3D Cutter Torch Positioning for Smaller Bevel-Cut Workpieces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 3D-cutters are limited by the minimum size of workpieces they can produce due to the fixed gap width, which is determined by the thickness of the copper strips and the maximum bevel angle, resulting in workpieces falling into the gap during cutting.
Innovation Solution
The electronic controller of the 3D-cutter adjusts the X-position of the torch along the X-guide to vary the entrance or exit point relative to the gap, allowing the exit point to be positioned closer to the downstream gap edge, reducing the gap width and enabling the production of smaller workpieces without falling into the gap.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If the gap width is reduced to enable production of smaller workpieces, then the minimum workpiece size is improved, but the risk of workpieces falling into the gap increases
Solution Approach 1:
The torch is made dynamically adjustable in X-position along the X-guide, allowing the exit point position to be varied and optimized for each cutting operation. This dynamic adjustment capability enables the system to adapt to different workpiece sizes and cutting requirements, resolving the contradiction between producing smaller workpieces and maintaining their stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of torch X-position to optimize the exit point location relative to the gap. By adjusting this parameter, the system can maintain workpiece stability while enabling the production of smaller workpieces, thus resolving the technical contradiction.
2Length of moving object
If the exit point is positioned closer to the downstream gap edge to reduce minimum workpiece size, then the gap width requirement is reduced, but the precision of positioning required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual positioning with an electronically controlled X-guide mechanism that precisely adjusts the torch position. This mechanical substitution with a controlled system enables high-precision positioning of the exit point relative to the gap, allowing the system to meet the stringent positioning requirements while reducing the gap width.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic controller monitors and adjusts the torch X-position to maintain the desired exit point location relative to the gap. This feedback control ensures that the positioning precision requirements are met, enabling the system to position the exit point accurately closer to the downstream gap edge.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the torch X-position is adjusted to vary the exit point position relative to the gap, then the flexibility in workpiece production is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The X-guide mechanism serves multiple functions: it positions the torch in X-direction for different cutting operations, adjusts the exit point position relative to the gap for various workpiece sizes, and enables flexible production of different workpiece dimensions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate positioning systems, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while improving adaptability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach allows for the production of smaller workpieces while maintaining the same gap width, or reducing the gap width, thereby preventing workpieces from falling into the gap during cutting, and enabling the separation of smaller parts with reduced minimum dimensions.
Implementation Method 1
a torch which produces a cutting beam, e.g. a plasma cutting beam
Implementation Method 2
a laser cutting beam
Data Source
AI summary
A 3D-cutter and a method for controlling a 3D-cutter are disclosed. The 3D-cutter includes a tiltable torch which is able to produce a cutting beam and a conveyor having a conveyor support surface with gap extending in Y-direction. The tiltable torch is moveable in both X-direction and Y-direction as well as Z-direction. Conventionally, the X-position of the entrance point or exit point of the beam in the sheet blank is kept constant relative to the gap, namely centrally between the upstream and the downstream gap edges and the sheet blank is moved back and forth in X-direction by the conveyor to form 3-dimensionally shaped bevel cuts. The X-position of the entrance point or exit point of the beam in the sheet blank may be varied relative to the gap. Thus, smaller workpieces may be produced.