Beam Hole Punch Clamp With Sensor-Guided Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automatic hole punching machines for beams lack versatility in adjusting to different beam sizes, precision in hole placement, and flexibility in punching processes, leading to inaccuracies and inconsistencies in hole quality.
Innovation Solution
An automatic beam hole punch with a movable punching clamp, adjustable guides, and a travel distance sensor, which allows for precise measurement and adjustment to beam size, enabling accurate and flexible hole punching.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual drilling or cutting methods are used to create holes in beams, then holes can be created in various positions, but the process is labor-intensive, time-consuming, and produces debris and noise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical drilling and cutting methods with a punch press system that uses controlled mechanical force to create holes. The punch mechanism delivers precise, high-speed impact through a punching head, eliminating the need for slow rotational drilling or thermal cutting processes that generate debris and fumes.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the fundamental parameter of hole creation from gradual material removal (drilling) or thermal decomposition (cutting) to instantaneous mechanical displacement. The punch press system applies extreme localized pressure to force material through a die, creating clean holes without the harmful byproducts of traditional methods.
2Extent of automation
If conventional hole punching machines are used, then automation is improved, but they lack the ability to adjust to different beam sizes and shapes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates adjustable and movable components in the punching apparatus, including height-adjustable punching heads, movable clamps, and repositionable guides. These dynamic elements allow the machine to adapt its configuration to accommodate beams of various sizes, shapes, and orientations while maintaining automated operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The punching machine is designed with universal features that enable it to handle multiple beam types and configurations. The adjustable positioning systems, interchangeable punches and dies, and reconfigurable guide structures allow a single machine to perform hole punching across a wide range of beam dimensions and geometries.
3Productivity
If existing automatic hole punching machines are used, then punching speed is improved, but precision in hole placement and measurement accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates measurement and feedback systems that continuously monitor beam positioning, punch depth, and hole placement accuracy. Sensors detect beam dimensions and adjust positioning in real-time, while feedback from previous punches refines subsequent positioning, ensuring high precision even at automated punching speeds.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces manual measurement and positioning with automated optical or electronic measurement systems coupled with computer-controlled positioning. These systems use digital imaging, laser measurement, or encoded scales to precisely determine beam location and calculate optimal hole positions, eliminating human measurement errors while maintaining high-speed operation.
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 automatic beam hole punch significantly improves the efficiency and accuracy of hole punching in beams, enhancing the quality and reliability of the resulting structures by providing precise measurements and flexible operation.
Implementation Method 1
A travel distance sensor may be coupled to the first or second guide. The support can be coupled to the second portion and can be configured to contact the second face of the top when the clamp is supported to the beam.
Data Source
AI summary
An automatic beam hole punch for punching at least one hole in a beam can include a punching motor, a punch actuated by the motor, and a movable punching clamp configured to secure the punching motor to the beam. The clamp includes a first portion, a second portion, a body, a first guide, a second guide, a travel distance sensor, and a support. The first and second portions contact the top of the beam, while the body provides a space for the top of the beam. The first guide and second guide are coupled to the first portion and contact the first face and side of the beam respectively. The travel distance sensor is coupled to either the first or second guide, and the support is coupled to the second portion.