Apparatus and method for processing metal rolling stock, and production line

Abstract

The invention relates to an apparatus (1) for processing metal rolling stock (2), having a rolling section (4) along which the metal rolling stock can be rolled and having rolling devices (12), each of which comprises a rolling element (12A) for rolling edges (2A) of the metal rolling stock, the apparatus comprising an angle-adjustment unit (16) for adjusting the rolling devices along a curved track (18) around the longitudinal extent (4A) of the rolling section and / or comprising a linear drive unit (40) for translationally advancing the metal rolling stock in relation to the rolling devices, in particular for traversely advancing the metal rolling stock.

Description

[0001] Page 1 / 42

[0002] Applicant: SMS group GmbH

[0003] Our reference number: P81089WO

[0004] September 23, 2024

[0005] Device and method for processing a metallic rolled material and production line

[0006] The invention relates to a device for processing a metallic rolled material with a rolling section on which the metallic rolled material can be rolled, and with rolling devices comprising a rolling element for rolling rolled material edges of the metallic rolled material.

[0007] The invention further relates to a production line for the manufacture and / or processing of a metallic rolled product, in particular a semi-finished product and / or a pre-product and / or an intermediate product and / or a product made of ferrous, steel and / or a non-ferrous metal material, with a conveying section along which the metallic rolled product is conveyed, and with devices for processing the metallic rolled product.

[0008] The invention further relates to a method for processing a metallic rolled material on a rolling mill, in which the metallic rolled material and / or rolling elements are moved relative to each other for processing on the rolling mill and the metallic rolled material is rolled at its rolled material edges by the rolling elements.

[0009] Specifically, devices of this type for processing rolled metal are known from the prior art, in particular for rolling the edges of rolled material. Page 2 / 42

[0010] P81089WO

[0011] For example, from EP 0 654 310 Al an edge rolling device for rolling the edges of a metallic rolled product, in particular a slab, is known, in which rolling elements for rolling the edges of the rolled product can be moved translationally towards or away from the metallic rolled product.

[0012] The invention is based on the objective of providing an improvement or an alternative to the prior art.

[0013] The object of the invention is solved by a device for processing a metallic rolled material with a rolling section on which the metallic rolled material can be rolled, and with rolling devices comprising a rolling element for rolling the edges of the metallic rolled material, comprising:

[0014] • an angle adjustment unit for adjusting the rolling equipment along a curved track around the longitudinal extent of the rolling section, and / or

[0015] • a linear drive unit for translational driving of the metallic rolled material relative to the rolling equipment, in particular for traversing driving of the metallic rolled material.

[0016] The device proposed here allows for a particularly diverse range of shaping and forming of the rolled edges of the metallic rolled material.

[0017] On the one hand, the proposed angle adjustment unit on the device significantly increases the freedom of movement and thus also the adjustment options of the rolling devices. Page 3 / 42

[0018] P81089WO

[0019] In particular, due to the angle adjustment unit, the rolling devices can not only be moved with a translational approach movement on the rolling track and relative to the metallic rolling material, but also cumulatively or alternatively with a pivoting movement around the longitudinal extent of the rolling track.

[0020] On the other hand, the freedom of movement of the rolling devices can also be significantly increased with the proposed linear drive unit.

[0021] In particular, due to the additional linear drive unit, the rolling devices can be designed with smaller motor drives to drive the metallic rolling material or preferably be completely drive-free, which allows the rolling devices to be moved much further relative to the rolling track and thus also relative to the metallic rolling material, especially relative to the edges of the rolling material.

[0022] Therefore, the roller elements can also be driven rotaryally by their own motor drives to propel the metallic material being rolled, so that the metallic material can be moved exclusively by motor-driven roller elements during rolling. Preferably, motor drives for the roller elements can be completely dispensed with, so that the individual rolling units can be arranged particularly compactly and thus be positioned in a particularly versatile manner on the device.

[0023] Alternatively or cumulatively, during rolling, the rolling equipment can also be moved translationally relative to the metallic material being rolled along the rolling path, while the metallic material is either not moved at all or is additionally moved relative to the rolling equipment, preferably in the opposite direction to the rolling equipment. Page 4 / 42

[0024] P81089WO

[0025] If the rolling devices used for rolling material edges are to be translationally movable along the rolling path, it is advantageous if the device has a corresponding movement device for this purpose. This movement device advantageously has a movement support and a support drive, by means of which the rolling devices are mounted together or individually so as to be movable along the rolling path.

[0026] The present invention allows chamfer angles on the rolled material edges of metallic rolled stock to be set almost arbitrarily, particularly during the operation of the present device while the metallic rolled stock is continuously or traversingly conveyed or moved along the rolling line. Previous devices of this type only offer the possibility of a fixed chamfer angle.

[0027] In the present case, different edge profiles can now be selected with regard to the rolled material edges of the metallic rolled material, in particular chamfer geometries in different sizes, radii, positions or the like.

[0028] In any case, the present invention can also significantly reduce the formation of undesirable indentation depths (alligator formation) on the longitudinal sides of the metallic rolled material.

[0029] This also significantly reduces the proportion of "edge scrap" after rolling the metallic rolled material, which is particularly advantageous in thick plate or heavy plate applications.

[0030] Advantageously, the device is thus designed to produce different chamfer geometries on the rolled material edges of the metallic rolled material, especially also in the rolling process. Page 5 / 42

[0031] P81089WO drove the device, for example when the metallic rolled material is moved traversing relative to the roller elements.

[0032] In this case, chamfers, chamfer geometries, edge profiles or the like can be completely re-rolled on the edges of the metallic rolled material, or factory-cast rolled material edges with already pronounced chamfer geometries can be reworked by rolling.

[0033] For the purposes of this invention, the term "metallic rolled material" describes any metallic rolled strips, slabs, billets, heavy plates, thick plates or the like.

[0034] The term "rolling section" here describes a section of a conveyor line along which the metallic rolled material is conveyed, wherein the section is characterized in particular by the fact that one or more rolling devices of the apparatus, especially for rolling the edges of the rolled material, are arranged there. In particular, the section can be that section of the conveyor line along which the metallic rolled material and / or the rolling devices can be moved traversing relative to each other for rolling.

[0035] Furthermore, it should be noted that, within the scope of the present patent application, indefinite articles and indefinite numerical indications such as "one...", "two...", etc., are generally to be understood as minimum indications, i.e., as "at least one...", "at least two...", etc., unless it is clear from the context or the specific text of a particular passage that only "exactly one...", "exactly two...", etc., is meant there.

[0036] It should also be mentioned at this point that, within the context of the present patent application, the expression "in particular" is always to be understood as meaning an optional, but... Page 6 / 42

[0037] P81089WO is introduced as a preferred feature. The expression is not to be understood as "namely" or "indeed".

[0038] Any chamfers on the rolled edges of the metallic rolled material can be adjusted over a sufficiently large range if the angle adjustment unit has an angle adjustment range of greater than or equal to 10°, preferably greater than or equal to 20° and particularly preferably greater than or equal to 35°.

[0039] The angle adjustment unit can still be implemented in a sufficiently compact manner on the present device if the angle adjustment unit has an angle adjustment range of less than or equal to 90°, preferably less than or equal to 70° and particularly preferably less than or equal to 60°.

[0040] In accordance with the invention, the angle adjustment range is preferably measured between two end positions of the angle adjustment unit, between which the respective roller device can be moved.

[0041] The two end positions are arranged opposite each other on the curved track, with the angle adjustment range located between these two end positions.

[0042] Thus, the angle adjustment range runs in an arc shape along the curved path, in particular along a circular path, around the longitudinal extent of the rolling section.

[0043] The angle adjustment unit can be constructed in a variety of ways on the device.

[0044] It is particularly advantageous if the angle adjustment unit has, on the one hand, a stator part which is fixedly arranged relative to the rolling section, and on the other hand, at least one actuator part which is movable relative to the rolling section. Page 7 / 42

[0045] P81089WO

[0046] The stator part allows the curved track to be defined and provided on the present device.

[0047] The stator section can also reliably absorb even larger rolling forces that occur when rolling the edges of the material being rolled.

[0048] This allows at least one actuator part to be guided precisely along the rolling track and thus also in relation to the metallic rolling material.

[0049] At least one actuator part includes the actual roller assembly with the rotatable roller element.

[0050] If the rolling devices are to be translationally movable along the rolling path for rolling the edges of the rolled material, the entire stator part can also be mounted in a translationally movable manner along the rolling path.

[0051] Furthermore, it is advantageous for guiding at least one actuator part if the stator part has at least one guide element for providing the cam track.

[0052] For example, a curved track can be implemented using a gear arrangement. A suitable gear arrangement could include, for instance, a linkage gear or the like.

[0053] In particular, rolling forces occurring during the rolling of rolled material edges can be very well transmitted by the respective rolling device to the at least one guide element of the stator if the at least one guide element has an inner guide surface facing the rolling path.

[0054] Rolling forces, in particular, can be transmitted from at least one actuator part to the stator part with exceptional reliability if page 8 / 42

[0055] P81089WO has at least one guide element with a guide groove for receiving a guide piece of the rolling device.

[0056] In addition, at least one actuator part can be held in the guide groove in a particularly secure manner on the stator part.

[0057] The guide piece of the rolling device can project into the guide groove of the stator part as a cantilevered material projection of the rolling device or the actuator part.

[0058] For example, the guide piece is designed as a slide element of the rolling device or of the actuator part, wherein the slide element can be moved along the guide groove in order to be able to move the actuator part in a defined manner along the stator part, in particular along the at least one guide element of the stator part.

[0059] An interaction between the at least one actuator part and the stator part can take place in different ways, for example by means of a rolling bearing or similar.

[0060] It has been found that sliding surfaces can be used to guide at least one actuator part on the stator part with particular precision.

[0061] In this context, it is advantageous if the guide piece of the rolling device has at least one guide surface that is complementary to a curved surface of the curved track.

[0062] In order for the actuator part or a corresponding guide piece of the rolling device to be advantageously supported on an inner guide surface of the stator part facing the rolling section, it is expedient if the guide piece has a convexly curved guide surface. Page 9 / 42

[0063] P81089WO

[0064] The guide groove described above can be implemented in a particularly simple and robust manner with either an inner guide surface or an outer guide surface, provided that at least one guide element has an inner track element and an outer track element.

[0065] If the inner track element and the outer track element are arranged concentrically spaced apart from each other, each track element can be designed in a ring shape to absorb rolling forces independently of each other.

[0066] In particular, if an inner track element and an outer track element are present on the at least one guide element of the stator part, it is especially advantageous if the guide piece of the rolling device has a concavely curved guide surface in addition to the convexly curved guide surface.

[0067] These two guide surfaces of the guide piece are located opposite each other on opposite sides of the guide piece.

[0068] Preferably, the convex curved guide surface and the concave curved guide surface are arranged opposite each other on the guide piece.

[0069] This allows the convexly curved guide surface to interact with the inner guide surface of the at least one guide element, while the concavely curved guide surface can interact with the outer guide surface of the at least one guide element.

[0070] The mounting and guidance of at least one actuator part on the stator part can be significantly improved if the at least one guide element has a lateral guide surface for guiding the at least one actuator part laterally. Page 10 / 42

[0071] P81089WO

[0072] While the inner and outer guide surfaces can support, hold and guide the at least one actuator part, especially transversely to the rolling section, the side guide surfaces can additionally support, hold and guide the at least one actuator part in the longitudinal extension of the rolling section.

[0073] It is advantageous if the respective side guide surface is arranged at an angle to the curved track.

[0074] Preferably, the lateral guide surface is arranged at right angles to the curved track.

[0075] This allows the design of the stator part and at least one actuator part to be simplified.

[0076] Preferably, the stator section has at least two guide elements arranged one behind the other along the rolling section, between which the at least one actuator section or the corresponding rolling device is arranged. Such an arrangement allows the stator section and actuator section to interact with each other in a particularly reliable manner.

[0077] Even if the stator part and the at least one actuator part can be operatively connected to each other by different constructions, such as by a rolling bearing already mentioned above, it is particularly advantageous if the stator part and the at least one actuator part are operatively connected to each other by means of a sliding bearing connection.

[0078] Rolling forces, in particular, can be absorbed especially well by the stator section if the stator section is ring-shaped, especially oval-ring-shaped. Page 11 / 42

[0079] P81089WO

[0080] It is particularly advantageous if the stator part has rotating, self-contained ring elements, for example in the form of at least one guide element.

[0081] It is advantageous if the stator part is designed in a double-ring shape and, in particular, if the stator part is equipped with an outer track element and an inner track element for each guide element.

[0082] The present device can also be built more compactly if the stator part has mounting surfaces on which the linear drive unit is arranged.

[0083] Advantageously, these mounting surfaces are arranged on both sides at the head end of the stator part.

[0084] The term "head-side" describes an area of ​​the stator part which is located on a side of the stator part that is facing away from the side guide surface for guiding the at least one actuator part.

[0085] For example, the fastening surfaces are arranged on one side of the at least one guide element, which is facing away from the side guide surface for guiding the at least one actuator part.

[0086] Preferably, the side guide surface and the mounting surfaces are arranged parallel to each other.

[0087] Preferably, both the inner and outer track elements of the at least one guide element have such fastening surfaces. This allows the inner and outer track elements to be additionally connected to each other by means of a flange. Page 12 / 42

[0088] P81089WO

[0089] The flange part can be arranged on the stator part in a fastening area overlapping the inner track element and the outer track element, in particular on at least one guide element thereof.

[0090] The flange part can be a component of the linear drive unit of the device, which allows the device to be built even more compactly and stably.

[0091] Overall, the stator component can be made even more stable by the design variant proposed above.

[0092] The stator part can be integrated particularly well and compactly into the present device if the stator part has a feedthrough opening through which the rolling section is guided.

[0093] This allows the rolling forces occurring at the rolling mechanism to be absorbed particularly effectively by the stator part.

[0094] The drive mechanism for the at least one actuator part relative to the stator part can be implemented differently on the device. For example, the at least one actuator part can have a carriage by means of which it can be actively moved along the stator part.

[0095] However, it is more advantageous if the angle adjustment unit for moving at least one actuator part along the cam track has a drive device which is fixedly arranged on the stator part.

[0096] This allows the drive for relocating at least one actuator component to be integrated into the device particularly easily in a stationary position. Page 13 / 42

[0097] P81089WO

[0098] For example, the stator part has a flange plate on which the drive unit is arranged.

[0099] To further increase the stability of the device, it is advantageous if the flange plate is arranged between two guide elements of the stator, with the flange plate preferably firmly connecting the two guide elements to each other.

[0100] Alternatively, the drive unit can also be attached to the conveyor section of a production line independently of the stator. However, this increases the design effort required to implement the drive unit of the present device.

[0101] The drive unit itself can be implemented in various ways, for example as an electric servo motor or similar. Such electric actuators or servo motors are often characterized by high energy efficiency.

[0102] The drive system can be designed particularly simply if it includes a linear motor. Linear motors of this type are well known from the prior art and can therefore be easily and cost-effectively incorporated into the drive system.

[0103] It is advantageous if the drive unit has a hydraulic cylinder.

[0104] Hydraulic cylinders can be used particularly well and without problems in areas subject to higher thermal stress.

[0105] If the drive unit is rotatably mounted on the stator part, the drive unit can follow the movement of at least one actuator part along the cam track particularly well. Page 14 / 42

[0106] P81089WO

[0107] If the drive device has a double-jointed connection between the at least one actuator part and the stator part, the at least one actuator part can be moved along the curved path in a particularly simple way by means of the drive device.

[0108] For example, there is a first articulated connection between a housing part of a hydraulic cylinder and the stator part, and furthermore a second articulated connection between a piston part of the hydraulic cylinder and the at least one actuator part.

[0109] Therefore, the drive unit with the double joint connection is particularly well suited for the curved movement of at least one actuator part.

[0110] The design of the present device can be further improved if a drive unit for this purpose is arranged on the stator part for each actuator part, with drive units being arranged both below and above the rolling section.

[0111] By such an arrangement of the drive devices, the actuator parts or the rolling devices arranged thereon can each be advantageously moved individually into position on the rolling track, especially in relation to the four edges of the two long sides of the metallic rolled material.

[0112] In order to move the roller elements of the rolling mills towards the respective edges of the metallic workpiece, for example after the respective actuator part has been moved into position with respect to its angular position, it is advantageous if the rolling mills each have a feed drive by means of which the respective roller element can be moved linearly relative to the rolling path. Page 15 / 42

[0113] P81089WO

[0114] Therefore, it is advantageous if the delivery drive is arranged on at least one actuator part.

[0115] Thus, each delivery drive for translationally approaching the associated roller element to a rolled material edge can be moved along the curved path with the respective actuator part.

[0116] At this point, it is explicitly stated once again that the at least one actuator part is at least partially arranged between two guide elements of the stator part, whereby the at least one actuator part is mounted particularly stably on the stator part.

[0117] More precisely, at least one actuator component can advantageously be arranged, at least partially, between two guide elements arranged one behind the other. This allows the at least one actuator component to be mounted in a particularly stable manner in the machine direction of the present device.

[0118] On the other hand, at least one actuator part can be arranged, at least partially, between the inner track element and the outer track element. This allows the at least one actuator part to be mounted in a particularly stable manner transverse to the machine direction of the present device.

[0119] Overall, this allows the device to be built even more compactly.

[0120] The present device can be advantageously further developed with regard to the linear drive unit if the linear drive unit has two sliding units for translationally moving the metallic rolling stock relative to the rolling devices. Page 16 / 42

[0121] P81089WO

[0122] By means of the two sliding units, the metallic rolled material can be moved structurally easily along the rolling track opposite the rolling equipment, in particular by traversing.

[0123] Access of the linear drive unit to the metallic rolled material can be achieved particularly easily if the two sliding units are arranged on the top of the rolling track.

[0124] The two sliding units can be arranged on a structure of a roller conveyor aisle or the like.

[0125] However, if the two sliding units are arranged directly on the stator part, the device, together with the linear drive unit, can be built particularly compactly.

[0126] Furthermore, if the two sliding units are articulated on the stator, the two sliding units can be easily lifted off or swung out of the rolling track or conveyor track as needed.

[0127] This is advantageous, for example, for conveying the metallic material to be rolled into the device and for conveying the rolled mechanical material out of the device, in particular into the stator part or out of the stator part.

[0128] The raising and lowering of the sliding units relative to the rolling or conveying section can advantageously be done using hydraulic cylinders.

[0129] In this context, such a hydraulic cylinder with its cylinder housing can, for example, be arranged on a foundation of a roller conveyor lane, or alternatively on a foundation part of the device, in particular the stator part. Page 17 / 42

[0130] P81089WO

[0131] The piston part, in turn, can advantageously be arranged on a frame part of the respective sliding unit, in particular at a distance from a joint connection between the sliding unit and the stator part.

[0132] Alternatively or cumulatively, electric actuators or similar devices can also be used.

[0133] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the linear drive unit has translationally displaceable sliding elements by means of which the metallic rolling material can be moved relative to the rolling devices for rolling the edges of the rolling material.

[0134] The sliding elements make it particularly easy to move the rolled metal material.

[0135] In any case, the metallic rolled material can be moved more easily in this way than with mechanical grippers or other driving devices for driving the metallic rolled material, whereby differently constructed linear drive units can be provided as an alternative.

[0136] The sliding elements are characterized in particular by contact surfaces that allow them to interact with the end faces of the metallic rolled material in a particularly reliable manner, in order to move the metallic rolled material either in the conveying direction or against it. In this way, damage to a side face of the metallic rolled material can be prevented or at least minimized by an alternative drive system implemented via a drive roller.

[0137] A further improvement proposes that it is advantageous if the translationally displaceable sliding elements are additionally guided on the stator part. Page 18 / 42

[0138] P81089WO

[0139] This allows the stator part to advantageously absorb rolling forces, torques, or the like acting on the sliding elements during the rolling of the metallic rolling material.

[0140] Such additional guidance can be implemented constructively, for example, by a joint-slide unit, in which a joint-slide part of the respective sliding element is guided translationally along a linear guide track part.

[0141] The linear guide track section is preferably arranged on the stator section of the present device, for example on the underside of a straight section of the inner track element of the stator section. This underside of the inner track element faces the rolling section.

[0142] At the two head-side ends of the linear guide track section, the respective joint slide section can be rotatably mounted about a fictitious axis of rotation for raising or lowering the respective sliding unit.

[0143] With the sliding unit lowered, this fictitious axis of rotation can be moved translationally from the rotational position, so that the respective joint slide part can be moved along the linear guide track part, while the metallic rolled material is moved by means of the linear drive unit.

[0144] The device can be built more compactly with regard to the linear drive unit if the articulated slide parts of both slide units are mounted on a common linear guide track section.

[0145] The translationally movable sliding elements can be easily moved actively during construction, if translational movement is required. Page 19 / 42

[0146] P81089WO The sliding elements have a hydraulic movement device per sliding unit.

[0147] If a piston part of this hydraulic motion device has a working direction that is identical to the sliding direction of the translationally displaceable sliding element, the linear drive unit can be further simplified in its design, since additional gear parts for redirecting the directions of movement of individual components of the linear drive unit can be dispensed with.

[0148] Regarding these sliding elements, electric actuators, such as electric servomotors or the like, can be used cumulatively or alternatively. Electrically operated motors often operate very energy-efficiently and, moreover, with high mechanical precision.

[0149] The object of the invention further solves a production line for the manufacture and / or processing of a metallic rolled product, in particular a semi-finished product and / or a preliminary product and / or an intermediate product and / or a product made of ferrous, steel and / or a non-ferrous metal material, with a conveying line along which the metallic rolled product is conveyed and / or can be conveyed, with devices for processing the metallic rolled product, wherein the production line is characterized by the present device for processing a metallic rolled product.

[0150] If the production line is equipped with the present device, metallic rolled products can be processed or rolled much more effectively with regard to their edges. This alone can significantly reduce the amount of scrap on the production line due to insufficiently or incorrectly processed edges. Page 20 / 42

[0151] P81089WQ

[0152] The object of the invention is also solved by a method for processing a metallic rolled stock on a rolling mill, in particular with the device described above, in which the metallic rolled stock and / or rolling elements are moved relative to each other on the rolling mill and the metallic rolled stock is rolled at its edges by the rolling elements, wherein the rolling elements are moved along a curved track for positioning relative to the edges of the rolled stock and / or wherein the metallic rolled stock is moved along the rolling mill with a linear drive unit.

[0153] Using the method proposed here, rolled material edges can be processed or rolled in a particularly diverse way if the roller elements can be moved on curved tracks around the longitudinal extent of the rolling section.

[0154] The mere possibility of this varied rolling of the rolled material edges can significantly improve the quality of the rolled material, especially at the rolled edges, particularly in traversing rolling processes where the metallic rolled material and rolling elements are moved several times in opposite directions relative to each other during rolling.

[0155] Alternatively, the respective roller element can interact particularly gently with the metallic rolled material if no additional drive or feed forces are transferred from the roller elements to the edges of the rolled material during rolling.

[0156] In other words, this means that the individual roller elements are not driven by their own drive motors.

[0157] This alone can also significantly improve the quality of the rolled material at the rolled edges (page 21 / 42).

[0158] P81089WO are, in particular, during a traversing rolling process in which the roll elements and the metallic rolled material are moved back and forth several times relative to each other during rolling.

[0159] For example, main feed forces can be applied either by an additional drive unit for translational driving of the metallic rolled material and / or by an additional drive unit for translational movement of the roll elements along the rolling line.

[0160] The effects described above can complement each other advantageously if the procedure is carried out appropriately.

[0161] Furthermore, it is advantageous if roller elements are moved along the respective curved track before, during and / or after rolling the edges of the rolled material, in particular along the respective curved track around a longitudinal extension of a rolling section.

[0162] This results in additional degrees of freedom for the respective roller element with respect to a rolled material edge of the rolled material.

[0163] It is understood that in one process variant, a roller element can also be additionally driven rotaryally or translationally in the direction of the rolling section by means of its own drive motor.

[0164] However, as described above, it is more advantageous if the roller elements are driven rotationally exclusively by means of a translational drive movement acting on the metallic rolled material.

[0165] By indirectly, preferably exclusively by means of the metallic rolled material, the roller elements are moved by a translational approach. Page 22 / 42

[0166] Since the drive movement of the P81089WO is rotaryally driven, the roller elements can be designed in a simple, drive-free manner. Therefore, additional drive motors for the roller elements are not required.

[0167] Therefore, it is advantageous if the edges of the rolled material are rolled by means of rotational movements of the roller elements, while the metallic rolled material is moved translationally relative to each other by means of a translational movement of a linear drive unit and / or the roller elements are moved translationally relative to each other by means of a motion device.

[0168] This makes the process particularly easy to carry out.

[0169] The method according to the invention can be carried out very well with the device proposed here for processing a metallic rolled material.

[0170] Therefore, it should be further stated at this point that the method described here can also be supplemented by further technical features described here, in particular by features of the device, in order to advantageously develop the method further or to be able to represent or formulate method specifications even more precisely.

[0171] Further advantages, details and features of the invention will also become apparent from the exemplary examples explained below.

[0172] Components that are at least essentially identical in their function across all figures may be marked with the same reference symbols, although the components do not need to be referenced and explained in all figures. Page 23 / 42

[0173] P81089WO

[0174] The drawing shows:

[0175] Figure 1: schematically a perspective view of a device for processing a metallic rolled material with an angle adjustment unit for rolling devices and with a linear drive unit for driving the metallic rolled material in a transfer state;

[0176] Figure 2: schematically another view of the device shown in Figure 1 in a working state;

[0177] Figure 3: schematically a partial sectional view of the device shown in Figures 1 and 2;

[0178] Figure 4: schematically a perspective view of an alternative device for processing a metallic rolled material with an angle adjustment unit for rolling devices and with a rotary drive unit for driving the metallic rolled material; and

[0179] Figure 5: schematically a perspective view of another device for processing metallic rolled material with an angle adjustment unit for rolling devices, which includes motor-driven roller elements.

[0180] According to the illustrations in Figures 1 to 3, a first embodiment of a device 1 for processing a metallic rolled material 2, in particular for rolling its rolled material edges 2A, is shown.

[0181] The device 1 has a rolling section 4 with a longitudinal extent 4A, which extends in the machine direction 1A of the device 1. Page 24 / 42

[0182] P81089WO

[0183] The rolling section 4 of the device 1 forms a limited section (not separately numbered) of a conveying section 6 of a production line 8 (not shown here) for the manufacture and / or processing of the metallic rolled material 2, wherein the rolled material 2 can be conveyed forward along the conveying section 6 in conveying direction 6A.

[0184] The conveyor section 6 has a roller conveyor lane 10 with individual roller elements 10A, wherein the roller elements 10A form a horizontal conveying plane (not separately numbered).

[0185] In order to be able to move the metallic rolled material 2 independently of the device 1 along the conveying path 6, in particular internal roller elements 10A can be driven to independently drive the metallic rolled material 2 in the conveying direction 6A .

[0186] The device 1 has four rolling devices 12 (numbered only as examples) on the rolling section 4, with which chamfers 2B can be rolled onto the edges 2A of the rolled material.

[0187] The rolling devices 12 each have rolling elements 12A (also numbered only as examples).

[0188] Each roller element 12A is rotatably mounted on the respective rolling device 12 about its own axis of rotation 12B (numbered only for illustrative purposes).

[0189] To enable the roll elements 12A to come into contact with the material 2 to be rolled, the rolling devices 12 each include a linear feed drive 14, by means of which the respective roll element 12A can be moved in a straight line relative to the rolling section 4. Page 25 / 42

[0190] P81089WO

[0191] In other words, this means that the respective roller element 12A can be moved translationally towards or away from the directly opposite roller material edge 2A.

[0192] Since such linearly operating feed drives can be designed differently, they will not be explained further here.

[0193] The device 1 further comprises an angle adjustment unit 16 for adjusting the rolling devices 12 along a curved track 18 (numbered only by way of example) around the longitudinal extent 4A of the rolling section 4.

[0194] In this first embodiment, each rolling device 12 is assigned exactly one cam track 18.

[0195] The respective curve 18 has two opposing end positions 18A and 18B, the positions of which are only approximately indicated here (see Figure 2 for an example).

[0196] Between these two end positions 18A and 18B, there is an angle adjustment range 16A, which in this first embodiment is approximately 55° (see Figure 2 for an example).

[0197] A suitable angle adjustment unit 16, by means of which the rolling devices 12 can be moved along a curved track 18, can be constructed in different ways.

[0198] In this first embodiment, the angle adjustment unit 16 has a stator part 20 which is fixedly arranged on the rolling section 4. Page 26 / 42

[0199] P81089WO

[0200] On the other hand, the angle adjustment unit 16 has four actuator parts 22 (numbered only as examples) which can be displaced relative to the rolling section 4.

[0201] Each actuator part 22 includes a rolling device 12. In this respect, the terms "actuator part" and "rolling device" can also be used synonymously to some extent.

[0202] The stator part 20 is designed in a ring shape, in particular even in an oval ring shape, wherein the stator part 20 has a through-opening 20A through which the rolling section 4 is guided.

[0203] The stator part 20 has a first guide element 24 and a second guide element 26, wherein the two guide elements 24 and 26 are arranged one behind the other on the rolling section 4 with respect to the machine direction 1A of the device 1.

[0204] In this case, the actuator parts 22 or the rolling devices 12 are arranged at least partially between the guide elements 24 and 26 of the stator part 20.

[0205] In this first embodiment, the two guide elements 24 and 26 are designed to be circumferential, in particular closed circumferential.

[0206] Each guide element 24 or 26 provides four curved tracks 18 with corresponding inner and outer curved surfaces 18C (numbered only by way of example; see Figure 3 for an example), namely two rolling devices 12 located completely above 27A (top side) of the conveying level and two rolling devices 12 located predominantly below 27B (bottom side) of the conveying level.

[0207] “Predominantly below” because at least the roller elements 12A of page 27 / 42 are predominantly located below the conveying level

[0208] P81089WO

[0209] Rolling devices 12 for interacting with the metallic rolled material 2 must be arranged above the conveying level.

[0210] Each guide element 24, 26 comprises an inner track element 28 and an outer track element 30.

[0211] The inner track element 28 and the outer track element 30 are arranged concentrically to each other, and are additionally spaced apart from each other.

[0212] Between the spaced-apart inner track element 28 and the outer track element 30, a guide groove 32 of the stator part 20 is formed, into which a guide piece 34 of an actuator part 22 or a rolling device 12 can be projected.

[0213] The guide piece 34 has guide surfaces 34A (see figure 2 for an example), which are designed to be complementary to the curved surfaces 18C of the stator part 20 or of the guide elements 24 and 26 thereof.

[0214] Furthermore, the guide elements 24 and 26 also have side guide surfaces 36 (numbered only as examples) on which the actuator parts 22 and the rolling devices 12 are additionally guided.

[0215] Due to the surface guides described here between the stator part 20 and the individual actuator parts 22 or rolling devices 12, there is a sliding bearing connection (not numbered) between the stator part 20 and the individual actuator parts 22 or rolling devices 12.

[0216] Since a rolling unit 12 is to be regarded as a component of the actuator part 22, the interactions and effects described above between the stator part 20 and the actuator part 22 can also be applied to the corresponding rolling unit 12. Page 28 / 42

[0217] P81089WO

[0218] In order to move or relocate the respective actuator part 22 along the associated curved track 18, the angle adjustment unit 16 has a drive device 38 for each actuator part 22.

[0219] The respective drive unit 38 has a hydraulic cylinder 38A (see figure 2 for an example), which is pivotally mounted on the associated actuator part 22 on one side and also pivotally mounted on the stator part 20 on the other.

[0220] In this first embodiment, the respective drive unit 38 is rotatably mounted on a flange plate 20B of the stator part 20.

[0221] In this respect, the drive unit 38 has a double joint connection (not further specified) in relation to the actuator part 22 and the stator part 20.

[0222] In this first embodiment, the device 1 also includes a linear drive unit 40, by means of which the metallic rolled material 2 can be moved translationally along the rolling section 4, particularly during rolling or edge rolling.

[0223] In particular, the metallic rolled material 2 can be moved traversing along the rolling section 4 by means of the linear drive unit 40, i.e. both in the machine direction 1A and against the machine direction 1A.

[0224] The linear drive unit 40, with its essential components, in particular its two sliding units 42 and 44, is arranged in a simple and easily accessible manner on the upper surface 27A of the conveyor section 6 or the rolling section 4. Page 29 / 42

[0225] P81089WO

[0226] These two sliding units 42 and 44 are each articulated to the stator part 20 by means of a joint device 45.

[0227] For this purpose, the stator part 20 is equipped with corresponding mounting surfaces 46.

[0228] Due to the respective articulated fastening, the two sliding units 42 and 44 can be easily lifted or swung out of the rolling section 4 or conveyor section 6 as required.

[0229] This is advantageous, for example, for conveying the metallic rolling material 2 to be rolled into the device 1 and for conveying the finished rolled mechanical rolling material 2 out of the device 1.

[0230] The raising and lowering of the sliding units 42 and 44 can advantageously be carried out by means of further hydraulic cylinders 48 (referred to only as examples).

[0231] In this case, such a hydraulic cylinder 48 with its housing part 48A can be articulated on a foundation 50 approximately on the roller conveyor belt 10.

[0232] In contrast, a piston part 48B of the hydraulic cylinder 48 is articulated to the respective sliding unit 42 or 44.

[0233] On the device 1, the sliding unit 42 is arranged in front of the stator part 20 when viewed in machine direction 1A, and the sliding unit 44 is arranged behind the stator part 20.

[0234] While the device 1 according to the illustration in Figure 1 is shown with the raised sliding units 42 and 44 in a transfer state with respect to its linear drive unit 40, the device 1 according to the illustrations on pages 30 / 42

[0235] P81089WO

[0236] Figures 2 and 3 show the sliding units 42 and 44 lowered in a working state.

[0237] As can be clearly seen in particular according to the illustration in Figure 3, the linear drive unit 40 also has translationally displaceable sliding elements 52 (referred only by way of example) by means of which the metallic rolling material 2 is moved to roll the rolling material edges 2A relative to the rolling devices 12.

[0238] In this case, each sliding unit 42 or 44 is assigned such a sliding element 52.

[0239] The sliding elements 52 have contact surfaces 52A, by means of which they can interact with the head sides of the metallic rolled material 2 in a particularly reliable manner, in order to move the metallic rolled material 2 either in the conveying direction 6A or against the conveying direction 6A.

[0240] The translationally displaceable sliding elements 52 are additionally guided on the stator part 20.

[0241] In this first embodiment, such additional guidance is structurally implemented in a simple manner by means of a joint-slide unit 54, in which a joint-slide part 54A of the respective sliding element 52 is guided translationally along a linear guide track part 54B.

[0242] Each sliding element 52 can be easily moved along the machine direction 1A of the device 1 by means of a hydraulic motion device 56.

[0243] Here, a piston part 56B of the hydraulic motion device 56, which is movable in a housing part 56A of the hydraulic motion device 56, has a working direction which page 31 / 42

[0244] P81089WO the sliding direction of the translationally displaceable sliding element is identical, wherein both the working direction and the sliding direction coincide with the machine direction 1A.

[0245] With the linear drive unit 40 shown here, the metallic rolling material 2 can be moved alternately back and forth as required for rolling the rolling material edges 2A by means of the respective sliding element 52.

[0246] As shown in Figure 4, an alternative device 100 for processing a metallic rolled stock 2, in particular for rolling its rolled stock edges 2A, is shown.

[0247] Since the alternative device 100 in Figure 4 is similar to the device 1 shown in Figures 1 to 3, only the essential structure and the essential differences of the alternative device 100 will be explained below in order to avoid repetition.

[0248] Regarding detailed operating principles, reference is made to the descriptions of the device 1 shown in Figures 1 to 3.

[0249] Therefore, identical or equivalent components of the alternative device 100 are preferably also provided with the same reference numerals.

[0250] The alternative device 100 has a stator part 20 with a total of three guide elements 24, 26 and an additional 60, so that the actuator parts 22 can be arranged offset from each other in machine direction 1A on the stator part 20 of the alternative device 100. Page 32 / 42

[0251] P81089WO

[0252] The stator part 20 of the alternative device 100 has only outer track elements 30 on which the actuator parts 22 are guided.

[0253] Furthermore, the actuator parts 22 each have an integrated drive unit 38 (not shown here, see Figures 1 to 3) by means of which they can be moved on the guide elements 24, 26 and 60.

[0254] In addition, instead of the linear drive unit 40, a rotary drive unit 62 is provided for driving the metallic rolling material 2 along the rolling track 4 during rolling.

[0255] The rotary drive unit 62 is arranged on the stator part 20 above the conveying level.

[0256] According to the illustration in Figure 5, a further device 200 for processing a metallic rolled material 2 is shown, in particular for rolling its rolled material edges 2A.

[0257] Since the further device 200 is particularly similar to the alternative device 100 shown in Figure 4, only the essential structure and the essential differences of the further device 200 will be explained below in order to avoid repetition.

[0258] Regarding the detailed operating principles of the further device 200, reference is made to the descriptions of devices 1 and 100 in Figures 1 to 4.

[0259] Therefore, identical or equivalent components of the further device 200 can also be provided with the same reference numerals. Page 33 / 42

[0260] P81089WO

[0261] In contrast to the previous devices 1 and 100, the further device 200 has neither a separate linear drive unit 40 nor a separate rotary drive unit 62 for driving the metallic rolling stock 2 during rolling.

[0262] Rather, the rolling devices 12 and the corresponding actuator parts 22 each have their own motor drive (not shown separately) for the rotary driving of the individual rolling elements 12A, so that the metallic rolling material 2 is moved translationally directly by the rolling elements 12A during the rolling of the rolling material edges 2A.

[0263] With regard to the stator part 20 of the further device 200, the two end positions 18A and 18B of the angle adjustment range 16A of the angle adjustment unit 16 can also be seen particularly well, which in this further embodiment are additionally designed as physical stop surfaces (not referred to again).

[0264] It should be explicitly pointed out at this point that the features of the solutions described above or in the claims and / or figures can also be combined, if necessary, in order to implement or achieve the explained features, effects and advantages accordingly.

[0265] Page 34 / 42

[0266] P81089WO

[0267] Reference symbol list

[0268] 1 Device for machining a metallic rolled material

[0269] 1A Machine direction

[0270] 2 metallic rolled material

[0271] 2A Rolled Goods Edges

[0272] 2B phases

[0273] 4 rolling track

[0274] 4A Longitudinal extent

[0275] 6 Conveyor section

[0276] 6A Direction of Conveyance

[0277] 8 production line

[0278] 10 Rollgangsgasse

[0279] 10A Roller elements

[0280] 12 rolling mills

[0281] 12A Roller elements

[0282] 12B Rotation axes

[0283] 14 Delivery drive

[0284] 16 Angle adjustment unit

[0285] 16A Angle adjustment range

[0286] 18 Curved track

[0287] 18A first end position

[0288] 18B second end position

[0289] 18C Curved Surfaces

[0290] 20 Stator part

[0291] 20A feedthrough opening

[0292] 22 actuator parts

[0293] 24 first guide element

[0294] 26 second guide element

[0295] 27A above or top side

[0296] 27B below or underside

[0297] 28 Inner track element

[0298] 30 outer track element

[0299] 32 Guide groove

[0300] 34 Guide piece Page 35 / 42

[0301] P81089WO

[0302] 34A Guide surfaces

[0303] 36 side guide surfaces

[0304] 38 drive units

[0305] 38A Hydraulic cylinder

[0306] 40 linear drive units

[0307] 42 first sliding unit

[0308] 44 second sliding unit

[0309] 45 Joint device

[0310] 46 mounting surfaces

[0311] 48 additional hydraulic cylinders

[0312] 48A Housing part

[0313] 48B Piston part

[0314] 50 Foundation

[0315] 52 sliding elements

[0316] 52A Plant areas

[0317] 54 Joint-slide unit

[0318] 54A Joint slide part

[0319] 54B Linear guide rail section

[0320] 56 hydraulic motion device

[0321] 56A Housing part

[0322] 56B Piston part

[0323] 60 third guide element

[0324] 62 Rotary drive unit

[0325] 100 alternative devices for machining rolled metallic material

[0326] 200 additional devices for processing metallic rolled material

Claims

Page 36 / 42 P81089WO Patent claims 1. Device (1; 100; 200) for processing a metallic rolled material (2) with a rolling section (4) on which the metallic rolled material (2) can be rolled, and with rolling devices (12) each comprising a rolling element (12A) for rolling rolled material edges (2A) of the metallic rolled material (2) , comprising: • an angle adjustment unit (16) for adjusting the rolling devices (12) along a curved track (18) around the longitudinal extent (4A) of the rolling section (4), and / or • a linear drive unit (40) for translational driving of the metallic rolled material (2) relative to the rolling devices (12), in particular for traversing driving of the metallic rolled material (2) .

2. Device (1; 100; 200) according to claim 1, characterized in that the angle adjustment unit (16) has an angle adjustment range (16A) of greater than or equal to 10°, preferably greater than or equal to 20° and particularly preferably greater than or equal to 35°, and / or has an angle adjustment range (16A) of less than or equal to 90°, preferably less than or equal to 70° and particularly preferably less than or equal to 60°.

3. Device (1; 100; 200) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the angle adjustment unit (16) has, on the one hand, a stator part (20) which is fixedly arranged relative to the rolling section (4), and, on the other hand, at least one actuator part (22) which is displaceable relative to the rolling section (4). Device (1; 100; 200) according to claim 3, characterized in that the stator part (20) has at least one guide element (24, 26) for providing the cam track (18). Page 37 / 42 P81089WO 5. Device (1; 100; 200) according to claim 4, characterized in that the at least one guide element (24, 26) has a guide groove (32) for receiving a guide piece (34) of a rolling device (12).

6. Device (1; 100; 200) according to claim 5, characterized in that the guide piece (34) of a rolling device (12) has at least one guide surface (34A) which is complementary to a curved surface (18C) of the curved track (18).

7. Device (1; 100; 200) according to one of claims 4 to 6, characterized in that the at least one guide element (24, 26) has an inner track element (28) and an outer track element (30), wherein in particular the inner track element (28) and the outer track element (30) are arranged concentrically spaced apart from each other.

8. Device (1; 100; 200) according to one of claims 4 to 7, characterized in that the at least one guide element (24, 26) has a side guide surface (36) for laterally guiding the at least one actuator part (22).

9. Device (1; 100; 200) according to claim 8, characterized in that the side guide surface (36) is arranged at right angles to the curved track (18).

10. Device (1; 100; 200) according to one of claims 3 to 9, characterized in that the stator part (20) and the at least one actuator part (22) are operatively connected to each other by means of a sliding bearing connection.

11. Device (1; 100; 200) according to one of claims 3 to 10, characterized in that the stator part (20) is ring-shaped, in particular oval-shaped.

12. Device (1; 100; 200) according to one of claims 3 to 10 11, characterized in that the stator part (20) has a fastening- Page 38 / 42 P81089WO has ing surfaces (46) on which the linear drive unit (40) is arranged.

13. Device (1; 100; 200) according to one of claims 3 to 12, characterized in that the stator part (20) has a through-opening (20A) through which the rolling section (4) is passed.

14. Device (1; 100; 200) according to one of claims 3 to 13, characterized in that the angle adjustment unit (16) for moving the at least one actuator part (22) along the cam track (18) has a drive device (38) which is fixedly arranged on the stator part (20).

15. Device (1; 100; 200) according to claim 14, characterized in that the drive device (38) has a hydraulic cylinder (38A).

16. Device (1; 100; 200) according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that the drive device (38) is rotatably arranged on the stator part (20).

17. Device (1; 100; 200) according to one of claims 14 to 16, characterized in that the drive device (38) has a double joint connection between the at least one actuator part (22) and the stator part (20).

18. Device (1; 100; 200) according to one of claims 3 to 17, characterized in that a drive device (38) for each actuator part (22) is arranged on the stator part (20), wherein drive devices (38) are arranged both below and above the rolling section (4).

19. Device (1; 100; 200) according to one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that the rolling devices (12) each have a feed drive (14) by means of which the respective rolling element (12A) can be moved in a straight line relative to the rolling section (4). Page 39 / 42 P81089WO 20. Device (1; 100; 200) according to claim 19, characterized in that the delivery drive (14) is arranged on the at least one actuator part (22).

21. Device (1; 100; 200) according to one of claims 3 to 10 20, characterized in that the at least one actuator part (22) is arranged at least partially between two guide elements (24, 26) of the stator part (20).

22. Device (1; 100; 200) according to one of claims 1 to 21, characterized in that the linear drive unit (40) has two sliding units (42, 44) for translational movement of the metallic rolled material (2) relative to the rolling devices (12).

23. Device (1; 100; 200) according to claim 22, characterized in that the two sliding units (42, 44) are arranged on the top (27A) of the rolling section (4).

24. Device (1; 100; 200) according to claim 3 and one of claims 22 or 23, characterized in that the two sliding units (42, 44) are arranged on the stator part (20), in particular in a pivotable manner.

25. Device (1; 100; 200) according to one of claims 1 to 24, characterized in that the linear drive unit (40) has translationally displaceable sliding elements (52) by means of which the metallic rolled material (2) can be moved relative to the rolling devices (12) for rolling the rolled material edges (2A).

26. Device (1; 100; 200) according to claim 25, characterized in that the translationally displaceable sliding elements (52) are additionally guided on the stator part (20).

27. Device (1; 100; 200) according to one of claims 25 or 26, characterized in that for translational displacement- Page 40 / 42 P81089WO ben der Schiebeelemente (52) eine Hydraulik Bewegungsgerät (56) pro Schiebeeinheit (42, 44) sind sind.

28. Production line (8) for the production and / or processing of a metallic rolled product (2), in particular a semi-finished product and / or a preliminary product and / or an intermediate product and / or a product made of ferrous, steel and / or a non-ferrous metal material, with a conveying section (6) along which the metallic rolled product (2) is conveyed and / or can be conveyed, and with devices (1; 100; 200) for processing the metallic rolled product (2), comprising a device (1; 100; 200) according to one of the preceding claims.

29. Method for processing a metallic rolled stock (2) on a rolling mill (4), in particular with a device according to one of claims 1 to 27, in which the metallic rolled stock (2) and / or roll elements (12A) are moved relative to each other on the rolling mill (4) and the metallic rolled stock (2) is rolled at its rolled stock edges (2A) by the roll elements (12A), wherein the roll elements (12A) are moved along a curved track (18) for positioning relative to the rolled stock edges (2A) and / or wherein the metallic rolled stock (2) is moved along the rolling mill (4) with a linear drive unit (40).

30. Method according to claim 29, characterized in that roller elements (12A) are moved before, during and / or after rolling the edges of the rolled material (2A) along the respective curved track (18), in particular along the respective curved track (18) around a longitudinal extension (4A) of the rolling section (4).

31. Method according to claim 29 or 30, characterized in that the roller elements (12A) are driven rotationally exclusively by means of a translational drive movement acting on the metallic rolled material (2). Page 41 / 42 P81089WO 32. Method according to one of claims 29 to 30, characterized in that the rolled material edges (2A) are rolled by means of rotational movements of the roll elements (12A), while the metallic rolled material (2) is moved translationally relative to each other by means of a translational movement of a linear drive unit (40) and / or the roll elements (12A) are moved translationally relative to each other by means of a movement device.

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