Modular press brake with improved components and accessories

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a method of assembling a casting for use in a press brake. A modular press brake having a socket connection between a base rail and a bend rail is also provided. The press brake also includes a measuring tool having a magnet for engaging and disengaging from the press brake. The extension allows the cutter to move from the press brake onto the extension to better cut or bend wider sheet metal. The press brake may include a stop that is pivotable about an axis to quickly prevent or allow the sheet metal to pass through the press brake. The modular press brake includes rails that fit within one another and protrude into one another. Adjacent rails can be secured together by fasteners to allow the press brake to be any desired length.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of machining, and more particularly, to a modular press brake having improved components and accessories. [Background technology]

[0002] Press brakes have not seen much innovation in almost several decades. Press brakes are bulky and heavy, making them difficult to store, manufacture, and transport efficiently. Additionally, press brake attachments are outdated and inefficient, leaving plenty of room for improvement. Summary of the Invention

[0003] More specifically, the press brake herein is designed to be modular and lightweight, making it easy and cost-effective to manufacture and transport to a destination. In fact, smaller manual press brakes include a "casting" (i.e., "arm" or "frame"), a term used in the art since the arms are cast as a single heavy metal piece. In the present design, the casting is made of two opposing C-plates ("C-frame") that can be manufactured as lightweight plates and reassembled at the destination. Furthermore, the press brake is modular, with all parts designed to fit together along their length, reducing shipping costs and facilitating assembly. This design improvement allows the user to extend or retract the length of the press brake as needed. The modular press brake also includes improved socket connections, measuring fixtures, stops, and modular, connectable extensions.

[0004] In one aspect, the disclosure provides a press brake comprising at least one base rail, at least one bend rail operatively connected to the at least one base rail for bending a stock, at least one lock rail engageable with the bend rail to lock the stock in the press brake, at least two castings releasably secured to the at least one base rail and at least one support bar, an arm secured to each of the at least two castings and connecting the at least two castings to the at least one lock rail, a lock handle connected to each of the at least two castings and operable to lock the press brake, and a socket connection between the base rail and the bend rail.

[0005] In another aspect, the disclosure provides a method of assembling a casting, the method including aligning apertures in a first plate of the casting with bolts and placing the first plate on the bolts through the apertures; aligning first protrusions of spacers, adjusting arms, and locking arms on the first plate and inserting the protrusions of the spacers, adjusting arms, and locking arms by receiving the openings in the spacers, adjusting arms, and locking arms; aligning holes in a second plate of the casting with inverted second protrusions of the spacers, adjusting arms, and locking arms and inserting the inverted second protrusions into the holes to properly position the second plate; and securing the bolts with fasteners to clamp the spacers, adjusting arms, and locking arms into position.

[0006] In yet another aspect, the present disclosure provides a stopper for use with a press brake, the stopper comprising a clamp for slidably mounting the stopper to the press brake, a rail pivotally connected to the clamp, and a stop member slidable along the rail, wherein the stop member pivots with the rail to prevent interference with material in the press brake.

[0007] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a measuring tool for use in a press brake, the measuring tool comprising: a measuring portion terminating in an arm portion; a magnet disposed on the arm portion to magnetically engage the press brake; and a recess engageable with the press brake to support the measuring tool.

[0008] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides an extension for a press brake comprising a plate member, a rod, and a fastener that removably secures the extension to the press brake, the plate member forming a continuous surface, and the extension forming a continuous plane along which a cutter can slide from the press brake into the extension and back.

[0009] In yet another aspect, the present disclosure provides a stopper for use with a press brake, the stopper comprising a clamp for slidably mounting the stopper to the press brake, a rail pivotally connected to the clamp, and a stop member slidable along the rail, wherein the stop member pivots with the rail to prevent interference with material in the press brake.

[0010] The following figures are used to illustrate various embodiments of features of the present disclosure. These figures are exemplary and are not intended to be limiting. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a modular press brake with improved C-frame according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the C-frame of FIG. 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3A] FIG. 2 is a close-up perspective view of an adjustment arm interconnected with a clamp member of the C-frame of FIG. 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3B] 2 is another enlarged perspective view of an adjustment arm interconnected with a clamp member of the C-frame of FIG. 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 4]FIG. 1 is a first perspective view of a stopper for use in a press brake according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 5] 5 is a second perspective view of the stopper of FIG. 4 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a metrology tool coupleable to the modular press brake of FIG. 1 in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a side cross-sectional view of the measuring tool of FIG. 6 coupled to a socket connection and bent rail of a modular press brake in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] 8 is a side cross-sectional view of the socket connection of FIG. 7 when the bent rail is partially pivoted counterclockwise in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] 8 is a side cross-sectional view of the socket connection of FIG. 7 with the bent rail fully pivoted counterclockwise in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] 9 is an enlarged cross-sectional side view of a socket connector in the position shown in FIG. 8 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an extension for a lock rail of a press brake according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a rear perspective view of the extension shown in FIG. 11 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] FIG. 12 is a front perspective view of the extension shown in FIG. 11 on which the cutter rides and slides, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] FIG. 12 is another front perspective view of the extension shown in FIG. 11 on which the cutter rides and slides, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of an extension for an alternative lock rail of a press brake according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a rear perspective view of the extension shown in FIG. 15 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] FIG. 16 is a front perspective view of the extension shown in FIG. 15 on which the cutter rides, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 18]FIG. 16 is another front perspective view of the extension shown in FIG. 15 on which the cutter rides, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 19A] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the C-frame shown in FIG. 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 19B] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a C-frame having a first varying depth according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 19C] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a second modified depth C-frame according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 20] FIG. 13 is a rear perspective view of a modular press brake according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a top front perspective view of the modular press brake shown in FIG. [Figure 22] FIG. 21 is an enlarged perspective view of the clamp and tri-clamp secured to the modular press brake shown in FIG. 20; [Figure 23] FIG. 21 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the base rail, bend rail and lock rail of the modular press brake shown in FIG. 20. [Figure 24] FIG. 21 is an enlarged cross-sectional perspective view of the casting secured to the stabilizing arm of the modular press brake shown in Figure 20. [Diagram 25] FIG. 21 is another enlarged cross-sectional perspective view of the casting secured to the stabilizing arm of the modular press brake shown in FIG. [Figure 26] FIG. 21 is an enlarged perspective view of the stabilizing arm of the modular press brake shown in FIG. [Figure 27] FIG. 21 is an enlarged perspective view of the casting of the modular press brake shown in FIG. [Figure 28] FIG. 21 is an underside perspective view of the curved rail of the modular press brake shown in FIG. [Figure 29] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a clamp of a modular press brake according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 30A] FIG. 30 is a perspective view of the clamp of FIG. 29 secured to a base rail according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 30B] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a fastener secured to a lock rail according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 31A] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a connecting rod disposed within a lock rail according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 31B] FIG. 31B is a perspective view of the connecting rod of FIG. 31A for securing a lock rail to an adjacent lock rail; [Figure 32A] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a reversible bending mechanism of a press brake in a pull to lock position according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 32B] FIG. 32B is a rear perspective view of the reversible bending mechanism of FIG. 32A. [Figure 32C] FIG. 32B is a rear perspective view of the reversible bending mechanism of FIG. 32A. [Fig. 32D] FIG. 32B is a side view of the reversible bending mechanism of FIG. 32A. [Figure 33A] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a reversible bending mechanism of a press brake in a push to lock position according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 33B] FIG. 33B is a rear perspective view of the reversible bending mechanism of FIG. 33A. [Figure 33C] FIG. 33B is a rear perspective view of the reversible bending mechanism of FIG. 33A. [Figure 33D] FIG. 33B is a side view of the reversible bending mechanism of FIG. 33A. [Diagram 34] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a connector for securing two adjacent rails according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 35] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a connector for securing two adjacent rods according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 36] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a connector for securing two adjacent rods according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 37A] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a fastener for securing a rod to a structure according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 37B] FIG. 37B is a cross-sectional view of the fastener of FIG. 37A. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] The following examples are merely illustrative and are not intended to be limiting. It will be understood that various modifications and / or alterations to the examples described herein can be made without departing from the present disclosure, and any modifications and / or alterations are within the scope of what is contemplated in this disclosure.

[0013] 1, 2, 3A and 3B, a modular press brake 10 is shown according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The press brake 10 further comprises a plurality of C-frames 15 mounted along the support rods 20. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that in typical press brakes used in the art, the casting is cast as a single piece member. In contrast, the C-frame 15 herein further comprises two opposing plates 25, 27 secured together by bolts, screws or other suitable means. The plates 25, 27 are spaced apart by at least one adjustable arm 30 and clamp 31 acting as spacers between the plates 25, 27. A problem in the art is that the casting is heavy, bulky and fragile. The C-frame 15 herein is mainly comprised of two opposing plates 25, 27, which allows for easy assembly of the press brake 10 and allows for convenient transportation and maintenance of the press brake 10 or the C-frame 15. The C-frame 15 is also lighter and stronger than conventional castings used in the art. The presence of two opposing plates 25, 27 also allows the C-frame 15 to have a greater depth of bend. In manufacturing and assembling the C-frame 15 herein, the first step is to cut sheet metal into the desired shape to form the two opposing plates 25, 27. The second step is to place and secure spacers (not shown) between the two opposing plates 25, 27. The spacers (not shown) are preferably placed at the front end 35 and rear end 37 of the C-frame 15 where the C-frame 15 needs to be clamped and tightened to the press brake 10. The third step is to place a lock handle or arm 38 on the top end 39 of the C-frame 15. The lock arm 38 also serves as an additional spacer between the C-frames 15. The fourth step is to attach a number of nuts and bolts (not shown) to each of the two opposing plates 25, 27 to clamp them together.Those skilled in the art will appreciate that in the working position of the press brake 10, the lock pin 41 is disposed through the upper apertures (not shown) of the upper ends 39 of the two opposing plates 25, 27 and through the lock arm 38. On the other hand, when storing or transporting the press brake 10, the lock pin 41 is removed and the lock arm 38 pivots downward between the two opposing plates 25, 27. The lock pin 41 is then inserted through the lower apertures 44 of the two opposing plates 25, 27 and also through the lock arm 38, thereby locking the lock arm 38 in this storage or transport position. In an optional method of assembly, an assembly jig (not shown) configured to receive the C-frame 15 may be provided. Alternatively, no assembly jig is used and the components are assembled in alignment with each other with various projections corresponding to the apertures. In a first step, bolts (not shown) or dowels (not shown) are placed to pass upward from an assembly jig (not shown) or another receiving surface. In a second step, the first plate 25 is placed over the bolts (not shown) while aligning the bolts with the holes (not shown) in the first plate 25. In a third step, spacers (not shown) are placed over the bolts (not shown) at the front end 35 and rear end 37 of the C-frame 15. In a fourth step, the adjustment arms 30, locking arms 38 and clamps 31 are placed over the bolts, again aligning the holes in the adjustment arms 30, locking arms 38 and clamps 31 over the bolts (not shown). In a fifth step, the second plate 27 is placed over the bolts (not shown) such that the spacers (not shown), adjustment arms 30, locking arms 38 and clamps 31 are sandwiched between the opposing first and second plates 25, 27, respectively. In a sixth step, a nut (not shown) is loosely threaded onto the bolt (not shown). In a seventh step, the locking arm 38 is rotated to a locked position which locks the sheet metal in place. As the locking arm 38 moves in this manner, it displaces the adjusting arm 30, which tightens against the nut and bolt (not shown) and the opposing first and second plates 25, 27.The arms 30, 38 tighten against the nuts and bolts (not shown) to remove any "slack" in the nuts and bolts (not shown) to ensure the best fit and assembly. Once the lock arm 38 is in this locked position, the nuts and bolts (not shown) can be tightened in place. First and second brackets 51, 52 are shown secured to both the adjustment arm 30 and the lock arm 38. A first bolt 53 is secured through the first and second brackets 51, 52 and the adjustment arm 30, and a second bolt 54 is secured through the first and second brackets 51, 52 and the lock arm 38. The first and second brackets 51, 52 pivot to pivot the lock arm 38 relative to the adjustment arm 30. As shown, the lower end 46 of the lock arm 38 abuts against the upper surface 48 of the adjustment arm 30 when the lock arm 38 is in the locked position. At the same time, the first recess 49 in plate 25 and the second recess (not shown) in plate 27 abut against the first and second brackets 51, 52, respectively. An advantage of the present disclosure is that it reduces shear pressure that would otherwise be present on bolts 53, 54 when lock arm 38 abuts adjustment arm 30 and when first and second brackets 51, 52 abut against opposing plates 25, 27 when lock arm 38 is in the locked position.

[0014] 3A and 3B, and in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, the adjustment arm 30 terminates in a protruding member 40 having a notch 42. The protruding member 40 is captured between two opposing positioning arms 45, 47 of a clamping member 50. An adjustment bolt 55 passes through each of the positioning arms 45, 47 and the protruding member 40. One skilled in the art can adjust the height of the protruding member 40, and thus the adjustment arm 30, by rotating the adjustment bolt 55. In fact, by rotating the adjustment bolt 55, the threads of the adjustment bolt 55 engage the protruding member 40, thereby causing the protruding member 40 to slide up or down the adjustment bolt 55. A lock handle or lock arm 38 is connected to the positioning arm 30 so that an operator can adjust the pressure applied to the sheet metal when the press brake 10 is in the locked position. Clamping member 50 further includes a visual indicator 60 that is alignable with notch 42 in protruding member 40 to aid an operator in setting the desired pressure for different thicknesses of sheet metal. Visual indicator 60 also ensures accurate and consistent settings across all pairs of C-frames (not shown) that may be used with a press brake (not shown).

[0015] 4 and 5, and in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, a stop 65 is shown movably attached to a lock rail 70 of a press brake 10. The stop 65 further comprises a rail 75 and a stop member 80 slidable along the rail 75. The stop member 80 is used to prevent a layer of sheet metal (not shown) from being pushed further into the press brake 10. The rail 75 is pivotally connected to a clamp 85 slidable along the lock rail 70. The clamp 85 has a tightening bolt 90 for loosening and tightening on the lock rail 70. The stop 65 further comprises a thrust bearing (not shown) mounted within the clamp 85 and connected to the rail 75 such that the rail 75 can be rotated 90 degrees counterclockwise. This allows an operator of the press brake 10 to quickly rotate the rail 75 so that the rail 75 and the stop member 80 no longer interfere with the sheet metal when an adjustment is required, without the need to completely remove or disconnect the stop 65 from the press brake. In one embodiment, stop 65 may include measuring units (not shown) etched or affixed to the top surface of rail 75 to visually assist the operator in determining the appropriate length. One skilled in the art will appreciate that a wing bolt (not shown) may be provided to fit into opening 81 to tighten or loosen stop 80 along rail 75.

[0016] 6 and 7, and in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, a gauging tool 95 is shown. The gauging tool 95 further includes a gauging portion 100 that assists an operator of the press brake 10 in determining the appropriate length of material to be bent. The gauging portion 100 preferably includes a gauging unit (not shown) etched or affixed to an upper surface of the gauging portion 100. Such a gauging unit (not shown) may further assist an operator of the press brake 10 in determining the appropriate length of material to be bent. The gauging portion 100 terminates in an arm portion 105 having at least one magnet 110. The magnet 110 is magnetically engageable with a strip 115 mounted on a bending rail 120 of the press brake 10. With particular reference to FIG. 7, the gauging tool 95 is magnetically engaged with the bending rail 120. The bending rail 120 further includes a lip 125 that is engageable with a recess 130 located on the arm portion 105 of the gauging tool 95. When the measuring tool 95 engages the bent rail 120, the lip 125 necessarily inserts into the recess 130, providing an additional contact means that increases the pivot strength of the measuring tool 95 relative to the bent rail 120. That is, when upward or downward pressure is applied to the measuring tool 95, the recess 130 acts on the lip 125 to prevent decoupling between the measuring tool 95 and the bent rail 120 without relying on the magnetic attraction between the magnet 110 and the strip 115.

[0017] 7, 8, 9 and 10, and in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, the base rail 135, bend rail 120 and lock rail 70 of the press brake 10 are shown in more detail in an interconnected manner. The lock rail 70 further comprises a notched flat bar 142, which may be constructed of steel since the press brake 10 is modular. In the prior art, the flat bar 142 is a thin piece of stainless steel sheet metal that slides over the aluminum protrusions 70, which over time wears and bends or breaks. The flat bar 142 herein is made of steel or stainless steel and can be inserted directly into the protrusions to provide a stronger edge and improve bending between the flat bar 142 and the top edge of the female portion 165. As shown, a socket connection 145 is formed between the bend rail 120 and the base rail 135. To form the socket connection 145, the bent rail 120 comprises a male portion 147 further comprising a finger portion 150 terminating in a ball-shaped end 155. The ball-shaped end 155 is inserted into a sleeve 160 which is generally C-shaped to accommodate the shape of the ball-shaped end 155. The sleeve 160 is preferably made of a friction-resistant material. The ball-shaped end 155 further comprises a ridge 162 which engages with and pivots about a corresponding ridge (not shown) on the sleeve 160. The sleeve 160 is inserted into a female portion 165 of the base rail 135. The female portion 165 is also generally C-shaped to accommodate the shape of the sleeve 160. The female portion 165 further comprises a nodule 170 which is configured to interconnect with and pivot about a recess 175 on the sleeve 160. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the base rail 135, bend rail 120, and lock rail 70 are made from extruded material, such that the bend rail 120 slides longitudinally into the sleeve 160, which slides longitudinally into the base rail 135 to form the socket connection 145. Prior to bending the sheet metal, the press brake 10 is in a first, resting position configured to receive a sheet of metal, as particularly shown in FIG. 7. In this first position of the press brake 10, the sleeve 160 is positioned and captured within the leftmost face of the female portion 165.That is, the outer wall 167 of the sleeve 160 fits flush against the inner wall 182 of the female portion 165. The fingers 150 of the male portion 147 also fit flush against the inner wall 182 of the female portion 165. With particular reference to Figures 8 and 10, once a sheet metal is placed in the press brake 10 and is ready to be bent, the operator rotates the bending rail 120 counterclockwise relative to the stationary base rail 135. During such rotation, the socket coupling 145 is actuated, causing the sleeve 160 to rotate relative to the female portion 165. The rotation of the sleeve 160 relative to the female portion 165 occurs about a pivot point formed by the interconnection between the nodule 170 of the female portion 165 and the recess 175 of the sleeve 160. During the rotation of the sleeve 160, the underside 180 of the outer wall 167 of the sleeve 160 slides along the upper surface 182 of the female portion 165. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that when the upper section 185 of the sleeve 160 abuts the ledge 190 of the female portion 165, the sleeve 160 has been fully rotated relative to the female portion 165. With particular reference to FIG. 9, the press brake 10 is shown in a second position in which the sheet metal is fully bent. In this second position, the sleeve 160 has been fully rotated relative to the female portion 165. In a preferred embodiment, after the sleeve 160 has been fully rotated relative to the female portion 165, the bulbous end 155 of the male portion 147 begins to rotate within the sleeve 160. This rotation occurs about a pivot point formed by the interconnection between the bump 162 of the bulbous end 155 and a ridge (not shown) of the sleeve 160. When the recess 195 of the finger 150 abuts the ledge 190 as shown in FIG. 9, the press brake 10 is fully bent and the socket connection 145 has been fully rotated.

[0018] 11, 12, 13 and 14, and in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, an extension 210 is shown removably secured to a lock rail 270 of a press brake (not shown). Also shown is a cutter 215 for use in cutting sheet metal (not shown) disposed on the press brake (not shown). As shown, the cutter 215 is capable of sliding the lock rail 270 and extension 210 up and down when the extension 210 is attached to the lock rail 270. The cutter 215 slides along the lock rail 270 by means of upper rollers 220, 222 and lower rollers 225, 227. The extension 210 further comprises a plate member 230 secured to a rod 235 by a screw 237. At the same time, the plate member 230 and the rod 235 are attached to the lock rail 270 by fasteners 240. In this particular embodiment, the fastener 240 is a C-shaped rod 245 that is tightened by a knob 250 or other similar means against the lock rail 270 and bar 235. The purpose of the fastener 240 is to ensure that the plate member 230 is positioned adjacent to the lock rail 270. As shown, the upper lip 255 of the plate member 230 generally forms a continuous surface with the upper edge 260 of the lock rail 270. At the same time, the lower surface 265 of the plate member 230 generally forms a continuous plane with the corresponding surface 275 of the lock rail 270. Such a continuous surface and continuous plane allows the upper rollers 220, 222 and lower rollers 225, 227 of the cutter 215 to slide along the extension 210 from the lock rail 270 and back. Also shown is a bumper 280 secured to the bar 235. In this particular embodiment, bumper 280 is secured to bar 235 by bolts 285, although bumper 280 may be integrated into extension 210 or secured by other fastening means without departing from the scope of this disclosure. The purpose of bumper 280 is to prevent cutter 215 from sliding out of extension 210 and lock rail 270. In effect, upper roller 220 of cutter 215 will abut bumper 280 when cutter 215 reaches the end of extension 210.Those skilled in the art will appreciate that although the fasteners 240 are depicted here as C-rod 245 and knob 250, other fasteners 240 may be used, provided that the cutter 215 can be moved unimpeded from the lock rail 270 to the extension 210 and vice versa.

[0019] 15, 16, 17 and 18, and in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, there is shown an extension 310 removably secured to a lock rail 370 of a press brake (not shown). Also shown is a cutter 315 for use in cutting sheet metal (not shown) disposed on the press brake (not shown). As shown, the cutter 315 can slide up and down the lock rail 370 and extension 310 when the extension 310 is attached to the lock rail 370. The cutter 315 slides along the lock rail 370 by means of upper rollers 320, 322 and lower rollers 325, 327. The extension 310 further comprises a plate member 330 secured to a rod 335 by a screw 337. Together, the plate member 330 and the rod 335 are attached to the lock rail 370 by fasteners 340. In this particular embodiment, fastener 340 is a C-shaped rod 345 that is tightened by knob 350 against lock rail 370 and bar 335. The purpose of fastener 340 is to ensure that plate member 330 is positioned adjacent lock rail 370. As shown, upper lip 355 of plate member 330 generally forms a continuous surface with upper edge 360 ​​of lock rail 370. At the same time, lower surface 365 of plate member 330 generally forms a continuous plane with corresponding surface 375 of lock rail 370. Such continuous surface and continuous plane allows upper rollers 320, 322 and lower rollers 325, 327 of cutter 315 to slide from lock rail 370 to extension 310 and back. Also shown is a bumper 380 secured to bar 335. In this particular embodiment, bumper 380 is secured to rod 335 by bolts (not shown), however bumper 380 may be integrated into extension 310 or secured by other fastening means without departing from the scope of this disclosure. The purpose of bumper 380 is to prevent cutter 315 from sliding out of extension 310 and lock rail 370. In effect, upper roller 320 of cutter 315 will abut bumper 380 when cutter 315 reaches the end of extension 310.Those skilled in the art will appreciate that although the fasteners 340 are depicted here as C-rod 345 and knob 350, other fasteners 340 may be used, provided that the cutter 315 can be moved unimpeded from the lock rail 370 to the extension 310 and vice versa.

[0020] 19A, 19B and 19C, and in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure, there are shown a variety of C-frames 15, 415, 515. An advantage of the present disclosure is that by manufacturing the opposing plates 25, 27, 425, 427, 525, 527 as separate plates, a user can select different lengths of C-frames 15, 415, 515 as desired. Providing a variety of C-frames 15, 415, 515 is currently not even practical due to the cost of molding.

[0021] 20 and 21, and in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, a modular press brake 1010, also known in the art as a bending brake, is shown. The press brake 1010 generally further comprises two base rails 1015, 1017 coupled to secondary support bars 1020, 1022 that together support the brake 1010. One skilled in the art will appreciate that a support mechanism (not shown), such as foldable support legs with wheels, may be secured to the press brake 1010 for transporting, moving, and otherwise manipulating the press brake 1010. Also shown are bending rails 1025, 1027 having handles 1028 operatively coupled to the base rails 1015, 1017 for bending bending material, such as sheet metal. The press brake 1010 also comprises locking rails 1030, 1032 engageable with the bending rails 1025, 1027 and the base rails 1015, 1017. The lock rails 1030, 1032 are actuated by lock handles 1035, 1037 to lock the material in the brake 1010 before bending the material. Four castings 1040, 1042, 1044, 1046 are shown that are slidable along the length of both the base rails 1015, 1017 and the support bars 1020, 1022. Each of the castings 1040, 1042, 1044, 1046 is attached to a corresponding stabilizing arm 1050, 1052, 1054, 1056 that is also slidable along the length of the lock rails 1030, 1032. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that in operation, to bend a material such as sheet metal, the material is inserted into the area between the lock rails 1030, 1032 and the base rails 1015, 1017. The lock handles 1035, 1037 are then actuated, which can be pushed or pulled depending on the configuration of the brake 1010. Pulling or pushing the lock handles 1035, 1037 into position actuates the castings 1040, 1042, 1044, 1046 and arms 1050, 1052, 1054, 1056 as the support arm 1060 pivots, forcing the lock rails 1030, 1032 downward against the material. The material is then locked in place and the operator manipulates the handles 1028 to bend the material as desired.Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the press brake 1010 disclosed herein is modular in that the number of components can be added or subtracted along the length of the brake 1010 to achieve any desired length. More specifically, although two base rails 1015, 1017, two support bars 1020, 1022, two flexure rails 1025, 1027, two lock rails 1030, 1032, and two lock handles 1035, 1037 are shown here, a single component or any number of such components could be used. Similarly, although four castings 1040, 1042, 1044, 1046 and corresponding four arms 1050, 1052, 1054, 1056 are shown here, any number of castings and arms could be used and slid along the brake 1010. The modular nature of the press brake 1010 greatly simplifies manufacture of the brake 1010, makes it easier and less expensive to ship, and makes it easier to assemble. This modular nature of the press brake 1010 also allows for a 24 inch deep brake 1010, which is currently not achieved in the prior art. Additionally, the increased number of castings 1040, 1042, 1044, 1046 allows for greater material thickness tolerances. Although rigid castings are shown, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that a C-frame as described herein may also be used.

[0022] 20 and 22, and in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, there is shown a clamp 1065 comprising an upper member 1070 and a lower member 1072 clamped together between a bolt 1075. The upper member 1070 and the lower member 1072 have grooves (not shown) designed to fit into the surfaces and periphery of each side of the lock rails 1030, 1032. The purpose of the clamp 1065 is to connect two adjacent lock rails 1030, 1032. A tri-clamp 1080 is shown clamped around the support bars 1020, 1022. The purpose of the tri-clamp 1080 is also to connect two adjacent support bars 1020, 1022. In this manner, any number of clamps or tri-clamps may be used to connect adjacent rails or bars. In another embodiment, the castings 1040, 1042, 1044, 1046 can be used to connect and secure two adjacent rails 1030, 1032 or bars 1020, 1022. In such an alternative embodiment, at least one of the castings would need to be placed between the adjacent rails 1030, 1032 or bars 1020, 1022. In yet another embodiment, the lock rails 1030, 1032 have dimples (not shown) and corresponding apertures (not shown) to properly position the rails 1030, 1032 adjacent to one another. In yet another embodiment, the rails 1030, 1032 have a notched shape to properly interlock with one another adjacent to one another.

[0023] Referring to FIG. 23, and in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, a base rail 1015 is shown slid into a bent rail 1025. More specifically, the base rail 1015 and the bent rail 1025 each protrude to fit into one another. The base rail 1015 has a claw portion 1085 that fits around a correspondingly shaped S-shaped portion 1090 of the bent rail 1025. A friction pad 1095 is placed between the portions 1085, 1090 to prevent friction between the rails 1015, 1025. Also shown is a fitting 1105 attached to the lock rail 1030 and placed between the lock rail 1030 and the base rail 1015. The fitting 1105 is preferably made of stainless steel to prevent wear against the surface of the material. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the lock rail 1030 further comprises a longitudinal cavity 1107 that is used to receive a bolt (not shown) that is secured within the fitting 1105 to allow the fitting 1105 to slide within the lock rail 1030 and between the base rail 1015 and the lock rail 1030. A distance "x" is shown between the fitting 1105 and the edge 1110 of the bent rail 1025, such distance being 0.5 inches. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that brakes in the art have a corresponding larger distance of 0.75 inches. In fact, being able to have a smaller distance "x" has an advantage over the prior art since it allows the material to be bent tighter.

[0024] 24, 25, 26 and 27, the casting 1040 and the stabilizing arm 1050 are shown in more detail, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The casting 1040 is engaged with both the lock handle 1035 and the stabilizing arm 1050 by a support arm 1060. The support arm 1060 is pivotable about a pivot point 1115 to an angle desired by the brake operator. At a first end 1117, the support arm 1060 has an aperture (not shown) for receiving the lock handle 1035. At a second end 1118, the support arm 1060 is sandwiched between the casting 1040 and the stabilizing arm 1050 by a pin 1120. The pin 1120 is fixed in a hole 1125 in the casting 1040. The pin 1120 can also slide in a groove 1130 in the stabilizing arm 1050. In operation, a stop (not shown) is positioned in one of two apertures in the groove 1130 to restrict movement of the pin 1120 to a first side 1140 of the groove 1130 or a second side 1145 of the groove 1130. As shown, by restricting movement of the pin 1120 within one of the above sides 1140, 1145 of the groove 1130, an operator can pull or push the lock handle 1035. Indeed, the ability to pull or push the lock handle 1035 to lock the material within the brake is an advantageous feature of the press brakes herein, a feature not currently available in existing press brakes. The stabilizing arm 1050 further comprises a fastener 1150 that can be clamped around the lock rail 1030 at a first end 1152. At a second end 1153, the stabilizing arm 1050 is secured to the casting 1040 by a bolt 1155 or other attachment means known in the art. Similarly, the casting 1040 includes a fastener 1160 at a first end 1162 that can clamp around the base rail 1015 to secure two adjacent base rails 1015, 1017. At a second end 1163, the casting 1040 includes a modified tri-clamp 1165 configured to receive the support bar 1020 of the brake. In this manner, both the casting 1040 and the stabilizing arm 1050 can be slidably adjusted along the press brake.Thus, an operator can use any number of castings 1040 and stabilizing arms 1050 along the length of the brake 1010, making the brake more versatile.

[0025] 21, 22, 24, 25, and 28, one skilled in the art will appreciate that in a preferred embodiment, the clamp 1065 and tri-clamp 1080 cooperate to secure adjacent lock rails 1030, 1032 and support bars 1020, 1022, respectively, thereby allowing the press brake 1010 to have any desired longitudinal length. However, in another embodiment, the press brake 1010 may not include the clamp 1065 and tri-clamp 1080, but instead may be substituted with a fastener 1150 and modified tri-clamp 1165. In yet another embodiment, the support bars 1020, 1022 may have dimples (not shown) and corresponding apertures (not shown) to properly position the support bars adjacent to one another. In yet another embodiment, the support bars 1020, 1022 may have a notched configuration to properly interlock with one another adjacent to one another. At the same time, the fasteners 1150 and the modified tri-clamps 1165 cooperate to secure the adjacent lock rails 1030, 1032 and support bars 1020, 1022, respectively. This also allows the press brake 1010 to be of any desired longitudinal length and reduces the number of parts in the press brake 1010. In this alternative embodiment, the clamps 1160 are still used to secure the adjacent base rails 1015, 1017. With particular reference to FIG. 28, there is shown two bent rails 1025, 1027 connected together. In this preferred embodiment, the handle 1028 has an engagement support 1029 that serves to secure the first bent rail 1025 to the second bent rail 1027.

[0026] 29, 30A and 30B, and in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure, a clamp 2160 and a fastener 2150 are shown. To better align the clamp 2160 with the base rail 2015, the clamp 2160 may include a dimple 2180 for properly locating the clamp 2160 within the base rail 2015. The base rail 2015 has an aperture 2182 whose shape corresponds to the shape of the dimple 2180, thereby ensuring that the clamp 2160 is properly located and aligned with respect to the base rail 2015. Similarly, to better align the fastener 2150 with the lock rail 2030, the fastener 2150 may include a dimple 2180 for properly locating the fastener 2150 within the lock rail 2030. The lock rail 2030 has an aperture 2192 whose shape corresponds to the shape of the dimple 2190, thereby ensuring that the fastener 2150 is properly positioned and aligned with respect to the lock rail 2030. As shown, the C-frame 2215 further includes holes 2400 that are aligned with corresponding protrusions 2500 located on the surface of the clamp 2160 to facilitate assembly of the C-frame 2215. In fact, in another assembly method for the press brake (not shown), a bolt 2700 is placed at the bottom and aligned with a hole in the first plate 2025. The first plate 2025 is then placed within the bolt 2700. The fastener 2160 and other standoff components (e.g., adjustment arms) have protrusions 2500 that are aligned and positioned with corresponding openings in the first plate 2025. In another step, a second plate 2027 with corresponding openings is placed over and through the protrusions 2500 of the clamps 2160 and other standoff components. Nuts 2800 are then fitted onto the bolts 2700 to assemble the C-frame 2215, as partially shown in FIG. 29. One skilled in the art will appreciate that in an alternative embodiment, the dimples or protrusions can be replaced with openings and the openings can be replaced with dimples. That is, it is not important which parts have the protrusions or dimples and the openings, as long as one part can be aligned and inserted relative to the other part.

[0027] 31A and 31B, and in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure, an alternative means of locking two adjacent rails is shown. More specifically, two adjacent lock rails 3070, 3072 are shown that are flushly interlocked with one another by means of a connecting rod 3350, 3370. The connecting rod 3350, 3370 further includes a threaded hole 3400 and a dimple 3500 that is slidable within the protruding portion of the lock rail 3070, 3072. The dimple 3500 fits within a corresponding recess (not shown) in the lock rail 3070, 3072 to properly align the connecting rod 3350, 3370 within the lock rail 3070, 3072, as well as aligning the lock rails 3070, 3072 with one another. When the lock rails 3070, 3072 are positioned flush and adjacent to one another, the threaded holes 3400 are aligned with corresponding openings (not shown) in the lock rails 3070, 3072. A rivet or screw 3600 or other similar means is threaded through an opening (not shown) into the threaded holes 3400 to lock the connecting rods 3350, 3370 to the lock rails 3070, 3072. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that although the lock rails 3070, 3072, the connecting rods 3350, 3370 could be used with any other rail of the press brake. In another embodiment, the dimples may not be present and the connecting rods are locked to the rails by screws or other connecting means. Indeed, the modularity of the press brake can be achieved in a number of ways without departing from the scope of this disclosure, the best and preferred means are described herein. The lock rails 3070, 3072 further include a longitudinal recess 3800 for receiving a steel bar (shown in FIG. 7).

[0028] 1 and 20, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that both press brakes 10, 1010 are modular. In fact, the rails and bars in each of press brakes 10, 1010 may be extruded or simply cast and secured together by fasteners as described above.

[0029] 32A, 32B, 32C, 32D, 33A, 33B, 33C and 33D, and in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, a reversible bending mechanism 4000 for a press brake (not shown) is shown. Indeed, one skilled in the art would understand that the lock arm 4038 must pivot in a single direction (either push or pull) to lock the press brake. However, with this reversible bending mechanism 4000, an operator can adjust the reversible bending mechanism 4000 to be able to either pull or push the lock arm 4038 to lock the press brake (not shown). To do so, the opposing plates 4025, 4027 of the C-frame 4015 further include pivot point openings 4040, 4042 into which a bolt (not shown) or other means can be inserted and installed. Such bolts (not shown) would also be inserted through corresponding openings 4061 in the lock arm 4038 and teardrop-shaped members 4065 attached to each side of the opposing plates 4025, 4027 by removable pins 4066. The adjustment arm 4030 includes an angular recess 4068 on each side thereof for receiving the first and second brackets 4051, 4052 of the lock arm 4038. In operation, the lock arm 4038 is pushed or pulled depending on the configuration, causing the lock arm 4038 to pivot about the pivot point openings 4040, 4042. The first and second brackets 4051, 4052 then pivot themselves forward or rearward of the angular recess 4068. One skilled in the art will appreciate that Figures 32A, 32B, 32C, and 32D show the reversible bending mechanism 4000 in a pull-to-lock configuration, while Figures 33A, 33B, 33C, and 33D show the reversible bending mechanism 4000 in a push-to-lock configuration. In the pull-to-lock configuration, the teardrop-shaped member 4065 is secured to the C-frame 4015 through the pivot point opening 4040, such that an end of the teardrop-shaped member 4065 is angled toward the C-frame 4015 to prevent the first and second brackets 4051, 4052 of the locking arm 4038 from pivoting toward one side of the angular recess 4068.In the push to lock configuration, the teardrop-shaped member 4065 is secured to the C-frame 4015 through the pivot point opening 4042 in an inverted manner such that the end of the teardrop-shaped member 4065 is tilted away from the C-frame 4015 (inverted relative to the pull to lock configuration) to prevent the first and second brackets 4051, 4052 of the locking arm 4038 from pivoting towards the other side of the angular recess 4068.

[0030] Many variations of the embodiments described herein, as well as other embodiments, may be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings, and it is understood that these variations and additional embodiments are within the scope of the subject matter contemplated in this disclosure, which should not be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed.

Claims

1. A press brake comprising: At least one base rail; at least one bending rail operatively connected to the at least one base rail for bending a blank; at least one lock rail engageable with the bending rail to lock the blank into the press brake; at least two castings releasably secured to the at least one base rail and the at least one support bar; an arm secured to each of the at least two castings and connecting the at least two castings to the at least one lock rail; a lock handle coupled to each of the at least two castings and operable to lock the press brake; a socket connection between the base rail and the bent rail; A press brake comprising:

2. 2. The modular press brake of claim 1, wherein the at least one base rail, the at least one bend rail, the at least one lock rail, and the at least one support bar are adapted to be secured to adjacent base rails, bend rails, lock rails, and support bars to increase a length of the modular press brake.

3. locking the at least one base rail to the adjacent base rail; locking the at least one bending rail to the adjacent bending rail; locking the at least one lock rail to the adjacent lock rail; and Locking said at least one support bar to said adjacent support bar.

3. The modular press brake of claim 2, further comprising a connector for performing at least one of:

4. 4. The modular press brake of claim 3, wherein the connector is at least one of a tri-clamp, a clamp member, a fastener, and a tie rod.

5. 4. The modular press brake of claim 3, wherein the connector further comprises one of a dimple and an opening configured to mate with one of an aperture or a protrusion of the base rail, the bend rail, the lock rail, and the support bar for positioning the connector on at least one of the base rail, the bend rail, the lock rail, and the support bar.

6. 2. The modular press brake of claim 1, wherein the at least two castings further comprise a first adjustable fastener, the arm further comprises a second adjustable fastener, the first adjustable fastener configured to be loosened and tightened along the at least one base rail and the at least one support bar, and the second adjustable fastener configured to be loosened and tightened along the at least one lock rail, and the first adjustable fastener and the second adjustable fastener slide the at least two castings into a defined position along the modular press brake.

7. 10. The modular press brake of claim 1, wherein the at least two castings further comprise two opposing plates secured to one another, the two opposing plates facilitating transportation and maintenance of the modular press brake.

8. 10. The modular press brake of claim 1, wherein the socket connection further comprises a male portion, a sleeve, and a female portion.

9. 9. The modular press brake of claim 8, wherein said sleeve and said male portion pivot relative to said female portion about a first point and said male portion pivots relative to said sleeve and said female portion about a second point.

10. 9. The modular press brake of claim 8, wherein the male portion is a finger terminating in a spherical end.

11. 9. The modular press brake of claim 8, wherein the female portion comprises a longitudinal mass configured to fit within and pivot about a recess in the sleeve.

12. 9. The modular press brake of claim 8, wherein said male portion is shaped to mate coplanarly within said sleeve and said sleeve is shaped to mate coplanarly within said female portion.

13. 10. The modular press brake of claim 1, wherein the arm is one of a stabilizing arm and an adjustable arm.

14. 2. The modular press brake of claim 1, wherein the lock handle is lockable in an operating position and pivotable from the operating position to a locked position, the operating position being a position for operating the press brake and the locked position being a position for storing and transporting the press brake.

15. 10. The modular press brake of claim 1, wherein the lock rail further comprises a longitudinal recess for receiving a flat bar.

16. 2. The modular press brake of claim 1, further comprising a reversible bending mechanism for adapting said locking handle to pivot either one of from a first position to a second position and from said second position to said first position to lock said press brake.

17. two teardrop-shaped members secured to the C-frame and the lock handle; a first bracket and a second bracket pivotally connected to the lock handle; 17. The modular press brake of claim 16, further comprising: said teardrop-shaped member having two pivot point openings for joining said lock handles.

18. 1. A method of assembling a casting, comprising the steps of: aligning an aperture in a first plate of the casting with a bolt and placing the first plate on the bolt through the aperture; aligning first protrusions of a spacer, an adjustment arm, and a lock arm on the first plate and inserting the protrusions of the spacer, the adjustment arm, and the lock arm by receiving openings of the spacer, the adjustment arm, and the lock arm; aligning holes in a second plate of the casting with second inverted projections on the spacer, the adjustment arm, and the locking arm, and inserting the second inverted projections into the holes to properly position the second plate; fastening the bolt with a fastener to clamp the spacer, the adjustment arm and the lock arm in place; The method includes:

19. 1. A stop for use with a press brake, comprising: a clamp for slidably mounting the stopper to the press brake; a rail pivotally connected to the clamp; a stop member slidable along the rail; Equipped with The stop member is a stopper that can pivot with the rail to prevent interference with workpieces in the press brake.

Images