Method for producing a recess with a bending machine and bending machine designed therefor

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for producing a recess (13; 313) in a workpiece (12; 312) made of flat material using a bending machine (10; 310). The bending machine (10; 310) comprises a first clamping jaw (22; 322), a second clamping jaw (24; 324) which is movably mounted relative to the first clamping jaw (22; 322) and which is configured to clamp a workpiece (12; 312) to be provided with a recess (13; 313) together with the first clamping jaw (22; 322), a first bending unit (26; 326) which is arranged on the first clamping jaw (22; 322) and has a first bending tool (30; 330), and a second bending unit (28; 328) which is arranged on the second clamping jaw (24; 324) and has a second bending tool (31; 331).The method comprises clamping the workpiece (12; 312) with the first clamping jaw (22; 322) and the second clamping jaw (24; 324) such that a projecting section (14; 314) of the workpiece (12; 312) protrudes from the clamping jaws (22, 24; 322, 324), moving one of the two bending tools (30; 31; 330; 331) into a counter-holding position such that it rests against the projecting section (14; 314) of the workpiece (12; 312) at a distance from the clamping jaws (22, 24; 322, 324), and extending the other bending tool (30; 31; 330; 331) such that it presses against the workpiece (12; 312) so that the recess (13; 313) is formed in the workpiece (12; 312). The invention further relates to a bending machine (10; 310) equipped for this purpose.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a method for producing a recess, in particular a bead or counter-bend, in a workpiece made of flat material, in particular sheet metal, using a bending machine, and to a bending machine designed for this purpose.

[0002] For the bending and forming of flat material, i.e. flat material such as sheet metal, bending machines such as swivel bending machines are sometimes used. The flat material can be clamped into these bending machines and given straight bends or folds. By repeatedly feeding and bending the material, several folds can be created on the flat material, so that different bending geometries can be produced depending on the amount of feed and bending direction. Typically, a flat material to be formed is clamped between opposing clamping jaws and bent around a bending edge using a bending tool that can be moved relative to the clamping jaws. After the bending process, the bending tool can be moved back and the clamping jaws temporarily opened so that the flat material, now with a fold, can be moved for another bending process at a different bending point.

[0003] A bending machine for bending sheet metal is generally known from the prior art. It has two bending tools arranged on opposing clamping jaws, allowing double bending. The sheet metal to be formed can thus be bent in opposite directions by moving one of the bending tools at a time. This movement of the bending tool can be achieved by pivoting or displacing it, in particular by linear movements inclined to each other. When the bending tool pivots, the bending machine is also referred to as a swivel bending machine.

[0004] When forming sheet metal to a desired sheet profile, it may be necessary to provide one edge of a sheet with one or more folds, which are generally referred to as a hem or fold. Folds are created by bending a section of sheet metal relative to the remaining section of the sheet. The fold can be formed, for example, as a turn-up, standing seam, profile leg, or a combination of these. A fold with a bending angle of approximately 90° is called a standing seam or, together with the correspondingly bent workpiece section, forms a standing seam. A fold with a bending angle of approximately 180° is referred to as a turn-up or fully closed fold. A fold with a turn-up can be referred to as a closed fold. An example of a profile leg is a combination of a turn-up and a standing seam, where the turn-up is bent into a standing seam by another fold.For example, a combination can comprise two standing seams, forming a U-shaped fold. The respective bending angles can be freely selected and are by no means limited to the 90° or 180° bending angles used for explanation. A combination can therefore, for example, form a V-shaped, W-shaped, Z-shaped, or any other shape with any bending angle.

[0005] Conventional bending machines, especially swivel bending machines, reach their limits when producing a fold with a bending angle of more than 90°. The only known bending machines are those that can produce the fold with a bending angle of slightly more than 90° using the bending tool and then use one of the clamping jaws to bend the fold further, i.e. to close it or even close it completely. Closing the fold with clamping jaws has the disadvantage that it is not very precise and there is also a risk of damaging the sheet metal. In addition, there must be no already bent structures of a fold, such as already bent profile legs, in the area of ​​the clamping jaw, as otherwise these would be compressed by the clamping jaw together with the part of the fold that is to be bent further.

[0006] Alternatively or additionally, when producing a fold, especially a vertical profile leg, at one edge of a sheet metal, it may also be necessary to change its angle relative to an adjacent section. Such additional deformations are not known for conventional bending machines, especially swivel bending machines.

[0007] Furthermore, during sheet metal processing, especially in addition to bending, it may be necessary to create a recess, such as a bead or counter-bend. Conventional bending machines, especially swivel bending machines, cannot perform such a processing step without a tool change.

[0008] DE 20 2020 002 598 U1 discloses a bending machine for bending a workpiece made of flat material, such as sheet metal. The bending machine comprises a first clamping jaw, a second clamping jaw, which is mounted so as to be movable relative to the first clamping jaw and which, together with the first clamping jaw, can clamp a portion of the workpiece in a clamping plane, and a bending unit, which is arranged on the first clamping jaw and has a bending tool for bending a portion of the workpiece by displacing it.

[0009] This bending machine can produce standing seams and envelopes. Envelopes are produced in a pinch-bend mode, in which a pre-bend point is further compressed by a pinching motion between the bending tool and the clamping jaw, thereby forming an envelope at a main bending point. This method for producing a fold therefore uses the clamping jaw to close a fold to form an envelope.

[0010] Based on the prior art, the object of the invention is to provide a method for a bending machine and a bending machine configured therefor which offers efficient and reliable bending processes.

[0011] This object is achieved by a device and a method as described herein and defined in the claims.

[0012] A method for producing a fold, in particular a closed fold, on a workpiece made of flat material, in particular sheet metal, according to a first aspect, comprising a bending machine comprising a first clamping jaw, a second clamping jaw, which is mounted so as to be movable relative to the first clamping jaw and which is configured, together with the first clamping jaw, to clamp a workpiece to be provided with a fold, and a bending unit, which is arranged on one of the clamping jaws, in particular on the first clamping jaw, and has a bending tool, wherein the bending unit is configured to bend a portion of the workpiece by moving the bending tool relative to the associated clamping jaw, in particular relative to the first clamping jaw, in order to form a fold, comprises producing a pre-fold on the workpiece, comprising forming a first fold,and closing the pre-fold to a fold by closing the first fold by the bending unit in a state in which the other of the clamping cheeks, in particular the second clamping cheek, is spaced from the fold.

[0013] A bending machine for producing a fold, in particular a closed fold, on a workpiece made of flat material, in particular sheet metal, according to the first aspect comprises a first clamping jaw, a second clamping jaw which is mounted such that it can move relative to the first clamping jaw and which is configured to clamp a workpiece to be provided with a fold together with the first clamping jaw, a bending unit which is arranged on one of the clamping jaws, in particular on the first clamping jaw, and has a bending tool, wherein the bending unit is configured to bend a portion of the workpiece by moving the bending tool relative to the associated clamping jaw, in particular the first clamping jaw, in order to form a fold, and a control unit which is configured to carry out the method for producing a fold, in particular a closed fold.

[0014] Using the method and the bending machine, the fold can be formed on the workpiece efficiently and reliably. In other words, the first aspect can in particular also be based on the task of forming a fold efficiently and reliably. Since the bending tool is used to close the pre-fold, the bending process can be carried out accurately and precisely. This achieves a high degree of bending quality. The method according to the invention is particularly advantageous when further folds have already been formed on the workpiece to form a profile leg and only then can the pre-fold be closed. In this case, there is a risk, for example, that unintentional deformation of the workpiece or damage may occur when using a clamping cheek to close the pre-fold.In particular, the typically relatively large flat surface of the clamping jaw is unsuitable for precise bending and can unintentionally deform, particularly crush, previously created folds that form, for example, a profile leg when closing the pre-fold. Such previously created profile legs can occur, for example, when manufacturing a sheet with a drip edge for a roof eave.

[0015] According to a second aspect, a method for producing a fold, in particular an inclined fold, on a workpiece made of flat material, in particular sheet metal, using a bending machine, wherein the bending machine has a first clamping jaw, a second clamping jaw, which is mounted so as to be movable relative to the first clamping jaw and which is configured, together with the first clamping jaw, to clamp a workpiece to be provided with a fold in a clamping plane, and a bending unit, which is arranged on one of the clamping jaws, in particular on the first clamping jaw, and has a bending tool, wherein the bending unit is configured to bend a portion of the workpiece by moving, in particular by displacing or pivoting, the bending tool relative to the associated clamping jaw, in particular relative to the first clamping jaw, in order to form a fold, producing a pre-fold on the workpiece in such a way thatthat it is arranged in an area in front of the clamping cheeks, comprising forming a fold, wherein the pre-fold extends at an angle relative to the clamping plane, and changing the angle by displacing the bending tool.,

[0016] A bending machine for producing a fold on a workpiece made of flat material, in particular sheet metal, according to the second aspect comprises a first clamping jaw, a second clamping jaw which is mounted so as to be movable relative to the first clamping jaw and which is configured, together with the first clamping jaw, to clamp a workpiece to be provided with a fold in a clamping plane, the bending unit which is arranged on one of the clamping jaws, in particular on the first clamping jaw, and has a bending tool, wherein the first bending unit is configured to bend a portion of the workpiece by moving, in particular by displacing or pivoting, the bending tool relative to the associated clamping jaw, in particular relative to the first clamping jaw, in order to form a fold, and a control unit which is configured to carry out the method for producing a fold.

[0017] Using the method and the bending machine, the geometry of a fold can be reliably and precisely adjusted. In other words, the second aspect can also be based, in particular, on the task of reliably and precisely adjusting the inclination or extension direction of a fold. In particular, the angle at which the fold extends can be efficiently and reliably changed. The method according to the invention is particularly advantageous in a case in which the fold is formed as a profile leg. In this case, the profile leg, whose extension direction is defined by its leg, can be provided with a predetermined angle particularly efficiently after its bending.

[0018] According to a third aspect, a method for producing a recess, in particular a counter-bend or bead, in a workpiece made of flat material, in particular of sheet metal, using a bending machine, wherein the bending machine has a first clamping jaw, a second clamping jaw which is mounted such that it can move relative to the first clamping jaw and which is configured to clamp a workpiece to be provided with a recess together with the first clamping jaw, a first bending unit which is arranged on the first clamping jaw and has a first bending tool, wherein the first bending unit is configured to bend a portion of the workpiece by moving the bending tool relative to the first clamping jaw, and a second bending unit which is arranged on the second clamping jaw and has a second bending tool, wherein the second bending unit is configured tobending a portion of the workpiece by moving the second bending tool relative to the second clamping jaw, clamping the workpiece with the first clamping jaw and the second clamping jaw such that a projecting portion of the workpiece projects from the clamping jaws, and moving one of the two bending tools into a counter-holding position such that it rests against the projecting portion of the workpiece at a distance from the clamping jaws, and extending the other bending tool such that it presses against the workpiece so that the recess is formed in the workpiece.

[0019] A bending machine for producing a recess, in particular a counter-bend or bead, in a workpiece made of flat material, in particular sheet metal, according to the third aspect comprises a first clamping jaw, a second clamping jaw, which is mounted so as to be movable relative to the first clamping jaw and which is configured to clamp a workpiece to be provided with a recess together with the first clamping jaw, a first bending unit, which is arranged on the first clamping jaw and has a first bending tool, wherein the first bending unit is configured to bend a portion of the workpiece by moving the bending tool relative to the first clamping jaw, a second bending unit, which is arranged on the second clamping jaw and has a second bending tool, wherein the second bending unit is configured to bend a portion of the workpiece by moving the second bending tool relative to the second clamping jaw, and a control unit,which is designed to carry out the method for producing a recess.,

[0020] Using the process and the bending machine, a recess can be produced efficiently and precisely. In other words, the third aspect can also be based on the task of producing a recess efficiently and precisely. A recess in a sheet metal is usually produced using deep-drawing tools or stamping tools. By eliminating the associated tool change, sheet metal processing can be made particularly efficient. This allows complex structures to be manufactured efficiently. Furthermore, a wide variety of movement paths can be easily implemented.

[0021] It is understood that the aforementioned aspects can be implemented independently of one another. In some embodiments, two or three aspects can also be combined. In particular, a method can, for example, comprise any two of the or all three methods. Alternatively or additionally, a bending machine can have the features of any two of the or all three aspects. The features of the first aspect can be partially or completely combined with the features of the second aspect, in particular with regard to the method and / or with regard to the bending machine. The features of the first aspect can be partially or completely combined with the features of the third aspect, in particular with regard to the method and / or with regard to the bending machine. The features of the second aspect can be partially or completely combined with the features of the third aspect, in particular with regard to the method and / or with regard to the bending machine.The features of the first aspect, the second aspect and the third aspect can be partially or completely combined with one another, in particular with regard to the method and / or with regard to the bending machine.

[0022] A fold can be a section of the workpiece that is bent over once or multiple times. A bevel can be a bending point between a bent section and a remaining section of the workpiece. A fold in particular has at least one bevel. A bevel in particular has an angle or bend angle that indicates an extent of bending with respect to a remaining section of the workpiece. A fold can be formed as a standing seam. A standing seam can have a bevel with a bending angle of 90°. A bevel can be a completely closed bevel or a turn-up. A completely closed bevel or a turn-up can have a bevel with a bending angle of approximately 180°. A fold with a turn-up can be a closed fold.A pre-fold is, in particular, a fold with one or more folds at any bending angle, which is intended, for example, to be further processed by changing one of the bending angles. A pre-fold can have a fold with a bending angle of at least 10°, 20°, 30°, 40°, 50°, 60°, 70°, 80°, 90°, 100°, 110°, 120°, 130°, 140°, 150°, 160°, or 170°. A pre-fold can be formed as a standing seam. A fold can be created by folding a section of the workpiece. A fold can be created by folding with the bending tool of the bending machine. A pre-fold can be created by movement, in particular displacement or pivoting, of the bending tool relative to the first clamping cheek. Closing the pre-fold may involve increasing the bend angle of a fold. A closed fold may be a partially closed pre-fold with a partially closed fold with a bend angle of more than 135°.A closed fold can be a partially closed pre-fold with a partially closed bend with a bend angle of more than 140°, 150°, 160°, or 170°. A pre-fold can have a bend with a bend angle of greater than 90°. A pre-fold can have a bend with a bend angle of less than 90°.

[0023] The workpiece can be a flat workpiece. It can be a workpiece made of a flat material. The workpiece can be a sheet metal, for example. The workpiece can be made of metal, for example, and / or it can be a metallic workpiece. Alternatively, the workpiece can be a plastic workpiece. The workpiece can also comprise a composite material, for example. However, the workpiece can in principle be made of any suitable material. The workpiece can have an irregular profile.

[0024] A state in which the second clamping cheek is spaced from the fold is, in particular, a state in which the second clamping cheek is not in contact with the fold. A state in which the second clamping cheek is spaced from the fold can be a state in which there is a distance of at least 1 cm, at least 2 cm, at least 3 cm, or at least 4 cm between the second clamping cheek and the fold.

[0025] Resting against the workpiece in the counter-holding position can mean that the bending tool can absorb at least enough force from a section of the workpiece that this section does not move during a machining process by the bending machine.

[0026] The recess can be, for example, a bead or counter-bend. The recess can, in particular, be an elongated recess. The recess can be a groove-shaped recess. The recess can be designed in such a way that it stiffens the workpiece.

[0027] Clamping the tool can mean firmly securing the workpiece. The tool can be clamped in such a way that a workpiece remains fixed during a bending operation of the bending machine. The clamping plane can be arranged perpendicular to a vertical axis of the bending machine. For example, the clamping plane can run through a center of gravity of a clamped section and / or parallel to a main extension plane of the same. In principle, however, an arrangement of the clamping plane parallel to or at any angle to the vertical axis is also conceivable.

[0028] The bending machine can comprise a table on which the workpiece can be placed. When the workpiece is clamped and / or before the workpiece is clamped, a clamped section or a section of the workpiece to be clamped can rest at least partially on the table. The table can be part of a holding unit which additionally comprises a holding element by means of which the workpiece can be held independently of the clamping cheeks. The holding unit can be controlled. The table is optionally immovably connected to a machine frame of the bending machine or can be displaced relative to the machine frame. The bending machine can in this case have the drive for the table which enables, for example, the table to be extended and / or raised or lowered. It is conceivable according to the invention for the first clamping cheek and the second clamping cheek to be movable relative to the table, in particular in positive or negative directions.in negative vertical direction parallel to the vertical axis of the bending machine.

[0029] The control unit can also be configured to control the bending unit and, if applicable, the other bending units as well as the clamping jaws in order to move the bending tool(s) and the clamping jaws. The control unit can also be configured and programmed to be used as a central control unit in the bending machine according to the invention.

[0030] The first clamping jaw and / or the second clamping jaw can be configured to define at least one bending axis by means of a counter-holding action, around which the workpiece can be bent by means of the bending unit and / or the further bending unit. If multiple bending axes are provided, these axes can be spaced apart from one another in a direction perpendicular to the clamping plane.

[0031] The first clamping jaw can be an upper clamping jaw, and the second clamping jaw a lower clamping jaw. Alternatively, the first clamping jaw can be a lower clamping jaw, and the second clamping jaw an upper clamping jaw. The same applies to the bending units.

[0032] The first and / or second clamping jaws can have a clamping surface that, when the workpiece is clamped, is brought into contact with the workpiece. The clamping surface can be arranged parallel to the clamping plane, at least when the workpiece is clamped. The workpiece can be reliably clamped if the first clamping jaw and the second clamping jaw each have a clamping surface, with the clamping surfaces of the clamping jaws being arranged opposite one another. This allows the workpiece to be held by the clamping jaws from above and below.

[0033] At least one of the clamping cheeks can, for example, be designed as a beveled plate, the bevel thereof forming one of the clamping surfaces. A longitudinal axis of the clamping cheek preferably runs substantially parallel to the first bending axis. The first bending axis preferably runs parallel to the base and / or perpendicular to the vertical axis of the bending machine. The first bending axis is preferably arranged parallel to a longitudinal axis of the bending machine. In addition, a transverse axis of the bending machine is preferably arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and perpendicular to the vertical axis of the bending machine. Preferably, at least sections of the clamping cheeks comprising the clamping surfaces are arranged mirror-symmetrically to one another with respect to the clamping plane.

[0034] The bending unit and / or the further bending unit can be configured to extend and retract the respective bending tool relative to the associated clamping jaw. The bending unit and / or the further bending unit can have a linear guide with which the respective bending tool is linearly guided for displacement in a feed plane. This makes it easy to define precise mobility which, thanks to the design of the bending machine, also allows a variety of movement paths. The linear guide of the bending unit can define a guide axis which runs parallel to the feed plane and, in particular, lies in the feed plane. The bending unit preferably has a plurality of linear guides which are arranged at different positions along the longitudinal axis, in particular at equal intervals. The guide axes of the linear guides are preferably arranged parallel to one another.

[0035] Alternatively or additionally, the bending unit and / or the further bending unit can have a pivoting mechanism with which the respective bending tool is extended and retracted relative to the associated clamping jaw.

[0036] The bending machine may comprise a machine frame configured for installation on a surface, such as a hall floor. In a standard installation state of the bending machine, the machine frame is installed on a flat surface, the surface normal of which defines a vertical axis of the bending machine.

[0037] In addition, the bending machine can comprise a positioning unit for moving the workpiece in the clamping plane and / or perpendicular to this, for example when the workpiece is placed on the table. The control unit can be configured to control the positioning unit in order to effect a feed of the workpiece relative to the clamping cheeks. The positioning unit can be formed by the holding unit. The positioning unit can comprise a suitable drive and / or suitable stops, grippers, sliders, rollers or the like in order to exert a positioning force and / or movement on the workpiece. It is also conceivable that at least one of the clamping cheeks can be moved parallel to or at any angle to the clamping plane, so that the workpiece can be moved, for example, by coordinated movements of the clamping cheeks.

[0038] A surface of at least one of the clamping cheeks facing away from the clamping plane and / or the clamped section of the workpiece preferably runs obliquely with respect to the clamping plane and, for example, encloses an angle with the clamping plane that is less than 90°, preferably at most 45°, more preferably at most 30°, and particularly preferably at most 45°. This surface is advantageously flat. The corresponding other clamping cheek can additionally have a surface that is mirror-symmetrical to this surface with respect to the clamping plane. In this case, the clamping cheeks are preferably arranged in a V-arrangement, wherein the clamping plane can define an angle bisector. When the workpiece is clamped, the clamped section is arranged within a clamping area defined by the clamping cheeks, which can, for example, also include the table.The workpiece can protrude from the clamping area between the clamping cheeks, for example between their clamping surfaces, wherein a protruding section of the workpiece then forms a section to be machined, in particular a section to be bent.

[0039] The bending tool can have an extension along the longitudinal axis of the bending machine that essentially corresponds to an extension of the corresponding clamping jaw along the longitudinal axis. Uniform bending can be achieved, for example, if the bending tool is configured to apply a bending force to the workpiece over its entire length along the respective bending axis. This allows a bending point to be created along the respective bending axis when the tool is bent. The bending tool can be configured to apply a bending force to the workpiece relative to the corresponding clamping jaw when the bending tool is retracted and / or extended.

[0040] Preferably, the bending units are essentially identical in construction. It is also conceivable to use bending units of different designs. The bending unit arranged on the first clamping jaw can be configured to bend a section toward the second clamping jaw, and / or the bending unit arranged on the second clamping jaw can be configured to bend the section toward the first clamping jaw.

[0041] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the bending unit comprises at least one drive for the bending tool, which is configured to move the bending tool in a feed plane. The drive for the bending tool is preferably a linear drive. Likewise, the drive for the bending tool can be a lever drive. However, a hydraulic drive or any other drive is also conceivable. The drive for the bending tool can, for example, comprise and / or be designed as a linear drive with a roller screw drive, a linear drive with a drive cylinder, an electromagnetic linear motor, or the like. In addition, the drive for the bending tool can comprise several linear drives arranged in series or in parallel.Alternatively, the drive for the bending tool can comprise a rotary drive, such as an electric motor, as well as suitable elements such as levers, crankshafts, or the like for converting a rotary movement into a linear movement. Preferably, the drive for the bending tool has at least one ball screw drive. Particularly preferably, the bending unit comprises a plurality of drives for the bending tool, which can be arranged, in particular, at regular intervals in a direction parallel to the first bending axis. A number of linear guides for the bending tool and a number of drives for the bending tool can be identical or different from one another.

[0042] The feed plane can intersect the clamping plane or run parallel to it. If the feed plane and the clamping plane intersect, their intersection line preferably runs parallel to the first bending axis or coincides with it. During bending, the feed plane can move translationally relative to the clamping plane and / or relative to the first bending axis. This allows the bending tool to follow a precise trajectory.

[0043] A great deal of design freedom with regard to feasible movement paths of the bending tool can be achieved in particular if the bending unit and / or the further bending unit comprises a base element which is movably mounted on the first clamping cheek or the second clamping cheek, respectively, and on which the bending tool is mounted so as to be linearly movable, in particular displaceable. The base element can have opposite sides which enclose an angle of less than 90° but more than 0°. An upper side of the base element facing away from the corresponding clamping cheek can be angled relative to the clamping cheek. For example, the base element has a triangular and / or three-sided cross-section. In particular due to its triangular cross-section, the base element can angle the bending tool and / or the feed plane of the bending tool relative to the clamping cheek assigned to the bending unit.For example, in a region of the first bending axis, the bending tool can be advanced at an angle of at least 45° and advantageously at least 60°, for example when the base element has moved into a front region, for example a region of the clamping surface, of the clamping cheek assigned to the bending unit and the bending tool is displaced in its advance plane. Preferably, a longitudinal axis of the base element is arranged substantially parallel to the first bending axis. The bending tool can be guided linearly on a side of the base element facing away from the corresponding clamping cheek. This side of the base element is preferably arranged substantially flat and / or parallel to the advance plane of the bending tool.Furthermore, a side of the base element opposite this side can be arranged movable on the surface of the corresponding clamping cheek facing away from the clamping plane and / or the clamped section of the workpiece and / or parallel to this surface.

[0044] The bending unit and / or the further bending unit can comprise at least one linear guide with which the base element is linearly guided for displacement in a feed plane. This makes it possible to realize a wide spectrum of possible movement paths, wherein the stiffness of moving components is largely independent of the corresponding movement path, so that complex corrections can be eliminated. For bending, the bending tool can be moved in its feed plane and additionally in the feed plane of the base element. A movement of the bending tool can be a superimposed movement in the feed plane of the bending tool and in the feed plane of the base element, wherein the base element preferably moves relative to the corresponding clamping cheek and the bending tool relative to the base element.The base element is preferably designed such that the linear guide of the bending tool and the linear guide of the base element enclose an angle between 0° and 90°, wherein this angle preferably corresponds to the angle between the feed planes and / or the angle between the opposing surfaces of the base element. This angle can be, for example, at least 10° and advantageously at least 20° and / or at most 70° and advantageously at most 50°. For example, an angle of 25° or 30° is possible.

[0045] According to a further development of the invention, the bending tool comprises a hook-shaped bending section with an inner surface and an outer surface. The hook-shaped bending section of the bending tool can be hook-shaped when viewed parallel to the first bending axis. The hook-shaped bending section can have an end section. The end section can form a frontmost section of the bending tool. The end section can lie between the inner surface and the outer surface. The end section can lie in a region where the inner surface merges into the outer surface. The end section can have a curved surface. The curved surface can be circularly arc-shaped when viewed parallel to the longitudinal direction. Preferably, the hook-shaped bending section of the bending tool has a substantially constant and preferably hook-shaped cross-section in a direction parallel to the first bending axis.The hook-shaped bending section of the bending tool can be configured to be selectively pressed with its outer surface against a section of the workpiece during machining of the workpiece, in particular during bending of the workpiece. Additionally or alternatively, the hook-shaped bending section of the bending tool can be configured to be selectively pressed with its inner surface, for example with an inner hook region of the hook-shaped bending section of the bending tool, against a section of the workpiece during machining of the workpiece, in particular during bending of the workpiece. Additionally or alternatively, the hook-shaped bending section of the bending tool can be configured to be selectively pressed with the end section of the hook-shaped bending section of the bending tool against a section of the workpiece during machining of the workpiece, in particular during bending of the workpiece.The inner area of ​​the hook can encompass an already partially formed bending point. Preferably, the inner surface of the hook-shaped bending section of the bending tool faces the clamping area defined by the clamping jaws and / or the outer surface of the hook-shaped bending section of the bending tool faces away from the clamping area defined by the clamping jaws.

[0046] According to a further development, the control unit is configured to generate a movement path for the first bending tool by superimposing at least two linear movements. Alternatively or additionally, the control unit can be configured to generate a movement path for the second bending tool by superimposing at least two linear movements. Preferably, the movement path is a curved path that defines a non-linear movement. The movement path particularly preferably runs in a plane perpendicular to the first bending axis. The movement path can, for example, be a path of a movement of a specific unchanged but moved point of the corresponding bending tool, such as a frontmost point of the hook-shaped bending section of the corresponding bending tool. Preferably, the control unit is configured to control the drive of the corresponding bending tool and / or the drive of the corresponding base element.The control unit can be configured to generate control signals intended to initiate a movement of the corresponding bending tool in its feed plane and also a movement of the corresponding base element in its feed plane. The control unit can be configured to superimpose the two movements in the feed plane of the corresponding bending tool and the feed plane of the corresponding base element in such a way that different nonlinear trajectories can be generated.

[0047] Furthermore, it can be provided that the first clamping jaw and / or the second clamping jaw can be movable in a direction perpendicular to the clamping plane. The corresponding clamping jaw can be linearly movable. Alternatively or additionally, the first clamping jaw can be movable relative to the second clamping jaw along a pivoting path, so that a displacement also occurs perpendicular to the clamping plane. The vertical mobility can also be achieved by pivoting the first clamping jaw to lift it off the second clamping jaw, or vice versa.

[0048] According to a further development, the control unit is configured to control the clamping jaws in a pre-bending operating mode such that they define a bending axis, and to control the bending unit such that the workpiece is bent around the bending axis, thereby creating a pre-bending point. The control unit can be configured to bend the workpiece at the pre-bending point by an angle of more than 90°. The bending axis can be defined by both clamping jaws clamping the workpiece.

[0049] Alternatively or additionally, the control unit can be configured to control the clamping jaws in a positioning mode such that they define the bending axis, and to control the second bending unit such that the workpiece is bent around the bending axis, thereby creating a positioning bending point. The control unit can be configured to bend the workpiece at the positioning bending point by an angle of substantially 90°. In principle, however, any angle for a positioning bending point is conceivable. These angles can be selected, in particular, depending on a desired target geometry.

[0050] The control unit can further be configured to cause the workpiece to advance parallel to the clamping plane after the pre-bending operating mode has been executed and before the adjustment operating mode has been executed, so that a section of the workpiece that includes the pre-bending point can be bent in the adjustment operating mode. The workpiece advance can define a length of a section of the workpiece between the pre-bending point and the adjustment bending point.

[0051] The bending machine can be used in particular to form bending points in an already advanced section of a workpiece if the control unit is configured to control the clamping jaws in a pinch-bending mode such that they define a further bending axis, and to control the bending unit such that the workpiece is bent around the further bending axis, thereby creating a main bending point. The pinch-bending mode could also be referred to as a hem-bending mode or a standing seam bending mode. In particular, a standing seam is closed in the pinch-bending mode. In the pinch-bending mode, the workpiece can be compressed between the first bending tool of the first bending unit and the counter-holding first clamping jaw, such that, for example, a pinching movement occurs.The control unit can be configured to control the clamping jaws and the bending unit such that, in the pinch-bending mode, the main bending point can be formed from the pre-bending point. Counter-holding by the first clamping jaw can occur near the pre-bending point, causing the second bending axis to run through the pre-bending point. In the pinch-bending mode, the first clamping jaw can be spaced apart from the second clamping jaw and from the clamping plane.

[0052] According to one embodiment, the control unit is configured to receive a target profile specified by a user for a workpiece to be machined and to determine a suggested bending sequence based on the target profile. Furthermore, the control unit can be configured to perform a bending simulation. The bending simulation can take into account properties of the workpiece that define, for example, a degree of overbending or other bending parameters. A high degree of operating convenience can be achieved, in particular, if the bending machine further comprises a user interface configured to allow input of the target profile and / or to display a result of the bending simulation.

[0053] It should be noted that the creation of a bending point, for example for producing a pre-fold or a standing seam, can take place at any location on the workpiece or at any point in the bending process. The control unit can thus be configured to provide or integrate individual or all of the described production methods at any point in a bending program. Furthermore, the control unit, in combination with the user interface, can be configured to allow the user to provide for bending of the pre-fold, the fold, the closed fold, the standing seam, the inclined fold, the recess, the bead, the counter fold, or the like at any point in a bending program.

[0054] The bending machine can be a sheet metal bending machine, in particular a long bending machine. The bending machine can be particularly suitable for processing flat workpieces. The bending machine can generally be designed as a single bending machine or as a double bending machine. The bending machine can therefore comprise one bending unit or two bending units, or only a first bending unit on a first clamping jaw, or a first bending unit on a first clamping jaw and a second bending unit on a second clamping jaw. In the case of a single bending machine, the control unit can be configured to perform all bending deformations using the single bending unit.

[0055] In the method for producing a fold, in particular a closed fold, according to the first aspect, the step of closing the pre-fold can be carried out in a state in which the first clamping cheek or the second clamping cheek is spaced apart from the workpiece. Spacing not only from the fold, but completely from the workpiece, offers even greater design freedom for the workpiece profile before it is provided with a fold. The spacing can be a spacing parallel to a surface normal of the workpiece and / or its main extension plane. The spacing can be at least 5 mm, at least 10 mm, at least 15 mm, or at least 20 mm.

[0056] The step of closing the pre-hem can in particular be carried out when the workpiece is lying on the first or second clamping jaw. Placing the workpiece on the first or second clamping jaw during closing supports the precise production of the hem. In particular, the workpiece lies on the clamping jaw on which the bending unit used to close the pre-hem is arranged. The workpiece can lie on the first clamping jaw or the second clamping jaw due to its weight. The workpiece can additionally be held by means of the holding unit such that it lies on the first clamping jaw. In particular, the workpiece lies on one of the clamping jaws and is in no contact with the other of the clamping jaws.

[0057] The step of closing the pre-hem can be performed in an unclamped state of the workpiece, in particular in a state in which the workpiece is not clamped between the clamping jaws. The unclamped state of the workpiece can be a state in which the workpiece is fixed only in one direction or in two directions. The unclamped state can also be a state in which the workpiece is not fixed. Omitting the clamping leads to more efficient machining of the workpiece.

[0058] In the step of creating the pre-fold, the first fold can be formed by the bending machine, in particular by moving the bending tool relative to the first or second clamping jaw. The step of creating the pre-fold on the workpiece can be carried out by the bending machine, in particular by displacing or pivoting the bending tool relative to the first clamping jaw or the second clamping jaw. The step of creating the pre-fold on the workpiece can be carried out in particular by pressing with the outside of the hook-shaped bending section of the bending tool and / or with the end section of the hook-shaped bending section of the bending tool. The step of creating the pre-fold on the workpiece can alternatively or additionally be carried out by pressing with the inside of the hook-shaped bending section of the bending tool and / or with the end section of the hook-shaped bending section of the bending tool.The pressing can be done by extending and / or retracting the bending tool relative to the associated clamping cheek. The retraction and extension can be done by linearly displacing the bending tool relative to the associated base element and / or by linearly displacing the associated base element together with the bending tool relative to the associated clamping cheek. The retraction and extension can be done by pivoting the bending tool relative to the associated clamping cheek. Depending on the shape of the hook-shaped bending section and / or the shape of the base element, it is advantageous to create the pre-fold on the workpiece by retracting or extending the bending tool and simultaneously pressing with a specific section or a specific flat surface of the hook-shaped bending section. The pre-fold created can be a profile leg.

[0059] Creating a pre-fold on the workpiece can comprise forming a plurality of folds, in particular by the bending machine. In the step of creating the pre-fold, one or more of the folds can be formed by bending with the further bending tool. Creating the pre-fold can further comprise forming a second fold as a standing seam, wherein the second fold is different from the first fold. Creating the pre-fold can further comprise forming a third fold as a turn-up, wherein the third fold is different from the first fold, and preferably from the second fold.

[0060] The method may further comprise producing a standing seam, in particular with a fold, by bending a portion of the workpiece around a second fold that differs from the first fold, wherein, during the production of the pre-fold, the standing seam is bent around the first fold relative to a clamped portion of the workpiece, and wherein, during the closing of the pre-fold, the standing seam protrudes from the associated clamping cheek in the direction of the spaced clamping cheeks

[0061] The method may further comprise, following the step of creating the pre-fold, moving the first clamping jaw or the second clamping jaw away from the workpiece. Moving the respective clamping jaw away provides the bending tool with a high degree of freedom of movement when closing the pre-fold.

[0062] The step of closing the pre-fold can be carried out by pressing the pre-fold with the bending tool. The step of closing the pre-fold can in particular be carried out by pressing the pre-fold with the end section of the hook-shaped bending section and / or with the inner surface of the hook-shaped bending section and / or with the outer surface of the hook-shaped bending section. Such closing of the pre-fold can be carried out extremely precisely. During the step of closing the pre-fold, the first fold can be closed by extending and / or retracting the bending tool relative to the associated clamping cheek. Preferably, the step of closing the pre-fold can be carried out by pressing the pre-fold with the end section of the hook-shaped bending section and with the inner surface of the hook-shaped bending section during retraction of the bending tool relative to the associated clamping cheek.The step of closing the pre-fold may in particular comprise a complete closing of the first fold to form a completely closed fold, i.e. a fold.

[0063] The step of closing the pre-fold can be performed, in particular, by moving the inner surface of the hook-shaped bending section toward the first clamping cheek or the second clamping cheek. Such a movement is particularly suitable for more efficient and precise production of the fold. In particular, the step of closing the pre-fold can be performed by moving a flat surface of the inner surface, which is oriented parallel to a clamping surface of the second clamping cheek or the first clamping cheek. This enables particularly precise production of a cover.

[0064] The control unit of the bending machine can further be configured to carry out the method steps described above.

[0065] The method for producing a fold according to a second aspect can be a fold with a leg, in particular a profile leg. The step of changing the angle can be carried out by extending the bending tool relative to the associated clamping cheek, in particular relative to the first clamping cheek. This is particularly advantageous for efficient production. In particular, the step of changing the angle can be carried out by pressing with the outer surface of the hook-shaped bending section and / or the end section of the hook-shaped bending section during the extension of the bending tool relative to the associated clamping cheek, in particular relative to the first clamping cheek. By pressing with the outer surface of the hook-shaped bending section, the production of the fold can be carried out not only efficiently but also precisely.Alternatively, the step of changing the angle can be carried out by retracting the bending tool relative to the associated clamping jaw, in particular relative to the first clamping jaw. In particular, the step of changing the angle can be carried out by pressing with the inner surface of the hook-shaped bending section and / or with the end section of the hook-shaped bending section during the extension of the bending tool relative to the associated clamping jaw, in particular relative to the first clamping jaw. Depending on which processing step takes place before the step of changing the angle or where the bending tools are located, changing the angle by retracting can also lead to a short movement distance of the bending tools, thus making production efficient.The retraction and extension of the bending tool relative to the associated clamping cheek, in particular relative to the first clamping cheek, can be achieved by linearly displacing the bending tool relative to the associated base element, in particular relative to the first base element, and / or by linearly displacing the associated base element, in particular relative to the first base element, together with the bending tool relative to the associated clamping cheek, in particular relative to the first clamping cheek. The retraction and extension of the bending tool relative to the associated clamping cheek, in particular relative to the first clamping cheek, can be achieved by pivoting the bending tool relative to the associated clamping cheek, in particular relative to the first clamping cheek.

[0066] Creating the pre-fold on the workpiece may include forming a plurality of folds. In the step of creating the pre-fold, one fold and / or a plurality of folds may be formed by bending with the additional bending tool.

[0067] The control unit of the bending machine can further be configured to carry out the method steps described above.

[0068] In the method for producing a recess, in particular a counter-bend or bead, according to a third aspect, during the moving step, in particular the shifting or pivoting step, one bending tool can rest against a first side of the workpiece, and during the extending step, the other bending tool can be pressed against the workpiece on a second side of the workpiece opposite the first side, so that the recess is formed in the workpiece. Such an embodiment can further increase the efficiency of producing a recess.

[0069] The clamping step can clamp the workpiece in a clamping plane, and during the moving step, in particular the shifting or pivoting step, one of the two bending tools can rest against the protruding portion of the workpiece at a distance along the clamping plane. Clamping in the clamping plane allows a recess to be manufactured with particular precision.

[0070] Preferably, at least the other bending tool can have a hook-shaped bending section with an inner surface and an outer surface, and during the step of extending the other bending tool, its outer surface can press against the workpiece on the second side of the workpiece, thereby forming the recess in the workpiece. Manufacturing the recess with the outer surface of the hook-shaped bending section leads to greater precision.

[0071] Alternatively or additionally, at least the other bending tool may have a hook-shaped bending portion having an inner surface, an outer surface and an end portion arranged therebetween, and in the step of extending the other bending tool, its end portion may press against the workpiece on the second side of the workpiece so that the recess is formed in the workpiece.

[0072] The extension of the other bending tool can be an extension relative to the associated clamping jaw. The extension of the other bending tool relative to the associated clamping jaw can be achieved by a linear displacement of the other bending tool relative to the associated base element and / or by a linear displacement of the associated base element together with the other bending tool relative to the associated clamping jaw.

[0073] Preferably, one bending tool can comprise a hook-shaped bending section with an inner surface and an outer surface, and during the displacement step, the outer surface of one bending tool in the counterholding position can rest against the protruding section of the workpiece on the first side of the workpiece. Such counterholding can also improve the precise manufacturing of the recess.

[0074] Alternatively or additionally, one bending tool can comprise the hook-shaped bending section with an end section between the inner surface and the outer surface, and during the step of moving, in particular displacing or pivoting, the end section of one bending tool in the counter-holding position can rest against the protruding section of the workpiece on the first side of the workpiece. The moving, in particular the displacing, can be effected by linearly displacing the bending tool relative to the associated base element and / or by linearly displacing the associated base element together with the bending tool relative to the associated clamping cheek. The moving, in particular the pivoting, can be effected by pivoting the bending tool relative to the associated clamping cheek.

[0075] The control unit of the bending machine according to the invention can further be configured to carry out the method steps described above.

[0076] The device according to the invention and the method according to the invention are not intended to be limited to the application and embodiment described above. In particular, the device according to the invention and / or the method according to the invention may have a number of individual elements, components, units, and method steps that differs from the number stated herein to fulfill a functionality described herein. Furthermore, in the value ranges specified in this disclosure, values ​​within the stated limits are also to be considered disclosed and can be used arbitrarily.

[0077] It is particularly noted that all features and properties described with reference to the device, as well as procedures, are transferable to the method according to the invention and can be used within the meaning of the invention and are considered to be included in the disclosure. The same applies in reverse. This means that structural features mentioned with reference to the method, i.e., features related to the device, can also be considered, claimed, and included in the disclosure within the scope of the device claims.

[0078] The present invention is described below by way of example with reference to the accompanying figures. The drawings, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination. Those skilled in the art will expediently consider the features individually and use them in meaningful combination within the scope of the claims.

[0079] If there is more than one instance of a particular object, only one of them may be provided with a reference symbol in the figures and in the description. The description of this instance can be transferred accordingly to the other instances of the object. If objects are named using numerical terms, such as first, second, third object, etc., these serve to name and / or assign objects. Accordingly, for example, a first object and a third object, but not a second object, may be included. However, a number and / or sequence of objects could also be derived using numerical terms.

[0080] They show: Fig. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a bending machine designed as a double bender; Fig. 2 is a schematic perspective view of a section of the rear of the bending machine; Fig. 3 is a schematic side view of part of the bending machine; Fig. 4A is a schematic side view of part of the bending machine in a first position of a method for producing a closed fold; Fig. 4B is a schematic side view of part of the bending machine in a second position of the method for producing a closed fold; Fig. 4C is a schematic side view of part of the bending machine in a third position of the method for producing a closed fold; Fig. 4D is a schematic side view of part of the bending machine in a fourth position of the method for producing a closed fold;Fig. 4E is a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine in a fifth position of the method for producing a closed fold; Fig. 4F is a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine in a sixth position of the method for producing a closed fold; Fig. 5 is a flow chart of the method for producing a closed fold; Fig. 6A is a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine in a first position of a further method for producing a closed fold; Fig. 6B is a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine in a second position of the further method for producing a closed fold; Fig. 6C is a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine in a third position of the further method for producing a closed fold;Fig. 6D is a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine in a fourth position of the further method for producing a closed fold; Fig. 6E is a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine in a fifth position of the further method for producing a closed fold; Fig. 6F is a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine in a sixth position of the further method for producing a closed fold; Fig. 7 is a flow chart of the further method for producing a closed fold; Fig. 8A is a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine in a first position of a method for producing an inclined fold; Fig. 8B is a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine in a second position of the method for producing an inclined fold; Fig. 9 is a flow chart of the method for producing an inclined fold;10A is a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine in a first position of a method for producing a recess; Fig. 10B is a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine in a second position of the method for producing a recess; Fig. 11 is a flow chart of the method for producing a recess; Fig. 12 is a schematic side view of a part of another bending machine designed as a single bender; Fig. 13A is a schematic side view of a part of the other bending machine in a first position of a method for producing a closed fold; Fig. 13B is a schematic side view of a part of the other bending machine in a second position of the method for producing a closed fold; Fig. 13C is a schematic side view of a part of the other bending machine in a third position of the method for producing a closed fold;Fig. 13D is a schematic side view of a part of the other bending machine in a fourth position of the method for producing a closed fold; Fig. 13E is a schematic side view of a part of the other bending machine in a fifth position of the method for producing a closed fold; Fig. 13F is a schematic side view of a part of the other bending machine in a sixth position of the method for producing a closed fold; Fig. 14 is a flow chart of the method for producing a closed fold with the other bending machine; Fig. 15A is a schematic side view of a part of the other bending machine in a first position of a further method for producing a closed fold; Fig. 15B is a schematic side view of a part of the other bending machine in a second position of the further method for producing a closed fold;15C a schematic side view of a part of the other bending machine in a third position of the further method for producing a closed fold; Fig. 15D a schematic side view of a part of the other bending machine in a fourth position of the further method for producing a closed fold; Fig. 15E a schematic side view of a part of the other bending machine in a fifth position of the further method for producing a closed fold; Fig. 15F a schematic side view of a part of the other bending machine in a sixth position of the further method for producing a closed fold; Fig. 16 a flow chart of the further method for producing a closed fold with the other bending machine; Fig. 17A a schematic side view of a part of the other bending machine in a first position of a method for producing an inclined fold; Fig.Fig. 17B is a schematic side view of a part of the other bending machine in a second position of a method for producing an inclined fold; Fig. 18 is a flow diagram of the method for producing an inclined fold using the other bending machine; Fig. 19 is a schematic side view of a part of a bending machine designed as a swivel bending machine, which is constructed as a single bender; Fig. 20A is a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine designed as a swivel bending machine in a first position of a method for producing a closed fold; Fig. 20B is a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine designed as a swivel bending machine in a second position of the method for producing a closed fold; Fig. 20C is a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine designed as a swivel bending machine in a third position of the method for producing a closed fold;Fig. 20D is a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine designed as a folding machine in a fourth position of the method for producing a closed fold; Fig. 20E is a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine designed as a folding machine in a fifth position of the method for producing a closed fold; Fig. 20F is a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine designed as a folding machine in a sixth position of the method for producing a closed fold; Fig. 21 is a flow chart of the method for producing a closed fold using the bending machine designed as a folding machine; Fig. 22A is a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine designed as a folding machine in a first position of a further method for producing a closed fold; Fig.Fig. 22B is a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine designed as a folding machine in a second position of the further method for producing a closed fold; Fig. 22C is a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine designed as a folding machine in a third position of the further method for producing a closed fold; Fig. 22D is a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine designed as a folding machine in a fourth position of the further method for producing a closed fold; Fig. 22E is a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine designed as a folding machine in a fifth position of the further method for producing a closed fold;Fig. 22F: Schematic side view of a part of the bending machine designed as a folding machine in a sixth position of the further method for producing a closed fold; Fig. 23: A flow diagram of the further method for producing a closed fold; Fig. 24A: A schematic side view of a part of a bending machine designed as a folding machine in a first position of a method for producing an inclined fold; Fig. 24B: A schematic side view of a part of a bending machine designed as a folding machine in a second position of a method for producing an inclined fold; and Fig. 25: A flow diagram of the method for producing an inclined fold with the bending machine designed as a folding machine; Fig. 26: A schematic side view of a part of a bending machine designed as a folding machine, which is designed as a double bender; Fig.Fig. 27C shows a schematic side view of part of the bending machine designed as a swivel bending machine, which is shown as a double bender, in a first position of a method for producing a recess; Fig. 27B shows a schematic side view of part of the bending machine designed as a swivel bending machine, which is shown as a double bender, in a second position of the method for producing a recess; and Fig. 28 shows a flow diagram of the method for producing a recess using the bending machine designed as a swivel bending machine, which is shown as a double bender.

[0081] Fig. 1 shows a bending machine 10, which is designed as a double bender, for carrying out the method according to the invention in a perspective view. In Fig. 2 a section of the rear side of the bending machine 10 is shown in perspective. In addition, Fig. 3 A side view of a section of the bending machine 10. Reference is sometimes made to several of these figures simultaneously below. The bending machine 10 is configured for bending a flat workpiece 12. In the illustrated case, the flat workpiece 12 is a sheet metal.

[0082] The bending machine 10 comprises a machine frame 20. The bending machine 10 is mounted on the machine frame 20 on a flat surface. A surface normal of the flat surface defines a vertical direction 98, with a vertical axis (not shown) of the bending machine 10 being arranged parallel to the vertical direction. The bending machine 10 also has a longitudinal axis (not shown) and a transverse axis (not shown), which are arranged parallel to a longitudinal direction 100 and a transverse direction 102, respectively. In the present case, the vertical direction 98, the longitudinal direction 100, and the transverse direction 102 are arranged perpendicular to one another in pairs.

[0083] In addition, the bending machine 10 comprises a first clamping jaw 22 and a second clamping jaw 24. In the case shown, the first clamping jaw 22 is an upper clamping jaw, while the second clamping jaw 24 is a lower clamping jaw.

[0084] The first clamping jaw 22 and the second clamping jaw 24 are configured to clamp the workpiece 12 in a clamping plane 32. The clamping plane 32 is arranged parallel to the flat surface, or parallel to the horizontal direction 102 and perpendicular to the vertical direction 98. The workpiece 12 is clamped such that it comprises a clamped section 16 and a protruding section 14 to be machined. The protruding section 14 and the clamped section 16 are integrally connected and directly adjacent to one another.

[0085] The clamping jaws 22, 24 are plate-shaped. In the example shown, the clamping jaws 22, 24 are steel plates. The clamping jaws 22, 24 each have a clamping surface that rests against the workpiece 12 when clamped. The clamping surfaces are arranged parallel to the clamping plane 32.

[0086] The clamping jaws 22, 24 are arranged at an angle of approximately 60° to each other. The workpiece 12 extends from the clamping jaws 22, 24 into a bending area of ​​the bending machine 10, within which the protruding portion 14 of the workpiece 12 can be bent during bending.

[0087] The bending machine 10 has at least one table 88 on which the workpiece 12 is placed. The table 88 is arranged so as to be movable, for example. Furthermore, the table 88 is optionally movable relative to the machine frame 20 or stationary. In the case shown, the table 88 can be extended parallel to the clamping plane 32. Furthermore, the table 88 can be moved parallel to the vertical direction 98, for example by at least a few centimeters. In a clamped state, the workpiece 12 is clamped between the clamping cheeks 22, 24 and additionally placed in sections on the table 88. The bending machine 10 also comprises a positioning unit (not shown) which is configured to displace the workpiece 12 parallel to a surface of the table 88.The positioning unit comprises, for example, a plurality of grippers that can grip the workpiece 12 on a side opposite the protruding portion of the workpiece 12 and are movable parallel to the surface of the table 88. Once the workpiece 12 is released from the clamping jaws 22, 24, it can be advanced between the clamping jaws 22, 24 by means of the positioning unit.

[0088] The first clamping jaw 22 is movable relative to the machine frame 20 in a direction perpendicular to the clamping plane 32. For this purpose, the bending machine 10 can have suitable drives. The clamping jaws 22, 24 can thus be moved toward and away from each other perpendicular to the clamping plane 32.

[0089] In the illustrated case, the first clamping jaw 22 is attached to several supports 90, only one of which is provided with a reference numeral. The supports 90 are pivotally mounted on the machine frame 20. The second clamping jaw 24 is attached to the machine frame 20. By pivoting the supports 90, the first clamping jaw 22 can be pivoted relative to the second clamping jaw 24, thereby clamping and releasing the workpiece 12. Furthermore, the first clamping jaw 22 can be moved relative to the second clamping jaw 24 in a direction perpendicular to the clamping plane 32.

[0090] The bending machine 10 further comprises a first bending unit 26, which is arranged on the first clamping jaw 22. The first bending unit 26 has a first bending tool 30. In addition, the bending machine 10 comprises a second bending unit 28, which is arranged on the second clamping jaw 24. The second bending unit 28 has a second bending tool 31. The first bending unit 26 and the second bending unit 28 are essentially identical in construction and are arranged mirror-inverted with respect to the transverse direction 102. The following primarily focuses on the design of the first bending unit 26. However, the description of the first bending unit 26 can be applied accordingly to the second bending unit 28. In principle, however, there may be design differences between the bending units 26, 28.

[0091] The first bending unit 26 is configured to bend the protruding portion 14 of the workpiece 12 relative to the clamped portion 16 of the workpiece 12 about a bending axis 18 to form a bevel 15. The bending axis 18 runs parallel to the longitudinal direction 100. The bending axis 18 defines a connecting region of the clamped portion 16 of the workpiece 12 and the protruding portion 14 of the workpiece 12.

[0092] The first bending unit 26 has at least one linear guide 34-44, with which the first bending tool 30 is linearly guided for displacement in a feed plane 48 (cf. Fig. 1 and Fig. 3 ). In the illustrated case, the first bending unit 26 has six linear guides 34-44. The linear guides 34-44 are arranged at regular intervals with respect to the longitudinal direction 100.

[0093] The second bending unit 28 also has six linear guides 46, of which only one is provided with a reference symbol for better clarity.

[0094] The first bending unit 26 comprises a first bending tool carrier 80, to which the first bending tool 30 is replaceably attached. In the illustrated case, the first bending tool 30 is positively attached to the first bending tool carrier 80 and further screwed thereto. The first bending tool carrier 80 is essentially plate-shaped. A main extension plane of the first bending tool carrier 80 extends parallel to the feed plane 48. The linear guides 34-44 are configured for linearly guiding the first bending tool carrier 80. Since the first bending tool 30 is attached to the first bending tool carrier 80, the linear guides 34-44 thereby guide the first bending tool 30.

[0095] The first bending unit 26 comprises a first base element 54 movably mounted on the first clamping jaw 22, on which the first bending tool 30 is mounted for linear movement and displacement. The linear guides 34-44 for the first bending tool 30 are integrated into the first base element 54.

[0096] The first bending unit 26 comprises a further linear guide 56, with which the first base element 54 is linearly guided for displacement in a further feed plane 64. The further linear guide 56 guides the first base element 54 parallel to a surface of the first clamping cheek 22. In the case shown, the first bending unit 26 comprises four further linear guides 56-62 for the first base element 54, which are arranged at regular intervals along the longitudinal direction 100. The further linear guides 56-62 for the first base element 54 are arranged offset along the longitudinal direction 100 relative to the linear guides 34-44 for the first bending tool 30.

[0097] The first base element 54 has a triangular cross-section perpendicular to the bending axis 18. The first base element 54 is designed as an element with a triangular cross-section extending in the longitudinal direction 100. An upper side of the first base element 54 is arranged parallel to the feed plane 48. Furthermore, an underside of the first base element 54 is arranged parallel to the further feed plane 64. The upper side and the underside of the first base element 54 enclose an angle of less than 90°. The further feed plane 64 is in turn arranged parallel to an upper side of the first clamping cheek 22.

[0098] The second bending unit 28 comprises a second bending tool carrier 81, a second bending tool 31 and a second base element 55, wherein the description of the first bending unit 26 can be transferred accordingly to the second bending unit 28.

[0099] In Fig. 3 the bending machine 10 is shown in a state in which the first bending unit 26 is extended into a region of the bending axis 18 relative to the first clamping cheek 22. Furthermore, in the Fig. 3 In the state shown, the second bending unit 28 on the second clamping cheek 24 is retracted relative to the second clamping cheek 24, i.e. moved away from the bending axis 18, so that the largest possible bending area is released in front of the second clamping cheek 24, into which the projecting section 14 of the workpiece 12 can optionally be bent in order to form a fold 15.

[0100] By displacing the first base element 54 in the further feed plane 64 relative to the first clamping jaw 22 and by displacing the first bending tool 30 in the feed plane 48 relative to the first base element 54, the first bending tool 30 can be moved or displaced along a movement path in order to bend the workpiece 12. By superimposing the movements in the feed plane 48 and in the further feed plane 64, an overall movement of the first bending tool 30 relative to the clamping plane or relative to the workpiece 12 can be generated, whereby a wide variety of movement paths can be generated. This will be discussed again below.

[0101] When the first base element 54 is moved or displaced relative to the first clamping jaw 22, the feed plane 48 is moved relative to the bending axis 18 along the further feed plane 64. The further feed plane 64, however, is stationary relative to the bending axis 18.

[0102] The feed plane 48 intersects the further feed plane 64. A line of intersection between the feed plane 48 and the further feed plane 64 is arranged parallel to the bending axis 18. If the first bending tool 30 and / or the first base element 54 are moved appropriately, the line of intersection can coincide with the bending axis 18. Furthermore, both the feed plane 48 and the further feed plane 64 intersect the clamping plane 32. If the first bending tool 30 and / or the first base element 54 are moved appropriately, the lines of intersection between the clamping plane 32 and the feed plane 48, as well as between the clamping plane 32 and the further feed plane 64, can coincide, for example, with the bending axis 18. The feed plane 48 is inclined relative to the further feed plane 64 by, for example, 25°. This angle corresponds to an angle between the top and bottom of the first base element 54.In addition, the additional feed plane 64 is angled relative to the clamping plane 32 by, for example, 30°. This angle corresponds to half an angle between the clamping jaws 22, 24.

[0103] The first bending unit 26 has a drive 50 for the first bending tool 30, which is designed to move the first bending tool 30 in the feed plane 48. As in Fig. 1 As can be seen, the bending machine 10 comprises two drives 50, 52 for the first bending tool 30. The drives 50, 52 for the first bending tool 30 are structurally identical in the case shown, which is why only the drive 50 will be described in more detail. The drive 50 is integrated into the first base element 54. The drive 50 can move along with the first base element 54. The drive 50 is a linear drive. In the case shown, the drives 50, 52 for the first bending tool 30 are arranged offset from the linear guides 34-44 for the first bending tool 30.

[0104] The first bending unit 26 further comprises a drive 66 for the first base element 54, which is configured to move the first base element 54 in the further feed plane 64. In the case shown, the first bending unit 26 comprises two drives 66, 68 for the first base element 54. The drives 66, 68 are arranged on the first clamping cheek 22. The drives 66, 68 for the first base element 54 are structurally identical in the case shown, which is why only the drive 66 will be described in more detail. The drive 66 is a linear drive. The drive 66 for the first base element 54 is partially integrated into the first base element 54 and partially into the first clamping cheek 22.

[0105] The second bending tool 31 and the second base element 55 of the second bending unit 28 can be moved in the same way, wherein the description of the first bending unit 26 can be transferred accordingly to the second bending unit 28.

[0106] The following describes a bending operation of the bending machine 10 in more detail. During bending with the first bending unit 26, the workpiece 12 is bent around the second clamping jaw 24. The protruding section 14 of the workpiece 12 can be bent around the second clamping jaw 24 by appropriately moving or traversing the first bending tool 30, which exerts a bending force on the protruding section 14 of the workpiece 12 to form a bevel 15. In a similar manner, during bending with the second bending unit 28, the protruding section 14 of the workpiece 12 can be bent around the first clamping jaw 22 by appropriately moving or traversing the second bending tool 31, which exerts a bending force on the protruding section 14 of the workpiece 12 to form a bevel 15. The bending machine 10 is therefore configured for double bending.

[0107] The first bending tool 30 and the second bending tool 31 each have a hook-shaped bending section 78, which is brought into contact with the workpiece 12 during forming thereof. The hook-shaped bending section 78 exerts a force, in particular a bending force, on the workpiece 12 when the first bending tool 30 or the second bending tool 31 is moved relative to the workpiece 12. The bending tool 30, 31 can exert a force on the workpiece 12 both when the bending tool 30, 31 is retracted relative to the corresponding clamping jaw 22, 24 and when the bending tool 30, 31 is extended relative to the corresponding clamping jaw 22, 24 in order to process the workpiece, in particular to bend it.

[0108] The hook-shaped bending section 78 has a hook-shaped cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 100.

[0109] The hook-shaped bending section 78 has an inner surface 92 and an outer surface 94. The inner surface 92 is a hook inner surface. The inner surface 92 is composed, for example, of several substantially flat surfaces that merge into one another in a rounded manner. Likewise, the outer surface 94 is composed of several substantially flat surfaces, with transitions formed as rounded edges.

[0110] The hook-shaped bending section 78 also comprises an end section 96, which lies between the inner surface 92 and the outer surface 94. The end section 96 forms a frontmost section of the bending tool 30. In a region of the end section 96, the inner surface 92 merges into the outer surface 94. The end section 96 has a curved surface which, when viewed parallel to the longitudinal direction 100, is circularly arc-shaped. According to a bending variant, the workpiece 12 can be bent with the end section 96 such that the end section 96 always bears against the workpiece 12 along a line extending parallel to the bending axis 18. The curved surface of the end section 96 rolls over the workpiece 12 during a bending process, so that sliding between the workpiece 12 and the bending tool 30, which could potentially result in scratching of the workpiece 12, is preferably avoided.This rolling is generated by selecting a movement path of the bending tool 30 and thus of the end portion 96 accordingly, so that the end portion 96 does not slip relative to the projecting portion 14 of the workpiece 12.

[0111] To control the movement of the bending tools 30, 31 or the base elements 54, 55 in their feed planes, for example in the feed plane 48 or in the further feed plane 64, the bending machine 10 has an electronic control unit 82, which is Fig. 1 is shown schematically. The control unit 82 is configured to generate a movement path for the bending tool 30 by superimposing at least two linear movements. The same applies to a movement path for the bending tool 31 of the second bending unit 28. In the case shown, these linear movements are the movement of the bending tool 30 in the feed plane 48 and the movement of the base element 54 in the further feed plane 64.

[0112] As with further reference to the Figur 1 As can be seen, the bending machine 10 also comprises a user interface 216, which comprises, for example, a screen and suitable operating elements and / or a touch screen. By means of the user interface 216, a user can enter a target profile to be bent. The control unit 82 is configured to receive and evaluate the target profile. On the basis of the target profile, the control unit 82 then calculates a suggested bending sequence. In addition, a simulation of a bending process can be created, which in turn can be displayed to the user via the user interface 216. It can be provided that the user can confirm the suggested bending sequence based on the simulation and / or make changes to it, which are then taken into account by the control unit 82 before a bending process is carried out.

[0113] Fig. 4A bis Fig 4F and Fig. 5 show a method for producing a closed fold with the bending machine 10 according to the invention according to a first aspect. Fig. 4A shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 10 in a first position of the method for producing a closed fold, Fig. 4B shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 10 in a second position of the method for producing a closed fold, Fig. 4C shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine in a third position of the process for producing a closed fold, Fig. 4D shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 10 in a fourth position of the method for producing a closed fold, Fig. 4E shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 10 in a fifth position of the method for producing a closed fold, Fig. 4F shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 10 in a sixth position of the method for producing a closed fold and Fig. 5 shows a flowchart of the process for producing a closed seam. In the following, reference is sometimes made to several of these figures simultaneously.

[0114] The method for producing a closed fold comprises a first step S11 of producing a pre-fold on the workpiece 12, comprising forming a first fold 15A, as shown in Fig. 4A und Fig. 4B The method further comprises a second step S12 of moving the first clamping cheek 22 away from the workpiece 12, as shown in Fig. 4C und Fig. 4D This movement of the first clamping jaw 22 away from the workpiece 12 is shown in Fig. 4D illustrated by an arrow. Instead of moving the first clamping cheek 22 away from the workpiece 12, a movement away from the pre-fold would also be sufficient to carry out the step according to the invention. The method further comprises a third step S13 of closing the pre-fold to a completely closed fold by completely closing the first fold 15A with the second bending unit 31 in a state in which the first clamping cheek 22 is spaced from the workpiece 12, as in Fig. 4E und Fig. 4F is shown.

[0115] The first step S11 of creating the pre-fold on the workpiece 12 by the bending machine 10 is carried out by moving, in particular displacing, the second bending tool 31 relative to the second clamping jaw 24. During the displacement, the second bending tool 31 is extended relative to the second clamping jaw 24. In particular, the second bending tool 31 is extended relative to the second base element 55 with a linear displacement, and at the same time, the second base element 55 is retracted relative to the second clamping jaw 24 with a linear displacement. This displacement initially causes, as in Fig. 4A shown that the outer surface 94 of the hook-shaped bending section 78 comes into contact with the protruding section 14 and that the protruding section 14 is bent relative to the clamped section 16 by pressing with the second bending tool 31. In the course of the bending, the end section 96 of the hook-shaped bending section 78 then comes into contact with the protruding section 14 and bends it further by pressing with the second bending tool 31 such that, as in Fig. 4B shown, a pre-fold with the first fold 15A is created.

[0116] The second step S12 of moving the first clamping cheek 22 away from the workpiece 12 is carried out in the present case as in Fig. 4C und Fig. 4D shown, by pivoting the carrier 90. For this purpose, the workpiece 12 is pushed back and forth relative to the clamping cheeks 22, 24, for example, by the positioning unit (not shown), in order to avoid a collision of the first clamping cheek 22 with the workpiece 12. The carrier 90 is initially pivoted slightly upwards together with the first clamping cheek 22, so that the workpiece 12, as shown in Fig. 4C shown, is no longer clamped between the first clamping jaw 22 and the second clamping jaw 24. The workpiece 12 can then be partially advanced. The positioning unit (not shown) is particularly suitable for this purpose. However, other devices can also be used, or the advancement can be done manually. The first clamping jaw 22 can then be pivoted upwards by pivoting the carrier 90, as shown in Fig. 4D shown, be moved away from the workpiece 12 without colliding with the workpiece 12. For the third step S13 of closing the pre-fold, the workpiece 12 is then pushed back again.

[0117] Alternatively, the first bevel 15A of the pre-fold could, for example, also be bent at such an angle that the forward and backward movement of the workpiece 12 is not necessary to move the first clamping jaw 22 away from the workpiece 12 or the pre-fold without colliding with the workpiece 12. Furthermore, the bending machine 10 could, for example, also be modified such that the first clamping jaw 22 is movable horizontally along the clamping plane 32 in order to avoid the forward and backward movement of the workpiece 12.

[0118] The third step S13 of closing the pre-fold is carried out as in Fig. 4E shown, carried out in a state in which the workpiece 12 lies on the second clamping cheek 24, wherein the first clamping cheek 22 has been moved away. The workpiece 12 is therefore in a non-clamped state. The closing is carried out in the present case by pressing with the second bending tool 31 against the protruding section 14, which in the present case forms the pre-fold with the first bevel 15A, during a retraction of the second bending tool 31 relative to the second clamping cheek 24. In this case, the second bending tool 31 is retracted relative to the second base element 55 with a linear displacement, and at the same time, the second base element 55 is extended relative to the second clamping cheek 24 with a linear displacement. This displacement initially causes, as in Fig. 4E shown that the end section 96 of the hook-shaped bending section 78 remains in contact with the protruding section 14 and that the protruding section 14 is further bent relative to the clamped section 16 by pressing with the second bending tool 31. During the course of the bending, the inner surface 92 of the hook-shaped bending section 78 subsequently comes into contact with the protruding section 14 and bends it further by pressing with the second bending tool 31 such that, as in Fig. 4F As shown, the first bevel 15A of the fold is completely closed. This displacement causes the second bending tool 31 to retract relative to the second clamping cheek 24 for pressing with the inner surface 92 and the end portion 96 in such a way that, preferably, sliding between the workpiece 12 and the second bending tool 31 is avoided. Such sliding could, under certain circumstances, result in scratching of the workpiece 12.

[0119] The avoidance of sliding is achieved by selecting a movement path of the second bending tool 31 and thus of the inner surface 92 and the end section 96 94 accordingly, so that they do not slip relative to the projecting section 14 of the workpiece 12.

[0120] The complete closing of the first bend 15A is carried out by moving the inner surface 92 of the hook-shaped bending section 78 toward the second clamping cheek 24. In particular, a flat surface of the inner surface 92, which is oriented parallel to a clamping surface of the second clamping cheek 24, is moved toward the latter. In this case, the force applied to the workpiece 12 by the second bending tool 31 becomes more even, so that the complete closing of the first bend 15A can be carried out particularly precisely.

[0121] Alternatively, the closing of the pre-fold would also be possible by pressing with the first bending tool 30 when extending the first bending tool 30 relative to the first clamping cheek 22.

[0122] The control unit 82 of the bending machine 10 is configured to carry out steps S11 to S13 as shown in Fig. 5 The control unit 82 can generate a movement path for the first bending tool 31 required for steps S11 to S13 by superimposing the linear movement between the second clamping cheek 28 and the second base element 55 and the linear movement between the second base element 55 and the second bending tool 31.

[0123] To carry out steps S11 to S13, it is not necessary to use a bending machine with two bending units. The method for producing a closed fold can therefore also be carried out using a bending machine with a single bending unit, in particular with a single bender, as in an embodiment described below. Furthermore, steps S11 to S13 can also be carried out by an upper bending unit, wherein a closed fold with a closed bevel 15 is then produced correspondingly to an opposite side and the workpiece 12 lies on the table 88, for example, in an unclamped state or is held in position by the table 88 during the third step S13 of closing the pre-fold.Furthermore, steps S11 to S13 can also be carried out with a bending machine which has a bending tool with a different shape, in particular with a different bending geometry, on the respective bending units.

[0124] Fig. 6A bis Fig. 6F and Fig. 7 show a further method for producing a closed fold with the bending machine 10 according to the invention according to a first aspect. Fig. 6A shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 10 in a first position of the method for producing a closed fold, Fig. 6B shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 10 in a second position of the method for producing a closed fold, Fig. 6C shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 10 in a third position of the process for producing a closed fold, Fig. 6D shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 10 in a fourth position of the method for producing a closed fold, Fig. 6E shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 10 in a fifth position of the method for producing a closed fold, Fig. 6F shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 10 in a sixth position of the method for producing a closed fold and Fig. 7 shows a flowchart of the process for producing a closed seam. In the following, reference is sometimes made to several of these figures simultaneously.

[0125] The further method for producing a closed fold on a workpiece 12 with the bending machine 10 comprises a first step S11' of producing the pre-fold on the workpiece 12, comprising forming a first fold 15A, as in Fig. 6A und Fig. 6B shown, a second step S12' of moving the second clamping cheek 22 away from the workpiece 12, as in Fig. 6C und Fig. 6D shown, and a third step S13' of closing the pre-fold to a fold by closing the first fold 15A by the bending unit 28 in a state in which the second clamping cheek 22 is spaced away from the workpiece 12, as in Fig. 6E und Fig. 6F shown.

[0126] The further method for producing a closed seam with steps S11' to S13' is an expanded embodiment of the above-described method for producing a closed seam with steps S11 to S13 and can be used, for example, to produce a sheet with a drip edge for a roof eave. Here, step S12' corresponds to step S12, and step S13' corresponds to step S13. Step S11' is based on step S11 and differs in that it produces a pre-fold with a profile leg. Identical or similar steps are provided with the same reference numerals as before; however, the reference numerals of the alternative method steps are preceded by apostrophes. For the description, reference can be made to the above explanations. An additional detailed description of these method steps is therefore omitted.

[0127] The first step S11' of creating the pre-fold with a profile leg on the workpiece 12, comprising forming a plurality of folds 15 by the bending machine 10, is carried out by several bending operations by means of movements, in this case displacements, of the first and second bending tools 30, 31 relative to the first and second clamping jaws 22, 24. Between the bending operations, the workpiece 12 is advanced in order to perform the bending operations at different positions on the workpiece 12. The positioning unit (not shown) is particularly suitable for this purpose. However, other devices can also be used, or the advancement can be carried out manually. Fig. 6A und Fig. 6B show the last bending operation of the several bending operations of the first step S11' of creating the pre-fold on the workpiece 12.

[0128] The first step S11' of creating the pre-fold with a profile leg comprises forming a second fold 15B as a standing seam, wherein the second fold 15B is different from the first fold 15A. The first step S11' further comprises forming a third fold 15C as a turn-up, wherein the third fold 15C is different from the first fold 15A and the second fold 15B. The profile leg is created as a standing seam with a turn-up by bending a section of the workpiece 12 around the second fold 15B. In the first step S11' of creating the pre-fold, the standing seam is bent around the first fold 15A relative to a clamped section of the workpiece 12. In the third step S13' of closing the pre-fold, the standing seam is, as in Fig. 6E und Fig. 6F shown, from the second clamping cheek 24 in the direction of the spaced first clamping cheeks 22.

[0129] In this case, the third fold 15C is formed first, followed by the second fold 15B and then the first fold 15A.

[0130] For this further method for producing a closed fold, the control unit 82 of the bending machine 10 is further configured to carry out the steps S11', S12' and S13' as shown in Fig. 7 shown.

[0131] Fig. 8A, Fig. 8B and Fig. 9 show a method for producing an inclined fold with the bending machine 10 according to a second aspect. Fig. 8A shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 10 in a first position of the method for producing an inclined fold, Fig. 8B shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine in a second position of the method for producing an inclined fold, and Fig. 9 shows a flow chart of the process for producing an inclined fold.

[0132] As in Fig. 8A und Fig. 8B As shown, the pre-fold comprises a profile leg. The method for producing an inclined fold comprises a first step S21 of creating a pre-fold on the workpiece 12 such that it is arranged in an area in front of the clamping cheeks 22, 24, comprising forming a bevel 15, wherein the pre-fold extends at an angle 99 relative to the clamping plane 32, and a second step S22 of changing the angle 99 by displacing the first bending tool 30.

[0133] Step S21 of creating the pre-fold on the workpiece 12 is carried out by controlling a bending operation of the bending machine 10, which creates a pre-fold with two folds 15 by bending with the bending tools 30, 31 as a pre-fold with a profile leg. Bending occurs around different bending axes, with the control unit 82 executing a pre-bending operating mode, a positioning operating mode, and a pinch-bending operating mode. Such a bending operation for producing a pre-fold as part of a profile leg is known, for example, from DE 20 2020 002 598 U1, and its description is incorporated herein by reference.

[0134] Alternatively, step S21 of creating the pre-fold on the workpiece 12 can correspond to the previously performed step S11, such as in an embodiment described below, wherein the pre-fold does not have a profile leg. The different design of the pre-fold has no influence on the following description of step S22 of changing the angle 99.

[0135] The step S22 of changing the angle 99 is carried out as in Fig. 8A und Fig. 8B shown, by pressing with the outer surface 94 of the hook-shaped bending section 78 during an extension of the first bending tool 30 relative to the first clamping cheek 22. In this case, the first bending tool 30 is extended relative to the first base element 54 with a linear displacement, and at the same time, the first base element 54 is retracted together with the first bending tool 30 relative to the first clamping cheek 22 with a linear displacement. This displacement causes the first bending tool 30 to extend relative to the first clamping cheek 22 for pressing with the outer surface 94 in such a way that sliding preferably does not occur between the workpiece 12 and the first bending tool 30. This sliding could, under certain circumstances, result in scratching of the workpiece 12.

[0136] The avoidance of sliding is carried out by selecting a movement path of the first bending tool 30 and thus of the outer surface 94 accordingly, so that the outer surface 94 does not slip relative to the protruding portion 14 of the workpiece 12 as far as possible.

[0137] The angle 99 is thus changed by pressing with the outer surface 94 of the hook-shaped bending section 78. In the Fig. 8A In the first position shown, the angle 99 of the pre-fold is approximately 90° relative to the clamping plane 32 and is changed by the displacement of the first bending tool 30 to the angle 99, which is the same as in the second position in Fig. 8B shown is approximately 70° relative to the clamping plane 32.

[0138] Alternatively, it is also possible to change the angle 99 when the first bending tool 30 is retracted relative to the first clamping cheek 22. The angle 99 is changed by pressing with the inner surface 92 and the end section 96 of the hook-shaped bending section 78 when the first bending tool 30 is retracted relative to the first clamping cheek 22. Accordingly, it is also possible to change the angle 99 in an opposite direction, i.e., toward a larger angle 99. Another alternative embodiment (not shown) is changing the angle 99 by moving or displacing the second bending tool 31 instead of moving or displacing it with the first bending tool 30.

[0139] The control unit 82 of the bending machine 10 is configured to carry out steps S21 and S22 as shown in Fig. 9 shown.

[0140] Fig. 10A, 10B and Fig. 9 show a method for producing a recess with the bending machine 10 according to a third aspect. Fig. 10A shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 10 in a first position of the method for producing a recess, Fig. 10B shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 10 in a second position of the method for producing a recess, and Fig. 9 shows a flow chart of the process for manufacturing a recess.

[0141] The method for producing a recess comprises a first step S31 of clamping the workpiece 12 with the first clamping cheek 22 and the second clamping cheek 24 such that a projecting portion 14 of the workpiece 12 protrudes from the clamping cheeks 22, 24, and a second step S32 of moving or displacing one of the two bending tools 30, 31 into a counter-holding position, as in Fig. 10A shown, such that it rests against the projecting portion 14 of the workpiece 12 at a distance from the clamping cheeks 22, 24, and a third step S33 of extending the other bending tool 30, 31 such that it presses against the workpiece 12, so that the recess 13 is formed in the workpiece 12, as in Fig. 10B shown.

[0142] In the Fig. 10A und Fig. 10B In the example shown, one bending tool is the second bending tool 31, and the other bending tool is the first bending tool 30.

[0143] In the first step S31 of clamping the workpiece 12, the workpiece 12 is clamped in the clamping plane 32. As in Fig. 10A und Fig. 10B The workpiece 12 is shown clamped between the first clamping cheek 22 and the second clamping cheek 24 in such a way that the workpiece 12 is fixed.

[0144] In the second step S32 of moving or displacing, one bending tool 31 rests against a first side 17 of the workpiece 12, and in the third step S33 of extending the other bending tool 30, the other bending tool 30 presses against the workpiece 12 on a second side 19 of the workpiece 12 opposite the first side 17, so that the recess 13 is formed in the workpiece 12. The bending tool 31 rests against the protruding section 14 of the workpiece 12 at a distance along the clamping plane 32. In the counter-holding position, the bending tool 31 rests with its outer surface 94 against the protruding section 14 of the workpiece 12 on the first side 17 of the workpiece 12.

[0145] In step S33, the extension of the other bending tool 30 is an extension relative to the first clamping jaw 22. Here, the other bending tool 30 is extended relative to the first base element 54 with a linear displacement, and at the same time, the first base element 54, together with the other bending tool 30, is retracted relative to the first clamping jaw 22 with a linear displacement. This displacement causes the bending tool 30 to extend relative to the first clamping jaw 22 for pressing with the outer surface 94 in such a way that preferably as little sliding as possible occurs between the workpiece 12 and the bending tool 30, whereby scratching of the workpiece 12 can be at least largely prevented.

[0146] In the third step S33 of extending the other bending tool 30, its outer surface 94 is pressed against the second side 19 of the workpiece 12, so that the recess 13 is formed in the workpiece 12 in a manner similar to deep drawing.

[0147] Alternatively, with a corresponding design of the bending tool 30 or the associated base element 54, it is possible to press with the end section in order to form a recess.

[0148] The control unit 82 of the bending machine 10 is configured to carry out steps S31 to S33 as shown in Fig. 9 shown.

[0149] The method for producing a recess comprising steps S31, S32, and S33 can be carried out in particular in combination with the method according to the first aspect or the method according to the second aspect, in particular before and / or after each step. However, a combination of all three methods in any order is also possible.

[0150] Fig. 12 shows a part of another exemplary bending machine 10', which is designed as a single bender, for carrying out the method according to the invention in a schematic side view as an alternative embodiment of the bending machine 10 described above, which is designed as a double bender.

[0151] Similar components are provided with the same reference numerals as before, but the reference numerals of the alternative embodiment are indicated by a prime comma for identification purposes.

[0152] The bending machine 10', which is designed as a single bender, largely corresponds to the bending machine 10, which is designed as a double bender, although the bending machine 10' is designed without an upper bending unit. Furthermore, the bending machine 10' has a lower bending unit with a differently shaped bending tool. However, the single bender can also be used with the bending tool described above or other suitable bending tools. The same applies to the bending tools used in the double bender described above.

[0153] The bending machine 10' comprises a machine frame 20' and is mounted on a flat surface with the machine frame 20'. The bending machine 10' further comprises a first clamping jaw 22' and a second clamping jaw 24'. In contrast to the previously described bending machine 10 designed as a double bender, the first clamping jaw 22' is a lower clamping jaw, while the second clamping jaw 24' is an upper clamping jaw. The first clamping jaw 22' is thus connected to the machine frame 20', and the second clamping jaw 24' is correspondingly connected to a support 90'. Furthermore, the bending machine 10' comprises only one bending unit 26', which is arranged on the first clamping jaw 22'. With regard to the description, reference can therefore also be made to the above explanations, taking into account the differences described here.In other words, the bending machine 10' includes all features of the bending machine 10 that do not belong to the upper (first) bending unit 22 of the bending machine 10. Therefore, an additional detailed description of these features is omitted.

[0154] The bending unit 26' comprises a bending tool 30', whose hook-shaped bending section 78' has an inner surface 92' and an outer surface 94'. The inner surface 92' is a hook inner surface. The inner surface 92' and the outer surface 94' are each composed of flat and curved surfaces that merge into one another in a rounded manner. The hook-shaped bending section 78' further comprises an end section 96' located between the inner surface 92' and the outer surface 94'. The end section 96' forms a frontmost section of the bending tool 30'. In a region of the end section 96', the inner surface 92' merges into the outer surface 94'. According to one bending variant, the workpiece 12' can be bent with the end section 96' such that the end section 96' always rests against the workpiece 12.The curved surface of the end section 96' rolls over the workpiece 12' during a bending process, so that sliding between the workpiece 12' and the bending tool 30' is preferably avoided, which could potentially result in scratching of the workpiece 12'.

[0155] Fig. 13A bis 13F and Fig. 14 show a further method for producing a closed fold with the bending machine 10' according to the invention, which is designed as a single bender, according to a first aspect. Fig. 13A shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 10' in a first position of the method for producing a closed fold, Fig. 13B shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 10' in a second position of the method for producing a closed fold, Fig. 13C shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 10' in a third position of the method for producing a closed fold, Fig. 13D shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 10' in a fourth position of the method for producing a closed fold, Fig. 13E shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 10' in a fifth position of the method for producing a closed fold, Fig. 13F shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 10' in a sixth position of the method for producing a closed fold and Fig. 14 shows a flowchart of the process for producing a closed seam. In the following, reference is made to both figures simultaneously.

[0156] The further method for producing a closed fold comprises a first step S211 of producing a pre-fold on the workpiece 12', comprising forming a first fold 15A', as in Fig. 13A und Fig. 13B shown, a second step S212 of moving the second clamping cheek 24' away from the workpiece 12', as in Fig. 13C und Fig. 13D shown, and a third step S213 of closing the pre-fold to a fold by completely closing the first fold 15A' by the bending unit 26' in a state in which the second clamping cheek 24' is spaced away from the workpiece 12', as in Fig. 13E und Fig. 13F shown. Here, step S211 corresponds to step S11, step S212 to step S12, and step S213 to step S13, with only the designation of the clamping jaws and the bending unit differing. Regarding the description, reference can be made to the above explanations. Therefore, an additional detailed description of these process steps is omitted. It is understood that, again, analogous to the Figuren 6A bis 6F The process can be used to fold over a previously produced standing seam again in order to produce a geometry as shown for example in Fig. 6F is shown

[0157] The control unit 82' of the bending machine 10' is configured to carry out steps S211, S212 and S213 as shown in Fig. 14 shown.

[0158] Fig. 15A bis Fig. 15F and Fig. 16 show a further method for producing a closed fold with the bending machine 10' according to the invention, which is designed as a single bender, according to a first aspect. Fig. 15A shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 10' in a first position of the further method for producing a closed fold, Fig. 15B shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 10' in a second position of the further method for producing a closed fold, Fig. 15C shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 10' in a third position of the further method for producing a closed fold, Fig. 15D shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 10' in a fourth position of the further method for producing a closed fold, Fig. 15E shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 10' in a fifth position of the further method for producing a closed fold, Fig. 15F shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 10' in a sixth position of the further method for producing a closed fold and Fig. 16 shows a flowchart of the further method for producing a closed seam. In the following, reference is sometimes made to several of these figures simultaneously.

[0159] The further method for producing a closed fold on a workpiece 12' with the bending machine 10' comprises a first step S211' of producing the pre-fold on the workpiece 12', comprising forming a first fold 15A', as in Fig. 15A und Fig. 15B shown, a second step S212' of moving the second clamping cheek 24' away from the workpiece 12', as in Fig. 15C und Fig. 15D shown, and a third step S213' of closing the pre-fold to a fold by closing the first fold 15A' by the bending unit 26' in a state in which the second clamping cheek 24' is spaced away from the workpiece 12', as in Fig. 15E und Fig. 15F shown.

[0160] The further method for producing a closed seam with steps S211' to S213' is an expanded embodiment of the above-described method for producing a closed seam with steps S211 to S213 and can be used, for example, to produce a sheet with a drip edge for a roof eave. Here, step S212' corresponds to step S212, and step S213' corresponds to step S213. Step S211' is based on step S211 and differs in that it produces a pre-seamed seam with a profile leg. Identical or similar steps are provided with the same reference numerals as before, although the reference numerals of the alternative method steps are preceded by apostrophes. For the description, reference can be made to the above explanations. An additional detailed description of these method steps is therefore omitted.

[0161] The first step S211' of creating the pre-fold with a profile leg on the workpiece 12', comprising forming a plurality of folds 15' by the bending machine 10', is carried out by several bending operations by means of movements, in this case displacements, of the bending tool 30' relative to the first clamping jaws 22'. Between the bending operations, the workpiece 12' is advanced in order to perform the bending operations at different positions on the workpiece 12'. The positioning unit (not shown) is particularly suitable for this purpose. However, other devices can also be used, or the advancement can be done manually. To form a second fold 15B', the workpiece 12' is turned accordingly. Fig. 15A und Fig. 15B show the last bending operation of the several bending operations of the first step S211' of creating the pre-fold on the workpiece 12'.

[0162] The first step S211' of creating the pre-fold with a profile leg comprises forming the second fold 15B' as a standing seam, wherein the second fold 15B' is different from the first fold 15A'. The first step S211' further comprises forming a third fold 15C' as a turn-up, wherein the third fold 15C' is different from the first fold 15A' and the second fold 15B'. The profile leg is created as a standing seam with a turn-up by bending a section of the workpiece 12' around the second fold 15B'. In the first step S211' of creating the pre-fold, the standing seam is bent around the first fold 15A' relative to a clamped section of the workpiece 12'. In the third step S213' of closing the pre-fold, the standing seam is, as shown in Fig. 15E und Fig. 15F As shown, from the first clamping cheek 22' toward the spaced-apart second clamping cheek 24'. In this case, the third bevel 15C' is formed first, followed by the second bevel 15B', and then the first bevel 15A'.

[0163] For this further method for producing a closed fold, the control unit 82' of the bending machine 10' is further configured to carry out the steps S211', S212' and S213' as shown in Fig. 16 shown.

[0164] Fig. 17A, Fig. 17B and Fig. 18 show a further method for producing an inclined fold with the bending machine 10' according to the invention, which is designed as a single bender, according to the second aspect. Fig. 17A shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 10' in a first position of the method for producing an inclined fold, Fig 15B shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 10' in a second position of the method for producing an inclined fold and Fig. 18 shows a flowchart of the process for producing an inclined seam. In the following, reference is made to both figures simultaneously.

[0165] As in Fig. 17A In contrast to the previously described method for producing an inclined fold, the pre-fold is a profile leg bent to an opposite side. The further method for producing an inclined fold comprises a first step S221 of creating a pre-fold on a workpiece 12' such that it is arranged in an area in front of the clamping cheeks 22', 24', comprising forming two folds 15' to form a profile leg, wherein the pre-fold extends at an angle 99' relative to the clamping plane 32', as shown in Fig. 17A shown, and a second step S222 of changing the angle 99' by movement, in this case displacement, of the bending tool 30', as in Fig. 17B shown.

[0166] Step S221 of creating the pre-fold on the workpiece 12' is carried out here by controlling a bending operation of the bending machine 10', which creates a pre-fold with a profile leg. In this case, repeated bending to form the two folds 15' occurs, for example, around a bending axis 18' of the bending machine 10' at various locations on the workpiece 12', with the workpiece 12' being turned accordingly. The bending is controlled by a control unit 82' of the bending machine 10'. Step S221 of creating the pre-fold on a workpiece 12' thus largely corresponds to the previously described steps S11 and S211.

[0167] The step S222 of changing the angle 99' is carried out as in Fig. 17B shown, by pressing with the outer surface 94' of the hook-shaped bending section 78' during an extension of the bending tool 30' relative to the first clamping cheek 22'. In this case, the bending tool 30' is retracted relative to the base element 54' with a linear displacement, and at the same time, the base element 54' together with the bending tool 30' is retracted relative to the first clamping cheek 22' with a linear displacement. This displacement causes the bending tool 30' to extend relative to the first clamping cheek 22' for pressing with the outer surface 94' in such a way that sliding preferably does not occur between the workpiece 12' and the bending tool 30'. This sliding could, under certain circumstances, result in scratching of the workpiece 12'.

[0168] The angle 99' is thus changed by pressing the outer surface 94' of the hook-shaped bending section 78'. Alternatively, changing the angle 99' in an opposite direction would be possible upon retraction of the bending tool 30' relative to the first clamping cheek 22'. The angle 99' would be changed by pressing the inner surface 92' and the end section 96' of the hook-shaped bending section 78' upon retraction of the bending tool 30' relative to the first clamping cheek 22'.

[0169] The control unit 82' of the bending machine 10' is configured to carry out steps S221 and S222 as shown in Fig. 18 shown.

[0170] The method for producing an inclined fold with steps S221 and S222 can be carried out in particular in combination with the method for producing a closed fold with steps S211, S212 and S213 according to the first aspect, in particular immediately before or immediately after.

[0171] In Fig. 19 , Fig. 20A bis Fig. 20F , Fig. 21 , Fig. 22A bis Fig. 22F , Fig. 23 , Fig. 24A , Fig. 24B and Fig. 25 An alternative embodiment of a bending machine 310 designed as a swivel bending machine is shown. The bending machine 310 is designed as a single bender. In the following, reference is sometimes made to several of these figures simultaneously.

[0172] The bending machine 310 is fundamentally constructed analogously to the bending machine 10' of the previous embodiment, with a machine frame 320 and a support 380, but includes a bending unit 326 for swivel bending. The bending machine 310 thus includes a first clamping jaw 322, to which the bending unit 326 configured for swivel bending is attached, and a second clamping jaw 324. In contrast to the previous embodiment, the bending unit 326 includes a bending tool 330 that is displaceable along the clamping jaw 322 and additionally pivotable relative to the clamping jaw 322. The bending unit 326 can thus bend a protruding portion 314 of a workpiece 312 by pivoting the bending tool 330 about a bending axis 318, while the workpiece 312 is clamped in a clamping plane 332 by the first clamping cheek 322 and the second clamping cheek 324.

[0173] A pivoting mechanism of the bending unit 326 is implemented by several pivot joints and / or lifting cylinders. The pivoting mechanism can be designed, for example, according to the bending machine disclosed in the document EP 3 403 738 A1. Alternatively, the pivoting mechanism of the bending unit 326 can also be designed according to the bending machine disclosed in the document EP 2 014 381 A2 or the document DE 199 01 797 A1. In principle, any pivoting mechanism can be used, as long as a pivoting movement 348 of the bending tool 330 about the bending axis 118 is possible. Such a pivoting movement 348 is indicated by an arrow and a pivoted-out position of the bending tool 330 in Fig. 19 outlined, which are represented by dashed lines.

[0174] The pivoting of the bending tool 330 relative to the first clamping jaw 322 is carried out by moving the bending unit 326 in and out relative to the clamping jaw 322 and rotating the bending tool 330 relative to the clamping jaw 322 about the bending axis 318. The pivoting mechanism is in Fig. 19 , Fig. 20A bis Fig. 20F , and Fig. 24A und Fig. 24B merely sketched schematically. The structural design of the bending unit 326 is not further specified and can be taken from known folding machines, such as those described in the aforementioned publications.

[0175] With regard to the description, reference can also be made to the above statements, taking into account the differences described here. In other words, the bending machine 310 comprises all features of the bending machine 10' that do not belong to the bending unit 26' of the bending machine 10'. An additional detailed description of these features is therefore omitted. It is understood that the bending machine 310 can also be designed as a double bender. Such a bending machine designed as a double bender additionally comprises an upper bending unit corresponding to the bending unit 326 and can equally perform the methods described below.

[0176] Fig. 20A bis Fig. 20F show a further exemplary method for producing a closed fold with the alternative bending machine 310 designed as a swivel bending machine according to the first aspect. Fig. 20A shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 310 designed as a swivel bending machine in a first position of the method for producing a closed fold, Fig. 20B shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 310 designed as a swivel bending machine in a second position of the method for producing a closed fold, Fig. 20C shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 310 designed as a swivel bending machine in a third position of the method for producing a closed fold, Fig. 20D shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 310 designed as a swivel bending machine in a fourth position of the method for producing a closed fold, Fig. 20E shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 310 designed as a swivel bending machine in a fifth position of the method for producing a closed fold, Fig. 20F shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 310 designed as a swivel bending machine in a sixth position of the method for producing a closed fold and Fig. 21 shows a flow diagram of the process for producing a closed seam. In the following, reference is sometimes made to several of these figures simultaneously.

[0177] The further method for producing a closed fold with the alternative bending machine 310 comprises a first step S311 of producing the pre-fold on the workpiece 312, comprising forming a first fold 315A, as in Fig. 20A und Fig. 20B shown, a second step S312 of moving the second clamping cheek 324 away from the workpiece 312, as in Fig. 20C und Fig. 20D shown, and a third step S313 of closing the pre-fold to a closed fold by closing the first fold 315A to a fold by the bending unit 326 in a state in which the second clamping cheek 324 is spaced away from the workpiece 312, as in Fig. 20E and 18F.

[0178] The second step S312 of moving the second clamping cheek 324 away from the workpiece 312 is carried out as in Fig. 20C und Fig. 20D As shown, this is carried out by pushing the workpiece 312 back and forth and pivoting the second clamping jaw 324. During this time, the bending tool 330 is pivoted back and thus retracted. The workpiece 314 can thus be pushed forward to move the second clamping jaw 324 away from the workpiece 314 and then pushed back again. This can be done as previously described in step S12.

[0179] The third step S313 of closing the pre-fold is carried out as in Fig. 20E shown, in a state in which the workpiece 312 lies on the first clamping cheek 322, with the second clamping cheek 324 moved away. The workpiece 312 is therefore lying in the clamping plane 332 in an unclamped state. In this case, the closing is carried out by pressing the bending tool 330 against the protruding section 314, which forms the pre-fold, while pivoting the bending tool 330 relative to the second clamping cheek 322. The pivoting of the bending tool can optionally occur with a movement perpendicular to the clamping plane 332 towards the second clamping cheek 322. This optional movement perpendicular to the clamping plane 332 can occur, for example, by simultaneous linear retraction of the bending tool 330 or by a pivot joint configured for this purpose and enables the pre-fold to be closed, similar to the previously described bending machines 10, 10'.During the pivoting movement 348 and, if applicable, the further optional movement, the bending tool 330 further bends the projecting section 314 by pressing against it in such a way that, as shown in . Fig. 20F shown, the first edge 315A of the fold is completely closed to form an envelope.

[0180] A control unit of the bending machine 310 is configured to execute steps S311, S312 and S313 as shown in Fig. 21 shown.

[0181] Fig. 22A bis Fig. 22F and Fig. 23 show a further method for producing a closed fold with the bending machine 310 according to the invention designed as a swivel bending machine according to a first aspect. Fig. 22A shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 310 in a first position of the method for producing a closed fold, Fig. 22B shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 310 in a second position of the method for producing a closed fold, Fig. 22C shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 310 in a third position of the method for producing a closed fold, Fig. 22D shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 310 in a fourth position of the method for producing a closed fold, Fig. 22E shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 310 in a fifth position of the method for producing a closed fold, Fig. 22F shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 310 in a sixth position of the method for producing a closed fold and Fig. 23 shows a flowchart of the process for producing a closed seam. In the following, reference is sometimes made to several of these figures simultaneously.

[0182] The further method for producing a closed fold on a workpiece 312 with the bending machine 310 comprises a first step S311' of producing the pre-fold on the workpiece 312, comprising forming a first fold 315A, as in Fig. 22A und Fig. 22B shown, a second step S312' of moving the second clamping cheek 324 away from the workpiece 312, as in Fig. 22C und Fig. 22D shown, and a third step S313' of closing the pre-fold to a fold by closing the first fold 315A by the bending unit 328 in a state in which the second clamping cheek 324 is spaced away from the workpiece 312, as in Fig. 22E und Fig. 22F shown.

[0183] The further method for producing a closed seam with steps S311' to S313' is an expanded embodiment of the above-described method for producing a closed seam with steps S311 to S313 and can be used, for example, to produce a sheet with a drip edge for a roof eave. Here, step S312' corresponds to step S312, and step S313' corresponds to step S313. Step S311' is based on step S311 and differs in that it produces a pre-seamed seam with a profile leg. Identical or similar steps are provided with the same reference numerals as before, although the reference numerals of the alternative method steps are preceded by apostrophes. For the description, reference can be made to the above explanations. An additional detailed description of these method steps is therefore omitted.

[0184] The first step S31 1' of creating the pre-fold with a profile leg on the workpiece 312, comprising forming a plurality of folds 315 by the bending machine 310, is partially carried out by several bending processes by means of movements, in this case pivoting movements, of the bending tool 330 relative to the first clamping cheek 322. Between the bending processes, the workpiece 312 is advanced in order to perform the bending processes at different positions on the workpiece 312. The positioning unit (not shown) is particularly suitable for this purpose. However, other devices can also be used, or the advancement can be done manually. To form a second fold 315B, the workpiece 312 is turned accordingly. Fig. 22A und Fig. 22B show the last bending operation of the multiple bending operations of the first step S31 1' of creating the pre-fold on the workpiece 312 by forming the first fold 315A.

[0185] The first step S311' of creating the pre-fold with a profile leg comprises forming the second fold 315B as a standing seam, wherein the second fold 315B is different from the first fold 315A. The first step S311' further comprises forming a third fold 315C as a turn-up, wherein the third fold 315C is different from the first fold 315A and the second fold 315B. The profile leg is created as a standing seam with a turn-up by bending a section of the workpiece 312 around the second fold 315B. In the first step S311' of creating the pre-fold, the standing seam is bent around the first fold 315A relative to a clamped section of the workpiece 312. In the third step S313' of closing the pre-fold, the standing seam is, as shown in Fig. 22E und Fig. 22F shown, from the first clamping cheek 322 in the direction of the spaced-apart second clamping cheeks 324. In this case, first the third fold 315C is formed, then the second fold 315B, and then the first fold 315A.

[0186] For this further method for producing a closed fold, the control unit of the bending machine 310 is further configured to carry out steps S311', S312' and S313' as shown in Fig. 23 shown.

[0187] Fig. 24A, Fig. 24B and Fig. 25 show a further method for producing an inclined fold with the bending machine 310, which is designed as a swivel bending machine and as a single bender, according to the second aspect. Fig. 24A shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 310 in a first position of the method for producing an inclined fold, Fig. 24B shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 310 in a second position of the method for producing an inclined fold and Fig. 25 shows a flow diagram of the process for producing an inclined seam. In the following, reference is sometimes made to several of these figures simultaneously.

[0188] The method for producing an inclined fold comprises a first step S321 of creating a pre-fold on the workpiece 312 such that it is arranged in a region in front of the clamping cheeks 322, 324, comprising forming two folds 315, wherein the pre-fold extends at an angle 399 relative to the clamping plane 332, and a second step S322 of changing the angle 399 by displacing the bending tool 330.

[0189] Step S321 of creating the pre-fold on the workpiece 312 is carried out in the present case by controlling a bending operation of the bending machine 310, which creates a pre-fold with two folds 315. In this case, a bending operation is carried out according to conventional swivel bending, with the workpiece 312 being turned accordingly. As shown in Fig. 24A In the present example, the projecting section 314 is formed by two folds 315 to form a pre-fold with profile legs.

[0190] The step S322 of changing the angle 399 is carried out as in Fig. 24B As shown, the bending process is carried out by pressing with the bending tool 330 while extending the bending tool 330 relative to the first clamping jaw 322. Optionally, the bending tool 330 can also be pivoted relative to the clamping jaw 322, as in a swivel bending process.

[0191] The control unit of the bending machine 310 (not shown) is configured to carry out steps S321 and S322 as shown in Fig. 25 shown.

[0192] The method for producing an inclined fold with steps S321 and S322 can be carried out in particular in combination with the method for producing a closed fold with steps S311, S312 and S313 according to the first aspect, in particular immediately before or immediately after.

[0193] In Fig. 26 , Fig. 27A und Fig. 27B An alternative embodiment of a bending machine 310' designed as a swivel bending machine is shown. The bending machine 310' is designed as a double bender. In the following, reference is sometimes made to several of these figures simultaneously.

[0194] The bending machine 310' is fundamentally constructed analogously to the bending machine 310 of the previous embodiment, but includes an additional bending unit 326' for swivel bending. Similar components are provided with the same reference numerals as before, although the reference numerals of the alternative embodiment are preceded by apostrophes for identification.

[0195] For clarity, the bending units 326', 328' are referred to as the first bending unit 326' and the second bending unit 328'. The bending machine 310' thus comprises a first clamping jaw 322', to which the first bending unit 326', configured for swivel bending, is attached with a first bending tool 330', and a second clamping jaw 324', to which the second bending unit 328', configured for swivel bending, is attached with a second bending tool 331'. The first clamping jaw 322' is the upper clamping jaw, and the second clamping jaw 324' is the lower clamping jaw, which can clamp a workpiece 312' in a clamping plane 332'. The first and second bending units 326', 328' are thus configured to bend a portion of the workpiece 312' by moving, in this case pivoting, the bending tools 330', 331' relative to the associated clamping cheek 322', 344' in order to form a bevel 315'.

[0196] The first bending tool 330' and the second bending tool 331' are both movable relative to the clamping jaws 322', 324', in particular, both are pivotable about the bending axis 318'. A pivoting movement 348' of the first bending tool 330' is indicated by an arrow and a bending tool 330' arranged in a pivoted-out position, which are represented by dashed lines.

[0197] In addition to the further bending unit, the bending machine 310' includes a modified lower bending unit. This second bending unit 328' is configured to move the bending tool 331' along the clamping plane 332'. Such a movement 349' can occur in addition to the pivoting movement and is outlined by an arrow and a bending tool 331' moved to a position spaced from the clamping jaw 324', which are represented by dashed lines.

[0198] With regard to the description, reference can also be made to the above statements, taking into account the differences described here. In other words, the bending machine 310' comprises all the features of the bending machine 310, with an additional bending unit and an additional movement mechanism for the lower bending unit being provided. A further detailed description of these features is therefore omitted.

[0199] Fig. 27A, Fig. 27B and Fig. 28 show another exemplary method for producing a recess with the bending machine 310', which is designed as a swivel bending machine and as a double bender, according to the third aspect. Fig. 27A shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 310' designed as a swivel bending machine, which is designed as a double bender, in a first position of the method for producing a recess, Fig. 27B shows a schematic side view of a part of the bending machine 310' designed as a swivel bending machine, which is designed as a double bender, in a second position of the method for producing a recess and Fig. 28 shows a flow diagram of the method for producing a recess using the bending machine 310', which is designed as a swivel bending machine and is constructed as a double bender. In the following, reference is sometimes made to several of these figures simultaneously.

[0200] The method for producing a recess comprises a first step S331 of clamping the workpiece 312' with the first clamping cheek 322' and the second clamping cheek 324' such that a projecting portion 314' of the workpiece 312' projects from the clamping cheeks 322', 324', and a second step S332 of displacing the second bending tool 331' into a counter-holding position, as in Fig. 27A shown, such that it rests against the projecting portion 314' of the workpiece 312' at a distance from the clamping cheeks 324', and a third step S333 of extending the first bending tool 330', such that it presses against the workpiece 312', so that a recess 313' is formed in the workpiece 312', as in Fig. 27B shown.

[0201] In the first step S331 of clamping the workpiece 312', the workpiece 312' is clamped in the clamping plane 332'. As in Fig. 27A The workpiece 312' is shown clamped between the first clamping cheek 322' and the second clamping cheek 324' so that the workpiece 312' is fixed.

[0202] In the second step S332 of moving, the first bending tool 331' rests against a first side 317' of the workpiece 312', as shown in Fig. 27A shown, and in the third step S333 of extending the first bending tool 330', the first bending tool 330' presses against the workpiece 312' on a second side 319' of the workpiece 312' opposite the first side 317', so that the recess 313' is formed in the workpiece 312', as shown in Fig. 27B shown. The second bending tool 331 rests at a distance from the protruding portion 314' of the workpiece 312' due to the movement 349'.

[0203] The control unit 82 of the bending machine 10 is configured to execute steps S331 to S333 as shown in Fig. 28 shown.

[0204] The method for producing a recess comprising steps S331, S332, and S333 can be carried out in particular in combination with the method according to the first aspect or the method according to the second aspect, in particular before and / or after each step. However, a combination of all three methods in any order is also possible. Bezugszeichenliste

[0205] 10 Bending machine 12 Workpiece 13 Recess 14 Protruding section 15 Fold 16 Clamped section 17 First side 18 Bending axis 19 Second side 20 Machine frame 22 First clamping jaw 24 Second clamping jaw 26 (First) bending unit 28 Second bending unit 30 (First) bending tool 31 Second bending tool 32 Clamping plane 34 Linear guide 36 Linear guide 38 Linear guide 40 Linear guide 42 Linear guide 44 Linear guide 46 Linear guide 48 Feed plane 50 Drive 52 Drive 54 (First) base element 55 Second base element 56 Linear guide 58 Linear guide 60 Linear guide 62 Linear guide 64 Feed plane 66 Drive 68 Drive 78 Hook-shaped bending section 80 (First) bending tool carrier 81 Second bending tool carrier 82 Control unit 88 Table 90 Carrier 92 Inner surface 94 Outer surface 96 End section 98 Vertical direction 99 Angle 100 Longitudinal direction 102 Transverse direction 206 Positioning unit 216 User interface 310 Bending machine 312 Workpiece 314 Projecting section 315 Fold 317 First side 318 Bending axis 319 SecondPage 320Machine frame 322First clamping jaw 324Second clamping jaw 326(First) bending unit 328Second bending unit 330(First) bending tool 331Second bending tool 332Clamping plane 348Pivoting movement 349Movement 390Support 399Angle

Claims

1. A method for producing a recess (13; 313), in particular a counter-bend or bead, in a workpiece (12; 312) made of flat material, in particular sheet metal, using a bending machine (10; 310), in particular a long-edge bending machine, the bending machine (10; 310) comprising: a first clamping jaw (22; 322), a second clamping jaw (24; 324) which is mounted so as to be movable relative to the first clamping jaw (22; 322) and which is designed, together with the first clamping jaw (22; 322), to clamp a workpiece (12; 312) to be provided with a recess (13; 313), a first bending unit (26; 326) which is arranged on the first clamping jaw (22; 322) and has a first bending tool (30; 330), the first bending unit (26; 326) is adapted to bend a portion of the workpiece (12; 312) by moving the bending tool (30; 330) relative to the first clamping cheek (22; 322) to form a fold, and a second bending unit (28;328) which is arranged on the second clamping cheek (24; 324) and has a second bending tool (31; 331), wherein the second bending unit (28; 328) is configured to bend a portion of the workpiece (12; 312) by moving the second bending tool (31; 331) relative to the second clamping cheek (24; 324), the method comprising: clamping the workpiece (12; 312) with the first clamping cheek (22; 322) and the second clamping cheek (24; 324) such that a projecting portion (14; 314) of the workpiece (12; 312) projects from the clamping cheeks (22, 24; 322, 324), moving one of the two bending tools (30; 31; 330; 331) into a counter-holding position such that it rests against the projecting section (14; 314) of the workpiece (12; 312) at a distance from the clamping cheeks (22, 24; 322, 324), and extending the other bending tool (30; 31; 330; 331) such that it presses against the workpiece (12; 312), so that the recess (13; 313) in the workpiece (12;312) is trained.; 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein in the step of moving, one bending tool (30; 31; 330; 331) bears against a first side (17; 317) of the workpiece (12; 312), and wherein in the step of extending, the other bending tool (30; 31; 330; 331) presses against the workpiece (12; 312) on a second side (19; 319) of the workpiece (12; 312) opposite the first side (17; 317), so that the recess (13; 313) is formed in the workpiece (12; 312).

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the clamping step clamps the workpiece (12; 312) in a clamping plane (32; 332), and wherein in the step of moving one of the two bending tools (30; 31; 330; 331) along the clamping plane (32; 332) bears against the projecting portion (14; 314) of the workpiece (12; 312) at a distance therefrom.

4. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least the other bending tool (30; 31) comprises a hook-shaped bending section (78) with an inner surface (92) and an outer surface (94), and wherein in the step of extending the other bending tool (30; 31) its outer surface (94) presses against the workpiece (12) on the second side (19) of the workpiece (12) so that the recess (13) is formed in the workpiece (12).

5. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least the one bending tool (30; 31) comprises a hook-shaped bending section (78) with an inner surface (92) and an outer surface (94), and wherein in the step of extending the one bending tool (30; 31) in the counter-holding position rests with its outer surface (94) on the projecting section (14) of the workpiece (12) on the first side (17) of the workpiece (12).

6. Bending machine (10; 310), in particular a long bending machine, for producing a recess (13; 313), in particular a counter-bend or bead, in a workpiece (12; 312) made of flat material, in particular of sheet metal, comprising: a first clamping cheek (22; 322), a second clamping cheek (24; 324) which is movably mounted relative to the first clamping cheek (22; 322) and which is designed, together with the first clamping cheek (22; 322), to clamp a workpiece (12; 312) to be provided with a recess (13; 313), a first bending unit (26; 326) which is arranged on the first clamping cheek (22; 322) and has a first bending tool (30; 330), wherein the first bending unit (26; 326) is designed to bend a portion of the workpiece (12; 312) by moving the bending tool (30; 330) relative to the first clamping cheek (22; 322) to form a fold, a second bending unit (28; 328) which is attached to the second clamping cheek (24;324) and has a second bending tool (31; 331), wherein the second bending unit (28; 328) is configured to bend a portion of the workpiece (12; 312) by moving the second bending tool (31; 331) relative to the second clamping cheek (24; 324), and a control unit (82) which is configured to carry out a method according to one of the preceding claims.

7. Bending machine (10) according to claim 6, wherein at least the other bending tool (30; 31) comprises a hook-shaped bending portion (78) with an inner surface (92) and an outer surface (94).

8. Bending machine (10) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein at least the one bending tool (30; 31) comprises a hook-shaped bending section (78) with an inner surface (92) and an outer surface (94), and wherein the control unit (82) is further configured, in the step of displacing, to place the one bending tool (30; 31) in the counter-holding position with its outer surface (94) against the projecting section (14) of the workpiece (12) on the first side (17) of the workpiece (12).

Images