Centered Nozzle Insertion for Release Agent Application in Hollow Workpieces

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing methods for introducing release agents into hollow-shaped workpieces during laser processing are time-consuming, lead to contamination of the laser processing machine, and result in excessive use of release agents, causing productivity losses and potential damage.

Innovation Solution

A loading station with a device for introducing release agents into hollow-shaped workpieces, featuring a centering element and nozzle system that allows precise and efficient application of the agent before processing, minimizing contamination and ensuring the right amount is used.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If manual spraying of release agent is used on clamped workpieces, then sufficient coverage is achieved, but productivity is reduced and machine contamination occurs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverelease agent coverageVSAvoidprocessing speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The release agent is applied to the workpiece interior before the workpiece is clamped onto the laser processing machine. This preliminary application eliminates the need to stop processing and open the protective cabin during machining, maintaining continuous productivity while ensuring sufficient release agent coverage through the insertion device that reaches inside the hollow workpiece.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If excessive release agent is applied to ensure coverage, then sufficient protection is achieved, but machine contamination and damage increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverelease agent effectivenessVSAvoidmachine contamination
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The insertion device with nozzle delivers release agent locally and precisely to the interior surfaces of the hollow workpiece where it is needed. The controlled dispensing system applies the minimum required amount rather than excessive quantities, preventing leakage and contamination of the laser processing machine while ensuring adequate coverage of the workpiece interior.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Adaptability or versatility

If manual application is used, then flexibility is maintained, but time consumption and labor intensity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveapplication flexibilityVSAvoidapplication time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The loading station is equipped with an automated insertion device that automatically inserts the nozzle into the hollow workpiece and dispenses the release agent without manual intervention. This automation eliminates time-consuming manual operations while maintaining the flexibility to handle different workpiece types through programmable control of the insertion and dispensing processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 solution enables targeted and efficient application of release agents, reducing contamination of the laser processing machine, minimizing productivity losses, and ensuring uniform wetting of workpieces, thus enhancing the overall processing efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

The nozzle can be designed, in particular, as an annular jet nozzle, so that the release agent can be sprayed evenly and finely atomized onto the inside of the workpiece using compressed air.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAtomization:

Implementation Method 2

The release agent can be sprayed manually onto the workpiece already clamped on the laser processing machine using a spray device.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpray: Spray

Data Source

PatentEP3941678B1Device for introducing a release agent into a hollow workpiece
Publication Date: 2024.02.14 TRUMPF WERKZEUGMASCHINEN GMBH & CO KG
  • EP3941678B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3941678B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3941678B1 patent drawingFigure 3a~3b

AI summary

A device for introducing a release agent into a hollow workpiece before or while the workpiece is machined by means of a laser machining tool, the device comprising an introduction section with a nozzle for dispensing the release agent and with a centring element which is arranged on the introduction section and which serves for centring the introduction section within the hollow workpiece.