Cutting device and cutting method

Abstract

To more appropriately cut an object to be cut.SOLUTION: A cutting device 10 for cutting a workpiece 50, which is an object to be cut, includes: a blade die 12 that is a cutter having a cutting blade; and a facing portion 16 that receives the cutting blade during cutting of the workpiece 50. The facing portion 16 includes: a plate-shaped member 112 that receives the cutting blade during the cutting, by coming into contact with the workpiece 50 from a side opposite to the cutting blade; and an elastic member 114 that is on a side opposite to the workpiece 50 with respect to the plate-shaped member 112 and comes into contact with the plate-shaped member 112 at least during the cutting. The plate-shaped member 112 is a spring member that is bent by its being pressed by the cutting blade during the cutting. The elastic member 114 generates a shearing force between the cutting blade and the plate-shaped member 112 by pressing the plate-shaped member 112, which is bent by its being pressed by the cutting blade, toward the cutting blade.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a cutting device and a cutting method.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a device that performs cutting (shearing) using a cutting blade (shearing blade) such as a Thomson blade has been widely used (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In such a device, for example, the cutting process is executed with a workpiece, which is an object to be processed, placed on a resin underlay sheet.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] When cutting a workpiece with a cutter having a cutting edge such as a Thomson blade while the workpiece is placed on a resin backing, in order to appropriately perform a full cut (complete cut) that cuts through the entire thickness of the workpiece, usually the cutting edge is pressed against the workpiece so that a cut mark reaches the upper surface of the backing. Also, when cutting a plurality of workpieces while exchanging the workpieces, usually, at each cutting, it is necessary to apply the cutting edge to a position on the backing where no cut mark has been made. Therefore, in this case, usually, in order to prevent the cutting edge from repeatedly hitting the position of the cut mark on the backing, it is necessary to appropriately change the position of the backing relative to the cutting edge each time a single cut is performed. Also, in this case, usually, it is necessary to replace the backing every time a predetermined number of cuts are made. Therefore, in this case, the backing becomes a consumable item that is consumed in a short period of time, and due to the cost of replacing the backing, the cost of the process of performing the cutting increases. Furthermore, in this case, for example, it is also conceivable that chips of the backing material generated by cutting the backing adhere to the workpiece. Also, as a result, for example, there is a risk of occurrence of a defect in which foreign matter adheres to the workpiece. Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a cutting device and a cutting method capable of solving the above problems.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The inventor of the present application has conducted intensive research on a method of cutting a workpiece (object to be cut) using a cutting blade. As a result, it has been found that by receiving the cutting blade in a configuration having a springy plate-like member and an elastic member, the workpiece can be cut more appropriately. Further, through further intensive research, the inventor of the present application has found the features necessary to obtain such an effect and has arrived at the present invention. To solve the above problems, the present invention is a cutting device for cutting an object to be cut, comprising: a cutter having a cutting blade; and an opposing portion disposed at a position facing the cutter with the object to be cut interposed therebetween, the opposing portion receiving the cutting blade when the object to be cut is cut. The opposing portion includes: a plate-like member that contacts the object to be cut from the side opposite to the cutting blade to receive the cutting blade during the cutting; and an elastic member that is on the side opposite to the object to be cut with respect to the plate-like member and contacts the plate-like member at least during the cutting. The plate-like member is a springy member that bends when pushed by the cutting blade during the cutting, and the elastic member generates a shearing force between the cutting blade and the plate-like member by pushing the plate-like member that bends when pushed by the cutting blade toward the cutting blade.

[0006] When configured in this way, for example, by using a springy plate-like member that bends when pushed by the cutting blade and bringing the plate-like member into contact with the object to be cut from the side opposite to the cutting blade, it is possible to make it difficult for the member serving as a backing for the object to be cut during cutting to be cut by the cutting blade. Further, in this case, by pushing the plate-like member that bends when pushed by the cutting blade toward the cutting blade by the elastic member, for example, a shearing force is generated between the cutting blade and the plate-like member, and the object to be cut can be cut appropriately. Therefore, if configured in this way, for example, the object to be cut can be cut appropriately.

[0007] Also, in this case, since the member serving as a backing for the object to be cut is less likely to be cut by the cutting blade during cutting, the durability of the member receiving the cutting blade can be appropriately increased compared to, for example, the case of using a backing made of resin or the like. Further, thereby, for example, the cost of the process of performing cutting can be appropriately reduced. Furthermore, in this case, since the member serving as a backing is less likely to be cut by the cutting blade, problems such as foreign matter generated from the member serving as a backing adhering to the object to be cut can be more appropriately prevented. As the plate-like member, for example, a metal member can be preferably used. As the elastic member, for example, a rubber member such as resin rubber can be preferably used. More specifically, as the plate-like member, for example, a stainless steel plate or the like can be preferably used. As the elastic member, for example, a urethane rubber member or the like can be preferably used. During cutting, it is preferable that the plate-like member bends, for example, without being cut by the cutting blade. When configured in this way, since the plate-like member is not cut by the cutting blade, for example, cutting of a large number of objects to be cut can be appropriately performed without replacing the plate-like member. Further, since the plate-like member is not cut by the cutting blade, for example, generation of chips or the like of the material of the plate-like member during cutting can be more appropriately prevented. In this configuration, as the cutting of the object to be cut, for example, it is conceivable to perform a process of completely cutting at least a part of the object to be cut. Regarding complete cutting, for example, it can be considered to cut the entire thickness direction of the object to be cut. Also, regarding complete cutting, for example, it can also be considered to cut the object to be cut such that at least a part of the cutting blade contacts the plate-like member of the opposing part.

[0008] Also, in this configuration, even when the plate-like member is not cut by the cutting blade, for example, it is conceivable that deformation such as fine dents occurs in the plate-like member due to the cutting blade contacting the plate-like member. Further, as a result, for example, when cutting is performed later, it is conceivable that the object to be cut becomes difficult to cut. More specifically, for example, when the object to be cut is cut several thousand to several tens of thousands of times with the position of the plate-like member fixed, the object to be cut may become difficult to cut. However, also in this case, usually, if the position of the plate-like member is slightly changed to shift the position where the cutting blade hits the plate-like member, the cutting of the object to be cut can be appropriately performed again. Therefore, in this case, for example, it is conceivable to fix at least the plate-like member among the opposing parts so that the position can be easily changed. More specifically, in this case, the cutting device further includes, for example, a plate-like member fixing portion that fixes the plate-like member at a position overlapping the elastic member. And, in this case, with respect to the in-plane direction, which is the direction in the plane orthogonal to the direction in which the elastic member and the plate-like member overlap, the plate-like member fixing portion fixes the plate-like member so as to be movable in the in-plane direction with respect to the elastic member. With this configuration, for example, the position of the plate-like member can be appropriately changed without moving the elastic member. Further, thereby, for example, it is possible to appropriately prevent the object to be cut from becoming difficult to cut due to repeated cutting at the same position. Also, in this case, the plate-like member fixing portion fixes the plate-like member, for example, in a state where there is a certain amount of play. With this configuration, for example, the position of the plate-like member can be appropriately changed without the operator performing special adjustments or the like. Further, thereby, for example, the frequency of the cutting blade hitting exactly the same position on the plate-like member can be reduced, and the period until the object to be cut becomes difficult to cut can be extended for a longer time. The plate-like member fixing portion may fix the plate-like member so that the position of the plate-like member in the in-plane direction can be changed by, for example, adjustment by the operator or the like. In this case, for example, every time a predetermined number of cuts are performed, the position of the plate-like member in the in-plane direction is changed by the adjustment work of the operator.

[0009] Also, for example, even if the position of the plate-like member in the in-plane direction is appropriately changed, if the number of cutting operations increases, the object to be cut may become difficult to cut. And in such a case, for example, it is conceivable to replace the plate-like member. Also, regarding the replacement of the plate-like member, it is preferable to perform it regularly even when the position of the plate-like member in the in-plane direction is not appropriately changed. And in these cases, among the elastic member and the plate-like member in the opposing portion, it is conceivable to replace only the plate-like member. Therefore, the plate-like member fixing portion preferably fixes the plate-like member so that the plate-like member can be replaced without replacing the elastic member. With such a configuration, for example, by continuing to use the elastic member even after replacing the plate-like member, the cost caused by the replacement of the plate-like member can be appropriately reduced. Also, by replacing the plate-like member as necessary, for example, the state in which the object to be cut can be cut by the cutting blade can be maintained for a longer time. Also, as a configuration of the present invention, it is also conceivable to use a cutting method or the like having the same features as described above. Also in this case, for example, the same effects as described above can be obtained. Also, in this case, regarding the cutting method, for example, it can also be considered as a manufacturing method of a product manufactured by performing cutting, etc.

Advantages of the Invention

[0010] According to the present invention, for example, an object to be cut can be cut more appropriately.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0011]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0012] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining a cutting device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1(a) shows an example of the configuration of the main part of the cutting device 10. FIG. 1(b) shows an exploded view of an example of the configuration of the opposing part 16 in the cutting device 10. Except for the points to be described below, the cutting device 10 may have the same or similar features as a known cutting device. Further, the cutting device 10 may further include the same or similar configuration as a known cutting device in addition to the illustrated configuration. In this example, the cutting device 10 is a device for cutting a workpiece 50 that is an object to be cut, and performs a process of completely cutting (fully cutting) at least a part of a flexible and thin-film-like workpiece 50 such as a seal or a film. In this case, the workpiece 50 can be considered, for example, as a thin plate-like member or the like. Regarding the full cut, for example, it can be considered as cutting the entire thickness direction of the workpiece 50. Further, regarding the operation of the cutting device 10 described below, for example, it can be considered as the operation of an example of a cutting method. Regarding this cutting method, for example, it can also be considered as a manufacturing method of a product manufactured by performing cutting.

[0013] Also, in this example, the cutting device 10 includes a blade type 12, a base portion 14, an opposing portion 16, a plate-like member fixing portion 18, and a cutting drive portion 20. The blade type 12 is a member that is pressed against the workpiece 50 during cutting (cutting) of the workpiece 50. Also, in this example, the blade type 12 can be considered, for example, as a configuration corresponding to a cutter having a cutting blade. For the blade type 12, for example, it can also be considered as a punching die or the like having a cutting blade in a shape for punching out the workpiece 50. Also, in this example, the blade type 12 has a base portion 102 and a blade portion 104. The base portion 102 is a member that holds the blade portion 104 at a position adapted to the shape for punching out the workpiece 50. As the base portion 102, for example, it is conceivable to use a plate-like member or the like that holds a separate blade portion 104. In this case, as the base portion 102, for example, a wooden plate-like body such as a veneer can be preferably used. Also, as the base portion 102, for example, a configuration integrally connected to the blade portion 104 can also be considered. In this case, the base portion 102 is formed of, for example, a metal of the same material as the blade portion 104. The blade portion 104 is a portion that at least partially cuts into the workpiece 50 during cutting of the workpiece 50 by having a cutting blade. For the blade portion 104, for example, it can also be considered as a configuration for performing cutting on the workpiece 50. Regarding the fact that the blade portion 104 has a cutting blade, for example, it can be considered that at least a part of the blade portion 104 functions as a cutting blade. For the blade portion 104, for example, it can also be considered as corresponding to the blade in the blade type 12. Also, depending on the way of looking at the configuration of the cutting device 10, for example, for the blade portion 104, it can also be considered as a configuration corresponding to a cutter. As the blade portion 104, for example, a configuration the same as or similar to the blade portion of a known cutting blade such as a Thomson blade or a Pinnacle (registered trademark) blade can be preferably used. In this case, as the base portion 102 as well, for example, a base portion having a known configuration adapted to the blade portion 104 can be preferably used. The base portion 14 is a pedestal-shaped member that holds the opposing portion 16. In this example, the base portion 14 holds the opposing portion 16 at a position facing the blade type 12 with the workpiece 50 sandwiched therebetween by placing the opposing portion 16 on its upper surface.

[0014] The opposing part 16 is configured to receive the cutting blade in the blade mold 12 when cutting the workpiece 50, and is disposed at a position facing the blade mold 12 with the workpiece 50 sandwiched therebetween. Also, in this example, the opposing part 16 has a plate-like member 112 and an elastic member 114. In this case, regarding the opposing part 16, for example, it can be considered to have a double structure of the plate-like member 112 and the elastic member 114. The plate-like member 112 is a member that contacts the workpiece 50 from the side opposite to the cutting blade in the blade mold 12 and receives the cutting blade during cutting. Regarding the plate-like member 112, for example, it can be considered as a member that serves as a backing for the workpiece 50 during cutting. Also, in this example, the plate-like member 112 is a springy member that bends when pushed by the cutting blade during cutting, and is fixed at a position between the elastic member 114 and the workpiece 50 by the plate-like member fixing part 18. Regarding the fact that the plate-like member 112 has springiness, for example, it can be considered to be substantially springy for the purpose of cutting the workpiece 50. Also, regarding the fact that the plate-like member 112 has springiness, for example, it can be considered to be formed of a material that can be deformed when pressed by the cutting blade and restored when released. As the plate-like member 112, for example, a metal member (metal plate) can be preferably used. More specifically, as the plate-like member 112, for example, a stainless steel plate or the like can be preferably used. In this case, regarding the thickness of the plate-like member 112, for example, it can be considered to be 1 mm or less (for example, about 0.05 to 1 mm). Also, the thickness of the plate-like member 112 may be, for example, 0.5 mm or less (for example, about 0.1 to 0.5 mm). With such a configuration, for example, when contacting the cutting blade, the plate-like member 112 can be appropriately curved so as not to damage the cutting blade. Also, if the necessary functions as described above are obtained, a member other than a stainless steel plate can be used as the plate-like member 112. In this case, it is also conceivable to use a member having a configuration other than a metal plate as the plate-like member 112.

[0015] The elastic member 114 is disposed on the side opposite to the workpiece 50 with respect to the plate-like member 112. And, for example, by contacting the plate-like member 112 at least during cutting, the elastic member 114 pushes back the plate-like member 112 in the direction of restoring the curved plate-like member 112. Also, thereby, the elastic member 114, for example, pushes the plate-like member 112 that is pushed by the cutting blade and bends toward the cutting blade, generating a shearing force between the cutting blade and the plate-like member 112. Regarding generating a shearing force between the cutting blade and the plate-like member 112, for example, it can be considered that the portion of the workpiece 50 sandwiched between the cutting blade and the plate-like member 112 is sheared. More specifically, when performing a full cut on the workpiece 50, it is essential that at least the tip of the cutting blade reaches the plate-like member 112 that serves as a backing for the workpiece 50. And in this example, by disposing the elastic member 114 on the side opposite to the workpiece 50 with respect to the plate-like member 112, due to the cushioning property of the elastic member 114, the plate-like member 112 can be pushed toward the cutting blade. Therefore, according to this example, for example, while following the unevenness in the cut surface and appropriately eliminating the gap between the cutting blade and the plate-like member 112, a uniform and necessary shearing load can be generated. Also, thereby, for example, with the tip of the cutting blade reaching the position where there is no gap between the plate-like member 112, a necessary shearing force is generated between the cutting blade and the plate-like member 112, and the workpiece 50 can be appropriately fully cut.

[0016] Also, in this example, the elastic member 114 is fixed at a predetermined position on the upper surface of the base portion 14 using, for example, double-sided tape or the like. In this case, it can be considered that the elastic member 114 is fixed to the base portion 14 in a state where it does not substantially move during cutting. Regarding the fact that the elastic member 114 does not substantially move during cutting, for example, in the in-plane direction, which is a direction in a plane orthogonal to the direction in which the elastic member 114 and the plate-like member 112 overlap, it can be considered that the position of the elastic member 114 in the in-plane direction does not substantially change according to the accuracy required for cutting. Regarding the fact that the position of the elastic member 114 in the in-plane direction does not substantially change, for example, it can be considered that there is no displacement of the position of the elastic member 114 due to the cutting operation. As the elastic member 114, for example, a rubber member such as resin rubber can be preferably used. More specifically, as the elastic member 114, for example, a urethane rubber member or the like can be preferably used. In this case, for example, it is conceivable to use urethane rubber having a hardness (Shore A) of 80 or more (for example, about 80 to 95). Also, regarding the thickness of the elastic member 114 (the thickness of the urethane rubber) orthogonal to the above in-plane direction, it can be considered to be about 3 to 8 mm, for example. With such a configuration, for example, during cutting, the curved plate-like member 112 can be appropriately pressed by the elastic member 114. As the elastic member 114, for example, a configuration other than urethane rubber can also be considered.

[0017] The plate member fixing portion 18 is a configuration for fixing the plate member 112 in the opposing portion 16. In this example, the plate member fixing portion 18 has a pedestal portion 122 and a fixing portion 124. The pedestal portion 122 is fixed at a predetermined position on the upper surface of the base portion 14, and supports the lower surface of the plate member 112 outside the position where the elastic member 114 is placed on the base portion 14. More specifically, in this example, as shown in the figure, for example, the plate member 112 overlaps the elastic member 114 such that a part thereof extends outside the elastic member 114 in the in-plane direction. Also, as the plate member 112 and the elastic member 114, for example, as shown in FIG. 1(b), a separable configuration is used. Regarding the separability of the plate member 112 and the elastic member 114, for example, it can be considered that they are configured to be individually replaceable. Also, in this case, at least a part of the portion of the plate member 112 that extends outside the elastic member 114 is placed on the upper surface of the pedestal portion 122. Thereby, the pedestal portion 122 supports the lower surface of the plate member 112 at at least a part of the peripheral portion of the plate member 112. The fixing portion 124 is a member for fixing the plate member 112 to the pedestal portion 122. In this example, the fixing portion 124 fixes the plate member 112 to the pedestal portion 122 by fixing the portion of the plate member 112 that is placed on the pedestal portion 122 to the pedestal portion 122. With such a configuration, for example, the plate member 112 can be appropriately fixed in a state where it can be bent during cutting. The method of fixing the plate member 112 by the plate member fixing portion 18 will be described in more detail later.

[0018] The cutting drive unit 20 is a drive unit that moves the blade type 12 when cutting the workpiece 50. During cutting, the cutting drive unit 20 moves the blade type 12 in the direction of the workpiece 50 and the plate-shaped member 112, for example, to at least the position where the cutting edge of the blade type 12 contacts the plate-shaped member 112, so that the blade type 12 makes a full cut on the workpiece 50. In this case, for a full cut, for example, it can be considered that the workpiece 50 is cut so that at least a part of the cutting edge of the blade type 12 in the cutting device 10 contacts the plate-shaped member 112. Regarding the contact between the cutting edge and the plate-shaped member 112, for example, it can be considered that the gap between the tip (lowest part, lower surface) of the cutting edge and the upper surface of the plate-shaped member 112 disappears. Further, after moving the blade type 12 to a predetermined position, the cutting drive unit 20 moves the blade type 12 in the opposite direction to separate the blade type 12 from the workpiece 50. With such a configuration, for example, the cutting operation on the workpiece 50 can be appropriately executed. As the cutting drive unit 20, for example, a configuration having a servo motor can be preferably used. With such a configuration, for example, the movement amount of the blade type 12 can be appropriately controlled with high accuracy. Further, thereby, for example, the position where the tip of the cutting edge reaches in the operation of pressing the blade type 12 against the workpiece 50 can be appropriately controlled with high accuracy. Regarding the position where the tip of the cutting edge reaches, for example, it may be controlled using a stopper or the like that stops the movement of the blade type 12. In this case, for example, a cutting drive unit 20 having a simpler configuration such as a configuration that does not use a servo motor may be used.

[0019] More specifically, in this example, the operation of cutting the workpiece 50 is performed as shown in FIG. 2, for example. FIG. 2 shows an example of the operation of the cutting device 10 during cutting. FIG. 2(a) shows an example of a state where the cutting edge of the blade type 12 is pressed against the workpiece 50. As described above, in this example, the plate-like member 112 in the plate-like member fixing portion 18 is a springy member, and it bends and curves when pressed by the cutting edge of the blade type 12 during cutting. In contrast, in FIG. 2(a), for the sake of illustration, the plate-like member 112 is shown without being curved. Further, FIG. 2(b) shows an example of the state of the workpiece 50 after the blade type 12 pressed against the workpiece 50 is separated from the workpiece 50. By pressing the blade type 12 against the workpiece 50 as shown in FIG. 2(a) and then separating the blade type 12 from the workpiece 50, a complete cut of the workpiece 50 can be appropriately performed as shown in FIG. 2(b), for example.

[0020] Subsequently, supplementary explanations and the like regarding each configuration described above will be given. As described above, in this example, as the plate-like member 112, for example, a metal member such as a stainless steel plate is used. And in this case, it can be considered that the plate-like member 112 is a member that is less likely to be cut by the cutting edge compared to, for example, a known resin-made backing such as a PET film. Also, in this case, by bringing the plate-like member 112 into contact with the workpiece 50 from the side opposite to the cutting edge, it can also be considered that, for example, the member serving as the backing of the workpiece 50 during cutting becomes less likely to be cut by the cutting edge. Further, in this example, it can be considered that the plate-like member 112 bends without being cut by the cutting edge of the blade type 12 during cutting. Regarding the plate-like member 112 not being cut by the cutting edge during cutting, it can be considered, for example, that the plate-like member 112 has a hardness that cannot be cut by the pressure of pressing the blade type 12 to cut the workpiece 50 during cutting, and so on.

[0021] Also, in this example, by using, for example, the plate-like member 112 that is not cut by the work 50 during cutting, the durability of the member that receives the cutting blade can be appropriately increased as compared to the case of using, for example, a resin backing or the like. And in this case, for example, it becomes possible to appropriately perform cutting on a large number of workpieces 50 without replacing the plate-like member 112 that serves as the backing for the workpiece 50. Therefore, according to this example, for example, the amount of the backing material used can be appropriately reduced. Also, thereby, for example, the cost of the process of performing cutting can be appropriately reduced. Furthermore, in this case, since the plate-like member 112 serving as the backing is not cut by the cutting blade, problems such as chips generated from the backing member becoming foreign substances and adhering to the workpiece 50 can be more appropriately prevented. Also, when using a resin backing or the like, usually, in order to shift the portion of the backing cut by the cutting blade from the position facing the cutting blade, a supply mechanism for supplying the backing simultaneously with the workpiece 50, a replacement mechanism for the backing, etc. are required. Also, as a result, for example, it is conceivable that the configuration of the apparatus becomes complicated. Also, when using a resin backing or the like, it is also conceivable that, for example, the backing breaks during cutting, causing unevenness on the surface of the backing. And in this case, for example, it is also conceivable that the workpiece 50 gets caught on the unevenness of the surface of the backing during the execution of an operation such as shifting the position of the backing, which hinders the operation. Therefore, when using a resin backing or the like and using a supply mechanism for the backing, it is also necessary to deal with such problems. In contrast, according to this example, for example, cutting on a large number of workpieces 50 can be more appropriately performed without using a supply mechanism for the backing having such a complicated configuration. Therefore, according to this example, for example, it is also possible to simplify the configuration of the cutting apparatus 10 and reduce the cost of the apparatus.

[0022] Also, as described above, in this example, by using the opposing portion 16 having the plate-like member 112 and the elastic member 114, for example, while preventing the plate-like member 112 from being cut by the cutting blade, the complete cutting process for the workpiece 50 can be appropriately performed. Regarding this point, when only considering preventing the problem caused by the member serving as the backing for the workpiece 50 from being cut, for example, it may seem that simply using a metal plate or the like as the backing would be sufficient. However, for example, when using a thick metal plate or the like that does not bend when in contact with the cutting blade as the backing, the impact received when in contact with the backing increases the effect of the cutting edge of the cutting blade being crushed, making it difficult to repeatedly use the cutting blade. On the contrary, when using only a metal plate or the like that bends when in contact with the cutting blade as the backing, for example, it becomes difficult to generate a shearing force between the cutting blade and the backing, making it difficult to appropriately cut the workpiece 50. In contrast, in this example, by using the elastic member 114 together with the springy plate-like member 112, for example, while appropriately reducing the impact received by the cutting blade when in contact with the plate-like member 112, a shearing force can be appropriately generated between the cutting blade and the plate-like member 112. Therefore, according to this example, for example, it is possible to appropriately achieve both preventing the plate-like member 112 from being cut by the cutting blade and reducing the damage received by the cutting blade when in contact with the plate-like member 112. Also, in this case, regarding the elastic member 114, for example, it can be considered that it absorbs the pressure generated between the cutting blade and the plate-like member 112 during cutting to reduce the damage caused to the cutting blade. Further, by using the elastic member 114, for example, while reducing the damage caused to the cutting blade, it can also be considered that the gap between the tip of the cutting blade and the elastic member 114 can be appropriately eliminated during cutting.

[0023] Also, in this example, regarding the hardness of the cutting blade, the workpiece 50, and the plate-like member 112, for example, in the cutting operation performed by the cutting device 10, the hardness is set such that the workpiece 50 is cut by the cutting blade and the plate-like member 112 is not cut. Regarding the hardness of the elastic member 114, for example, the hardness is set such that the workpiece 50 is cut by the cutting blade by pushing the plate-like member 112 toward the cutting blade. In this case, regarding the hardness, for example, it is conceivable that the cutting blade is harder than the plate-like member 112, and the plate-like member 112 is harder than the workpiece 50. Also, when using a springy plate-like member 112 as in this example, it is also conceivable to make the hardness of the cutting blade and the plate-like member 112 approximately the same. Further, if the configuration is such that the plate-like member 112 is not cut depending on the conditions such as the hardness of the elastic member 114, regarding the hardness of the plate-like member 112, for example, it can be made equal to or less than the hardness of the cutting blade.

[0024] Also, regarding the matters described above, regarding the cutting of the member that serves as a backing for the workpiece 50 during cutting, for example, it can be considered that at least a part of the surface of the member is divided by the cutting blade. Regarding the division of the surface of the member, for example, it can be considered that a crack occurs on the surface of the member when at least a part of the cutting blade enters the inside of the member. Also, for example, when using a backing made of resin, it can be considered that the backing is cut when a part of the surface is divided by the cutting blade. And, in this example, regarding the non-cutting of the plate-like member 112 by the cutting blade, for example, it can be considered that such division does not occur on the surface of the plate-like member 112. Regarding the non-occurrence of such division on the surface of the plate-like member 112, for example, it can be considered that such division does not substantially occur according to the accuracy required for the processing performed by the cutting device 10.

[0025] Also, as described above, in this example, the plate-like member 112 is configured not to be cut by the cutting blade. Therefore, the plate-like member 112 can be repeatedly used in multiple cutting operations. However, when repeatedly performing a full cut on the workpiece 50, the cutting blade will repeatedly strike the plate-like member 112. In this case, repeatedly performing a full cut on the workpiece 50 can be considered, for example, as performing a full cut on a plurality of workpieces 50. And in this case, due to the influence of contact with the cutting blade, wear, fatigue, etc. may occur in the plate-like member 112. Also, as a result, it is also conceivable that deterioration such as bending or breaking occurs in the plate-like member 112, or fine dents occur. In this case, such deterioration can be considered, for example, as a phenomenon different from being cut by the cutting blade. More specifically, such deterioration can be considered, for example, as a phenomenon that occurs by deforming while maintaining continuity instead of a part of the surface being separated. And when such deterioration occurs in the plate-like member 112, for example, it is also conceivable that the workpiece 50 becomes difficult to cut during subsequent cutting. Therefore, when such deterioration occurs in the plate-like member 112, it is preferable to appropriately replace the plate-like member 112.

[0026] Also, when using a plate-shaped member 112 that is not cut by the cutting blade as in this example, even if a springy plate-shaped member 112 is used, it seems that the cutting blade would be damaged to some extent compared to, for example, the case of using a resin backing. However, in this example, even when some damage occurs to the cutting blade, a complete cut of the workpiece 50 can be appropriately performed. More specifically, in this case, for example, by appropriately setting the distance by which the cutting blade 12 is pushed into the workpiece 50, even when some damage has occurred to the cutting blade, the gap between the cutting blade and the plate-shaped member 112 can be appropriately eliminated, and a complete cut of the workpiece 50 can be appropriately performed. Also, the inventor of the present application confirmed through actual experiments and the like that with the configuration of this example, it is possible to repeat a complete cut more than 100,000 times without replacing the cutting blade. More specifically, the inventor of the present application used a known stainless steel plate for the spring material as the plate-shaped member 112 and a known urethane rubber as the elastic member 114, and conducted an experiment in which the operation of completely cutting the film used as the workpiece 50 was repeated with a known cutting blade while appropriately replacing the plate-shaped member 112. The thickness of the stainless steel plate was set to a thickness that can realize the function of the plate-shaped member 112 described above. Also, the hardness and thickness of the urethane rubber were set to the hardness and thickness that can realize the function of the elastic member 114 described above. At the start of this experiment, the width of the tip of the cutting blade was about 2 μm. Also, when 100,000 (100,000 shots) complete cuts were repeated, the width of the tip of the cutting blade had changed to about 5 to 10 times the initial width. And in this experiment, it was confirmed that even with the cutting blade in this state, a complete cut of the workpiece 50 can be appropriately performed.

[0027] In addition, in this experiment, the inventor of the present application also confirmed the deterioration and the like occurring in the plate-like member 112. And it was confirmed that, regarding the plate-like member 112, generally, if it is about several thousand to several tens of thousands of times, it is possible to repeat the full cut with respect to the workpiece 50. Also, regarding this point, for example, when the workpiece 50 is fully cut about several thousand to several tens of thousands of times with the position of the plate-like member 112 fixed, the workpiece 50 may become difficult to cut. However, also in this case, in the cutting device 10, if only the plate-like member 112 is replaced, the cutting with respect to the workpiece 50 can be appropriately performed again. Therefore, regarding the plate-like member 112, for example, it is preferable to perform replacement or the like regularly. Also, in this case, paying attention to the difference between the case of using a resin backing or the like and the case of using the plate-like member 112 of this example, the plate-like member 112 of this example can be considered, for example, as a member used in the repetition of at least more than a thousand cutting operations. Also, regarding the deterioration and the like occurring in the plate-like member 112, regarding the reason why the workpiece 50 becomes difficult to cut, for example, it is conceivable that a portion where the local dent becomes large occurs in the plate-like member 112 and the workpiece 50 cannot be cut at that portion. And in this case, regarding the plate-like member 112, even if the replacement is not necessarily performed, if the position of the plate-like member 112 is shifted, the function of the plate-like member 112 can be restored. Also, the inventor of the present application confirmed by actually conducting an experiment that if the position of the plate-like member 112 is slightly changed to shift the position where the cutting edge hits in the plate-like member 112, the cutting with respect to the workpiece 50 can be appropriately performed again. Also, in this case, it was confirmed that one plate-like member 112 can be used in the repetition of more than several tens of thousands of times (at least more than 10,000 times) of cutting operations.

[0028] Also, in this case, regarding the configuration of the cutting device 10, for example, among the opposing portions 16, at least for the plate-shaped member 112, it is conceivable to fix it so that replacement or position change becomes easy. More specifically, as also described above, in this example, among the configurations of the opposing portion 16, the elastic member 114 is fixed to the base portion 14 in a state where it hardly moves during cutting, for example, using double-sided tape or the like. Further, the plate-shaped member 112 is fixed by the plate-shaped member fixing portion 18 at a position overlapping the elastic member 114. And in this case, it is conceivable to fix the plate-shaped member 112 to be movable in the in-plane direction with respect to the elastic member 114, for example, by the plate-shaped member fixing portion 18. With such a configuration, for example, the position of the plate-shaped member 112 can be appropriately changed without moving the elastic member 114. Also, thereby, for example, it is possible to appropriately prevent the work 50 from being difficult to cut due to repeated cutting at the same position. Also, in this case, the plate-shaped member fixing portion 18 fixes the plate-shaped member 112 in a state where there is a certain amount of play, for example. Regarding the state with play, for example, it can be considered as a state where it is easier to move in the in-plane direction compared to a state where the position is fixed like the elastic member 114. Also, in this case, for example, at the fixing portion 124 of the plate-shaped member fixing portion 18, the plate-shaped member 112 is fixed to the pedestal portion 122 using screws, and by using screw holes with a margin compared to the diameter of the screws, it is conceivable to fix the plate-shaped member 112 in a state with play.

[0029] Also, in this case, fixing the plate-like member 112 in a state where there is play may be a state where, for example, the position of the plate-like member 112 in the in-plane direction shifts according to the force received by the plate-like member 112 from the cutting blade during cutting. In this case, it can be considered that the plate-like member 112 is fixed in a state where its position can automatically change during cutting, for example. For such a state, it can also be considered as a state where, for example, there is fluctuation in the position of the plate-like member 112 during cutting. When configured in this way, for example, the position of the plate-like member 112 can be appropriately changed without the operator performing special adjustments or the like. Also, thereby, for example, the frequency of the cutting blade hitting exactly the same position on the plate-like member 112 can be reduced, and the period until the workpiece 50 becomes difficult to break can be made longer. Therefore, if configured in this way, for example, one plate-like member 112 can be appropriately used for a long period. Also, fixing the plate-like member 112 in a state where there is play may be a state where, for example, the position of the plate-like member 112 in the in-plane direction does not change due to the force received by the plate-like member 112 from the cutting blade during cutting, but the position of the plate-like member 112 can be changed to some extent by adjustment work. In this case, for the plate-like member fixing portion 18, it can be considered that the plate-like member 112 is fixed so that the position of the plate-like member 112 in the in-plane direction can be changed by the operator's adjustment or the like. Also, in this case, for example, every time a predetermined number of cuts are made, it is conceivable to change the position of the plate-like member 112 in the in-plane direction by the operator's adjustment work. When configured in this way, for example, by periodically changing the position of the plate-like member 112, one plate-like member 112 can be appropriately used for a long period.

[0030] Even if the position of the plate-shaped member 112 in the in-plane direction is appropriately changed in this way, if the number of cutting operations increases, deterioration or the like may occur in the plate-shaped member 112, making it difficult to cut the workpiece 50. In such a case, for example, it is preferable to replace the plate-shaped member 112. Regarding the replacement of the plate-shaped member 112, it is also preferable to perform it regularly even when the position of the plate-shaped member 112 in the in-plane direction is not appropriately changed. Also, in these cases, usually, among the components of the opposing portion 16, the elastic member 114 can continue to be used without replacement. Therefore, in this example, for example, it is conceivable to replace only the plate-shaped member 112 among the plate-shaped member 112 and the elastic member 114 in the opposing portion 16. In this case, the plate-shaped member fixing portion 18 fixes the plate-shaped member 112 so that the plate-shaped member 112 can be replaced without replacing the elastic member 114. With such a configuration, for example, by continuing to use the same elastic member 114 even after replacing the plate-shaped member 112, the cost caused by the replacement of the plate-shaped member 112 can be appropriately reduced. Also, by replacing the plate-shaped member 112 as needed, for example, the state where the workpiece 50 can be cut by the cutting blade can be maintained for a longer time.

[0031] In addition, when using a stainless steel plate or the like as the plate-shaped member 112, it can be considered that the plate-shaped member 112 is a more expensive member compared to, for example, a resin backing. However, in this example, with a single plate-shaped member 112, the workpiece 50 can be cut several thousand to several tens of thousands of times. Therefore, even if the plate-shaped member 112 is replaced regularly, the cost of the cutting process can be appropriately reduced compared to cases where a resin backing or the like is used. Also, when the cutting device 10 is used for a longer period, it is conceivable that the elastic member 114 among the components of the opposing portion 16 may also need to be replaced. In this case, focusing on the replacement frequency, it can be considered that the replacement frequency of the plate-shaped member 112 is, for example, 10 times or more (for example, about 10 to 1000 times) the replacement frequency of the elastic member 114.

[0032] Also, as described above, the inventor of the present application confirmed through experiments repeatedly performing full cuts on the workpiece 50 that even when the width of the tip of the cutting blade is widened, a full cut on the workpiece 50 can be appropriately performed. In this regard, when the width of the tip of the cutting blade is widened, it is conceivable that, for example, the width of the portion crushed at the tip of the cutting blade during cutting in the workpiece 50 becomes thick, resulting in chips of the workpiece 50. Depending on the quality required for processing the workpiece 50, etc., it may be preferable to prevent the generation of such chips. Therefore, in such a case, it is preferable to use a cutting blade configured such that chips of the workpiece 50 are less likely to occur even when the width of the tip of the cutting blade is widened. More specifically, in this case, for example, it is conceivable to make the inclination different between one surface and the other surface of the cutting blade at least in the vicinity of the tip. In this case, the inclination of one surface and the other surface of the cutting blade can be considered as, for example, the inclination of the surface with respect to the vertical plane (perpendicular plane) including the straight line corresponding to the cutting edge of the cutting blade. By using a cutting blade having such a configuration, for example, the direction of the force applied from the cutting blade to the workpiece 50 during cutting can be made oblique. Further, thereby, for example, even when the width of the tip of the cutting blade is widened, the generation of chips of the workpiece 50 can be appropriately prevented.

Industrial Applicability

[0033] The present invention can be suitably used, for example, in a cutting device.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0034] 10... Cutting device, 102... Base portion, 104... Blade portion, 112... Plate-like member, 114... Elastic member, 12... Blade shape, 122... Pedestal portion, 124... Fixed portion, 14... Table portion, 16... Opposing portion, 18... Plate-like member fixing portion, 20... Cutting drive portion, 50... Workpiece

Claims

1. A cutting device for cutting an object to be cut, comprising: a cutter having a cutting blade; a facing portion disposed at a position facing the cutter with the object to be cut therebetween, the facing portion being configured to receive the cutting blade when the object to be cut is cut; and wherein the facing portion includes a plate-like member that contacts the object to be cut from a side opposite to the cutting blade and receives the cutting blade during the cutting, and an elastic member that is on a side opposite to the object to be cut with respect to the plate-like member and contacts the plate-like member at least during the cutting; and the plate-like member is a springy member that bends when pushed by the cutting blade during the cutting, and the elastic member generates a shearing force between the cutting blade and the plate-like member by pushing the plate-like member that is pushed by the cutting blade and bends toward the cutting blade, the cutting device being characterized by this.

2. The cutting device according to claim 1, wherein during the cutting, the plate-like member bends without being cut by the cutting blade.

3. The plate-like member is a metal member, and the elastic member is a rubber member, the cutting device according to claim 1 being characterized by this.

4. The cutting device according to claim 1, further comprising a plate-like member fixing portion that fixes the plate-like member at a position overlapping with the elastic member, and with respect to an in-plane direction, which is a direction in a plane orthogonal to the direction in which the elastic member and the plate-like member overlap, the plate-like member fixing portion fixes the plate-like member so as to be movable in the in-plane direction with respect to the elastic member.

5. The cutting device according to claim 1, further comprising a plate-like member fixing portion that fixes the plate-like member, and the plate-like member fixing portion fixes the plate-like member so that the plate-like member can be replaced without replacing the elastic member, the cutting device according to claim 1 being characterized by this.

6. A cutting method for cutting an object to be cut, using: a cutter having a cutting blade; a facing portion disposed at a position facing the cutter with the object to be cut therebetween, the facing portion being configured to receive the cutting blade when the object to be cut is cut; and wherein the facing portion includes a plate-like member that contacts the object to be cut from a side opposite to the cutting blade and receives the cutting blade during the cutting, and an elastic member that is on a side opposite to the object to be cut with respect to the plate-like member and contacts the plate-like member at least during the cutting; and the plate-like member is a springy member that bends when pushed by the cutting blade during the cutting, The cutting method is characterized in that the elastic member presses the plate-like member that is bent by being pushed by the cutting blade toward the cutting blade, thereby generating a shearing force between the cutting blade and the plate-like member.

Images