Lockable Backgauge Stop Finger for Impact-Resistant Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing backgauge positioning systems in bending machines face limitations in safety and functionality, with prior solutions either compromising on safety due to weak magnetic fixations or being prone to unintentional loosening when encountering sheet metal workpieces.
Innovation Solution
A backgauge positioning system with a stop finger that is prestressed into its working position by a spring element and can be locked or released using a switchable locking device, incorporating an electromagnet for easy activation and deactivation, and a second spring element for enhanced protection against excessive forces, ensuring secure positioning and absorption of force peaks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a magnetic fixation is used to hold the stop finger, then the stop finger can be released easily, but the magnetic fixation may be unintentionally loosened when striking sheet metal workpieces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the purely magnetic fixation system with a hybrid system combining magnetic holding and mechanical locking. The electromagnet provides easy release capability, while the mechanical locking device (locking pin engaging with locking holes) provides reliable positioning that cannot be unintentionally loosened during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning system is segmented into distinct functional components: the electromagnet for holding and releasing, the locking device with locking pin and locking holes for secure positioning, and the spring element for restoring movement. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally without interference.
2Manufacturing precision
If the stop finger is locked in working position, then positioning accuracy is improved, but the stop finger cannot be moved for safety reasons
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between locked and unlocked states based on operational requirements. During normal operation, the locking device engages to provide precise positioning. During safety events or maintenance, the electromagnet can be activated to release the lock, allowing the stop finger to move freely under spring force.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the state parameter of the locking device between engaged and disengaged positions. When locked, the positioning accuracy parameter is maximized. When unlocked, the adaptability parameter is maximized, allowing movement for safety or adjustment purposes.
3Reliability
If a strong magnetic fixation is used to prevent unintentional loosening, then reliability is improved, but the stop finger requires excessive force to release
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical force-based release mechanism with an electromagnetic release mechanism. The electromagnet generates sufficient magnetic force to overcome even strong magnetic fixations and spring forces, enabling easy release without requiring excessive manual force on the stop finger.
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnet operates periodically or on-demand to provide release capability. During normal operation, the locking device maintains the locked state. When release is needed, the electromagnet is activated temporarily to overcome the magnetic and spring forces, then can be deactivated once the stop finger is sufficiently displaced.
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
The system provides increased security and full functionality of the backgauge while maintaining safety, allowing the stop finger to return to its working position after displacement and absorbing force peaks from sheet metal impacts, thus preventing damage and ensuring accurate positioning.
Implementation Method 1
The stop finger and the basic unit are coupled to a restoring device, in particular a first spring element, by means of which the stop finger is biased into its working position
Implementation Method 2
the locking device comprises a holding part, in particular an electromagnet, whereby the stop finger can be locked relative to the basic unit by applying activation energy in the holding part
Implementation Method 3
a second spring element for enhanced protection against excessive forces, ensuring secure positioning and absorption of force peaks
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a backgauge (15) for a backgauge positioning system of a bending machine. The backgauge (15) comprises a stop finger (18) on which at least one stop surface (17) is formed and a base unit (21) designed for coupling to the backgauge positioning system (14), wherein the stop finger (18) is coupled to the base unit (21) by means of a linear guide (29) and the stop finger (18) can be displaced relative to the base unit (21) between a pushed-forward working position (28) and a retracted position (30), characterised in that the stop finger (18) and the base unit (21) are coupled to a first spring element (34), by means of which the stop finger (18) is prestressed in its working position (28), and in that a locking device (41) is formed by means of which the stop finger (18) can be optionally locked in the working position (28) or is released for displacement, counter to the spring force of the first spring element (34), into its retracted position (30).