Adjustable Gripping Jaws Carrier for Workpiece Processing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for conveying and processing workpieces between stations are inefficient as they only serve for transport and do not utilize the conveying time for processing, leading to increased total processing time and the need for multiple stations.
Innovation Solution
A device with adjustable gripping jaws on a carrier that incorporates movable machining tools, allowing processing during transport and enabling the use of multiple tools for comprehensive workpiece processing, including CNC control and additional fixing devices for secure handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the device only serves for transport between processing stations, then the structure remains simple and focused on conveying function, but the total processing time increases due to unused conveying time and the need for multiple stationary processing stations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the conveying function with machining function by integrating at least one machining tool directly on the carrier that carries the gripping jaws. This merging allows the workpiece to be conveyed and processed simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate stationary processing stations and reducing total processing time.
Solution Approach 2:
The carrier is designed to serve multiple functions: it holds the gripping jaws for workpiece securing, supports machining tools for processing, and enables both conveying and machining operations. This multi-functionality transforms the device from a simple conveyor into a mobile processing center.
2Loss of time
If machining tools are added to the carrier, then processing can occur during conveying time, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The machining tools are designed to be movable along the carrier, allowing dynamic positioning and adjustment during operation. This dynamic capability enables flexible machining at different locations while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The workpiece is secured by the gripping jaws before conveying begins, and the machining tools are pre-positioned on the carrier. This preliminary preparation ensures that processing can immediately commence during conveying without additional setup time.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the gripping jaws are made adjustable in mutual distance, then workpieces of different widths can be handled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping jaws are designed with adjustable mutual distance, allowing the carrier to adapt to workpieces of different widths. This dynamic adjustment capability provides versatility without requiring multiple fixed-position jaw sets.
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The device has a gripping device (20) with gripping jaws (13, 14) reachable over a workpiece (11) and moving the work piece along a conveying device (30) from and/or to a processing station (12). The gripping jaws are arranged in a carrier (15) in such a manner that a distance between the gripping jaws is adjustable. Processing tools e.g. pressing device (16) and a nailing device (17), for the workpiece, are movable between the gripping jaws and arranged on the carrier. The processing tool is displaceable along the carrier.