Adjustable Sheet Storage Height for Ergonomic Press Brake Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
The handling of sheet metal and bent parts in traditional sheet metal processing is complex, tedious, and ergonomically challenging for operators, leading to inefficiencies and safety hazards due to the need for frequent bending and storage at varying heights, which hinders automation and integration into process chains.
Innovation Solution
A sheet metal storage device with a housing and support device featuring adjustable, telescopically designed support elements that maintain a constant optimal removal and storage height, allowing for ergonomic work and simplified automation by ensuring sheets and bent parts are always accessible at a predefined height, compatible with various processing machines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If sheets are stored in a conventional stack on the floor, then storage capacity is maximized, but the removal height continuously decreases requiring the operator to bend down more frequently
Solution Approach 1:
The support device features a height-adjustable support plane that can be dynamically repositioned vertically within the housing. As sheets are removed from the stack, the support plane automatically or manually adjusts its height to maintain a constant removal height, transforming the static storage system into a dynamic one that adapts to changing sheet stack dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The support device is designed to automatically compensate for the decreasing sheet stack height through its adjustable support plane mechanism. The system self-adjusts to maintain optimal ergonomic conditions without requiring external intervention or complex control systems, simply by allowing the support plane to be repositioned as sheets are consumed.
2Productivity
If manual handling of sheets is used, then equipment complexity is minimized, but productivity and automation capability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The height-adjustable support plane provides a standardized, consistent removal height that facilitates integration with automated picking systems and robotic manipulators. This dynamic height adjustment capability enables automation while keeping the overall device structure relatively simple, avoiding the need for complex automated sheet feeding mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable support plane acts as an intermediary between the sheet stack and the operator or automated system. By providing a stable, height-controlled interface, it enables seamless transition from manual to automated handling without requiring complex integration between the storage device and processing equipment.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the support plane height is fixed, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different operators and sheet sizes is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The support plane is designed to be dynamically adjustable in height, allowing it to adapt to different operator heights, sheet sizes, and working conditions. This dynamic adjustability is achieved through a relatively simple mechanical mechanism that allows vertical repositioning without requiring complex control systems or multiple components.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a metal sheet storage device (21) comprising a housing (22) with a housing upper face (23) and two support devices, each having a support plane (35, 45) for supporting metal sheets (17) or bent parts (19). The support planes (35, 45) of the support devices can be moved relative to the housing upper face (23) of the housing (22) of the metal sheet storage device (21). The invention also relates to a bending device comprising a press brake and a metal sheet storage device (21) of this type.