Active Tool Assembly for Ram-Driven Presses
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Solution Overview
Problem
Ram-driven presses face inefficiencies in processing sheet workpieces due to the need for multiple tools and additional features like marking and inspection, which can increase costs if not handled efficiently.
Innovation Solution
An active tool assembly for ram-driven presses that includes a housing with interchangeable tools, featuring a functional head powered by a microprocessor and power source, allowing for marking, inspection, and forming operations without physical deformation of the workpiece, and enabling integration of various functional heads like printers, bar code readers, and touch probes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple tools and additional features (marking, inspection) are integrated into the press, then processing capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal tool assembly that can perform multiple functions including forming, marking, and inspection operations through a single integrated system. The functional head can be configured with different tools (punches, printers, bar code readers, touch probes) to perform various operations on workpieces, eliminating the need for separate dedicated devices for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested structure where the functional head with interchangeable tools is housed within a tool assembly, which in turn is mounted on the press. The tool assembly can be quickly exchanged between different mounting positions, and the functional head contains multiple potential tools that can be swapped as needed, creating a nested hierarchy of interchangeable components that reduces overall system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional features like marking and inspection are added, then product value is improved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges marking and inspection functions directly into the tool assembly that performs forming operations. By integrating these functions into a single coordinated system, multiple operations are performed in sequence without requiring separate processing steps, thereby adding value to the product while minimizing additional processing time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs marking and inspection operations during the same press cycle as forming operations, rather than as separate subsequent steps. The functional head is positioned and configured in advance to execute multiple operations in a predetermined sequence, allowing value-added features to be incorporated without extending the overall processing time.
3Adaptability or versatility
If tools are frequently exchanged and repositioned, then adaptability is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the functional head as a separate, self-contained module that can be independently exchanged. The functional head contains the interchangeable tools (punches, printers, scanners, probes) and can be quickly removed and replaced as a unit, reducing the time required for tool changes compared to replacing individual tools or entire tool assemblies.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic, programmable control that allows the press to automatically sequence operations and reposition the functional head between different mounting positions without manual intervention. The programmable controller coordinates tool changes and repositioning actions to minimize downtime, enabling rapid adaptation to different workpiece requirements.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 2C
AI summary
Assemblies (100) and methods for processing a workpiece (2) in a ram-driven press employ an active tool (25) contained by a housing (10) that is interchangeable with a passive forming tool assembly in a mounting assembly of the press. The active tool includes a microprocessor and a functional head coupled to the microprocessor. Some assemblies including the active tool include a switch for activating the functional head; the switch may be mounted to the housing such that, when the housing is mounted in the mounting assembly of the press, the switch is triggered by movement of the housing in response to the ram stroke of the press.