Sheet metal processing equipment

Abstract

The present invention provides a sheet metal processing apparatus capable of improving the horizontality of the pass line within a multi-stage die. [Solution] The sheet metal processing apparatus comprises a sheet metal supply unit 100, a multi-stage die 200, and a drive unit 300 that generates a press operation on the multi-stage die 200. The multi-stage die 200 has a first processing unit 210 that performs a first processing on the sheet metal 11, and a second processing unit 220 adjacent to the first processing unit 210 that performs a second processing on a portion of the sheet metal 11. The first processing unit 210 generates a press stroke in the multi-stage die 200 each time a press operation occurs, thereby performing the first processing on at least a portion of the sheet metal 11. The second processing unit 220 is capable of switching between a state in which a press stroke is generated in the multi-stage die 200 each time a press operation occurs, thereby performing a second processing on at least a portion of the sheet metal 11, and a state in which a press stroke is generated but no second processing is performed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a sheet material processing apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a progressive press is known. In a progressive press, the die has a plurality of processing parts. Therefore, the die of the progressive press can perform processing corresponding to a plurality of processing parts with a single die. Further, the progressive press can perform processing on the sheet material while flowing the sheet material from a coil body (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Such a die of a progressive press can also be provided with a processing part that can be shifted between the case of processing the sheet material and the case of not processing it.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The inventor of the present case has been considering processing while flowing a plurality of sheet materials into a die, and has been considering using a multi-stage die in which the die is configured in multiple stages, supplying a plurality of sheet materials between each stage of the multi-stage die, and performing press processing.

[0005] Here, the inventor of the present case has found that when a processing part that can be shifted between the case of processing the sheet material and the case of not processing it is provided in the multi-stage die, the pass line cannot be leveled in the multi-stage die and displacement occurs, and the sheet material is cut between adjacent processing parts or becomes an unintended shape.

[0006] Figure 22 is a schematic diagram showing a multi-stage die where no processing is performed in a specific processing section, with (a) showing the state before pressing and (b) showing the state after pressing. As shown in Figure 22(a), the pass lines PL of the sheet metal 11α and 11β are kept horizontal before pressing. As shown in Figure 22(b), when the sheet metal is not processed in a specific processing section, the thickness is adjusted by the striker ST. Here, the horizontality of the pass line PL is maintained for the first sheet metal 11α from the bottom. However, for the second sheet metal 11β from the bottom, the pass line PL becomes slanted due to the position of the second layer of the multi-stage die. Thus, when a multi-stage die is used, a new problem arises in terms of the horizontality of the pass line PL within the die.

[0007] The present invention was made to solve these problems, and its objective is to provide a sheet metal processing apparatus that can improve the horizontality of the pass line within a multi-stage mold. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The sheet metal processing apparatus according to the present invention comprises a supply means for continuously supplying N sheets (N is an integer of 2 or more) of long sheet metal, a multi-stage die having (N+1) layers for processing the N sheets of sheet metal supplied by the supply means, and a drive means for generating a press operation for the multi-stage die, wherein the multi-stage die has a first processing section for performing a first processing on the N sheets of sheet metal, and a second processing section adjacent to the first processing section for performing a second processing on at least a portion of the N sheets of sheet metal, wherein the first processing section generates a press stroke in the multi-stage die each time a press operation is generated by the drive means and performs the first processing on at least a portion of the N sheets of sheet metal, and the second processing section is switchable between a state in which the press stroke is generated in the multi-stage die each time a press operation is generated by the drive means and performs the second processing on at least a portion of the N sheets of sheet metal, and a state in which the press stroke is generated but the second processing is not performed. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a sheet metal processing apparatus that can improve the horizontality of the pass line within a multi-stage mold. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing an insulating panel manufactured using a sheet metal processing apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a cross-sectional view showing an insulating panel manufactured using a sheet metal processing apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a cross-sectional view showing another example of a thermal insulation panel according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a configuration diagram showing a sheet metal processing apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 4 is a perspective view showing an example of a multi-stage mold, where (a) shows the first state and (b) shows the second state. [Figure 6] Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an example of a multi-stage die, where (a) shows the state before pressing in the first state, and (b) shows the state during pressing in the first state. [Figure 7] Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an example of a multi-stage die, where (a) shows the state before pressing in the second state, and (b) shows the state during pressing in the second state. [Figure 8] This is a perspective view showing the details of a multi-stage mold, where (a) shows the first mold, (b) shows the second mold, (c) shows the lower mold, and (d) shows the wedge-shaped striker. [Figure 9] This is a perspective view showing the details of a multi-stage mold, with (a) showing the upper mold, (b) showing the third mold, and (c) showing the fourth mold. [Figure 10] This is a configuration diagram showing a sheet metal processing apparatus according to the second embodiment. [Figure 11] Figure 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an example of a multi-stage die. (a) shows the state before pressing in the first state, (b) shows a part of (a), (c) shows the state during pressing in the first state, and (d) shows a part of (c). [Figure 12] It is a perspective view showing an example of the multi-stage mold shown in FIG. 10. [Figure 13] It is a perspective view showing details of the synchronous movement part and the distance adjustment part shown in FIG. 10. [Figure 14] It is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the multi-stage mold of the sheet material processing apparatus according to the third embodiment, (a) shows the first state, and (b) shows the second state. [Figure 15] It is a perspective view showing the multi-stage mold shown in FIG. 14, showing the layer between the first layer mold and the second layer mold. [Figure 16] It is a perspective view showing the multi-stage mold shown in FIG. 14, showing the layer between the second layer mold and the third layer mold. [Figure 17] It is a perspective view showing the multi-stage mold shown in FIG. 14, showing the space between the second layer mold and the lower mold and the third layer mold, the fixed mold and the connecting member. [Figure 18] It is a perspective view showing the multi-stage mold shown in FIG. 14, showing the space between the second layer mold, the fixed mold and the lower mold and the third layer mold, the fourth layer mold and the connecting member. [Figure 19] It is a perspective view showing the multi-stage mold shown in FIG. 14, showing the space between the third layer mold, the fixed mold and the connecting member and the fourth layer mold and the upper mold. [Figure 20] It is a perspective view showing the multi-stage mold shown in FIG. 14, showing the layer between the third layer mold and the fourth layer mold. [Figure 21] It is a perspective view showing the multi-stage mold shown in FIG. 14, showing the layer between the fourth layer mold and the fifth layer mold. [Figure 22] It is a schematic view showing the case where processing is not performed in the specific processing part of the multi-stage mold, (a) shows the state before pressing, and (b) shows the pressing state.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] The present invention will be described below in accordance with preferred embodiments. It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments shown below, and can be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the invention. Furthermore, in the embodiments shown below, some illustrations and descriptions of certain components are omitted. It goes without saying that, regarding the details of the omitted technologies, publicly known or well-known technologies are applied as appropriate, to the extent that they do not contradict the content described below.

[0012] Figures 1 and 2 are configuration diagrams showing an insulating panel manufactured using a sheet metal processing apparatus according to the first embodiment, with Figure 1 being a perspective view and Figure 2 being a cross-sectional view. The insulating panel 1 shown in Figures 1 and 2 comprises two air conditioning panels 10, an insulating body 20, and a flow path 30.

[0013] The air conditioning panel 10 is a hollow body formed by processing two sheet metals 11 to create an internal space IS, and then welding the edges 12 together. The internal space IS is, for example, evacuated to a reduced pressure state. The air conditioning panel 10 is a large structure with a long side of at least 60 cm. The two sheet metals 11 are each made of a material with a thickness of 0.8 mm or less, making the air conditioning panel 10 lightweight. In the following description, we will assume a large air conditioning panel 10 with a long side of 60 cm or more, but it is not limited to this and may also be applied to panels with a long side of less than 60 cm. The thickness of the sheet metals 11 may also exceed 0.8 mm. In the following description, we will assume that the air conditioning panel 10 has a long side of at least 60 cm and the thickness of the sheet metals 11 is 0.8 mm or less.

[0014] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the air conditioning panel 10 has numerous protrusions 13 formed on both of its plate materials 11. The numerous protrusions 13 are formed on the two plate materials 11 facing each other, and the tops of the protrusions 13 are in contact with each other. As a result, the two plate materials 11 are separated in the internal space IS by the height of two sets of protrusions 13. Furthermore, because the tops of the protrusions 13 are in contact with each other, the air conditioning panel 10, with its vacuum-filled internal space IS, is more resistant to external pressure. In Figures 1 and 2, 32 protrusions 13 are formed, but in reality, since the plate materials 11 of the air conditioning panel 10 are thin and have a large structure, a much larger number will be formed. Specifically, in an air conditioning panel 10 with a width of 930 mm and a length of 2000 mm, for example, several thousand protrusions 13 are formed on each plate material 11.

[0015] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the air conditioning panel 10 has numerous protrusions 13 formed on both of the two plate materials 11, but it is not limited to this, and the numerous protrusions 13 may be formed on only one of the plate materials 11, while the other plate material 11 is flat.

[0016] These two air conditioning panels 10 are configured to allow refrigerant to flow through two flow paths 30. The two air conditioning panels 10 are configured to dissipate heat from one air conditioning panel 10 through the other air conditioning panel 10 through the flow of refrigerant. In addition, an insulating material 20 is provided between the two air conditioning panels 10 to ensure thermal insulation. As a result, the insulating material 20 prevents heat from passing from one side to the other, and allows heat from one side to pass through to the other through the refrigerant circulation.

[0017] In this type of heat transfer, one of the two air conditioning panels 10 functions as an evaporator E, and the other functions as a condenser C. More specifically, the liquid refrigerant evaporates in the evaporator E due to heat from one side. As a result, the space S1 facing the air conditioning panel 10 on one side is cooled by the loss of heat from evaporation. Meanwhile, the evaporated refrigerant, or vapor refrigerant, reaches the condenser C through the first channel 31. In the condenser C, the vapor refrigerant liquefies into liquid refrigerant due to heat from the space S2 facing the other air conditioning panel 10. The heat of condensation released when the vapor refrigerant liquefies is discarded to the space S2 side. The liquefied liquid refrigerant then returns to the evaporator E through the second channel 32. Thus, the insulated panel 1 allows heat from one side to flow to the other side.

[0018] Here, at least one of the air conditioning panels 10 on the evaporator E side has a wick layer 14 formed on it (the panel 11 furthest from the condenser C) to promote the evaporation of the liquid refrigerant. The wick layer 14 draws up and holds the liquid refrigerant stored at the bottom of the evaporator E through capillary action. With such a wick layer 14, the evaporation area of ​​the evaporator E expands along the height direction, enabling efficient evaporation in the height direction.

[0019] In this embodiment, the air conditioning panel 10 has a large structure. Therefore, if the protrusions 13 are not welded to the opposing plate material 11 (protrusions 13), the tops of the protrusions 13 will shift, causing the air conditioning panel 10 to bend. As a result, it becomes difficult to use it in vertical surfaces, and its use as a building material becomes difficult.

[0020] Therefore, in this embodiment, the tops of the numerous protrusions 13 of the air conditioning panel 10 are welded together. Here, a wick layer 14 is formed on the air conditioning panel 10 on the evaporator E side, but in this embodiment, the wick layer 14 is formed so as to avoid the tops of the protrusions 13.

[0021] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view showing another example of the thermal insulation panel 1 according to the first embodiment. The thermal insulation panel 1 may have a structure that is long in one direction, for example, by connecting the panels shown in Figures 1 and 2. Here, the air conditioning panel 10 needs to be divided into predetermined size sections in order to allow refrigerant circulation. For this reason, in order to manufacture a long thermal insulation panel 1, it is necessary to divide the air conditioning panel 10 into sections of a certain size and weld them together. Such welded sections are called compartment forming sections 15. By dividing the thermal insulation panel 1 into sections of a certain size with compartment forming sections 15, it is possible to have a long structure in one direction while allowing refrigerant circulation. Note that compartment forming sections 15 are also formed in the thermal insulation panel 1 shown in Figures 1 and 2.

[0022] As described above, in order to manufacture the heat-insulating panel 1 (air conditioning panel 10), it is necessary to perform processing such as forming a number of protrusions 13 and forming partitioned sections 15. Furthermore, from the viewpoint of manufacturability, it is preferable to perform the processing using a mold having multiple layers while flowing N (N is an integer of 2 or more) sheets of plate material 11.

[0023] The following describes a sheet metal processing apparatus that performs such processing. Figure 4 is a configuration diagram showing a sheet metal processing apparatus according to the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 4, the sheet metal processing apparatus is configured to include a sheet metal supply unit (supplying means) 100, a multi-stage die 200, a drive unit (driving means) 300 that performs a press operation to generate a press stroke in the multi-stage die 200, and a synchronous moving unit (synchronous moving means) 400.

[0024] The sheet material supply unit 100 shown in Figure 4 is configured to have, for example, N (4) uncoilers. The coils wound around the N uncoilers form long sheets of sheet material 11. The N sheets of sheet material 11 are continuously supplied by being unwound from the uncoilers. In particular, the long sheets of sheet material 11 supplied from the sheet material supply unit 100 have a thickness of 0.8 mm or less. Although the sheet material supply unit 100 is equipped with four uncoilers, it is not limited to this, and it is sufficient to have two or more uncoilers.

[0025] The multi-stage die 200 processes N sheets of sheet metal 11 supplied by the sheet metal supply unit 100. Figure 5 is a perspective view showing an example of the multi-stage die 200 shown in Figure 4, where (a) shows the first state and (b) shows the second state. Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an example of the multi-stage die 200 shown in Figure 4, where (a) shows the state before pressing in the first state and (b) shows the state during pressing in the first state. Figure 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an example of the multi-stage die 200 shown in Figure 4, where (a) shows the state before pressing in the second state and (b) shows the state during pressing in the second state.

[0026] As shown in Figures 5 to 7, the multi-stage mold 200 has a structure with (N+1) stages in order to process N sheets of sheet metal 11. Hereafter, we will assume that N is "4".

[0027] The five-stage multi-stage mold 200 is arranged in the following order from bottom to top: first layer mold 201, second layer mold 202, third layer mold 203, fourth layer mold 204, and fifth layer mold 205. The first sheet material 11a is supplied between the first layer mold 201 and the second layer mold 202, and the second sheet material 11b is supplied between the second layer mold 202 and the third layer mold 203. In addition, the third sheet material 11c is supplied between the third layer mold 203 and the fourth layer mold 204, and the fourth sheet material 11d is supplied between the fourth layer mold 204 and the fifth layer mold 205.

[0028] Here, as shown in Figures 6 and 7, the multi-stage mold 200 includes a first processing section 210 that embosses (first processing) four sheet metals 11, a second processing section 220 adjacent to the first processing section 210 that performs trapezoidal processing (second processing) on ​​at least a portion of N sheet metals 11, and a shifting mechanism 230. More specifically, of the first to fifth layer molds 201 to 205, the supply side of the sheet metals 11 (hereinafter simply referred to as the supply side) constitutes the first processing section 210, and the discharge side of the sheet metals 11 (hereinafter simply referred to as the discharge side) constitutes the second processing section 220. Furthermore, the third layer mold 203 has a lower mold 203a, an upper mold 203b, and a fixed mold 203c. In the above, "adjacent" means that they are next to each other without any other processing sections interposed between them.

[0029] Furthermore, the shift mechanism 230 includes a wedge-shaped striker 231 and an air cylinder 232. The second processing section 220 shifts between a state in which the second processing is applied to at least some of the four sheet materials 11 and a state in which it is not applied, by shifting the state (position of the lower mold 203a and the upper mold 203b) using the shift mechanism 230. The details of the multi-stage mold 200 will be described below with reference to Figures 8 and 9, in addition to Figures 5 to 7.

[0030] Figures 8 and 9 are perspective views showing details of the multi-stage mold 200, where Figure 8(a) shows the first mold 201, Figure 8(b) shows the second mold 202, Figure 8(c) shows the lower mold 203a, and Figure 8(d) shows the wedge-shaped striker 231. Also, Figure 9(a) shows the upper mold 203b, Figure 9(b) shows the third mold 203, and Figure 9(c) shows the fourth mold 204.

[0031] First, the first processing section 210 will be described. The first processing section 210 is for forming a number of protrusions 13. Specifically, as shown in Figures 6, 7 and 8(a), the first layer mold 201 has a row of protrusions 211a on the supply side of its upper surface for forming a number of protrusions 13 on the first plate material 11a. Also, as shown in Figures 6, 7 and 9(b), similar rows of protrusions 213a1, 231a2, and 215a are formed on the lower and upper surfaces of the fixed mold 203c located on the supply side of the third mold 203, and on the lower surface of the supply side of the fifth mold 205.

[0032] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 6 and 7, the second layer mold 202 has a row of recesses 212b1 on the supply side of its lower surface that matches the shape of the row of protrusions 211a of the first layer mold 211. Also, as shown in Figures 6, 7, 8(b), and 9(c), similar rows of recesses 212b2, 214b1, and 214b2 are formed on the upper surface of the supply side of the second mold 202, and on the lower and upper surfaces of the supply side of the fourth mold 204.

[0033] With this configuration, the first processing unit 210 generates a press stroke in each stage (since the first layer die 201 is fixed, this applies to the second to fifth layer dies 202 to 205; the same applies hereafter) each time a press operation is generated by the drive unit 300, performing an embossing process that forms numerous protrusions 13 on the four sheet materials 11.

[0034] Next, the second processing section 220 will be described. The second processing section 220 is for forming the trapezoidal section that will become the partition forming section 15. Specifically, as shown in Figures 6, 7 and 9(a)(b), the upper mold 203b of the third layer mold 203 has a trapezoidal protrusion 223a2 on its upper surface that extends in the width direction. Also, as shown in Figures 6 and 7, the upper mold 203b of the third layer mold 203 has a similar trapezoidal protrusion 223a1 on its lower surface.

[0035] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 6, 7, and 8(b), the second layer mold 202 has a trapezoidal recess 222b on the discharge side of its upper surface that matches the shape of the trapezoidal protrusion 223a1. Also, as shown in Figures 6 and 7, the fourth layer mold 204 has a similar trapezoidal recess 224b formed on the discharge side of its lower surface.

[0036] With this configuration, the second processing unit 220 generates a press stroke in each stage each time a press operation is performed by the drive unit 300, forming trapezoidal portions on the second and third plate materials 11b and 11c for forming the welded portions that will become the partitioning sections 15. Although both plate materials 11 are processed into a trapezoid shape in the air conditioning panel 10 shown in Figures 1 to 3, as shown in Figures 5 to 9, only one of the plate materials 11 may be processed into a trapezoid shape.

[0037] As shown in Figure 9(c), the fourth layer mold 204 has a retractable section 214c on the discharge side of its upper surface, which is made up of numerous grooves. Because the fourth layer mold 204 has this retractable section 214c, the numerous protrusions 13 formed on the fourth plate material 11d can pass through without being crushed on the supply side. As shown in Figures 6 and 7, a similar retractable section 212c is formed on the discharge side of the lower surface of the second layer mold 202. Therefore, the numerous protrusions 13 formed on the first plate material 11a can also pass through without being crushed.

[0038] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 6, 7, and 8(c), the lower mold 203a of the third layer mold 203 has an inclined surface on its upper surface that is slightly downward toward the discharge side. Similarly, as shown in Figures 6, 7, and 9(a), the upper mold 203b of the third layer mold 203 has an inclined surface on its lower surface that is slightly upward toward the discharge side.

[0039] Furthermore, the wedge-shaped striker 231 is shaped to conform to such an inclined surface. The air cylinder 232 uses air to move the wedge-shaped striker 231 to the supply side or to the discharge side.

[0040] When the air cylinder 232 moves the wedge-shaped striker 231 toward the supply side, the lower mold 203a of the third layer mold 203 moves slightly downward, and the upper mold 203b of the third layer mold 203 moves slightly upward. As a result, the trapezoidal protrusions 223a1 and 223a2 protrude, and when a press stroke is generated by the press operation of the drive unit 300, trapezoidal portions are formed on the second and third plate materials 11b and 11c. This state is the first state shown in Figures 5(a) and 6.

[0041] On the other hand, when the air cylinder 232 moves the wedge-shaped striker 231 to the discharge side, the lower mold 203a of the third layer mold 203 moves slightly upward, and the upper mold 203b of the third layer mold 203 moves slightly downward. As a result, the trapezoidal protrusions 223a1 and 223a2 are retracted, and even if a press stroke is generated by the press operation of the drive unit 300, trapezoidal parts will not be formed on the second and third plate materials 11b and 11c. This state is the second state shown in Figures 5(b) and 7.

[0042] Furthermore, the multi-stage mold 200 also performs Z-folding on the sides. As shown in Figure 1, the air conditioning panel 10 has a Z-fold portion 16 formed on its side, and the multi-stage mold portion 200 also performs Z-folding to form the Z-fold portion 16. To explain in detail, as shown in Figure 8(b), the second layer mold 202 has a protruding step portion 212d formed to cause the entire row of recesses 212b2 to protrude toward the third layer mold 203. The protruding step portion 212d is formed at both ends in the width direction of the row of recesses 212b2. Although not shown in the figure, the third layer mold 203 also has a recessed step portion formed at a position corresponding to the row of recesses 212b2 to retract the row of protrusions 213a1 as a whole.

[0043] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 9(b), the third layer mold 203 has a recessed step portion 213d formed to retract the entire row of protrusions 213a2 towards the second layer mold 202. The recessed step portion 213d is formed at both ends in the width direction of the row of protrusions 213a2. Although not shown in the figure, the fourth layer mold 204 also has a protruding step portion formed at a position corresponding to the row of protrusions 213a2 to make the entire row of recesses 214b1 protrude.

[0044] Since the multi-stage mold 200 is equipped with such protruding steps 212d and recessed steps 213d, the Z-fold 16 can be formed in conjunction with the formation of numerous protrusions 13.

[0045] The synchronous movement unit 400 shown in Figure 4 reciprocates the multi-stage die 200 along the conveying direction. When the sheet metal 11 moves in the conveying direction, the synchronous movement unit 400 moves the multi-stage die 200 in synchronization with the conveying speed of the sheet metal 11. The multi-stage die 200 performs press working while being moved in synchronization with the conveying speed of the sheet metal 11. As a result, the multi-stage die 200 can perform press working on the sheet metal 11, which is being conveyed continuously, without having to convey the sheet metal 11 in a step-by-step manner, thereby further improving manufacturability.

[0046] Next, the operation of the sheet metal processing apparatus according to this embodiment will be described. First, the sheet metal supply unit 100 continuously supplies four sheets of sheet metal 11 to the multi-stage die 200 by feeding them out from four uncoilers. Next, the sheet metal processing apparatus controls the air cylinder 232 to move the wedge-shaped striker 231 to the supply side, putting the multi-stage die 200 into a first state. In this first state, the sheet metal processing apparatus generates a press operation using the drive unit 300, generating a press stroke in each stage of the multi-stage die 200. As a result, the first processing unit 210 forms numerous protrusions 13 on the first to fourth sheets 11a to 11d, and the second processing unit 220 forms trapezoidal portions on the second and third sheets 11b and 11c.

[0047] The sheet metal processing device then controls the air cylinder 232 to move the wedge-shaped striker 231 to the discharge side, putting the multi-stage die 200 into a second state. In this second state, the sheet metal processing device generates a press operation using the drive unit 300, generating a press stroke in each stage of the multi-stage die 200. As a result, the first processing unit 210 forms numerous protrusions 13 on the first to fourth sheet metals 11a to 11d. In the second state, the trapezoidal protrusions 223a1 and 223a2 of the second processing unit 220 are retracted, so no trapezoidal parts are formed on the second and third sheet metals 11b and 11c.

[0048] Thereafter, the sheet metal processing device, while remaining in the second state, sequentially generates press operations using the drive unit 300, forming numerous protrusions 13 on the first to fourth sheet metals 11a to 11d at predetermined pitches. Next, when the sheet metal 11 has been transported to a predetermined length, the sheet metal processing device controls the air cylinder 232 again to return the multi-stage mold 200 to the first state. Then, in the first state, the sheet metal processing device generates press operations using the drive unit 300, forming numerous protrusions 13 and trapezoidal sections. After that, the above operation is repeated. In this process, the sheet metal processing device controls the synchronous moving unit 400 to transport the sheet metal 11 while performing press processing.

[0049] As described above, the sheet metal processing apparatus according to this embodiment generates press strokes in the first processing section 210 and the second processing section 220 (preferably generating press strokes in the first processing section 210 and the second processing section 220 where the stroke amounts of each stage are the same). In particular, the sheet metal processing apparatus generates press strokes in the second processing section 220 regardless of whether the multi-stage die 200 is in the first or second state (preferably generating press strokes in the first and second states where the stroke amounts of each stage are the same). Here, as shown in Figure 22, if there is no need for specific processing of the sheet metal, and press strokes are generated in adjacent processing sections but not in specific processing sections, the horizontality of the pass line PL cannot be maintained. However, the sheet metal processing apparatus according to this embodiment does not have such differences and can improve the horizontality of the pass line PL.

[0050] In this way, according to the sheet metal processing apparatus of the first embodiment, the second processing section 220 can switch between a state in which trapezoidal processing is performed and a state in which it is not performed, and each time a press operation is generated by the drive unit 300, each stage of the multi-stage die 200 is subjected to a press stroke in the same manner as the first processing section 210. Therefore, even when trapezoidal processing is not required, a press stroke is generated in the second processing section 220 in the same manner as the first processing section 210, and the pass line PL is horizontalized even if the first processing section 210 and the second processing section 220 are adjacent to each other. Thus, it is possible to provide a sheet metal processing apparatus that can improve the horizontality of the pass line PL within the multi-stage die 200.

[0051] Next, a second embodiment will be described. The sheet metal processing apparatus according to the second embodiment is similar to that of the first embodiment, but some configurations and other aspects differ. The following description will focus on the differences from the first embodiment.

[0052] Figure 10 is a configuration diagram showing a sheet metal processing apparatus according to the second embodiment. As shown in Figure 10, the sheet metal processing apparatus further includes a distance adjustment unit (distance adjustment means) 500. The multi-stage die 600 is configured to include a first processing unit 610, a second processing unit 620, and a shifting mechanism 630, in addition to a connecting member 640. The distance adjustment unit 500 adjusts the distance between the first processing unit 610 and the second processing unit 620. The connecting member 640 is a member that connects the first processing unit 610 and the second processing unit 620.

[0053] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the transition mechanism 630 is configured to mechanically transition the second processing section 620 between a first state in which trapezoidal processing is performed and a second state in which it is not performed. In other words, it is configured not to include any electrical means that utilize air pressure, such as the air cylinder 232. In addition, the transition mechanism 630 is configured to transition between the first state in which trapezoidal processing is performed and the second state in which it is not performed by the connecting member 640 acting on the distance adjustment unit 500. This will be explained in detail below.

[0054] Figure 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an example of the multi-stage die 600 shown in Figure 10. Figure 11(a) shows the state before pressing in the first state, and Figure 11(b) shows a part of (a). Figure 11(c) shows the state during pressing in the first state, and Figure 11(d) shows a part of (c). Figure 12 is a perspective view showing an example of the multi-stage die 600 shown in Figure 10.

[0055] As shown in Figures 11 and 12, the multi-stage mold 600 has a five-stage configuration, similar to the first embodiment, but the first processing section 610 is the first die set and the second processing section 620 is the second die set, and the two are spaced apart. The first processing section 610 and the second processing section 620 generate a press stroke simultaneously by the press operation of the drive unit 300.

[0056] The first processing section 610 is located on the discharge side of the second processing section 620. The upper surface of the first layer mold 611 of the first processing section 610, the lower and upper surfaces of the third layer mold 613, and the lower surface of the fifth layer mold 615 each have rows of protrusions 611a, 613a1, 613a2, and 615a formed to create a number of protrusions 13.

[0057] Furthermore, in the first processing section 610, recessed rows 612b1, 612b2, 614b1, and 614b2 are formed on the lower and upper surfaces of the second layer mold 612, and on the lower and upper surfaces of the fourth layer mold 614, at positions opposite to the convex rows 611a, 613a1, 613a2, and 615a, respectively, matching the shapes of the convex rows 611a, 613a1, 613a2, and 615a.

[0058] Therefore, the first processing unit 610 performs embossing on the four sheet materials 11 by generating a press stroke in each stage each time a press operation is performed by the drive unit 300, thereby forming numerous protrusions 13.

[0059] Furthermore, the third layer mold 623 of the second processing section 620 is equipped with a rotating shaft 623a and a cam pin 623b. The connecting member 640 is a plate material with one end on the discharge side fixedly attached to the third layer mold 613 of the first processing section 610. This connecting member 640 has an elongated hole 641 extending in the conveying direction of the plate material 11 and a cam groove 642 that curves upward with respect to the conveying direction.

[0060] In the second embodiment, the third layer mold 623 is rotatable around the rotation axis 623a with the rotation axis 623a fitted into the elongated hole 641 of the connecting member 640. Furthermore, the cam pin 623b of the third layer mold 623 is fitted into the cam groove 642. In addition, the third layer mold 623 is formed in a substantially octagonal shape when viewed in cross-section, and trapezoidal protrusions 623c1 and 623c2 are formed on two opposing surfaces. All other surfaces of the third layer mold 623 are flat.

[0061] When the distance between the first processing section 610 and the second processing section 620 of the third layer die 623 is shortened by the distance adjustment section 500, the trapezoidal protrusions 623c1 and 623c2 are oriented vertically by the cam mechanism of the cam groove 642 and the cam pin 623b. In addition, trapezoidal recesses 622d and 624d are formed on the upper surface of the second layer die 622 and the lower surface of the fourth layer die 624. Therefore, in this state (first state), each time a press operation is generated by the drive unit 300 in the second processing section 620, a press stroke is generated in each stage, performing trapezoidal processing on the second and third sheet materials 11b and 11c.

[0062] On the other hand, when the distance between the first processing section 610 and the second processing section 620 of the third layer mold 623 is increased by the distance adjustment section 500, the trapezoidal protrusions 623c1 and 623c2 of the surface are oriented in the conveying direction by the cam mechanism of the cam groove 642 and the cam pin 623b. As a result, the second processing section 620 generates a press stroke in each stage each time a press operation occurs by the drive unit 300, but the second and third plate materials 11b and 11c are not subjected to trapezoidal processing, resulting in a second state.

[0063] In the second embodiment, the upper surface of the first layer mold 621, the lower surface of the second layer mold 622, the upper surface of the fourth layer mold 624, and the lower surface of the fifth layer mold 625 are flat without any protrusions or the like. Therefore, although the sheet material 11 is not pressed, a press stroke is generated and flattening is performed.

[0064] Figure 13 is a perspective view showing details of the synchronous movement unit 400 and the distance adjustment unit 500 shown in Figure 10. As shown in Figure 13, in the second embodiment, the synchronous movement unit 400 and the distance adjustment unit 500 are integrated. First, the distance adjustment unit 500 includes a linear gear unit 510 formed extending in the conveying direction of the plate material 11, a worm gear (rotationally passive unit) 520 whose teeth match those of the linear gear unit 510, and a motor unit (rotationally driven unit) 530 that rotationally drives the worm gear 520. The worm gear 520 includes a connecting unit 521 connected to the second processing unit 620. Furthermore, the worm gear 520 employs a ball spline structure on its rotational axis 522. For this reason, the motor unit 530 and the worm gear 520 are connected in a way that allows rotational transmission and linear sliding.

[0065] Furthermore, the linear gear section 510 is equipped with a connecting section 511 that is connected to the first machining section 610. Therefore, when the motor section 530 rotates the worm gear 520, the worm gear 520 moves on the linear gear section 510. Here, since the first machining section 610 is connected to the linear gear section 510 and the second machining section 620 is connected to the worm gear 520, the distance between the first machining section 610 and the second machining section 620 is adjusted as the worm gear 520 moves on the linear gear section 510.

[0066] Furthermore, the synchronous moving unit 400 includes a pinion gear 410 whose teeth mesh with the linear gear unit 510, and a motor unit 420 that rotationally drives the pinion gear 410. As a result, when the motor unit 420 rotationally drives the pinion gear 410, the linear gear unit 510 functions as a so-called rack gear, changing its position. Thus, the synchronous moving unit 400 can move both the first processing unit 610 connected to the linear gear unit 510 and the second processing unit 620 connected to the linear gear unit 510 via the worm gear 520 by the motor unit 420 rotating the pinion gear 410. By moving both units in accordance with the conveying speed of the sheet metal 11, the sheet metal processing device can perform press processing while conveying the sheet metal 11. As a result, the sheet metal processing device does not need to transport the sheet metal 11 in a step-by-step manner, and can press-work the sheet metal 11 as it is transported continuously, thereby further improving manufacturability.

[0067] Note that the synchronous movement unit 400 and the distance adjustment unit 500 are not limited to the configuration shown in Figure 13. For example, the rotating shaft 522 may be made of a spline shaft, enabling both rotational transmission and linear sliding. In this case, the worm gear 520 will have an inner surface that matches the shape of the spline shaft.

[0068] Alternatively, two bevel gears and a spur gear may be used instead of the worm gear 520. In this case, the first bevel gear is configured to slide linearly and is rotated by the motor unit 530. The second bevel gear has a 90° angle and meshes with the first bevel gear, rotating in conjunction with the rotation of the first bevel gear. The spur gear is mounted on the second bevel gear so as to rotate in the same way as the second bevel gear. The spur gear also meshes with the linear gear 510.

[0069] Furthermore, although the synchronous movement unit 400 includes a pinion gear 410 and a motor unit 420, it may be instead configured with a linear gear unit 510 that moves in its linear direction using a cylinder (such as a linear servo cylinder, air cylinder, or hydraulic cylinder).

[0070] Alternatively, a ball screw may be used instead of the linear gear section 510, and the screw shaft may be moved linearly in the axial direction by rotating the nut. In this case, a first ball nut connected to the first machining section 610 and a second ball nut connected to the second machining section 620 are attached to the ball screw. The motor section 420 directly rotates the ball screw. As a result, the first ball nut and the second ball nut move simultaneously. Meanwhile, the first ball nut is given rotational force by the motor section 530. Specifically, instead of the worm gear 520, a pulley that rotates while sliding linearly by the motor section 530 is provided, and a belt is wrapped around the pulley and the first ball nut. As a result, only the first ball nut can be moved relative to the ball screw by the drive of the motor section 530.

[0071] Furthermore, instead of the pulley described above, a first linearly sliding spur gear may be used, and a second spur gear may also be provided on the first ball nut, with these spur gears meshing together, thus eliminating the belt.

[0072] In addition, a ball screw spline structure combining a ball spline structure and a ball screw may be used. In this case, instead of the pinion gear 410 and motor section 420 of the synchronous movement section 400, a motor section that drives the ball screw nut of the ball screw spline may be provided to synchronously move the ball screw spline instead of the linear gear section 510, and a spline outer cylinder that can slide linearly relative to it may be provided instead of the worm gear 520, and a motor section that drives it may be provided instead of the motor section 530.

[0073] Next, the operation of the sheet metal processing apparatus according to this embodiment will be described. First, the sheet metal supply unit 100 continuously supplies four sheets of sheet metal 11 to the multi-stage die 600 by feeding them out from four uncoilers. Next, the sheet metal processing apparatus controls the distance adjustment unit 500 to shorten the distance between the first processing unit 610 and the second processing unit 620. This rotates the third layer die 623 of the second processing unit 620 so that the trapezoidal protrusions 623c1 and 623c2 face up and down. As a result, the sheet metal processing apparatus puts the multi-stage die 600 into the first state.

[0074] Then, in this first state, the sheet metal processing apparatus generates a press operation using the drive unit 300, generating a press stroke in each stage of the multi-stage die 600. As a result, the first processing unit 610 forms numerous protrusions 13 on the first to fourth sheet metals 11a to 11d, and the second processing unit 620 forms trapezoidal sections on the second and third sheet metals 11b and 11c.

[0075] Subsequently, the sheet metal processing device controls the distance adjustment unit 500 to increase the distance between the first processing unit 610 and the second processing unit 620. This rotates the third layer mold 623 of the second processing unit 620 so that the trapezoidal protrusions 623c1 and 623c2 face the conveying direction, and the sheet metal processing device puts the multi-stage mold 600 into the second state.

[0076] Furthermore, in this second state, the sheet metal processing apparatus generates a press action using the drive unit 300, creating a press stroke in each stage of the multi-stage die 200. As a result, the first processing unit 210 forms numerous protrusions 13 on the first to fourth sheet metals 11a to 11d. Also, in the second state, although the second processing unit 220 generates a press stroke in each stage, it does not form trapezoidal sections on the second and third sheet metals 11b and 11c.

[0077] Thereafter, the sheet metal processing device, while remaining in the second state, sequentially generates press operations using the drive unit 300, forming numerous protrusions 13 on the first to fourth sheet metals 11a to 11d at predetermined pitches. Next, when the sheet metal 11 has been transported to a predetermined length, the sheet metal processing device controls the distance adjustment unit 500 again to return the multi-stage die 600 to the first state. Then, in the first state, the sheet metal processing device generates press operations using the drive unit 300, forming numerous protrusions 13 and trapezoidal sections. After that, the above operation is repeated. In this process, the sheet metal processing device controls the synchronous movement unit 400 to transport the sheet metal 11 while performing press processing.

[0078] Here, the sheet metal processing apparatus according to the second embodiment also generates a press stroke in the first processing section 210 and the second processing section 220. In particular, the second processing section 220 generates a press stroke whether the multi-stage die 200 is in the first state or the second state. Therefore, processing sections where a press stroke is generated and processing sections where it is not generated are not adjacent to each other, and the horizontality of the pass line PL can be improved.

[0079] In this way, the sheet metal processing apparatus according to the second embodiment provides a sheet metal processing apparatus that, similar to the first embodiment, can improve the horizontality of the pass line PL within the multi-stage mold 600.

[0080] Furthermore, according to the second embodiment, the connecting member 640 acts by adjusting the distance between the first processing section 610 and the second processing section 620 to switch between a state in which trapezoidal processing is performed and a state in which it is not. Here, the distance adjustment section 500 only needs to operate the entire first processing section 610 and the second processing section 620, for example, so it is possible to position them in a location that is less affected by vibration, such as near the lower ends of the first processing section 610 and the second processing section 620. On the other hand, the connecting member 640 and the transition mechanism 630 are positioned in a location that is susceptible to vibration, but since they are composed of mechanical mechanisms, it is possible to make the state transition between the state in which the second processing is performed and the state in which it is not performed more resistant to vibration compared to the case where electrical means requiring electrical wiring etc. are used.Therefore, it is possible to provide a plate material processing apparatus that is relatively resistant to vibration in terms of state transition.

[0081] Here, when adjusting the distance between the first processing section 610 and the second processing section 620 and synchronizing them with the sheet metal speed, it is conceivable to operate the first processing section 610 and the second processing section 620 separately. However, in this case, it is necessary to synchronize both with the sheet metal speed and control the distance between them, which is difficult as it requires simultaneous and efficient control of both. Therefore, synchronization with the sheet metal speed is controlled by operating the entire multi-stage mold 600 using the synchronous movement section 400, and the distance between them is controlled by the distance adjustment section 500, thereby simplifying these processes. Furthermore, when such a configuration is adopted, the motor section 530 of the distance adjustment section 500 slides linearly relative to the worm gear 520, so it can be fixed in place without being moved by the operation of the synchronous movement section 400, thereby improving reliability and preventing premature failures.

[0082] Next, a third embodiment will be described. The sheet metal processing apparatus according to the third embodiment is similar to that of the second embodiment, but some configurations differ. The following description will focus on the differences from the second embodiment.

[0083] Figure 14 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a multi-stage die for a sheet metal processing apparatus according to the third embodiment, where (a) shows the first state and (b) shows the second state. As shown in Figure 14, the multi-stage die 700 according to the third embodiment also has a first processing section 710 and a second processing section 720 that are separated, and each is configured to include a first layer die 711, 721, a second layer die 712, 722, a third layer die 713, 723, a fourth layer die 714, 724, and a fifth layer die 715, 725. Furthermore, the synchronous movement section 400 and the distance adjustment section 500 are the same as in the second embodiment.

[0084] The third layer mold 723 of the second processing unit 720 comprises a lower mold 723a, an upper mold 723b, and a fixed mold 723c. The connecting member 740 has one end on the discharge side attached to the third layer mold 713 of the first processing unit 710, and the other end on the supply side is embedded between the lower mold 723a and the upper mold 723b. The connecting member 740 has a wedge shape that tapers towards the supply side. The upper surface of the lower mold 723a and the lower surface of the upper mold 723b are inclined surfaces that follow this wedge shape. Therefore, in the third embodiment, the connecting member 740 also serves as a mechanical transfer mechanism.

[0085] Figures 15 to 21 are perspective views showing the multi-stage mold 700 shown in Figure 14. Figure 15 shows the space between the first layer molds 711, 721 and the second layer molds 712, 722. Figure 16 shows the space between the second layer molds 712, 722 and the third layer molds 713, 723. Figure 17 shows the space between the second layer molds 712, 722 and the lower mold 723a and the third layer mold 713, the fixed mold 723c and the connecting member 740. Figure 18 shows the space between the second layer mold 712, the fixed mold 723c and the lower mold 723a and the third layer mold 713, the fourth layer mold 724 and the connecting member 740. Figure 19 shows the space between the third layer mold 713, fixed mold 723c, and connecting member 740 and the fourth layer molds 714, 724 and upper mold 723b, while Figure 20 shows the space between the third layer molds 713, 723 and the fourth layer molds 714, 724. Figure 21 shows the space between the fourth layer molds 714, 724 and the fifth layer molds 715, 725.

[0086] As shown in Figures 14 to 21, two rows of protrusions 711a, 713a1, 713a2, and 715a are formed on the upper surface of the first layer die 711, the lower and upper surfaces of the third layer die 713, and the lower surface of the fifth layer die 715, aligned in the direction of supplying the sheet material 11. Furthermore, two rows of recesses 712b1, 712b2, 714b1, and 714b2 are formed on the lower and upper surfaces of the second layer die 712 and the fourth layer die 714, located opposite these positions, aligned in the direction of supplying the sheet material 11. Therefore, the first processing unit 710 performs embossing, creating numerous protrusions 13 on the four sheet materials 11 by generating a press stroke in each stage each time a press operation is generated by the drive unit 300.

[0087] Furthermore, the second processing section 720 includes a trapezoidal processing section 720a and a flow channel opening section 720b. As shown in Figures 14, 16, and 20, the trapezoidal processing section 720a has a downwardly convex trapezoidal protrusion 723d1 on the lower surface of the lower mold 723a and an upwardly convex trapezoidal protrusion 723d2 on the upper surface of the upper mold 723b. In addition, the upper surface of the second layer mold 722 and the lower surface of the fourth layer mold 724 have trapezoidal recesses 722e and 724e at positions opposite to the respective trapezoidal protrusions 723d1 and 723d2.

[0088] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 14(a), when the distance between the first processing section 710 and the second processing section 720 decreases, the amount of biting into the tip side of the connecting member 740 increases, causing the lower mold 723a of the third layer mold 723 to move slightly downward and the upper mold 723b to move slightly upward. As a result, the multi-stage mold 700 enters the first state, and the second processing section 720 generates a press stroke in each stage each time a press operation is performed by the drive unit 300, thereby performing trapezoidal processing on the second and third plate materials 11b and 11c.

[0089] On the other hand, as shown in Figure 14(b), as the distance between the first processing section 710 and the second processing section 720 increases, the amount of biting into the tip side of the connecting member 740 decreases, causing the lower mold 723a of the third layer mold 723 to move slightly upward and the upper mold 723b to move slightly downward. As a result, the multi-stage mold 700 enters the second state, and although the second processing section 720 generates a press stroke in each stage each time a press operation is performed by the drive unit 300, trapezoidal processing is not applied to the second and third plate materials 11b and 11c.

[0090] Furthermore, the flow path opening section 720b is provided with a hole for connecting the flow path 30 between the air conditioning panels 10. The hole is formed by cutting out, for example, a rectangular shape adjacent to the partition forming section 15.

[0091] As shown in Figures 16 and 20, the flow channel opening section 720b has cutout protrusions 723f and 724f on the lower surfaces of the lower mold 723a of the third layer mold 723 and the fourth layer mold 724, respectively, for forming holes. In addition, the upper surfaces of the upper mold 723b of the second layer mold 722 and the third layer mold 723b, which face the cutout protrusions 723f and 724f, are provided with member receiving sections 722g and 723g for discarding the cutout members. Here, the cutout protrusions 723f and 724f and the member receiving sections 722g and 723g are not continuous in the width direction of the plate material 11 but are scattered. As a result, of the four long plate materials 11, the second plate material 11b and the third plate material 11c have holes formed in positions adjacent to the partition forming section 15. The waste from the hollowed-out boards 11 is discharged from the board waste outlets 722h and 723h.

[0092] Furthermore, the operation of the sheet metal processing apparatus according to the third embodiment is substantially the same as that of the second embodiment.

[0093] In this way, the sheet metal processing apparatus according to the third embodiment provides a sheet metal processing apparatus that, similar to the second embodiment, can improve the horizontality of the pass line PL within the multi-stage mold 700. Furthermore, it is possible to provide a sheet metal processing apparatus that is relatively resistant to vibrations in terms of state changes. Moreover, it is possible to facilitate synchronous movement and distance adjustment, and to improve reliability so as not to cause premature failures.

[0094] Although the present invention has been described above based on embodiments, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. Furthermore, technologies from different embodiments may be combined, or known or well-known technologies may be combined to the extent possible.

[0095] For example, in the above embodiment, the flow path 30 is separate for the vapor refrigerant and the liquid refrigerant, but it is not limited to separate flow paths; it may be a common flow path through which both vapor refrigerant and liquid refrigerant can flow. Furthermore, it is preferable that the flow path 30 be equipped with a check valve, a temperature-sensing valve, etc., as needed.

[0096] Furthermore, although the air conditioning panel 10 has a number of protrusions 13 in the above embodiment, it is not limited to this, and the above manufacturing apparatus may not have a number of protrusions 13, for example, when the size of the air conditioning panel 10 is small, or the protrusions 13 may not be welded.

[0097] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the first processing sections 210, 610, and 710 form a number of protrusions 13, but are not limited to forming a number of protrusions 13. Similarly, the second processing sections 220, 620, and 720 are subjected to trapezoidal processing, but are not limited to being subjected to trapezoidal processing.

[0098] Furthermore, although the above example describes the direction of the press operation by the drive unit 300 as moving from top to bottom, it is not limited to this and may be in the opposite direction. In this case, the fifth layer molds 205, 615, 625, 715, and 725 will be fixed, and press strokes will occur in the other stages. Alternatively, the drive unit 300 may press by clamping from above and below. In this case, press strokes will occur in the stages other than the third layer molds 203, 613, 623, 713, and 723. Therefore, the third layer molds 203, 613, 623, 713, and 723 can be kept in a nearly fixed state, making it easier to guarantee the operability of the transfer mechanisms 230, 630, and 740. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0099] 1: Insulation panel 10: Air conditioning panel 11: Plate material 100: Plate material supply section (supply means) 200, 600, 700: Multi-stage mold 210,610,710: 1st processing section 220,620,720: 2nd processing section 230,630:Transition mechanism 300: Drive unit (driving means) 400: Synchronized movement unit (synchronized movement means) 500: Distance adjustment section (distance adjustment means) 520: Worm gear (rotating passive part) 530: Motor section (rotation drive section) 640: Connecting member 740: Connecting member (transfer mechanism) PL: Passline

Claims

1. A supply means for continuously supplying N long sheets of material (where N is an integer of 2 or more), A multi-stage mold having (N+1) layers for processing the N sheets of plate material supplied by the supply means, The system includes a drive means for generating a press operation for the multi-stage mold, The multi-stage mold has a first processing section for performing a first processing on the N sheet materials, and a second processing section adjacent to the first processing section for performing a second processing on at least a portion of the N sheet materials. The first processing unit generates a press stroke in the multi-stage die each time a press operation is performed by the drive means, thereby performing the first processing on at least a portion of the N sheet materials. The second processing unit is capable of transitioning between a state in which the press stroke is generated in the multi-stage die each time a press operation is performed by the drive means, thereby performing the second processing on at least some of the N sheet materials, and a state in which the press stroke is generated but the second processing is not performed. A sheet metal processing apparatus characterized by the following features.

2. The system further includes distance adjustment means for adjusting the distance between the first processing section and the second processing section, The multi-stage mold comprises a connecting member that connects the first processing section and the second processing section, and a transition mechanism that mechanically switches between a state in which the second processing is performed and a state in which the second processing is not performed on the second processing section. The transition mechanism causes the connecting member to act on the distance adjustment means to transition between a state in which the second processing is performed and a state in which it is not performed. The sheet metal processing apparatus according to feature 1.

3. The entire multi-stage mold is further provided with a synchronous moving means capable of operating in the direction of conveying the sheet material, synchronized with the speed of the sheet material. The distance adjustment means comprises a rotary passive unit connected to one of the first machining section and the second machining section, and a rotary drive unit that rotationally drives the rotary passive unit. The rotary drive unit operates the rotary passive unit to adjust the distance between the first machining section and the second machining section. The rotary drive unit and the rotary passive unit are connected in a manner that allows rotational transmission and linear sliding, so that the rotary passive unit is moved by the synchronous moving means, while the rotary drive unit remains fixed. The sheet metal processing apparatus according to feature 2.

Images