unlocked, and when the switch is deactivated, the movement of the crane 112 is locked and the command panel 204 can be manually moved around the gripping unit 202.

[0190] Preferably, the operating element 224 is assigned to the end of each vertically arranged clamping rod 218, thereby enabling an operator to reach the operating element 224 from different positions.

[0191] In principle, the control panel 204 has at least the following functions:

[0192] - vertically moving the crane 112 in the up and down directions;

[0193] - opening and closing the gripping unit 202 , which can be attached to the transport carrier 56 , for example;

[0194] - Rotate the command handle 204 360° around the clamping unit 202;

[0195] - rotating the first crane arm 122 and the second crane arm 124 about their respective rotation axes;

[0196] - vertically moving the command panel 204 in the up and down directions independently of the crane 112; and

[0197] - Locking and / or unlocking the movement of the crane 112 .

[0198] The above functions can be controlled and / or implemented via at least one operating element 224 .

[0199] Figure 10 The clamping unit 202 is shown in greater detail. The clamping unit 202 is mounted at the free end of a vertically arranged rod 208. In detail, the vertically arranged rod 208 is connected to the central portion of a longitudinal central crossbar 228 via a central hinge 226, which is arranged substantially perpendicular to the vertically arranged rod 208.

[0200] Two opposite ends of the central crossbar 228 are each coupled to a central portion of a longitudinal clamping rod 230 .

[0201] Each of the two clamping rods 230 is furthermore equipped with two clamping elements 232. The clamping unit 202 has a total of four clamping elements 232.

[0202] Each clamping element 232 has a U-shaped profile and is fixedly mounted on a clamping rod 230. The clamping rod 230 and one of the clamping elements 232 together define a free space 233 in which the upper crossbar 76 of the carrier 56 can be accommodated.

[0203] Furthermore, each clamping rod 230 is equipped with a power module 234 adapted to slide the clamping rod 230 along the longitudinal central crossbar 228 , thereby enabling the clamping unit 202 to grasp the bracket 62 of the carrier 56 from two opposite sides, so that the carrier 56 is securely attached to the clamping element 232 .

[0204] The movement and control of crane 112 is explained in more detail below.

[0205] The operator can control the movement of the crane 112 by using the operating elements 224 on the command panel 204. First, the operator loads the carrier 56 using the tool 34 and brings it to the floor 44 toward the sheet processing machine. After loading the carrier 56, the operator manually controls the crane 112 (particularly the clamping unit 202) via the command panel 204 to securely attach the bracket 62 to the clamping unit 202. This operation can be performed while the operator is standing on the floor 44 next to the platform 38 (or can also be performed from a stand). After the carrier is securely attached to the crane 112, the operator steps onto the platform and grasps the handle bar 216 of the command panel 204. Because the operating elements 224 are located above the command panel 204, the operator can easily reach the handle bar 216 while standing on the platform. The operator can then control the crane 112 by using the operating elements 224 on the command panel 204 to move the carrier 56 from the floor 44 to the platform 38. Next, the operator, holding the command panel 204, moves the carrier 56 to the exchange position, locking its vertical position with the crane. Once the carrier 56 is near the machine, the operator can adjust the carrier's height (using the operating elements 224 on the command panel 204) to align the carrier and the machine's interlocking elements 128, 130. In other words, the operator can walk to the exchange position holding the command panel 204. Because the command panel 204 and the gripping unit 202 are fixedly connected, the gripping unit 202, along with the attached carrier 56, automatically follows the operator's movements.

[0206] Next, the alignment mechanism 60 is described in more detail.

[0207] In principle, the alignment mechanism 60 is configured to lock the transport carrier 56 in an exchange position in which the tool 34 can be exchanged between said carrier 56 and the machine 10 .

[0208] Figure 11 Details of the alignment mechanism 60 of the tool exchange system 54 are depicted.

[0209] In the illustrated embodiment, the alignment mechanism 60 includes two interlocking elements 128 , 130 that are configured to engage one another.

[0210] from Figure 11 As can be seen in FIG, one of the interlocking elements forms a recessed unit 128 , while the other of the two interlocking elements forms a corresponding unit 130 .

[0211] First, the recessed unit 128 will be described.

[0212] The recess unit 128 includes a connecting plate 132 connected to the housing 14 of the sheet material processing machine 10 by means of bolts 134. For the sake of clarity, the housing 14 is not shown.

[0213] The connecting plate 132 is constructed as a flat and uniform metal piece having at least two latches 135 for attaching metal bolts 134. A recessed portion 136 extends substantially perpendicularly from the connecting plate 132 in a direction pointing away from the housing 14 of the machine 10.

[0214] The recessed portion 136 forms a bowl-shaped structure having a side wall 140 which surrounds a circular bottom side 138 in the circumferential direction.

[0215] The bottom side 138 and the side wall 140 provide a bearing portion 142 for receiving the corresponding unit 130 .

[0216] The sidewall 140 is inclined toward the center of the bottom side 138 to allow smooth engagement of the corresponding unit 130 with the recessed unit 128 .

[0217] In order to firmly engage the corresponding unit 130 with the recessed unit 128, the recessed unit 128 further includes a magnet. There may also be more than one magnet, for example, two magnets.

[0218] The magnet 144 can also be arranged behind a metal plate, which serves as the bottom side 138. The magnet 144 will thus be located behind the metal plate opposite the bearing portion 142 and therefore will not be in direct physical contact with the counterpart unit 38 when the transport carrier 56 is locked in the exchange position.

[0219] For example, at least one magnet 144 may be a neodymium magnet.

[0220] The corresponding unit 130 is described in detail below.

[0221] The corresponding unit 130 comprises a single front plate 146 which is L-shaped and is attached to one of the side bars 70 of the transport carrier 56. In practice, the corresponding unit 130 is assigned to the front side 82 of the carrier 56.

[0222] For example, the L-shaped front plate 146 may be attached to the side bars 70 by bolts 134. The front plate 146 may also be welded to the side bars 70.

[0223] In principle, the L-shaped front plate 146 has two extensions extending perpendicularly to each other.

[0224] One extension of the L-shaped front plate 146 is attached to the side bar 70 , while the other extension projects laterally away from the side bar 70 , providing a mounting portion 147 to which a counterpart 148 is attached.

[0225] The counterpart 148 is attached to the front plate 146 such that the counterpart 148 points away from the sidebar 70 .

[0226] In practice, the counterpart 148 has a central bolt 134 that passes through its body 149 and attaches said body 149 to the mounting portion 147 of the L-shaped front plate 146 .

[0227] The main body 149 can have a cylindrical shape and extend vertically away from the front plate 146 into a truncated cone perpendicular to its axis. Thus, the truncation is located at the end of the counterpart 148 pointing away from the front plate 146. The initial cylindrical shape is optional. If the recessed unit 128 is first of a corresponding cylindrical shape and then has a conical shape, it allows for a more secure locking of the bracket.

[0228] The recessed unit 128 and the corresponding unit 130 are both made of magnetic materials, for example, iron or its alloy.

[0229] Preferably, the counterpart unit 130 is fixedly mounted to the front side 82 of the bracket 62. However, it is also possible to fixedly mount the counterpart unit 130 to the housing 14 of the machine 10.

[0230] In a preferred embodiment, four corresponding units 130 are attached to the front side 82 of the bracket 62 , wherein each of the two side bars 70 assigned to the front side 82 of the bracket 62 comprises two corresponding units 130 .

[0231] However, the bracket 62 can also be equipped with only one of the corresponding units 130. In this case, Figure 12 As shown, at least one balancing unit 150 is preferably provided on the bracket 62 .

[0232] The balancing unit 150 has in principle the same configuration as the corresponding unit 130 .

[0233] The only difference is that a dummy component 152 (instead of a corresponding component 148 ) is attached to the mounting portion 147 of the front plate 146 .

[0234] The dummy element 152 is formed as an abutment portion which may have a columnar shape, preferably a cylindrical shape. The free end of the abutment portion facing away from the support has a flat and uniform surface.

[0235] The dummy element 152 may be made of metal or alloy. However, the dummy element 152 is preferably made of a soft material such as an elastic polymer.

[0236] The balancing unit 150 acts as a "dummy" counterpart and ensures that the carrier 56 can be evenly oriented relative to the housing 14 of the machine 10. This can be achieved simply by pushing the flat and even surface of the dummy element against the housing of the machine. Without the balancing unit 150, the bracket 62 would be positioned tilted relative to the housing 14 in the exchange position.

[0237] exist Figures 13 to 16 , the working principle of the aforementioned tool exchange system 54 will be described in more detail.

[0238] Figure 13-16 Shown are two different transport carriers 56 being moved to different exchange positions. In fact, a first exchange position 156 and a second exchange position 158 are shown.

[0239] from Figure 15 As can be seen in FIG, each transport carrier 56 is equipped with four counter units 130 , of which two counter units 130 are mounted on one side bar 70 assigned to the front side of the support 62 .

[0240] The exchange locations 156 , 158 assigned to the different workstations 11 of the machine 10 are located in front of the workstations on the platform 38 .

[0241] The first exchange position 156 is assigned to the blanking station 22 , while the second exchange position is assigned to the waste discharge station 20 .

[0242] Of course, if the tools 34 of more than one workstation 11 have to be exchanged, there will also be more exchange positions.

[0243] from Figure 14 and 15 As can be seen, each of the exchange locations 156, 158 is equipped with two recessed units 128. Since the position of the recessed units 128 determines the exchange position, the recessed units 128 can be located at different positions of the housing 14 of the sheet material processing machine 10 depending on the exchange operation and the corresponding workstation to which the tool 34 is to be exchanged.

[0244] like Figure 15 and 16 As shown, the recessed unit 128 is mounted on the side panel 47 of the housing 14 near the maintenance port 48 .

[0245] In practice, two recessed units 128 are provided above or below the opening of the maintenance port 48 .

[0246] exist Figure 14 In FIG. 1 , the first exchange position 156 is assigned to the tool holding unit 160 of the sheet material processing machine 10 , while the second exchange position 158 is assigned to the tool holding unit 160 of the sheet material processing machine 10 .

[0247] Two recessed units 128 are assigned to each of the exchange positions 156 , 158 , wherein the recessed unit 128 for the first exchange position 156 is arranged higher than the recessed unit 128 for the second exchange position 158 .

[0248] When the carrier 56 is locked in one of the exchange positions 156 , 158 , the at least one storage unit 86 of the transport carrier 56 mates with a tool holding unit 160 of the sheet material processing machine 10 .

[0249] An exemplary tool exchange operation is described below.

[0250] At the beginning of the tool exchange operation, the transport carrier 56 is stored on the ground 44 , in particular in the parking position 154 .

[0251] When the carrier 56 is in the parked position 154, a single operator can freely access the transport carrier 56 to load the required tools 34 for the exchange operation onto the transport carrier 56. After the tools are inserted into the carrier's brackets 62, the tools 34 are locked in the corresponding storage units 86 by turning the locking handles 98 to the secure position.

[0252] Thereafter, the operator attaches the coupling element 126 to the carrier 56 . Subsequently, the crane 112 lifts the transport carrier 56 from the parking position 154 on the ground 44 onto the platform 38 .

[0253] When the carrier 56 is on the platform 38 , the crane 112 moves the transport carrier 56 on the platform 38 to one of the exchange locations 156 , 158 .

[0254] The crane 112 can move the transport carrier 56 to the exchange position on the platform 38 so that the transport carrier 56 is not in contact with the platform 38 at any time. In this case, the crane 112 lifts the carrier directly from the parking position 154 to one of the exchange positions 156, 158.

[0255] The crane 112 can also bring the transport carrier 56 from the parking position 154 to the platform 38 and move the transport carrier 56 on the platform 38 so that the transport carrier 56 is in direct contact with the bottom of the platform 38. In this method, the crane 112 pushes the transport carrier 56 on the platform 38 only by the rollers 68 of the transport carrier 56.

[0256] In both cases, however, the transport carrier 56 is moved by the crane 112 to one of the exchange positions 156 , 158 , in which a tool can be exchanged between the transport carrier 56 and the sheet material processing machine 10 .

[0257] According to the cutting operation and the tool of the required exchange of carrying out said operation, there can be more than one exchange position.In the present embodiment, there are two exchange positions 156,158.

[0258] In order to align the transport carrier 56 relative to the sheet material processing machine 10 , the transport carrier 56 is pushed with its front side 82 against the housing 14 of the sheet material processing machine 10 . This movement is performed by the crane 112 .

[0259] When the corresponding unit 130 is near the recessed unit 128, the magnet 144 in each recessed unit 128 will pull the corresponding unit 148 toward the bearing portion 142 through magnetic force. As a result, the transport carrier 56 is locked in one of the exchange positions 156, 158.

[0260] Depending on the exact loading unit 160 and storage unit 86 that need to be matched, the transport carrier 56 may be raised a vertical distance from the bottom of the platform 38. Figures 13 to 16 In the illustrated embodiment, both carriers 56 are lifted by a crane 112 .

[0261] After locking the carrier 56 in the exchange position 156 , 158 , the locking handles 98 are switched to their release position.

[0262] Finally, the tools 34 may be slidably exchanged between the storage unit 86 and the tool holding unit 160 by a single operator.

[0263] When the tool exchange operation is completed, the counterpart 148 can be removed from the bearing portion 142 by using the crane 112 .

[0264] Subsequently, the crane 112 lifts the transport carrier 56 and moves it back into its parking position 154 on the ground 44 .

[0265] Figure 17 Another embodiment of a lifting device 58 is shown.

[0266] In the illustrated embodiment, the lifting device 58 is a bridge crane 300 .

[0267] The bridge crane 300 includes a pair of beams 302 extending parallel to each other, and each beam 302 includes a longitudinal rail 304 extending along the respective beam 302 .

[0268] The beams 302 are connected by a traveling bridge 306 adapted to move along the rails 304 and parallel to the platform 38. Furthermore, the crane bridge 300 comprises a motor unit 308 adapted to move the traveling bridge 306 along the rails 304 of the beams 302.

[0269] In particular, the traveling bridge 306 includes a central beam 310 arranged orthogonally to the pair of beams 302 , and a trolley unit 312 attached to the central beam 310 , wherein the trolley unit 312 is adapted to move along the central beam 310 .

[0270] The traveling bridge 306 is permanently attached to the transport carrier 56 via a rigid lifting arm 314, which is a longitudinal rod attached to a trolley unit 312. Furthermore, the trolley unit 312 includes a mechanism for vertically raising or lowering the rigid lifting arm 314. For example, the trolley unit 312 may include a trolley actuator 316 for raising or lowering the rigid lifting arm 314.

[0271] The free end of the rigid lifting arm 314 arranged opposite the trolley unit 312 is permanently attached to the transport carrier 56. In particular, the rigid lifting arm 314 is rotatably attached to the transport carrier 56 so that the transport carrier 56 can rotate about an axis arranged orthogonally to the platform 38. To provide a better overview, Figure 17 Only the top of the transport carrier 56 is shown.

[0272] In detail, the transport carrier 56 and the rigid lifting arm 314 are formed together in one single piece.

[0273] Furthermore, each beam 302 is mounted on at least two support elements. In the embodiment shown, each beam 302 is mounted on two columns 318.

[0274] The bridge crane 300 is rigidly mounted to the ground 44 and / or the platform 38 using support elements.

[0275] In addition, the bridge crane 300 may be equipped with the arrangement module 200 as described above.

Claims

1. A tool changing system (54) for a sheet material processing machine (10), comprising: at least one transport carrier (56) capable of storing and carrying a plurality of tools (34) for the sheet material processing machine (10), a lifting device (58) attachable or permanently attached to the transport carrier (56) and adapted to lift the transport carrier (56) from a ground surface (44) adjacent to the platform (38) and to move the transport carrier (56) on the platform (38) to at least one exchange position (46) in which a tool can be exchanged between the transport carrier (56) and the sheet material processing machine (10), and At least one alignment mechanism (60) is configured to lock the transport carrier (56) at the at least one exchange position (46).

2. The system (54) of claim 1, wherein: The at least one transport carrier (56) is a support (62) having at least one storage unit (86), the storage unit (86) comprising a pair of horizontally arranged crossbars (88) extending parallel to each other and defining a container (90) therebetween, in which tools (34) for the sheet material processing machine (10) are slidably stored.

3. The system (54) of claim 1, wherein: The at least one transport carrier (56) is a support (62) having at least one storage unit (86), the storage unit (86) including a platform and defining a container (90) therebetween for slidably storing a tool (34) of a sheet material processing machine (10) on the container (90).

4. The system (54) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: The support (62) further comprises an upper frame (92) and a lower frame (94), wherein the frames (92, 94) are stacked on one another and each of the frames (92, 94) comprises at least one storage unit (86), wherein the storage unit (86) of the upper frame (92) is adapted to mate with a tool holding unit (160) of the sheet material processing machine (10) such that a tool (34) is slidably exchangeable between the storage unit (86) and the tool holding unit (160) when the transport carrier (56) is locked in the first exchange position (156), The storage unit (86) of the lower frame (94) is adapted to mate with a tool holding unit (160) of the sheet material processing machine (10), such that when the transport carrier (56) is locked in the second exchange position (158), the tool (34) can be slidably exchanged between the storage unit (86) and the tool holding unit (160).

5. The system (54) of claim 2, 3 or 4, wherein: The rack (62) includes a plurality of storage units (86) arranged in the rack (62) at a vertical distance equal to a loading distance of the tools (34) in the sheet material processing machine (10).

6. The system (54) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The lifting device (58) is a crane (112) or a bridge crane comprising two arms (122, 124), the crane (112) or the bridge crane (300) having two arms (122, 124) being connected to the transport carrier (56) and being configured to lift or lower the transport carrier (56) in a vertical direction and to displace the transport carrier (56) with three additional degrees of freedom, two of which are displacements parallel to the platform (38) and one of which is a rotation about a vertical axis.

7. The system (54) of claim 6, wherein: The crane (112) or the bridge crane (300) having two arms (122, 124) is adapted to lock the transport carrier (56) in the vertical direction while keeping the three additional degrees of freedom unlocked.

8. The system (54) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein: The bridge crane (300) includes a pair of beams (302) extending parallel to each other, each beam (302) including a longitudinal rail (304) extending along the corresponding beam (302). And wherein the beams (302) are connected by a traveling bridge (306), the traveling bridge (306) being adapted to move along the track (304) and parallel to the platform (38).

9. The system (54) of claim 8, wherein: The traveling bridge (306) is permanently attached to the transport carrier (56) by rigid lifting arms (314).

10. The system (54) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein: Each beam (302) is mounted on at least two supporting elements, in particular columns (318), walls or scaffolding.

11. The system (54) of claims 6 to 10, wherein the bridge crane (300) is rigidly mounted to the ground (44) and / or the platform (38).

12. The system (54) of claim 6, wherein: The crane (112) includes an L-shaped first crane arm (122) pivotally mounted on a crane body (120), the first crane arm (122) having a free end located opposite the crane body (120) and pivotally mounted to a second crane arm (124), the second crane arm (124) having a free end located opposite the first crane arm (122) and pivotally mounted to a coupling element (126), the coupling element (126) being configured to be attached to the transport carrier (56).

13. The system (54) according to claims 6 to 12, wherein: The lifting device (58) includes an arrangement module (200) having a command panel (204), and the command panel (204) is configured to control the vertical movement of the transport carrier (56).

14. The system (54) of claim 13, wherein: The control panel (204) includes an operating element (224) configured as an emergency automatic brake switch, so that when the switch is activated, the movement of the crane (112) is unlocked, so that the transport carrier (56) can be moved manually according to the three additional degrees of freedom.

15. The system (54) according to claim 13 or 14, wherein: The command panel (204) is configured to automatically and / or manually control the movement of the crane (112), wherein the control panel (204) is arranged at a fixed radial distance from a gripping unit (202) and is rigidly connected to the gripping unit (202), and wherein the gripping unit (202) is configured to grasp and hold the transport carrier (56).

16. The system (54) of claim 15, wherein: The command panel (204) provides a joystick assigned to a handle bar (216) of the command panel (204), wherein the joystick is configured as an emergency automatic brake switch, so that when the switch is activated, the movement of the crane (112) is unlocked, and when the switch is deactivated, the movement of the crane (112) is locked, and the command panel (204) can be moved manually.

17. The system (54) according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the instruction panel (204) has at least the following functions: - vertically moving the crane (112) in the upward and downward directions; - opening and closing the gripping unit (202), for example, the gripping unit (202) may be attached to the transport carrier (56); - rotating the instruction panel (204) 360° around the clamping unit (202); - rotating the first crane arm (122) and the second crane arm (124) about their respective rotation axes; - vertically moving the command panel (204) in up and down directions independently of the crane (112); and - Locking and / or unlocking the movement of the crane (112).

18. The system (54) of any preceding claim, wherein the alignment mechanism (60) comprises two interlocking elements (128, 130) configured to engage one another, in, One of the two interlocking elements (128, 130) is fixedly mounted on the sheet material processing machine, preferably on the housing (14) of the sheet material processing machine (10), and the other of the two interlocking elements (128, 130) is fixedly mounted on the transport carrier (56), preferably on the front side (82) of the transport carrier (56).

19. The system (54) of claim 18, wherein: One of the two interlocking elements (128, 130) is a recessed unit (128), preferably comprising a tapered recessed portion (136), and the other of the two interlocking elements is configured as a corresponding unit (130), preferably a tapered protrusion (148), engaging with the recessed unit (128).

20. The system (54) of claim 18 or 19, wherein: At least one of the recessed unit (128) or the corresponding unit (130) includes a magnet (144), wherein the magnet (144) is configured to attach the corresponding unit (130) of the transport carrier (56) to the recessed unit (128) of the sheet processing machine (10) so as to prevent displacement of the transport carrier (56) when the carrier (56) is locked in at least one of the exchange positions (156, 158).

21. The system (54) of claim 20, wherein: The transport carrier (56) has at least one recessed unit (128) and at least one balancing unit (150), wherein the balancing unit (150) has a dummy element (152) formed as an abutment portion, the abutment portion having a cylindrical shape, wherein the two units (128, 150) are preferably arranged on the front side (82) of the bracket (62).

22. A sheet material processing machine (10) for processing sheet material, paper or cardboard (26), comprising: A conveyor path (12) for cutting sheets, paper or cardboard (26) using different tools (34), a platform (38) adjacent to the conveyor path (12), and A floor (44) adjacent to the platform (38) for storing at least one transport carrier (56), the conveyor path (12) comprises a housing (14) containing, in the following order: an intake station (16) for supplying sheets, a platen station (18) for cutting sheets, a waste discharge station (20) for removing cut sheets, and a blanking station (22) for collecting the finally cut sheets, wherein the platform (38) provides at least one exchange position (46) for exchanging tools (34), and The sheet material processing machine (10) further comprises a tool exchange system (54) according to any one of claims 1 to 21.

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